I posted this in the Coupons, Discounts & Sales section Its a good sale now that Cambridge has announced the CX Series 2 line coming next week. So what solutioN do I have? Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). You must log in or register to reply here. BlueOS is quite intuitive. Sorry, I meant ND5-XS2 and NDX2 not NDS2 and NDX2 Someone mentioned here that the Cambridge doesnt so full resolution unless using their app? 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. BUT. You dont have to spend a lot of money to get a decent stereo system. I prefer Audiolab over Bluesound Node 2i. I think Id much rather get a portable DAP with a good DAC, and use that over a cable connection. 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. However its several years old and Im wondering if a new version will be out soon with improved functionality, MQA support most likely. 1) Bluesound to CXA via RCA. I am mostly concerned with SQ on the digital outputs. digital 149206-129624 Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2 Looking at both of these units and I know there is a $500 difference but can anyone tell me the differences between them and which might be better? Crutchfield collects state sales tax on items shipping to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY. Panasonic 55FZ950. But how can i use it from my couch? So, if I get an MQA capable DAC, can I bypass the Cambridge DAC and get full MQA? For Tech Support, call The Node 2i costs about RM1,000 more than the Yamaha. My setup is as follows and it sounds great. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. No complaint about the Cambridge app. Its a brilliant streamer, dac, Preamp, bluetooth & Mqa is also there. Very bummed they are dropping the black gear though, and very happy I purchased mine in black already. But i feel I want to know for sure whether it skips the internal DAC or not. I had the Node 2i for a while and was underwhelmed by their app it does a lot but none of it very well and I found their service a bit meh, but to each their own. Connect the CXN V2 outputs to one of the analogue inputs of the CXA61/81 via balanced XLR (CXA81 only), or unbalanced RCA. The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. CXN is amongst a handful of players to have Chromecast built-in. Personally, I'd get an Amazon Basics or Ugreen that meets your requirements for terminations and length and give it a go. It may not display this or other websites correctly. .The C 658 is pure high resolution from input to output and features NAD's Direct Digital 35 bit 844kHz DAC, one of the . The first is the Audiolab 6000N Play, which I consider to be the best sounding streamer in that price range. Sounds like folks are leaning to the NODE which I think I am as well. Hence the post! I own both the CA 851n and the CXN 1. You are using an out of date browser. Make sure its MIDI compatible and youll be good to go. I use an iPad Air as a streamer into the USB on my Element II DAC/Amp. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. Been down this road; if you're using the Yamaha DAC and want plug/play convenience, easy to use interface with self updating software, very good customer support, excellent resale, and access to EVERY source known to man just get the Node or used Node 2i and be done with it. Plenty of other options for less than a new Naim, Lumin U1 mini, Matrix Element I, Ifi Zen Stream. I've heard the sound quality is superior in the CXN v2 but I also do not believe it even supports Amazon Music HD. If you decide on the CXN, spend a little extra to upgrade the power cord. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, Are you aware that the original ND5XS uses rather dated streaming tech compared to its Mk2 replacement and has limitations if you are intending to stream from internet sources rather than a music collection stored on your local network? I owned a CXN (first version) and the original Bluesound Node for a couple of years. You bet! Hello. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, Not familiar with the the streamers youve mentioned, but youre getting some good advice. Ill inquire with Cambridge. Focus on speakers/room where a much more substantive change is possible. I have been reading some threads about the addition of an nDAC being a possible wothwhile upgrade to these, at some point. They're always very helpful! Do you know what I mean? The CXN 2 sounds better. 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. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. I currently have both the bluesound node2i and the Cambridge CXNv2 and IMO, the DAC in the CXNv2 is better. My overall interaction with Crutchfield was easy and pleasant. This is where the cable game can get me. Do we get hands-on with the gear we sell? See which models top our list of best picks for 2023. That's interested @rvpiano. Others like Cambridge CXN and 851N or steamers up to 2500 euro/dollar like Teac, Sotm, Lumin, Innuos Zen etc. 99 Sale price $299. JL audio E-sub e110 . So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. The Node, no question. It was getting too late at night for me! It outperforms the Dac in my Cambridge 851C cd player. Personaly I'm not interested in other functionality like dac and pre amp. If I needed to play MQA from Tidal, I could just switch the input on my Preamp. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). I use both qobuz and local flac files via Roon so integration with Roon is important too. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. Anyone have hands on with both? actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. 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 ? But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? Thoughts if so? 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. Easy process from start to finish, and the availability of information is second to none. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. bumpquestion regarding the need for external DAC above? What is the difference between 'dark' and 'warm'? Good luck. I have only used it for streaming from Apple Music with the intention of hearing new music which I might then buy in physical form. 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. Connect the CXC to one of the digital inputs on the CXN V2 using either S/P DIF for a shorter connection, or TOSLINK optical for a longer connection. this can result in this site earning a commission. But just to emphasise, digital coax output to a DAC works absolutely fine with the Node as Roon Endpoint. 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. Thats sort of the point of external USB DACs. I have not heard the Bluesound. bunno77; 1 Link to comment . I've used the USB out to my DAC, and like many others have had to revert to a digital coax connection for Roon as crackles and pops make listening impossible. I was thinking of a chord qute 2 or maybe a moon 300d v2 . I guess your cambridge setup is messed up or the unit is defective. My entry into streaming was an cxnv2. I know own the Cambridge, and Im using Chromecast for the high Rez Qobuz offerings, Ok thanks. Which did you prefer and why? Cambridge Audio CXN(v2) Streamer . Details -$300.00 Price break. https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/openboxclearance?f%5B0%5D=category%3A10. Not sure how all this would sort out, appreciate advise. My place for electronics, great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support. 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. A second hand Auralic Aries mini is another option worth considering. The former is more detailed, neutral and works with a variety of upstream equipment. I am looking forwarding to attaching one of my external hard drives to it for playback of lossless vinyl rips while I work. marcozero Registered Joined Nov 16, 2021 14 Posts #4. That USB-C is direct, right? Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) Firmware Update Problems. Jaded1 Nov 20, 2020 cxn marantz J Jaded1 Established Member Nov 20, 2020 #1 So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. Product link at Music Direct. You really need to listen to these combinations yourself as personal preference comes into play and we will not always reach the same conclusions. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. There are pros and cons on both sides. The NDAC was certainly an upgrade on the internal DAC on the original NDX. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, Powered by Discourse, best viewed with JavaScript enabled, ND5-XS vs Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2. You must log in or register to reply here. Roon can run a lot generic audio gear so think about that also but requires a 24/7 computer and $10/mo or $700 lifetime. I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. Even its built-in headphone amp is respectable. The articles & videos are also super-helpful! Looking at both of these units and I know there is a $500 difference but can anyone tell me the differences between them and which might be better? 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. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. 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. 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. CXN's DAC is definitely better than Node. The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. No support for AirPlay, Chromecast, Roon. The No. A better switch dramatically improved performance by eliminating lag, dropouts, arbitration issues when the network is particularly busy, etc. 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. Its available for a nominal rental fee, and includes a $25 Crutchfield merchandise credit. Tags: music streamers sound quality; centralflori Super Member. Since 1974.SM. I first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? All web chat conversations are recorded. JavaScript is disabled. Plus an in-depth review of the service by Jeff Miller, Crutchfield's headphone guy. My 2 cents; Buy the CXN v2 it's such a pleasure.the app works really quick and the quality is more then good. Compare Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) vs Bluesound NODE Free 2-day shipping to Washington 1-888-955-6000 Contact us Your account 0 Your cart Shop all departments Articles & videos Car audio & video Home audio TVs & video Headphones & wireless Marine Smart home Cameras & drones Pro audio Health More Specials Articles & videos B2B Sales Go Back So Bluesound is both streamer and DAC, CXA is power amp 2) Bluesound to CXA via digital coax. I need to replace my modded Sonos connect with a new streamer. #streaming #tidal #qobuzSUBSCRIBE TO PATREON to support Honest & Credible and well produced HiFi reviews and for ;-Ad Free Videos-Added Video Review content . I've had a node 2i for about a year now. The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. Like the sound of the old Thorens TT. No DAC used? The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. Reviving this old topic as I am looking at both of these streaming devices and cant quite make a decision. I find it an excellent combination. I was aware that it could be an issue, but was hoping it had been sorted by now. Learn how to get great sound from your computer, tie it into your home audio system, and improve your user experience. Mac Mini? So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. The only oversight I can see is not including HDMI arc. Is this possible? . 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). Does anyone have any insight. I purchased a black one this morning from Music Direct at the reduced price. I really appreciate your technical staff. 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. 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 (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!). While the cost is about double if the sound quality is as good as . Ive also hooked it up to my integrated amp and it works great as well. You also mentioned the IFI Zen. Chromecast is not an option as I cant stand non-gapless, although having chromecast would be a plus for using things like SoundCloud. Unfortunately not. What not a PI streamer with a Hat like Hifiberry or Allo. I guess really my question is which sounds better (if we discount the internal dacs) or are they going to be pretty much the same. CXN is also 40% more expensive. Dear friendsWhich one to choose? 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. From their Facebook page post of 9/20/19: I sold off the CXN 2 because it sat unused. I have not tried the cxn v2 , but the node2i DAC was ok when I tried. I dont know the Cambridge except for what Ive read. All Naim streamers have a digital output which allows you to run them with a separate DAC as an upgrade option. Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. The No. All the node's outputs are active all the time, which makes the Node quite nice for its price. JavaScript is disabled. 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. Love Crutchfield! It is similar in terms of inputs and versatility, packed in a classy looking black or white box with a single LED and somewhat useless controls on the top. It's a good sale now that Cambridge has announced the CX Series 2 line coming next week. If so the I guess it just comes down to features/size etc. It can also transmit studio-quality music to Bluetooth headphones or external speakers. I have seen numerous posts from people who have and love either unit. Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. Dave's made his daily life so much more convenient by installing Smart Home devices. I Have the Node and like the connectivity, and supported features to other services like Roon, Qobuz, TuneIn and many more. So it's not the Connect app anymore but one called Stream Magic? If I recall correctly the Node 2 did not test well. Any opinions on BS node 2i into Yggdrasil Dac. Best streamer for Qobuz? In some places, it repeats the review of the previous product: CXN V2 still has a wonderful DAC but unfortunately . If you're using an outboard DAC I believe the signal just passes through. On their Support/Community site, they state the Firmware that opened the USB output is still in Beta. Yeah I want to get full resolution from what files and services I'm using so that's a con on the Cambridge. Thanks for the update, consider adding this to your profile. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision. Learn how to choose the best speakers for your home.