In 2010 I bought my first SONOS and have continued to invest in these products to have some background music everywhere in the house. I have always had a stereo system to listen carefully to music in detail. I currently have a CAMBRIDGE AUDIO CXA-81 amplifier, CXC CD player and CXN-V2 network player and KEF R500 floor standing speakers. I also connected the PORT from SONOS to my amplifier. This PORT is connected in 3 ways: Analog to the amplifier, digital coaxial to the CXN-V2 and via Toslinck optical to the CXA-81. So you can compare immediately. I get the best sound through the CXN-V2. It is also beautiful via the DAC of the CXA-81. But the analog signal from the PORT, which uses its own DAC, is of much lower quality. If I now compare the streamer of the CXN-V2 with the streamer of the SONOS (digitally connected of course), I notice no difference. Thank you for your nice reviews. Greetings from Belgium.
You have a very dry, intriguing delivery. Nice touch of well placed humor. Seriously excellent production quality and you covered every inch of the CXN V2 - very well done!
Fantastic as usual Simon. Absolutely love Snivilisation, 'Sad But True' being my favourite track on the album. Indeed, I saw Orbital live at the Brixton Academy back in 2000. Happy memories :)
Thanks very much Anton. I used to see prodigy a lot in early days . I really like the tracks Kein Trink Wasser, and Forever, but they are all good. I use ‘ attached’ a lot as a test track as those electrical synth chords that come in about a minute on, test the treble really well. Also then about 2:10 too.😀👍
I bought this after having purchased the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and figured I’d standardise on the brand. I already had the node 2i (and still have it). Personally, I prefer node 2i for the app user interface, and the fact that I have trouble keeping the CXN connected to Tidal (the node 2i doesn’t have this problem, although my Kef LSX do). The CXN seemed to keep connected to Qobuz ok. I personally don’t like the DAC - it doesn’t pair well with rock imho - it makes the treble in the guitar sound grating. I had to introduce a Schiit DAC as an intermediary to suit my taste, and I’m sure I’ve lost out resolution-wise, but I can enjoy it more. Thank you for your reviews - I live in a small country where it’s hard to test equipment in person, so I have to rely on reviews, parsing reviewer personal preferences. I’m saving for the Hegel H390 - your review and those of fellow reviewers convinced me. It will take a while!
@@elthamlad468 No - it’s the Modius, which is their second level DAC after the Modi, and I had is spare because I was using it as a headphone DAC. It took the edge out of the treble and made it less grating. I removed it from the chain two weeks ago, and the sound was fine. My conclusion is that it imply takes a while for the Cambridge Audio equipment to settle.
Great, well balanced review with lots of useful information. I have this streamer and agree with pretty well all you have said. I use a laptop running Audirvana software to stream from Qobuz and have the option of feeding the digital output via usb cable or upnp to the CXN or to my Oppo 205 (which has high end ESS dacs). This is where it gets interesting. There is quite a difference between the two. Generally the preference is for the CXN where the detail seems superior. For vocals (largely classical eg opera) the Oppo is a little more natural sounding. The bass is more focused and deeper with the CXN. Streaming Qobuz directly with the CXN, although very good, is not as clear and airy as it is via laptop/Audirvana. The extra features - Spotify, radio stations, chromecast and bluetooth are very welcome. I will be auditioning Audirvana's new Studio offering shortly which also now includes Radio Stations and podcasts and supposedly even better streaming quality so more comparisons to play with. I hope it won't take me 125 hours though! I have now subscribed and look forward to more reviews.
First review I have seen from you and subscribed. Very nicely done, interested in the steamer shoot-out. As a non native English speaker, your language and humour can be a bit difficult, but I still manage and enjoy it. Oh, I don't get the confusion about Darko, I watch him too and your style definately is unique!
Thank you very much, if I used similar music and shots are similar then I still have to put the work in so I’m not copying and I agree my style is way different to his. He is more of an anorak on hifi tbh.
Thanks, 13th, for the thorough CXN v2 video review!...Just gave my CD collection away to a friend to free up some space!...Looking forward to streaming-only audio heaven with Cambridge Audio integrated amplifier CXA81 and streamer CXN v2 combination!
See, I Told U it was AMAAAAZING for the Money. Glad U Agree. Even the Darko Audio (video) Raved about it. And I agree with Johns’ findings that, on the more CRAPPY Recordings, the CD’s do sound Better thru the CXN than they do on a more ‘up market’ DAC ( in my case the RME ). I’m using my CXN as a Pre thru a pair of Modded Classic Quad II Valve Mono Blocks and into a pair of Wharfedale Linton’s .. On their Own Stands. Stunning. I even tried my Raspberry Pi4 thru the CXN. Sounds GR8. Is yours a Review Sample ? And if yes, will U be ‘Keeping It’ ? ? … DeeeeCisions, Eh ! ? NIce Video. Oh, and BTW, All of my ’10 Box Naim Set-Up’ is now .. GONE .. Am Loving my Hegel 390 Soooo Much ( in my MAIN System ) that i have just purchased a Hegel H95 as my ‘Back-Up’ Amp. ( And Ditched my Naim 72/Hi-Cap/140 ) .. ATB … Lucy
Thanks for the informative review.My Brother have the CXN V2,working best with Spotify. Qobuz works only with the Cambridge App ,wich is a little bit simple designed .No adding tracks to favorites and playlists.The Dac sounds a little brighter then my T+A 8 dsd.Greatings from Austria.
Thank you . I agree with your comments about the app. Love Austria. Worked in zell am see for 4-5 months 5 years ago. Loved it and all the ski places, plus visiting Salzburg / Mozart’s house etc.
Thanks Simon. I believe you've convinced me. I've been waffling about buying this item. I'll just have to decide if I keep the Ares II DAC or use the Wolfsons.
I entered the streaming world recently with the CXNV2. The onboard DAC is very close to my ANK 4.1. In fact I might even prefer it. As you pointed out it's very easy to compare switching between inputs. I listen to the Hi Res files via a usb from a Macbook. Is there a better way ?
I agree, owned by a partnership that includes Julian Richer or the uk’s richer sounds hifi shop fame, I’m not surprised that the clout to get these so good comes from the economies of scale of bigger more mass market sales.
Hi there. I’ve just bought the CXN V2, CXA61 amp and SX-80 floor standing speakers. I have yet to open the boxes, as I’m currently doing a room up first. However, I have heard that these units do not come with any cables. My question is: What cables to I need to buy, and what is the best way to link the units for optimal sound?
