What I was trying to figure out was this: If I were to purchse, for example, a Node and then later add an nDac to it, presumably this would now sound better. Bluesound Node (New) The NDAC was certainly an upgrade on the internal DAC on the original NDX. audirvana does make a difference. Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. Sorry, I meant ND5-XS2 and NDX2 not NDS2 and NDX2 But just to emphasise, digital coax output to a DAC works absolutely fine with the Node as Roon Endpoint. CXN is amongst a handful of players to have Chromecast built-in. Ok. Thats sort of the point of external USB DACs. If you do not consent, please do not continue with chat assistance. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge Audio Day Magic 200. Love Crutchfield! USB-C on iPada makes the a legit streamer option IMO. Comparing their single-ended analogue outputs (because the Node 2i doesn't do balanced), the CXN (V2) exposes us to a little more inner detail but a substantially more expansive soundstage. Hows that for humble? company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. I have the CXN V2 and with a Qutest it performs brilliantly. I guess. I always choose to support you guys over a big box. You also mentioned the IFI Zen. It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. Crutchfield: Legendary Service. How to make the most of Amazon's high-res and CD-quality music streams. Hopefully this will be fixed with a future Firmware update, but at the moment it's an issue. bumpquestion regarding the need for external DAC above? And from my windows laptop I also have USB C.. so theres that, and Im also concerned about loss of quality over the length of cable, which steers me in the direction of a quality cable, but I dont want to spend $$$ on that trap. Bangalore. 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. No complaint about the Cambridge app. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). CXN v2 supports full 192khz if available. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Hi, there is no NDS2!? The internal device DAC isnt used when you connect via USB. ND5-XS vs Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 Streaming Audio Realitycomputer August 31, 2022, 3:30pm #1 Hi all, just considering dipping my toe into the sreaming world (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!) I am looking forwarding to attaching one of my external hard drives to it for playback of lossless vinyl rips while I work. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision. If I were to go the streamer/DAC/pre-amp route I would buy the Cambridge Audio rig in a heart beat. From their Facebook page post of 9/20/19: I sold off the CXN 2 because it sat unused. 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. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? So pure source upto the amplifiers DAC. I Have the Node and like the connectivity, and supported features to other services like Roon, Qobuz, TuneIn and many more. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge Audio Day Magic 200 Learn about the terms used to describe sound, so you can find the right audio gear. The mk2 is possibly out of my budget, for the time being. I use a dedicated Roon Rock server for my Roon to PS Audio DAC endpoint. No, Im not very aware of software choices at this point. Too bad the matching amp is priced so high. Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. The latter comprises mini optical/3.5mm combo and HDMI eARC inputs for connecting audio sources or a TV, plus a range of outputs that includes RCA, coaxial, optical and subwoofer. No DAC used? Star Wars 4-6 are the best movies. No dealers near me carry it. Cant speak for the CA CXN, but using my Vault 2, going through the DAC in my CA 851C is far better then the DAC in the Vault. You are using an out of date browser. However its several years old and Im wondering if a new version will be out soon with improved functionality, MQA support most likely. Copyright 1996-2023, Crutchfield New Media, LLC. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? Cambridge Audio CXN V2 and CXA81 NAD C399 The advantage with CA is the decoupling between the streamer component and the amplifier, allowing future upgrades of each component and keeping the other one. 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 ? I stand correctedthe Cambridge does indeed have the Wolfson DAC, question regarding the need for external DAC above?. Do you know what I mean? Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. Lizard King It was getting too late at night for me! 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. Cambridge Audio's CXN V2 and EDGE NQ Are Now Roon Ready Good luck. Getting hands-on with our products helps us pick what's best for our customers. I have not tried the cxn v2 , but the node2i DAC was ok when I tried. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. but the IPad USB C is direct audio then? The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. The Cambridge CXN (V2) is $1100. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. Use Airplay for Qobuz to CA servers. Personally, I think you are better off with the NODE. Possibility of dropouts on Tidal in particular due to the small buffer. I use Airplay for Qobuz. I use Qobuz via a Raspberry Pi running MoOde Audio software. Streamers ranked by sound quality - Networking, Networked Audio, and They're always very helpful! 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. Not familiar with the the streamers youve mentioned, but youre getting some good advice. Virtual audio technology allows you to compare sonic characteristics between speakers so you can make a more informed shopping decision. Definitely not looking for a Sonos or any bluetooth type audio, or multi-room stuff. Sorry if this is a duplicate of some sort (lots of threads to sort through) but I was hoping to get some help from you guys. Have you tried plugging a hard drive into the Node 2i? Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. The factor that most affected my home network music streaming performance was/is the quality of the switch. affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network, and I'm always impressed with their professionalism and sincerity. The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. 