Naim ND5-XS (S/H) Bluesound Node (New) 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. This has been a fantastic experience. To be fair it looks a little better than the micro rendu. DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. Along with the streaming capabilities, which is the best for playing files from a hard drive. Apparently the stream magic app is a different one from Connect, and can only drive a specific range of network players, but not the cxn. this can result in this site earning a commission. Its a brilliant streamer, dac, Preamp, bluetooth & Mqa is also there. The No. Multi-room network audio players Multi-room connectivity emerged with the advent of digital music and wireless streaming. 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. So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. This is where the cable game can get me. If your headphones aren't listed, we recommend using our Listening Kit. This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, You can also consider Matrix mini ipro/3. Definitely get a cable to connect you iPad to the as801. For the money I doubt theres anything else out there to beat it until you start spending Naim or similar entry level price points. Sounds like folks are leaning to the NODE which I think I am as well. I have been recently trying to confirm my understanding of the ascending order of things! Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? 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. Personally, I'd get an Amazon Basics or Ugreen that meets your requirements for terminations and length and give it a go. For Tech Support, call It may not display this or other websites correctly. 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. Unfortunately not. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? As far as I can tell, so far, the latest (2021?) The pluses for the CXN2 is good sound quality, overall feel (no plastic), a more powerful processor, and physical controls. You must log in or register to reply here. If you're using an outboard DAC I believe the signal just passes through. If it is if any use. I have seen numerous posts from people who have and love either unit. Being wireless is great, but that cable option is simple. Please help Purchase the Audiolab 6000A Integrated Amplifier at a special offer price. I had the Yamaha wxa50 before. 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. We use automated technology to connect you with an Advisor and to answer some common questions. Well I purchased the Node 2021 and am so pleased! Do you have any thoughts on cable types and length. May 1, 2020. So Bluesound is both streamer and DAC, CXA is power amp 2) Bluesound to CXA via digital coax. That's interested @rvpiano. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, #12. Affiliate programs and In equal power mode, you'll hear these differences in loudness as they naturally occur between speakers. Plus, our headphone writer reviews the high-res streaming music service. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. Do we get hands-on with the gear we sell? I had intended to make an introductory post, in the lounge, but got carried away with myriad questions! 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. Preferred the smsl su-8 over their inbuilt DAC. 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). 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. Anyone have hands on with both? Yeah I hope sound doesnt drop over 3 meters. Oldsmobile Sport Utility Stereos and Speakers. You are using an out of date browser. Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. As already mentionned by others, good streamer with nice corresponding app and added a Teddy Pardo power supply to lift up SQ. The website is extremely user friendly, unbeatable product selection, customer support, and audio knowledge. If it isn't double blind, likely is double talk. Tags: music streamers sound quality; centralflori Super Member. I have the moon neo 250i amplifier Top . I stream from the Qobuz app. Both can be Roon endpoints, thought the Cambridge is by virtue of Chromecast. A network music streamer lets you play digital music from different sources, and play them through connected speakers and devices in your home. All web chat conversations are recorded. Built my own and took ten minutes. model is referred to as Node N130. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? CXN V2 - Network Player | Cambridge Audio US Home CXN V2 Network Player $999.00 4 interest-free payments of $249.75. If you want to save some money and still want Tidal MQA you could go with a Bluesound Node 2i instead of the CXN. Joined: Mon Jun 12, 2017 3:29 pm Posts: 9 Personally, I think you are better off with the NODE. 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. Easy process from start to finish, and the availability of information is second to none. and you got the option to use an external dac. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Audiophile Music Streamer In The House: First Impressions And Unboxing Pics! To be fair Blue Sound vaguely mentions this and favors the use of a NAS but personally unable to justify the extra hustle. Someone mentioned here that the Cambridge doesnt so full resolution unless using their app? Jaded1 Nov 20, 2020 cxn marantz J Jaded1 Established Member Nov 20, 2020 #1 So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. 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. Bluesound Node (2021) or CXN V2? New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? 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 . Possibility of dropouts on Tidal in particular due to the small buffer. That way I could have all the internal storage, and quality sound signal maybe a Fiio x7 or so. Powered by Discourse, best viewed with JavaScript enabled, ND5-XS vs Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2. DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. The OP was interested in the Node, not the Vault. Estimated wait for next available agent : Well email you a transcript of this conversation for your records. The main issues with the 1st gen models include: I was thinking of a chord qute 2 or maybe a moon 300d v2 . I have the CXN V2 and with a Qutest it performs brilliantly. 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. I know own the Cambridge, and Im using Chromecast for the high Rez Qobuz offerings, Ok thanks. Does anyone have any insight. CD3.5/Flatcap Linked to my laptop, other than getting the artwork wrong occasionally, its pretty seamless. Hi, looking for some advice please. On March 6, 2020 By hifitr5_wp There are a couple of budget (around $500) Audiophile Music Streamers I recommend. Ive been looking at Audioquest cables, and Im think about 2 or 3 meter, and I guess a 2 meter is going to be better for sound than 3, but ideally 3 would be great. Since 1974.SM. The Bluesound is also half the price of the Cambridge piece. You can also look at stuff from SMSL, Topping and NuPrime stream 9. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. I've had a node 2i for about a year now. To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. I changed out the PC on my Vault 2 and it made a noticeable improvement. CA has no Roon or direct Qobuz connection. 1) Bluesound to CXA via RCA. So I decided on getting a cable, and I wanted a mid-range quality cable, so decided on the usb b>c and spends days looking for this cable to find out that they dont do that size? Wiim Pro? Not familiar with the the streamers youve mentioned, but youre getting some good advice. Then I got thinking the money I would spend on a streamer.. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. Wi-Fi speakers are the building blocks for wireless multi-room audio systems from Sonos, Bose, and other brands. Both are good but prefer my PS Audio Directstream with Bridge II overall. The NDAC was certainly an upgrade on the internal DAC on the original NDX. Lizard King So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. So pure source upto the amplifiers DAC. 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. With this limited intention I am not bothered that it doesnt match my other sources, although its very listenable. I used (and still use) network attached storage. Personaly I'm not interested in other functionality like dac and pre amp. Crutchfield has and always will be the number one source for all electronic needs, there is no one better. HELP WITH CHOICE OF MUSIC STREAMER-CAMBRIDGE AUDIO OR AUDIOLAB OMNIA & TURNTABLE, Chromecast / Airplay Question - iOS - CXN V2 Streamer. It's a good sale now that Cambridge has announced the CX Series 2 line coming next week. The articles & videos are also super-helpful! It may not display this or other websites correctly. I have one and they make a great Roon endpoint. My guess is, very few have listened carefully to both, so it's going to be difficult to get this specific feedback. SpeakerCompare tailors your listening experience to the exact headphones you have, so that what you hear is comparable to auditioning speakers side-by-side in person. #streaming #tidal #qobuzSUBSCRIBE TO PATREON to support Honest & Credible and well produced HiFi reviews and for ;-Ad Free Videos-Added Video Review content . It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. In some places, it repeats the review of the previous product: CXN V2 still has a wonderful DAC but unfortunately . It works great. But the term "chromcast" refers the technology which nowadays available in variety of equipments like TV, Streamer, Sound bar etc. You are using an out of date browser. This discussion is important for me. So it's not the Connect app anymore but one called Stream Magic? The former is more detailed, neutral and works with a variety of upstream equipment. This is my experience. File format is predominantly FLAC with some WAV and Mp4 for the 16/44.1's. Product link at Music Direct. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. CXN's DAC is definitely better than Node. Files are large as unable to justify individual track ripping for some music styles (jazz, classical) and instead do full record sides. #4. Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2. Bluesound app and library management is much better though and more suited for multi-room.usecases. SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. but the IPad USB C is direct audio then? Select your brand of headphones in the right-hand column. Others like Cambridge CXN and 851N or steamers up to 2500 euro/dollar like Teac, Sotm, Lumin, Innuos Zen etc. Cambridge CXN v2 (New). I want to load a hard drive up with my library (AIFFs) and play from it. Ok. I didn't know that. With its 24-bit/384kHz Wolfson DACs, the CXN V2 delivers great sound quality and support for Internet Radio, Tidal, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth aptX, and your networked music collection. You are using an out of date browser. What not a PI streamer with a Hat like Hifiberry or Allo. I own both the CA 851n and the CXN 1. Do you know what I mean? Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. But how can i use it from my couch? They ARE NOT a streaming service. Have you checked the review index? A second hand Auralic Aries mini is another option worth considering. The Bluesound Node 2i is designed with enhanced dual-band WIFI to render the best-in-class performance even in crowded airspaces. Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. 1-888-292-2575. Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. A 3.5mm headphone jack can be found in the middle of the front panel, below the Bluesound logo, too. 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. Qobuz skipping files. Plenty of other options for less than a new Naim, Lumin U1 mini, Matrix Element I, Ifi Zen Stream. Thorens TT (Cant recall the model, its from around 1968 and maybe TD125 or TD150, but I do remember its a MkII !) It may not display this or other websites correctly. 99 Sale price $299. 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 currently have both the bluesound node2i and the Cambridge CXNv2 and IMO, the DAC in the CXNv2 is better. Then again, I do need to think forward and perhaps an outside/backyard setup may be advantageous. I do use an external Meridian DAC (which I had already owned) and the difference between the two DACs is very subtle. The Chromecast is is pretty impressive but it isnt gapless. Your website is very efficient and easily navigable, selection is wide, and technical/chat support is outstanding. I suspect a ND5 XS2 is in my future, for simplicity. It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. Thank you! One thing that strikes me about this product is the combination of competitive sound with the balanced design and dual DACs employed. JavaScript is disabled. Any further thoughts on these two streamers would be much appreciated. Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its 'switchability' in always . About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . I first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. I use an iPad Air as a streamer into the USB on my Element II DAC/Amp. Yeah no to be clear, the DAC I want to use is in the A-S801 amplifier. If the Sonos integration is important, get the Port (I haven't heard it, might be better than what WHF review says, especially if you add a good external DAC). I use a dedicated Roon Rock server for my Roon to PS Audio DAC endpoint. 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. I have a Node 2i in my listening room, but I work most all day from the family room and wanted to try something different there. Purchased both as opened box/clearance from CA with warranty. Dear friendsWhich one to choose? You really need to listen to these combinations yourself as personal preference comes into play and we will not always reach the same conclusions. The Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is a powerful network streamer. Cambridge Audio CXN(v2) Streamer . Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. 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 The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. Is this possible? A curious decision on the model designations! I love my Vault though. Crutchfield is a servicemark of Crutchfield Corporation. You'd think hardwired would be easier to get right Cambridge Audio/Music Direct - CXN v2 Network Player Network Player on Sale for $725, https://www.audioxpress.com/news/ca-audio-components-with-updated-ess-sabre-dacs, Forum Policies, Rules, and Terms of Service. Hence the post! the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. The internal device DAC isnt used when you connect via USB. But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? 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. Chromecast is not an option as I cant stand non-gapless, although having chromecast would be a plus for using things like SoundCloud. Makes sense. Every review I saw raves about the sound quality on the CXN-(V2). Not using the internal dacs? It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision. Oh, apart from the RCA to DIN, where I have a Chord Crimson and a Chord Chrysalis (iirc?). What are some of the differences between the 2 streamers with regards to high res streaming? We still believe that the gold standard for auditioning speakers is hearing them in your own environment thats why we offer a 60-day money-back guarantee. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) Firmware Update Problems. Also in my humble opinion spending BIG bucks on a streamer is a waste when you can get a PI streamer with Roon, AirPlay2, and DNLA support for next to nothing. I have a CXN v2(as source with Flac, streaming Spotify) paired with CA351a and Elac 2.0 B5.2. displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident That's weird. Thats sort of the point of external USB DACs. The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. NAP180 Another vote for the Blusound here, like you I was curious and dipping my toes, auditioned a Node 2i and it stayed. If you do not consent, please do not continue with chat assistance. Through Id never pay such ridiculous prices for cables, but because I cant find support on whether a 3m cable is gonna lose me quality, it makes me now dependent spending more money in hopes to accomplish a good signal, Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. It delivers a collection of top music technologies for home use. Which did you prefer and why? What is the difference between 'dark' and 'warm'? 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. Learn how to get great sound from your computer, tie it into your home audio system, and improve your user experience. SpeakerCompare is protected by patents and patent applications owned by Crutchfield Corporation. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. JavaScript is disabled. So far, so good! Node app is way superior over the CXN and for me is the best music app after Roon. Thanks. Our Advisors have listened to most of the speakers we carry, and can help you make the best choice for your system. I dont know the Cambridge except for what Ive read. bumpquestion regarding the need for external DAC above? My advice to anyone who asks is to investigate them only after you are satisfied with every other part of your system, with emphasis on the speakers, room acoustics, and electronics. All the boxes are checked in streaming capability (be nice if BT were included vs an option). It doesn't just read the files and display them in the Bluos app? A better switch dramatically improved performance by eliminating lag, dropouts, arbitration issues when the network is particularly busy, etc. Virtual audio technology allows you to compare sonic characteristics between speakers so you can make a more informed shopping decision. Learn about the terms used to describe sound, so you can find the right audio gear. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The customer support team is personal and phenomenal. Let's take a closer look at this device. Plus an in-depth review of the service by Jeff Miller, Crutchfield's headphone guy. Good luck. To be honest, with a good high quality stream there are times when it can give my fairly advanced on the upgrade path LP12 a run for its money. When I had the Node 2 I used two outputs. JL audio E-sub e110 . See which models top our list of best picks for 2023. Copyright 1996-2023, Crutchfield New Media, LLC. You bet! 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? Jul 27, 2020. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. There are pros and cons on both sides. The SQ isnt a match for my Hugo when I listened to one, but definitely got closer with an upgraded, Naim, interconnect. Thanks for that. Now changing the amp to Acoustic Portrait Swara v2 integrated amp. If anyone still on this thread, what is the difference in streaming quality vs the two. The mk2 is possibly out of my budget, for the time being. Any difference? bunno77; 1 Link to comment . The CXN 2 sounds better. Hows that for humble? Help on getting the maximum from cxn v2 and tidal. $1,299.00 I was a complete novice and you helped me figure out what would work best for me. 4, was the latest, and supports multi-room use, resampling, and Memory Playback. Details -$300.00 Price break. Affiliate programs and SpeakerCompare gives you a sense of the sonic differences. But also I really need to know if the signal from the tablet or phone is untouched.