I'm facing a tough decision. I recently bought a Roksan Attessa CD transport. My system consists of a Node N130 > Ares 2 > Elex R. I love the sound of the Ares but it skips occasionally on CD playback. Apparently a known problem with a lot of CD transports and the Ares via coax/Toslink. My transport only has coax out. I'm thinking of selling the Ares and Node to purchase a cxn V2. I'm just wondering how much of a downgrade to expect sound wise?
Nice review, and I love that I don’t understand half of your “sayings”…lol….. Anyway, I have two node 2i and have a intermittent problem streaming 192k music with Roon using the toslink out on the node 2i, oddly it doesn’t happen with the coax out on the node 2i…was wondering if Cxn or 851 would be a upgrade? Thanks, love your production and style…peace mate.
Great review! This will be my next purchase even though I’m so confused about streaming! I have Kef c80s and an old Deno n home theater receiver. Would a new integrated amp like a Cambridge improve the sound quality by going to a separate dedicated 2 channel system for music only? Going to get a CD player also
I have the CXN v2, playing through an Arcam SA20, I use the CXN as a transport. The ESS Sabre DAC in the Arcam, to my ears, provides a more insightful sound. Shame Cambridge didn’t fit an ESS Sabre into the CXN. The CXN is a fantastic product though.
Thanks for the very informative video. I am using Apple Music and, recently started casting from my iMac (which is in a different room) using Chromecast. However, when streaming this way, there is no information on the CXNv2's front panel display. I am not really bothered about the album art work, but more concerned that I cannot see the sample and bitrate displayed, which I'd like to be certain about when testing out / comparing high res audio files on Apple Music. When I was using Apple Airplay, this information was displayed. Is there anything that can be done about this issue? Thank you.
thank you for the video! by chance have you heard the rme adi-dac2-fs ? Im curious how the sound directly from cxn v2 vs connecting the cxn v2 to the rme dac would compare. Ive no doubt the rme is the "better" or more transparent/clean dac - but I sometimes feel like it sounds "too clean" in my room and I keep hearing in the cxn v2 reviews that it sounds "warm and analogue while still providing incredible detail" ... which on paper, comes across as though it might be more of the type of sound Im after.... but I havent heard the cxn yet...
The stock fuse needs to be upgraded, it's a bottle neck on the CXN. But if the DAC inside is as good as an ANK 4.1, that's saying something. I have the modwright upgraded version of the CXN and it sings.
The cxn v2 is nowhere near the build quality, sound quality and interactivity of the new Eversolo DMP-A6 at the same money. I’m about to release my new review soon
Your review was very interesting , I bought the CXN V1 when it first came out. Can you tell me the difference between the version one and version two especially the difference if there is any with the DAC. After watching your review with the Cambridge transport I believe I’m going to sell my CD player and purchased a Cambridge transport machine
Awesome review. I should probably be ashamed to ask, but can you please share the name of the track at 3:05? You've sold me on the CXN v2 (and synthwave ;)
Thank you very much. I use music off epidemic sound which is a copyright free service for youtubers. It’s called apparent solution by Brendon moeller I think
Well. I went to buy the Bluesound Node today off the back of your other video and came away with this. Not until after watching this video though. A to B listening it was like chalk and silky smooth very fattening cheese. 👍🧀🧀🧀
Question, I installed the CA streamer today. I’m trying to play dsd audio through Roon, buts it’s getting converted to 384khz pcm at the end of the chain. Am I doing something wrong? I am outputting via xlr into my Parasound JC2BP pre amp.
Hi Simon, thanks for the review I was looking for. I will be buying a pair of active speakers in the near future. As I was debating myself: BS NODE or Cambridge CXN, this video made it clear to me that the CXN would be the choice if I was to connect my speakers analog. But because of the use of an active speaker I have to use the speakers DAC I believe. I connect both the streamer and speakers via digital way and so there will be no noticeable difference in sound. Am I right? The BlueOS seems better for the other members of the household and so I am leaning against buying the Bluesound as a transport device.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 it's between Devialet Phantom and Cabasse Pearl. I have not yet decided between them. But again: thanks for your info. Subscribed right away.
Very nice review, I am a subscriber now! But one critical comment: Why is pretty much no reviewer reviewing the pre amp section of such devices? If this works well it becomes an even greater offer. The same comment also applies to all reviews I have seen about the RME ADI-2. I think for many the inputs of those deviced would be absolutely sufficient. And I also would like to know more about the volume control, is it digital and lossless, is it analogue, or a hybrid (such as the RME)!? Keep up the good work! Cheers, Michael
Thank you. This took loads of work and I didn’t have time to go fully into that, I suspect that’s true of all reviews. This took so much work. Maybe for another review.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thanks for your reply. It does look like it has been a lot of work! Was supposed to be a trigger for further reviews 😉 And a hint that this would also differentiate you from other reviewers. Especially for the RME there is quite some discussion in forums about its pre amp qualities
I have the Mk1 CXN playing via an M2tech Young Mk1 through QED Signature phonos to a Sugden HA4 dtriving Beyerdynamic T1 Mk2s. I usually listen to Radioparadise mellow mix flac stream. I note that you are very impressed with the DAC in the CXN Mk2 and in your other review on the best DACs you compare it favourably - almost on a par with the Chord Qutest. I have tried comparing the CXN using its XLR outputs direct into the XLR inputs of the Sugden using QED signature XLR cables and switching between the two. Other than the CXN sounding a bit louder through XLR due to the higher output voltage, the sound is noticeably inferior to playing via the Young. It has a coarse sibilant graininess ( Maybe due to the upsampling by the CXN) , more two dimensional and narrower soundstage and is generally less listenable. Maybe the Mk2 CXN fares better but for what its worth, that's what I find. I am contemplating replacing the Young with a Qutest but I can't imaging it can sound much better.
Please Simon. Never change. Perfect pace, timing and pausation to give the words time to sink in. Perfect spitting F**king humor,, 👍😂👍. Im sitting here on a Saturday afternoon watching a review of a product Im really not especially interested in, and thereby wasting my time, yet I do sit here watch this flick, and I rather do it than anything else right now. Thats a clear⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. Cheers Maestro,, 🍻😎👍,, I will pour myself a fresh cup of coffe and a Lagavulin and watch it again.
Hi Irene thanks very much for such great comments. I liked the Richard Hammond comment in a video I saw on that village. If you come from f-cking does that make you a f-Cker. 😂😂😂😀😀 apparently they changed the name. Lol.
Thank you for your review. This comment will link to the comment I made on your Ares II DAC review. I have the CXN v2 with my PrimaLuna amp, and yes the sound is great but to me it's missing a little bit of lushness that I had using the inbuild DAC on my old valve amp. Maybe this is the PrimaLuna, however before I go swapping amps for the umpteenth time I want to explore a better DAC. My question I guess is therefore to improve upon the DAC in the CXN v2 how much, realistically, would one need to spend? How would you compare the CXN v2 DAC with something like the Ares II? Maybe it is not a 'better' DAC I am after, simply a different sound signature, something like an R-2R? I am struggling......
@@sixtyoneeightthings have changed a lot since I wrote that comment. Gone is the CXN and PrimaLuna and I now have a Cayin CS100A streaming via a Bluesound Node 2i into a Cayin IDAC6 MKII. The DAC in the CXN is/was the weak link. The PrimaLuna was a seriously capable amp and required a higher quality DAC to sound it's best. The same for the Cayin CS100A. A seriously capable amp that requires a very good DAC. I bypass the internal DAC in the Bluesound, as its pretty awful. You only know a budget DAC when you hear a quality DAC. The CXN is OK for it's price point, but there are some seriously good Chinese streamers/DACS for a little more money.
Really like your informative knowledgeable videos Simon. Thank you. You obviously put a great deal of time and effort into them, and it shows. The only thing I don’t like is your humorous comments, which frankly let you down, they border on smutty sometimes and it’s embarrassing. . You don’t need to be funny. Your videos are refreshingly professional. You are up there with the Darko’s and Andrew’s so please go your own way and don’t try to be “cool” or “funny” - you don’t need it - stay professional and informative, please.
Edited : Thanks Dennis for your first nice comment, but on the latter points I’m doing it for me and my sense of humour and personality and I’ve never apologised for that. Also if you just present serious videos it’s not enjoyable because remember when I present I’ve heard the hifi and I have to entertain myself to a degree to spend all that time presenting - usually all day. You might not have thought of it like that. I’m not into boring hifi videos but I always like to show my personality and humour and if people don’t like it that’s for them not me and also people like humour in videos (60% according to polls). Btw, I thought the humour was pretty tame on this one.
Great review! Thanks! I was surprised that you mentioned the Bluesound as transport. I am actually looking for a replacement for Bluesound Node 2i to improve the sound of the streaming. What transport would you suggest? I was thinking at the CXN but now I am not so sure that this is an upgrade (I use RME Adi-Dac 2fs for dac duties). Thank you!
thanks very much. I don't go along with all that. Most of the formats are DAC dependent anyway. Good quality lossless is all you need, anything else is a bonus.
That’s the one huge failing of the Cambridge streamers, that it doesn’t have a USB out that you could link to an external DAC. It only has digital coaxial out, which in the case of Chord DACs, means lower resolution transfers.
So, why don't they make it in black, silver, so old school. Great review as always, borrowing music from Darko along with the coffee themes. Thats no criticism being levelled, but as I watch this at 04.30 on Sunday morning, damn, I now need a coffee.Department of Music next weekend for the H390 review, I still not sure what im expecting compared to my H160.
Not sure Alexander, it’s maybe due to covid-19. Thanks for comments about video. I’m still happy to help with mine if you want to come around or other way. I think next week we can go into other homes. I really like igloo audio but not a fan of dept of music.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 ok not night and day but if i remember correctly The NAD was slightly cheaper also wich makes it a great buy and a great futur review :D
@@pliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii you are comparing a streamer which is double the price of the CXN, more in fact, the 851N. I would hardly say this is a fair comparison.
Thank you. I do like him for his for insight, comments, and intelligence but you have to still do all this yourself and I buzz off the production, otherwise personally I’d find churning out same videos again and again for viewing stats a little soul destroying. Doing TH-cam is a creative process and learning new stuff, and there is no shortcuts on doing videos well and I do lots more after effects than him, the blurring and Cambridge audio line drawing with bubbles I did myself. This whole video took about 125 hours of work.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 as a suggestion try to put your signature. I mean the music, shots when cable connected, the coffee and few more are like I am watching Darko’s video. Try a bit more to do your own thing. All these suggestions are in good spirit.
I think people like that, I use epidemic sound like lots of youtubers. The shots with coffeee took me a day to do that clip which he doesn’t do. You have to film clips, change lenses, key frame the clips, render videos, add in camera blur, rotate. It takes forever but I enjoy it. What about the little ping, on the coffee cup, you have to learn how to do that in after effects. What about the bubbles. How do you create those so they rotate. So the thing is when you add all this up you are far from copying him. I’m also a lot more honest then he is, because he has strong alignments with manufacturers. He just has a cameraman and then edits his shots, with very limited after effects work, so I don’t think you can say they are the same when you know what’s involved. I also put humour in, clip films and movies, and he doesn’t really do that. The more and more I get better at videos the more they have their own style. Watch my Adam audio pro headphone video or see what’s involved in editing and for my own style.
I was going to purchase this unit, however, thanks to you, I now plan to purchase the Node 2i as I only require a streamer (not a DAC). I will be upgrading from using a Google Chrome Cast Audio (powered via an external power brick for optimal performance). I have a revealing system, do you think my audio will benefit from the upgrade from GCCA to the Node 2i? Many thanks in advance, and keep up the great work!
Thanks for your reply. Why the new one as I'm only using it for streaming and not utilising the internal dac? I was planning on getting a 2i with a Linear Power Supply.
@@aaronsadventures23 you may not need too as the new 2021 node has a redesigned power supply. The new one is also faster with a redesigned processing engine. I wouldn’t be thinking linear psu is always a necessity. If you are buying it, buy first then buy the linear psu later when you are used to the Bluesound, as you may find little or no difference and you could save money.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 However, thanks to your great videos ... I just ordered a Cyrus Pre2Dac QXR and the Stereo 200 to replace the Denon. Time to upgrade. I considered the new Cyrus XR series and even the DAC-XP, but neither has a tape loop which i need for my Technics RS-1500 R2R !
No disrespect because I have different systems too, and it doesn’t mean yours is bad but the last few percentiles often come when the rest of the gear is up there. You get the last laugh and we all pay for diminishing returns
@@13thnotehifireviews7 well, for me a better high quality PSU improvement is enough. All the other features are up to the standards. Also, the BluOS app is miles away better than the CA Stream Magic
@@intothedragon I agree the bluos is a better app. But a lot comes down to what you will and won’t be using. So for instance if you just have Spotify or tidal connect and play to the stream magic app, you won’t have grumbles. BLU is adds in all the bonuses like MQA, MQA live streams, ability to add more speakers and link them and so on.
Bought this last week, and absolutely love it. A big improvement on my Node 2i in every area. Pairing it with my Roksan K3 integrated and Dali Oberon 5’s. The app is very good too. Just testing it as a pre-amp at the moment into the Roksan but initially doesn’t sound as good as the K3 in pure integrated mode.
I do all the graphics myself and I like his style so that is a template because it is very popular, but it doesn’t mean I’m copying him, because this takes about 125 hours. Also his way of doing things isn’t new to TH-cam and many other youtubers do it a similar way, so is he copying others? Of course not. It is my own ears, script, camera, editing way, my own after effects which he doesn’t do, my own way of presenting, I use humour, I clip videos and films etc which he doesn’t do. When you do that you are far from copying. Your comment suggests you don’t understand all this and if you were to spend the time on a video like I did and it had any resemblance to anyone else, I think you’d resent such a comment too. Only saying.,😀👍
Great review as always! I did pull the trigger on the bluesound node 2i, but tempted to send it back because the sound quality is ok for the money but the dac is the weakest link, everything else the interface user ease is brilliant! Was thinking of using the node 2i as a transport and by an external dac to improve sound and keep the features from the node, or go with Camebridge, and if you are liking the cxn that much the 851n should be even better.. I'm considering that one! Only thing I hope from Camebridge is that they implement amazon music HD...anyway cheers.. Any advice is more than welcome, I'm driving myself nuts) node 2i plus good external dac around 700 or return the node 2i and get the Camebridge 851n or cxn v2.....for the same price..
Thanks for great comments about the video. It’s a tough one but I’d borrow one and go from there. Amazon does seem to come up as an app in stream magic that seems to link but prob better ask CA as I’m really a tidal, Qobuz and Spotify boy.
@@rajeshv5192 quite the dillema) its also so hard to do proper testing, since I don't have 10k lying around to test and then send back etc..I even thought of the Naim n dac, which you can get now for like a quarter of the original price back when it was around 3k or something, because I do love the Naim sound! But to use it with the node 2i that handles the streaming? Don't know..I think looks matter a bit as well, and the Cambridge does looks nice) or maby an Topping d90..still driving myself nuts)
@@13thnotehifireviews7 i think i will go with Camebridge 851n event though its a bit older than the Cxn v2 it's still their flagship, I'm fine with Tidal and Spotify as well, the latter will get more hi fi as well, the question is when and how and what's the price tag.. but with the node 2i isn't it so that if I get a very good dac like the mytek brooklyn plus, that it's kind of like putting an v8 into a prius.. and the node 2i even if its only function is to stream will bring down the sq? Because then its also more logical to get something like the Lumin d2 with quality spread equally across the board?! Maby I'm totally wrong! What do you think.. Cheers
Too big device for me... for me the newest Node will be better I guess :/ Not sure where both were produced - I'm trying to support our EU producers (oops and UK too :))
For people sitting at their desk most of the day and wanting to control the CXNv2 from their windows computer, I've created a Windows App for it: th-cam.com/video/ckBQAZaUJJs/w-d-xo.html
Great review and stunning production👍
Thank you very much. Lots of effort into this one. Doing one on a streamer shoot out next. Allo, Bluesound, sonore,Yamaha, and this Cambridge.
In 2010 I bought my first SONOS and have continued to invest in these products to have some background music everywhere in the house. I have always had a stereo system to listen carefully to music in detail. I currently have a CAMBRIDGE AUDIO CXA-81 amplifier, CXC CD player and CXN-V2 network player and KEF R500 floor standing speakers. I also connected the PORT from SONOS to my amplifier. This PORT is connected in 3 ways: Analog to the amplifier, digital coaxial to the CXN-V2 and via Toslinck optical to the CXA-81. So you can compare immediately. I get the best sound through the CXN-V2. It is also beautiful via the DAC of the CXA-81. But the analog signal from the PORT, which uses its own DAC, is of much lower quality. If I now compare the streamer of the CXN-V2 with the streamer of the SONOS (digitally connected of course), I notice no difference. Thank you for your nice reviews. Greetings from Belgium.
You have a very dry, intriguing delivery. Nice touch of well placed humor. Seriously excellent production quality and you covered every inch of the CXN V2 - very well done!
Thanks, these take a long time as I believe audio should be entertainment engagement business
Best review of the CXN v2 I have seen. Well done sir! I am wanting to buy one now.
Thank you very much.
I had one around 2 years ago. Did not last long. Found it to sound a little on the light side but it’s great value for money.
Fantastic as usual Simon. Absolutely love Snivilisation, 'Sad But True' being my favourite track on the album. Indeed, I saw Orbital live at the Brixton Academy back in 2000. Happy memories :)
Thanks very much Anton. I used to see prodigy a lot in early days . I really like the tracks Kein Trink Wasser, and Forever, but they are all good. I use ‘ attached’ a lot as a test track as those electrical synth chords that come in about a minute on, test the treble really well. Also then about 2:10 too.😀👍
Excellent production, as usual.
Thank you Mark. Just make sure you wash and go like me. Lol 😂
Great review Simon, love a bit of high value HiFi! Can’t wait for the streamer bake off!
Thanks very much David. Hope your video is going well. Will hopefully have it back to you the week after next if that’s ok?.
I bought this after having purchased the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and figured I’d standardise on the brand. I already had the node 2i (and still have it). Personally, I prefer node 2i for the app user interface, and the fact that I have trouble keeping the CXN connected to Tidal (the node 2i doesn’t have this problem, although my Kef LSX do). The CXN seemed to keep connected to Qobuz ok. I personally don’t like the DAC - it doesn’t pair well with rock imho - it makes the treble in the guitar sound grating. I had to introduce a Schiit DAC as an intermediary to suit my taste, and I’m sure I’ve lost out resolution-wise, but I can enjoy it more. Thank you for your reviews - I live in a small country where it’s hard to test equipment in person, so I have to rely on reviews, parsing reviewer personal preferences. I’m saving for the Hegel H390 - your review and those of fellow reviewers convinced me. It will take a while!
Thankyou, thanks for sharing experiences 👍😀
Is your Schiit DAC an R-2R? Can I ask what differences it has made to your sound as I am in a similar situation and curious?
@@elthamlad468 No - it’s the Modius, which is their second level DAC after the Modi, and I had is spare because I was using it as a headphone DAC. It took the edge out of the treble and made it less grating. I removed it from the chain two weeks ago, and the sound was fine. My conclusion is that it imply takes a while for the Cambridge Audio equipment to settle.
