cambridge audio cxn v2 vs bluesound node

The Bluesound DAC isnt bad but I wouldnt be surprise if the CXN better. My overall interaction with Crutchfield was easy and pleasant. Hows that for humble? (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!). All component separate. I didn't know that. Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. Oldsmobile Sport Utility Stereos and Speakers. I like to focus this list on the streamer sound quality (with the internal dac bypassed if existant). You also mentioned the IFI Zen. It might actually sound better but any help would be appreciated. Especially with Tidal MQA, would the node 2i unfold MQA to a partial level since the Yggy is not MQA compatible? Not sure how all this would sort out, appreciate advise. A network music streamer lets you play digital music from different sources, and play them through connected speakers and devices in your home. I have just returned to this forum, after around 15 years, having finally aquired some upgrades to my original entry level system of NAC92R/NAP90.3 which I bought with the intention of entering the upgrade path, though never got around to it! Sure, you can carry a small handheld speaker with you, but Deia takes her portable tunes more seriously. Very bummed they are dropping the black gear though, and very happy I purchased mine in black already. All rights reserved. Preferred the smsl su-8 over their inbuilt DAC. Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. In equal power mode, you'll hear these differences in loudness as they naturally occur between speakers. Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 9:39 pm . The Bluesound Node 2i is designed with enhanced dual-band WIFI to render the best-in-class performance even in crowded airspaces. If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. Just forget about indexing or playing a large HDD library. I use an iPad Air as a streamer into the USB on my Element II DAC/Amp. I want to load a hard drive up with my library (AIFFs) and play from it. Details -$300.00 Price break. Hi, looking for some advice please. What are some of the differences between the 2 streamers with regards to high res streaming? 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? 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. Linked to my laptop, other than getting the artwork wrong occasionally, its pretty seamless. The Cambridge CXN (V2) is $1100. Joined: Mon Jun 12, 2017 3:29 pm Posts: 9 No dealers near me carry it. Im sure some are going to throw in the Node does MQA but even so a superior DAC w/o MQA is still going to be better. I first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. And it sounds great. I was thinking of a chord qute 2 or maybe a moon 300d v2 . 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). SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. How to make the most of Amazon's high-res and CD-quality music streams. I think its a home-run product. Learn More Find a dealer $999.00 Stunning Sound Quality - hear every detail from your digital files Twin Wolfson DACs - for stunning digital performance Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect & Qobuz built in - for the best possible choice Or, would the DAC quality in these streamers have surpasseed that offered by the nDAC, by this point, making the nDAC now redundant? Bluesound Node 2i This is another plug-and-play all-in-one box solution similar to the Yamaha. No, Im not very aware of software choices at this point. It does that both analog out and digital out, - and with AirPlay . The No. One into my Dac and then one analog out from the Node. Makes sense. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? Have been reading for a long time and happy to finally contribute to this forum. See which models top our list of best picks for 2023. Just a heads up on the Node's USB output when using the Node as a Roon Endpoint - there are still issues with the implementation of this from Bluesound's side of things. Copyright 1996-2023, Crutchfield New Media, LLC. Wi-Fi speakers are the building blocks for wireless multi-room audio systems from Sonos, Bose, and other brands. No DAC used? 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. So Bluesound is both streamer and DAC, CXA is power amp 2) Bluesound to CXA via digital coax. I have one and they make a great Roon endpoint. From their Facebook page post of 9/20/19: I sold off the CXN 2 because it sat unused. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) tech specs High resolution 24-bit/192kHz, DSD64 Streaming features UPnP, AirPlay, internet radio, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Inputs USB type A x2, USB type B, optical, coaxial Outputs Optical, coaxial, balanced XLR, RCA Network Ethernet, wi-fi Remote Yes Finishes 2 Dimensions (hwd) 9 x 43 x 31cm Weight 4kg Based on how I hear the Node 2i indexes, I think the CXN v2 may be the better bet for thisit's how I plan to use it mostly. This is my experience. Plus an in-depth review of the service by Jeff Miller, Crutchfield's headphone guy. 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 You are using an out of date browser. But what about the sound quality? For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Personally, I think you are better off with the NODE. If so the I guess it just comes down to features/size etc. Love Crutchfield! 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 ? To be fair Blue Sound vaguely mentions this and favors the use of a NAS but personally unable to justify the extra hustle. The other possible route is to put a PSU on the NDX2 such as an XPS. Cambridge Audio Support CXN (V2) Troubleshooting Troubleshooting How to optimise your StreamMagic browsing experience (Metadata Tagging) How to connect your CXN (V2) manually using the IP address Windows Audio USB Class 2 Driver Why can't I add Pandora to my CXN (V2)? Cambridge CXN v2 (New). Plenty of other options for less than a new Naim, Lumin U1 mini, Matrix Element I, Ifi Zen Stream. I owned a CXN (first version) and the original Bluesound Node for a couple of years. I'll be a customer for as long as they are in business. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, Hopefully this will be fixed with a future Firmware update, but at the moment it's an issue. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. I use a dedicated Roon Rock server for my Roon to PS Audio DAC endpoint. No support for AirPlay, Chromecast, Roon. But just to emphasise, digital coax output to a DAC works absolutely fine with the Node as Roon Endpoint. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. The CXN 2 sounds better. File format is predominantly FLAC with some WAV and Mp4 for the 16/44.1's. 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 It may not display this or other websites correctly. This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. Hi. What not a PI streamer with a Hat like Hifiberry or Allo. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge Audio Day Magic 200. I'm probably recalling it badly but I think the USB spec is 3m (or maybe 5). Thoughts if so? I did not try a directly connected HD. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. Please help Purchase the Audiolab 6000A Integrated Amplifier at a special offer price. That way I could have all the internal storage, and quality sound signal maybe a Fiio x7 or so. 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. company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. HELP WITH CHOICE OF MUSIC STREAMER-CAMBRIDGE AUDIO OR AUDIOLAB OMNIA & TURNTABLE, Chromecast / Airplay Question - iOS - CXN V2 Streamer. Anyone have hands on with both? Im still using a NP5 and Hugo mk1 - it sounds fabulous. Learn how to get great sound from your computer, tie it into your home audio system, and improve your user experience. I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. We use automated technology to connect you with an Advisor and to answer some common questions. Panasonic 55FZ950. And from my windows laptop I also have USB C.. so theres that, and Im also concerned about loss of quality over the length of cable, which steers me in the direction of a quality cable, but I dont want to spend $$$ on that trap. Ned's best friend helps him evaluate frequencies only dogs can hear. 1-888-292-2575. I suspect a ND5 XS2 is in my future, for simplicity. Getting hands-on with our products helps us pick what's best for our customers. Ill inquire with Cambridge. Files are large as unable to justify individual track ripping for some music styles (jazz, classical) and instead do full record sides. Im not even sure which service might be best, for me. So many options to consider. JL audio E-sub e110 . The articles & videos are also super-helpful! 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. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Marantz BD8006, Bluesound Node 2021, Marantz Pearl Lite, Revel Concerta2 M16, Sony XZ Premium, LGV30. Focus on speakers/room where a much more substantive change is possible. Crazy. 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. Mac Mini? As already mentionned by others, good streamer with nice corresponding app and added a Teddy Pardo power supply to lift up SQ. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. The NAD C399 has higher output and also the possibility of upgrading and having room correction. 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. Too bad the matching amp is priced so high. When I had the Node 2 I used two outputs. BUT. A lot of good advice on this site. JavaScript is disabled. Do you have any thoughts on cable types and length. I thought I'd just see how well it worked for larger drives so I connected my Toshiba 2TB drive with about 1TB of music files via the USB input. USB-C on iPada makes the a legit streamer option IMO. I know the node has USB out (if Bluesound have managed to get it working correctly). this can result in this site earning a commission. I don't need to spend thousands but it's a toss up between the Bluesound Node 2i and the CXN. I want to add a streamer to my existing set up and have my eye on the new Bluesound Node 2021 and the Cambridge Audio CXN V2. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. I have been recently trying to confirm my understanding of the ascending order of things! But performance in the real world is affected by the acoustics of your car or home, your choice of amplification, and your source material. If you want to save some money and still want Tidal MQA you could go with a Bluesound Node 2i instead of the CXN. The latter comprises mini optical/3.5mm combo and HDMI eARC inputs for connecting audio sources or a TV, plus a range of outputs that includes RCA, coaxial, optical and subwoofer. I dont know the science around it, but my thinking is youd need to have a cable much longer that 2-3 meters to experience any noticeable degradation in sound quality. Any further thoughts on these two streamers would be much appreciated. I use Airplay for Qobuz. Use Tidal either directly to CA servers or along Qobuz via Roon to PS Audio. Learn how to choose the best speakers for your home. .The C 658 is pure high resolution from input to output and features NAD's Direct Digital 35 bit 844kHz DAC, one of the . It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. $1,299.00 Definitely get a cable to connect you iPad to the as801. Select your brand of headphones in the right-hand column. I purchased a black one this morning from Music Direct at the reduced price. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Knowing which model headphones youre using lets us remove any sonic coloring from your experience. Naim ND5-XS (S/H) Bluesound Node (New) What I was trying to figure out was this: If I were to purchse, for example, a Node and then later add an nDac to it, presumably this would now sound better. To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. Wiim Pro? CA has no Roon or direct Qobuz connection. In other states where we don't collect sales tax, it may be the customer's responsibility to assure that all appropriate state use taxes are paid. CXN is also 40% more expensive. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. My setup is as follows and it sounds great. Please enter a valid 10-digit phone number. You are using an out of date browser. Thank you! ND5-XS vs Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 Streaming Audio Realitycomputer August 31, 2022, 3:30pm #1 Hi all, just considering dipping my toe into the sreaming world (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!) So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. I dont think that is correct. https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/openboxclearance?f%5B0%5D=category%3A10. Cambridge Audio CXN Version2. /Stageline Posted: . Yes, I agree! A quality USB-C to USB-B cable from Amazon or Monoprice will got the job done. I find it an excellent combination. Chromecast is not an option as I cant stand non-gapless, although having chromecast would be a plus for using things like SoundCloud. Reviving this old topic as I am looking at both of these streaming devices and cant quite make a decision. The BluOS constantly updates. Now changing the amp to Acoustic Portrait Swara v2 integrated amp. It doesn't just read the files and display them in the Bluos app? Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). 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. Weve carefully chosen the components of this kit to ensure a crystal-clear listening experience. 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. So I know if I get a streamer and hook-up a hard drive to my files then I know Ill get clean source if I bypass the streamers DAC, however what Im trying to find out, is that if I skip the streamer and directly go from USB-B on the A-S801, through an appropriate cable, and straight into a tablet or phone, HOW to bypass the internal processing of the tablet or phone, so it can send a direct signal to the cable and onto my A-S801. Nice system. The factor that most affected my home network music streaming performance was/is the quality of the switch. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). Do you know what I mean? AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, One thing that strikes me about this product is the combination of competitive sound with the balanced design and dual DACs employed. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) & CXA80 Double Review | The Master Switch The Master Switch Search Home Theater Best Full Systems 5.1 Home Theater Systems 7.1 Home Theater Systems AV Receivers Crutchfield has and always will be the number one source for all electronic needs, there is no one better. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? For the money I doubt theres anything else out there to beat it until you start spending Naim or similar entry level price points. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. I would go for the Cambridge over the Bluesound myself well regarded for its price. Cambridge Audio CXN(v2) Streamer . More modern, more compact, headphone out, sub out with cutoff filters for bass management, and allegedly blue sound is the best streaming software around. The Bluesound seems relatively simple and definitely inexpensive. 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 gives you a more direct comparison of subtle voicing differences between speakers. Any opinions on BS node 2i into Yggdrasil Dac. All web chat conversations are recorded. 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. For free personalized advice, call 1-888-291-8923. Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its 'switchability' in always . CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). I Have the Node and like the connectivity, and supported features to other services like Roon, Qobuz, TuneIn and many more. But i feel I want to know for sure whether it skips the internal DAC or not. 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. 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. So what solutioN do I have? If it isn't double blind, likely is double talk. Shop smart & save time when you connect with an advisor, Your advisor will be able to share relevant pages and add items to your cart, Please turn active noise cancelling off for best results, Streaming music player with built-in Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth, Network audio streamer with Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay 2, and optional Bluetooth, Streaming music player for amplified components and speakers. I know own the Cambridge, and Im using Chromecast for the high Rez Qobuz offerings, Ok thanks. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . So have Sony, Onkyo, NAD, and others. The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. Yamaha RX-A2070, Musical Fidelity M6si integrated amp, Benchmark Dac1, Bluesound NODE 2i, Audiolab 6000CDT CD Transport, Parasound Zphono USB Phono Preamp, Fluance RT85, Ortofon 2M Bronze, Polk L600's, L400, L900's, RC80i's, Audioquest Interconnects and Digital Cables, Nordost Silver Shadow Digital Cable, Cullen Gold and Crossover Series Power 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. Jul 27, 2020. The Bluesound node and the Bluos app have my highest recommendation,been using them for six months streaming Qobuz an Amazon music to Electrocompaniet amplifier and Dali Menuet SE speakers,sounds amazing,I have considered the Cambridge,but reading reviews of it's control app put me off,sticking with the Bluesound.. The customer support team is personal and phenomenal. Jaded1 Nov 20, 2020 cxn marantz J Jaded1 Established Member Nov 20, 2020 #1 So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. If you decide on the CXN, spend a little extra to upgrade the power cord. with the design (ie look) of it. 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. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? If you no longer wish to receive the call, please click the button to cancel your request. If it is if any use. With this limited intention I am not bothered that it doesnt match my other sources, although its very listenable. Its available for a nominal rental fee, and includes a $25 Crutchfield merchandise credit. Do you know what I mean? Thorens TT (Cant recall the model, its from around 1968 and maybe TD125 or TD150, but I do remember its a MkII !) It's a good sale now that Cambridge has announced the CX Series 2 line coming next week. Others like Cambridge CXN and 851N or steamers up to 2500 euro/dollar like Teac, Sotm, Lumin, Innuos Zen etc. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, Local and via tidal, qobuz et al. 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). You dont have to spend a lot of money to get a decent stereo system. I currently have both the bluesound node2i and the Cambridge CXNv2 and IMO, the DAC in the CXNv2 is better. I do use an external Meridian DAC (which I had already owned) and the difference between the two DACs is very subtle. The first is the Audiolab 6000N Play, which I consider to be the best sounding streamer in that price range. Well I purchased the Node 2021 and am so pleased! Then I got thinking the money I would spend on a streamer.. So the cambridge gets rave reviews but It would be a struggle finding room in my existing CD6006 and Marantz Pearl Lite set up. CXN V2 - Network Player | Cambridge Audio US Home CXN V2 Network Player $999.00 4 interest-free payments of $249.75. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. First, Yamaha wxc 50 in preamp mode does SRC to 48 KHz with everything . 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. IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. I guess you got confused between "Chromcast audio" and "Chromcast", the former is an audio gear which is currently stopped production. Poor WiFi performance: you need to use an Ethernet cable for reliable performance. It works great. If your headphones aren't listed, we recommend using our Listening Kit. Every time I use Crutchfield I am happy. The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. Let's take a closer look at this device. My entry into streaming was an cxnv2. I had intended to make an introductory post, in the lounge, but got carried away with myriad questions! 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. 1) Bluesound to CXA via RCA. 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. Good luck. This raises the question of what you mean by dipping your toe in - what do you want to find out? Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Audiophile Music Streamer In The House: First Impressions And Unboxing Pics! CXN v2 supports full 192khz if available. Europe's busiest forums, with independent news and expert reviews, for TVs, Home Cinema, Hi-Fi, Movies, Gaming, Tech and more. 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. For Tech Support, call My 2 cents; Buy the CXN v2 it's such a pleasure.the app works really quick and the quality is more then good. The SQ isnt a match for my Hugo when I listened to one, but definitely got closer with an upgraded, Naim, interconnect. Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. So, if I get an MQA capable DAC, can I bypass the Cambridge DAC and get full MQA? That USB-C is direct, right? The CXN V2. 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. If using toslink it could be the cable as some do not work well above 24/96 . marcozero Registered Joined Nov 16, 2021 14 Posts Connect the CXN V2 outputs to one of the analogue inputs of the CXA61/81 via balanced XLR (CXA81 only), or unbalanced RCA. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? And I understand the Node has now been further improved over the 2i. 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. However its several years old and Im wondering if a new version will be out soon with improved functionality, MQA support most likely. To be fair it looks a little better than the micro rendu. The iPad Pro making the switch to USB-C means now is the perfect time to look at how it all works and why it matters when it comes to the sounds of your life. With its Bluetooth aptX, the Bluesound Node 2i easily supports 24-bit streaming directly from your phone or tablet. Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. Does anyone have any insight. This discussion is important for me. Being wireless is great, but that cable option is simple. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. But I've heard consistently that the Cambridge sounds better which I would expect. Yeah I want to get full resolution from what files and services I'm using so that's a con on the Cambridge. You can also look at stuff from SMSL, Topping and NuPrime stream 9. Thank you djones. 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. Crutchfield: Legendary Service. The Node is very new and seems to have great functionality. I have been reading some threads about the addition of an nDAC being a possible wothwhile upgrade to these, at some point. So it's not the Connect app anymore but one called Stream Magic? Another vote for the Blusound here, like you I was curious and dipping my toes, auditioned a Node 2i and it stayed. See our in-depth review of the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) streamer and CXA80 amp, with our analysis of the design, sound quality, accessories, and more. 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. iTunes ( my Windows computer) rips my CDs directly to my NAS Ethernet drives. My first-hand feedback is that the Node works fine as a streamer (MPQ radio sounds good). Hi all, just considering dipping my toe into the sreaming world I thought that was interesting, but I guess the products have been on the market for a few years, and tariffs probably aren't helping things. Great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support has me as a happy customer. This does bit mean that the digital signal is not up/down sampled or otherwise processed in the device before it's passed to the external dac. Im passed this point of temptation for now, but Ive decided Ill just buy it either next year or if there is a great deal. In some places, it repeats the review of the previous product: CXN V2 still has a wonderful DAC but unfortunately . actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. Nothing comes close. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm).