2. pc-audio
  3. 133453-104290

Usability Issues with Tidal

I’ve been using Tidal since October. So far, I’ve been less than impressed by the user experience, especially the user interface. Tonight, I was in the process of setting up my new Bluesound Node 2 with Tidal. I forgot my password so I went online to request a reset link, which is what all websites require. I don’t get the link for over an hour. Then the link came during dinner, and the email said the link would expire in 10 minutes. I tried anyway and it didn’t work. I had to ask for another password reset. Another hour later, I received an email and then I immediately tried to set a new password. It would not work. To me, this is sub-standard, especially for a “premium” service. 
They don’t have any live tech support, no chat, nada. 
Wondering what you all think about your user experiences with Tidal so far. Do you think the better SQ makes it worth it?
wakethetown
bubba12's avatar
bubba12
430 posts
 
I have the Vault 2 hardwired to my router and the Node 2 connected by wifi in my bedroom. I don't hear any sound difference between the two.
hgeifman
2,113 posts
 
@wakethetown, I am not familiar with the Cambridge Audio CXN DAC.   I suggest you go to the digital forum of Audiogon and search for DAC's.  Schitt makes several lDAC's at various prices points.  See:
http://www.schiit.com/home

You need to determine your price range and then research DAC's in your price range.   It is my opinion that spending a little extra for a high quality DAC is worth the money for improved sound quality but you need to make that decision.  I suggest you not rush a decision, and audition some DAC's in your price range.  

I agree that hardwiring is a pain, and expensive, but it is worth every penny.  I hired my audio retailer to help me install an under my house Ethernet cable.  We ran a cable to my family room where I already had a cable connection.  We installed the Luxul XGS-1008 switch box and plugged the new cable into the Luxul.  It works perfectly.
hgeifman
2,113 posts
 
@wakethetown, The Ayre Codex DA is excellent and, yes, I own one.

https://www.ayre.com/codex.htm


mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,479 posts
 
"I am using wi-if rather than Ethernet, and I wonder if that is affecting the sound quality"

This is 100% why your are not happy, try plugging it in using Ethernet :-)

If you want the best performance from streaming Tidal you must use a wired connection.


Matt M
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,544 posts
 
wakethetown, The Node 2 is a $500 streamer and DAC. It will give you good but not great sound. You will probably be able to distinguish some but not all MQA albums with it. It’s not one of the "giant killers" we hear about from time to time.

If the rest of your system is fair to average, a better streamer/DAC will give you a little better sound but will not transform your system. Before you spend any more money, you might want to hang on to the Node 2 and enjoy the wide variety of music it gives you access to while you do some research.

We might be able to help you more if you tell us what your system consists of and what you would like to hear in an upgrade.
More to discover