Great, well balanced review with lots of useful information. I have this streamer and agree with pretty well all you have said. I use a laptop running Audirvana software to stream from Qobuz and have the option of feeding the digital output via usb cable or upnp to the CXN or to my Oppo 205 (which has high end ESS dacs). This is where it gets interesting. There is quite a difference between the two. Generally the preference is for the CXN where the detail seems superior. For vocals (largely classical eg opera) the Oppo is a little more natural sounding. The bass is more focused and deeper with the CXN. Streaming Qobuz directly with the CXN, although very good, is not as clear and airy as it is via laptop/Audirvana. The extra features - Spotify, radio stations, chromecast and bluetooth are very welcome. I will be auditioning Audirvana's new Studio offering shortly which also now includes Radio Stations and podcasts and supposedly even better streaming quality so more comparisons to play with. I hope it won't take me 125 hours though! I have now subscribed and look forward to more reviews.
Thanks very much. These reviews takes loads of effort.
Excellent review, very nice tone. Thank you!
Thank you too 😀👍
First review I have seen from you and subscribed. Very nicely done, interested in the steamer shoot-out. As a non native English speaker, your language and humour can be a bit difficult, but I still manage and enjoy it. Oh, I don't get the confusion about Darko, I watch him too and your style definately is unique!
Thank you very much, if I used similar music and shots are similar then I still have to put the work in so I’m not copying and I agree my style is way different to his. He is more of an anorak on hifi tbh.
Thanks, 13th, for the thorough CXN v2 video review!...Just gave my CD collection away to a friend to free up some space!...Looking forward to streaming-only audio heaven with Cambridge Audio integrated amplifier CXA81 and streamer CXN v2 combination!
Get the eversolo dmp-a6 if you can, a better product. Bw Simon.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thanks, Simon, for the valuable advice!
Great review; I just got a Node 2i & am pretty happy with it, but if it was in the budget I'd go for the CXN.
Thanks very much, really glad you liked it. 👍😀
Very informative, thanks - subscribed.
Great review Simon! Informative and thoughtful! Thanks for doing this! Cheers from France!
Merci Raphael, hope it helps, and from a sunny southern England (for the time being lol)
See, I Told U it was AMAAAAZING for the Money. Glad U Agree. Even the Darko Audio (video) Raved about it. And I agree with Johns’ findings that, on the more CRAPPY Recordings, the CD’s do sound Better thru the CXN than they do on a more ‘up market’ DAC ( in my case the RME ). I’m using my CXN as a Pre thru a pair of Modded Classic Quad II Valve Mono Blocks and into a pair of Wharfedale Linton’s .. On their Own Stands. Stunning. I even tried my Raspberry Pi4 thru the CXN. Sounds GR8. Is yours a Review Sample ? And if yes, will U be ‘Keeping It’ ? ? … DeeeeCisions, Eh ! ? NIce Video. Oh, and BTW, All of my ’10 Box Naim Set-Up’ is now .. GONE .. Am Loving my Hegel 390 Soooo Much ( in my MAIN System ) that i have just purchased a Hegel H95 as my ‘Back-Up’ Amp. ( And Ditched my Naim 72/Hi-Cap/140 ) .. ATB … Lucy
Thanks for the informative review.My Brother have the CXN V2,working best with Spotify.
Qobuz works only with the Cambridge App ,wich is a little bit simple designed .No adding tracks to
favorites and playlists.The Dac sounds a little brighter then my T+A 8 dsd.Greatings from Austria.
Thank you . I agree with your comments about the app. Love Austria. Worked in zell am see for 4-5 months 5 years ago. Loved it and all the ski places, plus visiting Salzburg / Mozart’s house etc.
Thanks Simon. I believe you've convinced me. I've been waffling about buying this item. I'll just have to decide if I keep the Ares II DAC or use the Wolfsons.
What did you decide? I'll soon be facing the same dilemma.
I entered the streaming world recently with the CXNV2. The onboard DAC is very close to my ANK 4.1. In fact I might even prefer it. As you pointed out it's very easy to compare switching between inputs. I listen to the Hi Res files via a usb from a Macbook. Is there a better way ?
Cambridge have form for superb quality dacs stretching over many years - don't be surprised they can pull this off with great value 🙂
I agree, owned by a partnership that includes Julian Richer or the uk’s richer sounds hifi shop fame, I’m not surprised that the clout to get these so good comes from the economies of scale of bigger more mass market sales.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 ....and Julian is an ethical employer, another good reason to but from CA.
Hi there. I’ve just bought the CXN V2, CXA61 amp and SX-80 floor standing speakers.
I have yet to open the boxes, as I’m currently doing a room up first. However, I have heard that these units do not come with any cables.
My question is: What cables to I need to buy, and what is the best way to link the units for optimal sound?
What a FIRST CLASS PRESENTATION !!
Thank you very much. Please spread the word. 👍👌😀
Very well done! Thanks, Simon.
Thank you very much too !
Now that you have tested the Eversolo A6 and the CXN, which one do you prefer? They are quite close in price, in the used market.
You need to watch the videos all the way through please. All info is in them. Thanks
At about 3:30, when installing the power cord, there is a spark. Is this from a defective ground or not having a ground?
That was a bit of video editing . Just put it in to denote a power connection
Got mine as a DAC out of Oppo 203, very nice.
Watch out Darko.
Thank you 😀
I'm facing a tough decision. I recently bought a Roksan Attessa CD transport. My system consists of a Node N130 > Ares 2 > Elex R. I love the sound of the Ares but it skips occasionally on CD playback. Apparently a known problem with a lot of CD transports and the Ares via coax/Toslink. My transport only has coax out. I'm thinking of selling the Ares and Node to purchase a cxn V2. I'm just wondering how much of a downgrade to expect sound wise?
Nice review, and I love that I don’t understand half of your “sayings”…lol…..
Anyway, I have two node 2i and have a intermittent problem streaming 192k music with Roon using the toslink out on the node 2i, oddly it doesn’t happen with the coax out on the node 2i…was wondering if Cxn or 851 would be a upgrade?
Thanks, love your production and style…peace mate.
Thanks very Mark ❤️, watch the new node vid I did as I tackled cxn v new node. Best wishes simon
Great review! This will be my next purchase even though I’m so confused about streaming! I have Kef c80s and an old Deno n home theater receiver. Would a new integrated amp like a Cambridge improve the sound quality by going to a separate dedicated 2 channel system for music only? Going to get a CD player also
I have the CXN v2, playing through an Arcam SA20, I use the CXN as a transport. The ESS Sabre DAC in the Arcam, to my ears, provides a more insightful sound. Shame Cambridge didn’t fit an ESS Sabre into the CXN. The CXN is a fantastic product though.
It’s not just the dac but power supply and analogue stage
A well balanced and thorough review. Your production gets better every time - stunning results. Look out John Darko ;¬)}
Greetings to one and All.