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. That's interested @rvpiano. All the boxes are checked in streaming capability (be nice if BT were included vs an option). In an actual listening room, you'd find that some speakers play louder than others when fed the same amount of power. Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. The Node 2i earned a place in second and third systems and lately in my test system that I use for equipment reviews and general fiddling, experimenting with and staging of new components, etc.. The world's largest high-end audio community. Very good units for the price, especially when connected via wired internet as opposed to WiFi. Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. I prefer Audiolab over Bluesound Node 2i. @wgosma: Opinions vary on the efficacy of aftermarket power cords. I read somewhere there would be a partial unfolding (higher res than red book) on MQA titles from Tidal. Not using the internal dacs? A lot of good advice on this site. Both can be Roon endpoints, thought the Cambridge is by virtue of Chromecast. Make sure its MIDI compatible and youll be good to go. Yes, I agree! 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. I had the Yamaha wxa50 before. For free personalized advice, call 1-888-291-8923. Oh, apart from the RCA to DIN, where I have a Chord Crimson and a Chord Chrysalis (iirc?). What not a PI streamer with a Hat like Hifiberry or Allo. Yes, with the caveats that the source device (tablet/ phone / streamer) isnt doing anything to the file before passing it on. If not, for just a bit more money than a new Node 2i, you can get a second hand Cambridge Audio CXN V2, which is in a completely different league, and . But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? On their Support/Community site, they state the Firmware that opened the USB output is still in Beta. In other states where we don't collect sales tax, it may be the customer's responsibility to assure that all appropriate state use taxes are paid. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. Crutchfield has and always will be the number one source for all electronic needs, there is no one better. So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. Then I got thinking the money I would spend on a streamer.. I think that perhaps my options are likely to be focussed on the Node or maybe the iFi Zen streamer (?). Im sure some are going to throw in the Node does MQA but even so a superior DAC w/o MQA is still going to be better. Files are large as unable to justify individual track ripping for some music styles (jazz, classical) and instead do full record sides. I think Id much rather get a portable DAP with a good DAC, and use that over a cable connection. Read the manual, the CXN v2 passes digital through up to 24/192 on the toslink or coax. I could purchase the s/h ND5-XS for roughly right inbetween the new prices of the Bluesound and the cambridve. I have not heard the Bluesound. Depending how serious you want to be with streaming and the law of diminishing returns you might find the Node to be perfectly adequate for quite a while, had it about 4 or 5 years now (I think), might find the Node to be perfectly adequate, Just to clarify I mean the Node 2i, a decent used model could be a good bargain or the newer improved version. The other possible route is to put a PSU on the NDX2 such as an XPS. To be fair it looks a little better than the micro rendu. Some great advice above, I started a thread covering my own thought processes around streaming options with Naim kit. The SQ isnt a match for my Hugo when I listened to one, but definitely got closer with an upgraded, Naim, interconnect. bunno77; 1 Link to comment . I also have, from some years ago, a Pro-Ject RPM and a Pro-Ject phono pre, with USB on board that I got with the idea of rippping some vinyl to CD, but never did much, in the end! Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2 It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. I have one and they make a great Roon endpoint. It includes a pair of studio-quality headphones, and a guide to getting the most out of your session, and a few other necessary items. Learn how to get great sound from your computer, tie it into your home audio system, and improve your user experience. Carlos and Alex bring our famous DIY spirit to the annual United Way Day of Caring. Do you know what I mean? May 1, 2020. If you want to save some money and still want Tidal MQA you could go with a Bluesound Node 2i instead of the CXN. HELP WITH CHOICE OF MUSIC STREAMER-CAMBRIDGE AUDIO OR AUDIOLAB OMNIA & TURNTABLE, Chromecast / Airplay Question - iOS - CXN V2 Streamer. While the cost is about double if the sound quality is as good as . 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. Cambridge Audio CXN(v2) Streamer . 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. SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. Best streamer for Qobuz? Im not even sure which service might be best, for me. This is where the cable game can get me. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. If it isn't double blind, likely is double talk. All web chat conversations are recorded. Others like Cambridge CXN and 851N or steamers up to 2500 euro/dollar like Teac, Sotm, Lumin, Innuos Zen etc. IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. A second hand Auralic Aries mini is another option worth considering. (,,,) The node is appealing pricewise and I like what I have seen/heard but have yet to see or hear a cxn in the wild. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. 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 ? I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. Hi, I have tested both Audiolab 6000N and Bluesound Node 2i with a wide variety of speakers. Yeah no to be clear, the DAC I want to use is in the A-S801 amplifier. 19,270. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. Hello. Im passed this point of temptation for now, but Ive decided Ill just buy it either next year or if there is a great deal. Every review I saw raves about the sound quality on the CXN-(V2). Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 9:39 pm . The Bluesound seems relatively simple and definitely inexpensive. 