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New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming?

Sorry if this is a duplicate of some sort (lots of threads to sort through) but I was hoping to get some help from you guys.

I’m considering a high res streamer with particular interest in the new Bluesound Node and the Cambridge CXN v2. I’m most concerned with the ability to get the full resolution of my high res tracks into my stereo system for high res listening (obviously streaming from my Iphone/IPAD via Airplay isn’t going to cut it). I currently have Amazon Music HD and Qobuz.

What are some of the differences between the 2 streamers with regards to high res streaming? I’ve heard the sound quality is superior in the CXN v2 but I also do not believe it even supports Amazon Music HD. I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. Is that correct?

Other considerations to ensure I can get max quality streaming from the highest number of services between the 2 devices?
tistru
dinosore
108 posts
 
Personally, I think you are better off with the NODE.  It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS.  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).  I can't comment on the internal DAC on the new NODE, but I have the Node 2i and I think its internal DAC is very good.  I do use an external Meridian DAC (which I had already owned) and the difference between the two DACs is very subtle.

Both units support Roon, Apple Airplay 2 and Google Assistant.  The NODE also supports Amazon Alexa.  The NODE has BT built in, but it appears you need to purchase a separate BT adapter for the Cambridge? But you seem to be focused on hi-res, so BT may not matter that much to you.


tistru OP
23 posts
 
Thank you for the replies everyone. Sounds like folks are leaning to the NODE which I think I am as well.

@dinosore - yes I am focused on high res as I can technically stream almost everything today via Bluetooth or Airplay. But the frustration is that the quality is limited, especially when streaming high res tracks from Amazon or Qobuz.

@mahler123 - you mentioned the Cambridge doesn't have a DAC which I'm confused by. I thought the Cambridge did have dual Wolfson DACs if I'm not mistaken?

So general question for all: there is a lot of talk about connecting an external DAC to these streaming devices. Would that be necessary to get high res audio if I'm connecting the Node (or CXN) directly to an AV processor? Are there limitations to the resolution of audio being output digitally from the NODE and using the DAC in the processor?
tistru OP
23 posts
 
bump...question regarding the need for external DAC above?
mahler123
3,328 posts
 
I stand corrected…the Cambridge does indeed have the Wolfson DAC
lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,452 posts
 
“question regarding the need for external DAC above?”
It is recommended to use an external DAC with Node 2 if you want a better than average sound quality. Same goes for the internal DAC in your AV processor. Having said that, buy a digital coax and RCA cable from DH Labs and compare which DAC sounds good to your ears before you pony up cash for an external DAC. 
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