Thank you very much, my after effects graphics are better than his but then I would say that. Lol. 😀👍
Thanks for the very informative video. I am using Apple Music and, recently started casting from my iMac (which is in a different room) using Chromecast. However, when streaming this way, there is no information on the CXNv2's front panel display. I am not really bothered about the album art work, but more concerned that I cannot see the sample and bitrate displayed, which I'd like to be certain about when testing out / comparing high res audio files on Apple Music. When I was using Apple Airplay, this information was displayed. Is there anything that can be done about this issue? Thank you.
thank you for the video! by chance have you heard the rme adi-dac2-fs ? Im curious how the sound directly from cxn v2 vs connecting the cxn v2 to the rme dac would compare. Ive no doubt the rme is the "better" or more transparent/clean dac - but I sometimes feel like it sounds "too clean" in my room and I keep hearing in the cxn v2 reviews that it sounds "warm and analogue while still providing incredible detail" ... which on paper, comes across as though it might be more of the type of sound Im after.... but I havent heard the cxn yet...
Thanks , see description and other video
RME ADI-2 DAC FS - Chord Qutest Killer? th-cam.com/video/0_G7ENaPg3o/w-d-xo.html
Really enjoy your videos.
Question: Do you think the Cambridge CXN v2 through a Cambridge CX A81 would be equal in sound performance etc to Hegel H190
Thanks Keith. Don’t know that one as never tried that cambridge amp unfortunately.
Hi Adam, what do you think Sounds better: the bluesound node through the denafrips Ares II or the Cambridge cxn V2 with its own wolfson dacs?
Simon here. First one I think
@@13thnotehifireviews7 thanks A Lot🤗
The stock fuse needs to be upgraded, it's a bottle neck on the CXN. But if the DAC inside is as good as an ANK 4.1, that's saying something. I have the modwright upgraded version of the CXN and it sings.
The cxn v2 is nowhere near the build quality, sound quality and interactivity of the new Eversolo DMP-A6 at the same money. I’m about to release my new review soon
Your review was very interesting , I bought the CXN V1 when it first came out. Can you tell me the difference between the version one and version two especially the difference if there is any with the DAC. After watching your review with the Cambridge transport I believe I’m going to sell my CD player and purchased a Cambridge transport machine
Awesome review. I should probably be ashamed to ask, but can you please share the name of the track at 3:05?
You've sold me on the CXN v2 (and synthwave ;)
Thank you very much. I use music off epidemic sound which is a copyright free service for youtubers. It’s called apparent solution by Brendon moeller I think
Seems a damn good value, end game for most people.
Hi Michael, I think I'd definitely be happy with it in as much as enjoying music, although I've reviewed better DACs. BW Simon
Well. I went to buy the Bluesound Node today off the back of your other video and came away with this. Not until after watching this video though. A to B listening it was like chalk and silky smooth very fattening cheese. 👍🧀🧀🧀
Good choice, it is a great product.
Question, I installed the CA streamer today. I’m trying to play dsd audio through Roon, buts it’s getting converted to 384khz pcm at the end of the chain. Am I doing something wrong? I am outputting via xlr into my Parasound JC2BP pre amp.
Hi Simon, thanks for the review I was looking for. I will be buying a pair of active speakers in the near future. As I was debating myself: BS NODE or Cambridge CXN, this video made it clear to me that the CXN would be the choice if I was to connect my speakers analog. But because of the use of an active speaker I have to use the speakers DAC I believe. I connect both the streamer and speakers via digital way and so there will be no noticeable difference in sound. Am I right? The BlueOS seems better for the other members of the household and so I am leaning against buying the Bluesound as a transport device.
Thank you. I’m sure it depends on the specific pairing. Not all actives have digital inputs alone. Depends on quality of the actives too of course.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 it's between Devialet Phantom and Cabasse Pearl. I have not yet decided between them. But again: thanks for your info. Subscribed right away.
How does this stack up to the DacMagic 200m dac?
I see you have used the Chord Quetest with roon, and you also use the Cabridge CXN V2. Which sounded better to your ears?? Sonically?
Chord
Very nice review, I am a subscriber now! But one critical comment: Why is pretty much no reviewer reviewing the pre amp section of such devices? If this works well it becomes an even greater offer. The same comment also applies to all reviews I have seen about the RME ADI-2. I think for many the inputs of those deviced would be absolutely sufficient. And I also would like to know more about the volume control, is it digital and lossless, is it analogue, or a hybrid (such as the RME)!? Keep up the good work! Cheers, Michael
Thank you. This took loads of work and I didn’t have time to go fully into that, I suspect that’s true of all reviews. This took so much work. Maybe for another review.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thanks for your reply. It does look like it has been a lot of work! Was supposed to be a trigger for further reviews 😉 And a hint that this would also differentiate you from other reviewers. Especially for the RME there is quite some discussion in forums about its pre amp qualities
Not planning further reviews on the RME tbh
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I meant it would have been great if that would have been covered, so maybe you consider doing it it the future
I have the Mk1 CXN playing via an M2tech Young Mk1 through QED Signature phonos to a Sugden HA4 dtriving Beyerdynamic T1 Mk2s. I usually listen to Radioparadise mellow mix flac stream.
I note that you are very impressed with the DAC in the CXN Mk2 and in your other review on the best DACs you compare it favourably - almost on a par with the Chord Qutest.
I have tried comparing the CXN using its XLR outputs direct into the XLR inputs of the Sugden using QED signature XLR cables and switching between the two. Other than the CXN sounding a bit louder through XLR due to the higher output voltage, the sound is noticeably inferior to playing via the Young.
It has a coarse sibilant graininess ( Maybe due to the upsampling by the CXN) , more two dimensional and narrower soundstage and is generally less listenable.
Maybe the Mk2 CXN fares better but for what its worth, that's what I find.
I am contemplating replacing the Young with a Qutest but I can't imaging it can sound much better.
So much is down to preference I think. The chord is still a great DAC.
Great review...thanks.
Can you compare this streamer to NAD C658 please?
Maybe.
Please Simon. Never change.
Perfect pace, timing and pausation to give the words time to sink in.
Perfect spitting F**king humor,, 👍😂👍.
Im sitting here on a Saturday afternoon watching a review of a product Im really not especially interested in, and thereby wasting my time,
yet I do sit here watch this flick, and I rather do it than anything else right now. Thats a clear⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
Cheers Maestro,, 🍻😎👍,, I will pour myself a fresh cup of coffe and a Lagavulin and watch it again.
Hi Irene thanks very much for such great comments. I liked the Richard Hammond comment in a video I saw on that village. If you come from f-cking does that make you a f-Cker. 😂😂😂😀😀 apparently they changed the name. Lol.
Thank you for your review. This comment will link to the comment I made on your Ares II DAC review. I have the CXN v2 with my PrimaLuna amp, and yes the sound is great but to me it's missing a little bit of lushness that I had using the inbuild DAC on my old valve amp. Maybe this is the PrimaLuna, however before I go swapping amps for the umpteenth time I want to explore a better DAC. My question I guess is therefore to improve upon the DAC in the CXN v2 how much, realistically, would one need to spend? How would you compare the CXN v2 DAC with something like the Ares II? Maybe it is not a 'better' DAC I am after, simply a different sound signature, something like an R-2R? I am struggling......
Get the modwright CXN which as a tube output stage.
@@sixtyoneeightthings have changed a lot since I wrote that comment. Gone is the CXN and PrimaLuna and I now have a Cayin CS100A streaming via a Bluesound Node 2i into a Cayin IDAC6 MKII. The DAC in the CXN is/was the weak link. The PrimaLuna was a seriously capable amp and required a higher quality DAC to sound it's best. The same for the Cayin CS100A. A seriously capable amp that requires a very good DAC. I bypass the internal DAC in the Bluesound, as its pretty awful. You only know a budget DAC when you hear a quality DAC. The CXN is OK for it's price point, but there are some seriously good Chinese streamers/DACS for a little more money.
Excellent presentation
Bravo
Thanks very much
Really like your informative knowledgeable videos Simon. Thank you. You obviously put a great deal of time and effort into them, and it shows. The only thing I don’t like is your humorous comments, which frankly let you down, they border on smutty sometimes and it’s embarrassing. . You don’t need to be funny. Your videos are refreshingly professional. You are up there with the Darko’s and Andrew’s so please go your own way and don’t try to be “cool” or “funny” - you don’t need it - stay professional and informative, please.
Edited : Thanks Dennis for your first nice comment, but on the latter points I’m doing it for me and my sense of humour and personality and I’ve never apologised for that. Also if you just present serious videos it’s not enjoyable because remember when I present I’ve heard the hifi and I have to entertain myself to a degree to spend all that time presenting - usually all day. You might not have thought of it like that. I’m not into boring hifi videos but I always like to show my personality and humour and if people don’t like it that’s for them not me and also people like humour in videos (60% according to polls). Btw, I thought the humour was pretty tame on this one.
Great review! Thanks! I was surprised that you mentioned the Bluesound as transport. I am actually looking for a replacement for Bluesound Node 2i to improve the sound of the streaming. What transport would you suggest? I was thinking at the CXN but now I am not so sure that this is an upgrade (I use RME Adi-Dac 2fs for dac duties). Thank you!
Cheers , it’s for you to validate if you think I’m right or not based on your own experiences
Nice review !
Any galvanic isolation on this unit or is it only available on more expensive units ?
No sure tbh
Dune! such a great track
Does the eARC of the TV in combination withe the Node turn on the device when i start the tv? greets
Not sure tbh, did you check the manual?
I bought cxa61. Is the cxn2 worth it for the better dac and airplay over bluetooth?
Never tried the former sorry
Nice review, shame it only supports DSD64 and not higher, MQA is not a decoding carrier to be missed
thanks very much. I don't go along with all that. Most of the formats are DAC dependent anyway. Good quality lossless is all you need, anything else is a bonus.
can you compare it with the Nad C658? the quality of the dac
Might be able to if I do look at that. Am more interested in the news tomorrow re new streamer
Would it be better to pair the CXN V2 to the AXR100 or CX81? Any help would be appreciated. About to pull the trigger on my next system. Thank you.
Never tried those others so can’t know
CX81 is a solid pairing forCXN v2
Complimenti !! Potrebbe essere un upgrade diel dac Hegel h390 ?
Grazie
No not an upgrade
@@13thnotehifireviews7
Naim nsd xs2 ?
Patreon ?
Hi Simon, if you’re playing a CD via whatever transport you choose does it display the album artwork on the CXN display?
Hi Christopher, no it can’t because it doesn’t have a meta data stream. It’s Just a digital data music stream
@@13thnotehifireviews7 thank you
Thanks for the review. Is it possible to bypass the DAC in the CXN?
Yes dig out
That’s the one huge failing of the Cambridge streamers, that it doesn’t have a USB out that you could link to an external DAC. It only has digital coaxial out, which in the case of Chord DACs, means lower resolution transfers.
So, why don't they make it in black, silver, so old school. Great review as always, borrowing music from Darko along with the coffee themes. Thats no criticism being levelled, but as I watch this at 04.30 on Sunday morning, damn, I now need a coffee.Department of Music next weekend for the H390 review, I still not sure what im expecting compared to my H160.
Not sure Alexander, it’s maybe due to covid-19. Thanks for comments about video. I’m still happy to help with mine if you want to come around or other way. I think next week we can go into other homes. I really like igloo audio but not a fan of dept of music.
Hi Alex, did you get my message, Bw simon
Bought the NAD 658 instead of this one after a few tests Way clearer sound and more defined
I don’t think way clearer, night and day and so on exists to be perfectly blunt. Maybe if you buy but not if you test if you know what I mean.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 ok not night and day but if i remember correctly The NAD was slightly cheaper also wich makes it a great buy and a great futur review :D
Glad you got what you want. All about enjoyment and personal preference
@@13thnotehifireviews7 im willing to bet with you Do a comparo with the NAD 658 vs that Cambridge and you will say the same
@@pliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii you are comparing a streamer which is double the price of the CXN, more in fact, the 851N. I would hardly say this is a fair comparison.
Thank You.
Get the eversolo instead now…..
How does it sound compared to 851N. Does 851N worth the extra cost?
See description
Thank you
Looks like you are watching Darko’s videos. Nevertheless, Informative video and nice info 👍
Thank you. I do like him for his for insight, comments, and intelligence but you have to still do all this yourself and I buzz off the production, otherwise personally I’d find churning out same videos again and again for viewing stats a little soul destroying. Doing TH-cam is a creative process and learning new stuff, and there is no shortcuts on doing videos well and I do lots more after effects than him, the blurring and Cambridge audio line drawing with bubbles I did myself. This whole video took about 125 hours of work.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 as a suggestion try to put your signature. I mean the music, shots when cable connected, the coffee and few more are like I am watching Darko’s video. Try a bit more to do your own thing. All these suggestions are in good spirit.