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 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 Even its built-in headphone amp is respectable. #4. Its available for a nominal rental fee, and includes a $25 Crutchfield merchandise credit. Built my own and took ten minutes. Sorry to throw a monkey wrench into the discussion, but after many A-B comparisons, in general the Chromecast sounds better than the Sondstream despite the occasional higher sampling rate. File format is predominantly FLAC with some WAV and Mp4 for the 16/44.1's. BUT. Based on how I hear the Node 2i indexes, I think the CXN v2 may be the better bet for thisit's how I plan to use it mostly. NAC102/HiCap/NAPSC Cambridge Audio's popular Connect iOS and Android app, compatible with the CXN (V2) and the company's other network audio streamers, has been given a major feature overhaul and rebrand. Thorens TT (Cant recall the model, its from around 1968 and maybe TD125 or TD150, but I do remember its a MkII !) A better switch dramatically improved performance by eliminating lag, dropouts, arbitration issues when the network is particularly busy, etc. I find it an excellent combination. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) Firmware Update Problems. you get some phase and time alignment voodoo as well as some system optimization benefits. AirPlay 2 and Chromecast compatible, the Cambridge CXN v2 network player can receive music from any iOS or Android smartphone. Bluesound Node (2021) review - whathifi One thing I appreciated with Bluesound Vault is its app support of many streaming platforms. Bryston BDP pi on here. Thanks. The Node is very new and seems to have great functionality. 10 Best Music Streamers in 2023 - HomeToys Find out what gear you need to hear Qobuz at its best. You must log in or register to reply here. 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.. I changed out the PC on my Vault 2 and it made a noticeable improvement. I'm probably recalling it badly but I think the USB spec is 3m (or maybe 5). Dear friendsWhich one to choose? I can't comment on the internal DAC on the new NODE, but I have the Node 2i and I think its internal DAC is very good. Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. ND5-XS vs Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 - Naim Audio About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) review - whathifi Please help Purchase the Audiolab 6000A Integrated Amplifier at a special offer price. Pleased with this digital part of my sound system while looking around and saving funds for a more performant replacement. Cambridge Audio/Music Direct - CXN v2 Network Player Network Player on Sale for $725 Awesome deal on this unit! I have a CXN v2(as source with Flac, streaming Spotify) paired with CA351a and Elac 2.0 B5.2. Plus an in-depth review of the service by Jeff Miller, Crutchfield's headphone guy. Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. The Bluesound DAC isnt bad but I wouldnt be surprise if the CXN better. Nice system. Great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support has me as a happy customer. Taking into consideration Chris comment above about the Naim streamers limitations, out of the two remaining options I would recommend the Bluesound Node.The latest version is a great streamer for toe dipping and the app is a dream. I use an iPad Air as a streamer into the USB on my Element II DAC/Amp. AUDIO X Post subject: Re: Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. It may not display this or other websites correctly. We use automated technology to connect you with an Advisor and to answer some common questions. USB-C audio and the iPad Pro: Everything you need to know, Cambridge DacMagic vs Cambridge CXN v2 /v3, cambridge streamer cxn v2 USB tracklist error, issue with ECI-2, CXN v2 and external 2.5" HDD, Amplifiers, Phono preamp, and Analog Audio Review, Streamer/Dac Suggestions For AE1 Active's. I have the moon neo 250i amplifier Top . 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. Linked to my laptop, other than getting the artwork wrong occasionally, its pretty seamless. DAC & Streaming Confusion: Cambridge CXN V2 vs DacMagic 200M - reddit Bluesound Node or WXC-50 or Cambridge CXN V2 or. a cable? | Audio Cambridge CXN v2 (New). I can't speak for apple devices but android ones most certainly do do that processing unless you use special software like USB audio player Pro app. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. I dont know the Cambridge except for what Ive read. A 3.5mm headphone jack can be found in the middle of the front panel, below the Bluesound logo, too. If you are willing to pay that fine. Others? All the node's outputs are active all the time, which makes the Node quite nice for its price. JavaScript is disabled. 99 Sale price $299. Im still using a NP5 and Hugo mk1 - it sounds fabulous. On March 6, 2020 By hifitr5_wp There are a couple of budget (around $500) Audiophile Music Streamers I recommend. I own both the CA 851n and the CXN 1. My 2 cents; Buy the CXN v2 it's such a pleasure.the app works really quick and the quality is more then good. Do we get hands-on with the gear we sell? Definitely get a cable to connect you iPad to the as801. The Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is a powerful network streamer. Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its 'switchability' in always . No one supports Amazon. I used (and still use) network attached storage. Another vote for the Blusound here, like you I was curious and dipping my toes, auditioned a Node 2i and it stayed. Connect the CXN V2 outputs to one of the analogue inputs of the CXA61/81 via balanced XLR (CXA81 only), or unbalanced RCA. Bluesound Node or WXC-50 or Cambridge CXN V2 or. a cable? Very bummed they are dropping the black gear though, and very happy I purchased mine in black already. So the cambridge gets rave reviews but It would be a struggle finding room in my existing CD6006 and Marantz Pearl Lite set up. Thanks everyone, So I presently just use an Audioengine D2 wireless out of my MacBook and connect via Audioquest Cinnamon Toslink into my Krell Digital Vanguard. The Bluesound supports a HDD whereas the Yamaha only supports a USB stick. So it's not the Connect app anymore but one called Stream Magic? Which is by no means guaranteed with Android (and possibly Apple- but check the threads on here about that) devices.