I like to focus this list on the streamer sound quality (with the internal dac bypassed if existant). That way I could have all the internal storage, and quality sound signal maybe a Fiio x7 or so. The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. So I know if I get a streamer and hook-up a hard drive to my files then I know Ill get clean source if I bypass the streamers DAC, however what Im trying to find out, is that if I skip the streamer and directly go from USB-B on the A-S801, through an appropriate cable, and straight into a tablet or phone, HOW to bypass the internal processing of the tablet or phone, so it can send a direct signal to the cable and onto my A-S801. I have not tried the cxn v2 , but the node2i DAC was ok when I tried. I purchased a black one this morning from Music Direct at the reduced price. I find it an excellent combination. I was just surprised to see the ND5-XS at a comparable price (although s/h) to the other 2 aforementioned products, which made me wonder A lot of good advice on this site. If I am using an outboard DAC then is there much difference in SQ between these two streamers? Personally, I'd get an Amazon Basics or Ugreen that meets your requirements for terminations and length and give it a go. This does though, get some good reviews and not too expensive to dip your toe in, as has been suggested. However its several years old and Im wondering if a new version will be out soon with improved functionality, MQA support most likely. What is the difference between 'dark' and 'warm'? Cambridge CXN v2 (New). Hi. Jaded1 Nov 20, 2020 cxn marantz J Jaded1 Established Member Nov 20, 2020 #1 So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. Poor WiFi performance: you need to use an Ethernet cable for reliable performance. I thought that was interesting, but I guess the products have been on the market for a few years, and tariffs probably aren't helping things. Its a brilliant streamer, dac, Preamp, bluetooth & Mqa is also there. The Bluesound Node 2 comes with an MQA decoder.. Warner Music Group and Universal Music Group, which make up 75% of the recorded music industry, have committed to MQA. (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!). No dealers near me carry it. The OP was interested in the Node, not the Vault. bumpquestion regarding the need for external DAC above? I use Airplay for Qobuz. No complaint about the Cambridge app. Too bad the matching amp is priced so high. That's weird. In some places, it repeats the review of the previous product: CXN V2 still has a wonderful DAC but unfortunately . The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. Would this hold true, for the nDAC, if I were to obtain an NDS2 or NDX at a later date, making it more favourable as a longer term investment - or would these mk2s negate the addition of an nDAC ? So, are the prices going on the new paint scheme CXN v2? It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. It doesnt seem like he needs the storage and disc ripping of the Vault. Do you have any thoughts on cable types and length. I just put on a Wireworld mini Electra PC on a Bluesound Node 2i and it made a nice difference in a less harsh quality, to be expected with better power cables. Cambridge Audio CXN Version2. SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. The NAD C399 has higher output and also the possibility of upgrading and having room correction. If CXN has Google Chromcast Audio ( GCA) built in, I wonder ( out of curiosity) how it's SQ would compare with a set up using GCA plus highEnd external DAC t o a Preamp ? Thorens TT (Cant recall the model, its from around 1968 and maybe TD125 or TD150, but I do remember its a MkII !) Im not even sure which service might be best, for me. and you got the option to use an external dac. CD3.5/Flatcap Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. Someone mentioned here that the Cambridge doesnt so full resolution unless using their app? I appreciate its going to be affected by the DAC, I currently have a Chord Mojo (and will possibly upgrade to Hugo) and I prefer the USB, but thats not a deal-breaker. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. /Stageline Not the earlier Node model though that pre dates the 2i, just to confuse matters I see Bluesound are now naming its latest iteration The Node. Let's take a closer look at this device. If I needed to play MQA from Tidal, I could just switch the input on my Preamp. So pure source upto the amplifiers DAC. I have my ipad pro connected to my dac/amp via usb c , everything sounds nice. USB-C on iPada makes the a legit streamer option IMO. Thats sort of the point of external USB DACs. The main issues with the 1st gen models include: If you're doing Roon just get a Sonore Ultra Rendu and go USB to the DAC, Yeah, Ive looked at those and I just dont think I can get along. @wgosma: Opinions vary on the efficacy of aftermarket power cords. Weve carefully chosen the components of this kit to ensure a crystal-clear listening experience. Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. Im still using a NP5 and Hugo mk1 - it sounds fabulous. If you are willing to pay that fine. Is this the very latest model? I thought I'd just see how well it worked for larger drives so I connected my Toshiba 2TB drive with about 1TB of music files via the USB input. As already mentionned by others, good streamer with nice corresponding app and added a Teddy Pardo power supply to lift up SQ. One thing that strikes me about this product is the combination of competitive sound with the balanced design and dual DACs employed. Focus on speakers/room where a much more substantive change is possible. Hi, I have tested both Audiolab 6000N and Bluesound Node 2i with a wide variety of speakers. You are using an out of date browser. How to make the most of Amazon's high-res and CD-quality music streams. marcozero Registered Joined Nov 16, 2021 14 Posts A network music streamer lets you play digital music from different sources, and play them through connected speakers and devices in your home. I stand correctedthe Cambridge does indeed have the Wolfson DAC, question regarding the need for external DAC above?. The NDAC was certainly an upgrade on the internal DAC on the original NDX. On March 6, 2020 By hifitr5_wp There are a couple of budget (around $500) Audiophile Music Streamers I recommend. I know own the Cambridge, and Im using Chromecast for the high Rez Qobuz offerings, Ok thanks. Sorry, I meant ND5-XS2 and NDX2 not NDS2 and NDX2 This discussion is important for me. Do you know what I mean? Dear friendsWhich one to choose? The CXN 2 sounds better. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? But performance in the real world is affected by the acoustics of your car or home, your choice of amplification, and your source material. The Bluesound node and the Bluos app have my highest recommendation,been using them for six months streaming Qobuz an Amazon music to Electrocompaniet amplifier and Dali Menuet SE speakers,sounds amazing,I have considered the Cambridge,but reading reviews of it's control app put me off,sticking with the Bluesound.. While the cost is about double if the sound quality is as good as . Love Crutchfield! So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. The NODE has native integration with just about every streaming service with the exception of Apple Music (and it does have access to Amazon, despite a previous post). Pleased with this digital part of my sound system while looking around and saving funds for a more performant replacement. The factor that most affected my home network music streaming performance was/is the quality of the switch. Have been reading for a long time and happy to finally contribute to this forum. The Bluesound supports a HDD whereas the Yamaha only supports a USB stick. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? When I had the Node 2 I used two outputs. There is a thread talking about how it re-indexes and that it takes a whileI got the impression it will workbut was not really designed to do this. I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. I have been reading some threads about the addition of an nDAC being a possible wothwhile upgrade to these, at some point. Well I purchased the Node 2021 and am so pleased! But how can i use it from my couch? It may not display this or other websites correctly. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is a great combination of nice design with consistent geometry and ultra nice buttons, and many great features built-in by the manufacturer. They announced a new app as well, which I believe is supposed to work with the current CXN series as well, so I'm excited to see that. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? A curious decision on the model designations! So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. The Bluesound is also half the price of the Cambridge piece. Not sure how all this would sort out, appreciate advise. The Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is a powerful network streamer. But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? Sure, you can carry a small handheld speaker with you, but Deia takes her portable tunes more seriously. I want to load a hard drive up with my library (AIFFs) and play from it. I get the feeling the prices on these needed to go up to keep them in circulation and including them in a "new" series is a pretty common move. All component separate. I think there was an android USB DAC app that did something like that (?) Cambridge Audio CXC V2 CD speler CD-Spelers, SA-CD-Spelers 699. . The website is extremely user friendly, unbeatable product selection, customer support, and audio knowledge. The CXN V2 is part of Cambridge Audio's midrange CX series, which also includes two integrated amplifiers and a CD transport. The Bluesound DAC isnt bad but I wouldnt be surprise if the CXN better. The SQ isnt a match for my Hugo when I listened to one, but definitely got closer with an upgraded, Naim, interconnect. Will it give full res using Roon? Both can be Roon endpoints, thought the Cambridge is by virtue of Chromecast. CXN V2 - Network Player | Cambridge Audio US Home CXN V2 Network Player $999.00 4 interest-free payments of $249.75. My setup is as follows and it sounds great. displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident I use Qobuz via a Raspberry Pi running MoOde Audio software. The Cambridge is in the list because i like the idea that I could use the internal DAC instead of my A-erhalten DAC, if It is better. I would go for the Cambridge over the Bluesound myself well regarded for its price. My overall interaction with Crutchfield was easy and pleasant. I had intended to make an introductory post, in the lounge, but got carried away with myriad questions! Ok. Crutchfield is a servicemark of Crutchfield Corporation. JavaScript is disabled. So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. Thank you! For free personalized advice, call 1-888-291-8923. The iPad Pro making the switch to USB-C means now is the perfect time to look at how it all works and why it matters when it comes to the sounds of your life. IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, It does that both analog out and digital out, - and with AirPlay . AirPlay 2 and Chromecast compatible, the Cambridge CXN v2 network player can receive music from any iOS or Android smartphone. Files are large as unable to justify individual track ripping for some music styles (jazz, classical) and instead do full record sides. Messages: 2,061 . SpeakerCompare is protected by patents and patent applications owned by Crutchfield Corporation. If you no longer wish to receive the call, please click the button to cancel your request. To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. You can also consider Matrix mini ipro/3. Given all the choices of streaming services, it usually comes down to one or two you really like to keep around. Possibility of dropouts on Tidal in particular due to the small buffer. Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2. Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). One thing I appreciated with Bluesound Vault is its app support of many streaming platforms. Thoughts if so? I've had a node 2i for about a year now. Audioquest said they dont do that size but on their product sheet they state they do, Ive checked all over the internet and found some odd shops that do, but are too far for Germany. Posted: . How USB Storage Differs From A Local Library, Cambridge Audio Introduces CX Series 2 Audio Components with Updated ESS Sabre DACs, https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/gbr/en/beta-testing, Forum Policies, Rules, and Terms of Service. They do not share. Your website is very efficient and easily navigable, selection is wide, and technical/chat support is outstanding. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . 4, was the latest, and supports multi-room use, resampling, and Memory Playback. It offers Roon Ready and Spotify Connect but no Chromecast Built-in. So bluesound is streamer and CXA is both DAC and power amp 3) Bluesound to external DAC via digital coax, external DAC to CXA via RCA. I guess you got confused between "Chromcast audio" and "Chromcast", the former is an audio gear which is currently stopped production. They're always very helpful! I have seen numerous posts from people who have and love either unit. Now changing the amp to Acoustic Portrait Swara v2 integrated amp. Details -$300.00 Price break. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. Bluesound Node (New) Qobuz skipping files. I owned a CXN (first version) and the original Bluesound Node for a couple of years. So, if I get an MQA capable DAC, can I bypass the Cambridge DAC and get full MQA? Definitely get a cable to connect you iPad to the as801. Ned's best friend helps him evaluate frequencies only dogs can hear. This is my experience. From their Facebook page post of 9/20/19: I sold off the CXN 2 because it sat unused. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, Every time I use Crutchfield I am happy. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. No DAC used? Naim ND5-XS (S/H) AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, I would prefer to have a streamer that connects to my existing pre, rather that one that replaces the pre, at these price ranges, as I havea long term plans to keep going up the Naim pre/power ladder. Linked to my laptop, other than getting the artwork wrong occasionally, its pretty seamless. Yeah I want to get full resolution from what files and services I'm using so that's a con on the Cambridge. Europe's busiest forums, with independent news and expert reviews, for TVs, Home Cinema, Hi-Fi, Movies, Gaming, Tech and more. So many options to consider. I Have the Node and like the connectivity, and supported features to other services like Roon, Qobuz, TuneIn and many more. Marantz BD8006, Bluesound Node 2021, Marantz Pearl Lite, Revel Concerta2 M16, Sony XZ Premium, LGV30. But the term "chromcast" refers the technology which nowadays available in variety of equipments like TV, Streamer, Sound bar etc. Have tried all possible troubleshooting, followed the Bluesound manual/forums and since formatted HDD to NTFS, Fat32, used different flash drives to the exact same outcome. . The Bluesound Node 2i is designed with enhanced dual-band WIFI to render the best-in-class performance even in crowded airspaces.