I think people like that, I use epidemic sound like lots of youtubers. The shots with coffeee took me a day to do that clip which he doesn’t do. You have to film clips, change lenses, key frame the clips, render videos, add in camera blur, rotate. It takes forever but I enjoy it. What about the little ping, on the coffee cup, you have to learn how to do that in after effects. What about the bubbles. How do you create those so they rotate. So the thing is when you add all this up you are far from copying him. I’m also a lot more honest then he is, because he has strong alignments with manufacturers. He just has a cameraman and then edits his shots, with very limited after effects work, so I don’t think you can say they are the same when you know what’s involved. I also put humour in, clip films and movies, and he doesn’t really do that. The more and more I get better at videos the more they have their own style. Watch my Adam audio pro headphone video or see what’s involved in editing and for my own style.
I was going to purchase this unit, however, thanks to you, I now plan to purchase the Node 2i as I only require a streamer (not a DAC).
I will be upgrading from using a Google Chrome Cast Audio (powered via an external power brick for optimal performance).
I have a revealing system, do you think my audio will benefit from the upgrade from GCCA to the Node 2i?
Many thanks in advance, and keep up the great work!
Yes will benefit but get the new 2021 node
Thanks for your reply.
Why the new one as I'm only using it for streaming and not utilising the internal dac?
I was planning on getting a 2i with a Linear Power Supply.
@@aaronsadventures23 you may not need too as the new 2021 node has a redesigned power supply. The new one is also faster with a redesigned processing engine. I wouldn’t be thinking linear psu is always a necessity. If you are buying it, buy first then buy the linear psu later when you are used to the Bluesound, as you may find little or no difference and you could save money.
Well I owned a CXN V2 for several years. For me at least, it’s Dac didn’t sound any different from the $200 Cambridge DacMagic 100!
What speakers and amp did you use it with?
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Nothing too fancy ! Just a Denon-PMA-1600NE amp and B&W 705 S2
@@13thnotehifireviews7 However, thanks to your great videos ... I just ordered a Cyrus Pre2Dac QXR and the Stereo 200 to replace the Denon. Time to upgrade. I considered the new Cyrus XR series and even the DAC-XP, but neither has a tape loop which i need for my Technics RS-1500 R2R !
No disrespect because I have different systems too, and it doesn’t mean yours is bad but the last few percentiles often come when the rest of the gear is up there. You get the last laugh and we all pay for diminishing returns
That’s a big upgrade. The stereo 200 is the killer there. Will best your b and w’s for sure. I had the pre qx dac (forerunner to the pre2 dac qx).
New Node on Monday
Interesting........ Node 2i+ , Node 3, Node 2ii, Node 2isuper, Node 2i ‘bloody good job’. Lol. ?????L?L?LL
@@13thnotehifireviews7 well, for me a better high quality PSU improvement is enough. All the other features are up to the standards. Also, the BluOS app is miles away better than the CA Stream Magic
@@intothedragon I agree the bluos is a better app. But a lot comes down to what you will and won’t be using. So for instance if you just have Spotify or tidal connect and play to the stream magic app, you won’t have grumbles. BLU is adds in all the bonuses like MQA, MQA live streams, ability to add more speakers and link them and so on.
Bought this last week, and absolutely love it. A big improvement on my Node 2i in every area. Pairing it with my Roksan K3 integrated and Dali Oberon 5’s. The app is very good too. Just testing it as a pre-amp at the moment into the Roksan but initially doesn’t sound as good as the K3 in pure integrated mode.
Do you happen to watch Darko Audio videos by any chance? 🤔
I do all the graphics myself and I like his style so that is a template because it is very popular, but it doesn’t mean I’m copying him, because this takes about 125 hours. Also his way of doing things isn’t new to TH-cam and many other youtubers do it a similar way, so is he copying others? Of course not. It is my own ears, script, camera, editing way, my own after effects which he doesn’t do, my own way of presenting, I use humour, I clip videos and films etc which he doesn’t do. When you do that you are far from copying. Your comment suggests you don’t understand all this and if you were to spend the time on a video like I did and it had any resemblance to anyone else, I think you’d resent such a comment too. Only saying.,😀👍
Great review as always! I did pull the trigger on the bluesound node 2i, but tempted to send it back because the sound quality is ok for the money but the dac is the weakest link, everything else the interface user ease is brilliant! Was thinking of using the node 2i as a transport and by an external dac to improve sound and keep the features from the node, or go with Camebridge, and if you are liking the cxn that much the 851n should be even better.. I'm considering that one! Only thing I hope from Camebridge is that they implement amazon music HD...anyway cheers..
Any advice is more than welcome, I'm driving myself nuts) node 2i plus good external dac around 700 or return the node 2i and get the Camebridge 851n or cxn v2.....for the same price..
Using the node 2i with Boston acoustics m350 plus Musical fidelity m6i..
Thanks for great comments about the video. It’s a tough one but I’d borrow one and go from there. Amazon does seem to come up as an app in stream magic that seems to link but prob better ask CA as I’m really a tidal, Qobuz and Spotify boy.
I too have the same problem which one to buy. Node2i +Rme or 851n. Or Naim nd5xs2
@@rajeshv5192 quite the dillema) its also so hard to do proper testing, since I don't have 10k lying around to test and then send back etc..I even thought of the Naim n dac, which you can get now for like a quarter of the original price back when it was around 3k or something, because I do love the Naim sound! But to use it with the node 2i that handles the streaming? Don't know..I think looks matter a bit as well, and the Cambridge does looks nice) or maby an Topping d90..still driving myself nuts)
@@13thnotehifireviews7 i think i will go with Camebridge 851n event though its a bit older than the Cxn v2 it's still their flagship, I'm fine with Tidal and Spotify as well, the latter will get more hi fi as well, the question is when and how and what's the price tag.. but with the node 2i isn't it so that if I get a very good dac like the mytek brooklyn plus, that it's kind of like putting an v8 into a prius.. and the node 2i even if its only function is to stream will bring down the sq? Because then its also more logical to get something like the Lumin d2 with quality spread equally across the board?! Maby I'm totally wrong! What do you think..
Cheers
Does not support Amazon music Hd
Airplay and don’t worry about formats, just get a good dac. See my DACs intro video.
Too big device for me... for me the newest Node will be better I guess :/
Not sure where both were produced - I'm trying to support our EU producers (oops and UK too :))
No point tbh, some Chinese is better and at the end of the day much of the production circuit wise, is Chinese.
For people sitting at their desk most of the day and wanting to control the CXNv2 from their windows computer, I've created a Windows App for it: th-cam.com/video/ckBQAZaUJJs/w-d-xo.html