Cambridge Audio CXN Version2

I compare the Cambridge Audio CXN version 2 to the Bluesound Node 2i in this video review.

One thing that strikes me about this product is the combination of competitive sound with the balanced design and dual DACs employed. Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its ‘switchability’ in always being ready for music from whatever source you chuck at it, from Roon, to Tidal Connect or Spotify Connect and so on.

The Cambridge Audio app may let it down but used with Tidal Connect, Spotify or Roon, or as an Airplay or Chromecast device from whatever app you choose, the use of the Cambridge Audio, badged just as ‘Cambridge’ now, is a delight. It is also very good value for money.

In my ubiquitous way of having fun in videos and making HiFi engaging and about entertainment, I go through this product. Anyone for Cambridge punting or tea and scones? Check out my video below and please make sure to comment, like and subscribe.

Rumours have been spreading about a new version 3 form of this streamer, but from contact with Cambridge Audio recently I am assured there are no current plans. Why would there be, it’s difficult to think you could improve on this one at this price. It’s just unfortunate you can no longer get it in the lovely black metal version.

**This review is not a paid review and represents my true opinions and I am not sponsored by Cambridge Audio, nor do I receive money from them, nor was the product supplied by Cambridge Audio.

Specifications

DAC : Dual Wolfson WM8740 24-bit DACs
ROON READY: Yes (Requires a Roon subscription)
DIGITAL FILTER : 2nd Generation ATF2 up-sampling to 24-bit/384khz
ANALOGUE FILTER : 2-Pole Dual Differential Bessel
USB AUDIO INPUT : USB Type B conforms to USB Audio profile 1.0 or 2.0 (user selectable)
DIGITAL AUDIO INPUTS : S/PDIF Coaxial and TOSLINK Optical)
ANALOGUE AUDIO OUTPUTS : Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analogue
DIGITAL AUDIO OUTPUTS : S/PDIF Coaxial and TOSLINK Optical
COMPATIBILITY : UPnP, Local USB media, USB audio 1.0 and 2.0, S/PDIF Toslink and Coaxial, Airplay 2, Chromecast built-in , Internet radio, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, Bluetooth aptX via BT100 Bluetooth receiver (not supplied)
AUDIO FORMATS : ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD (x64), WMA, MP3, AAC, HE AAC, AAC+, OGG Vorbis
ETHERNET : IEEE 802.3, 10 Base-T or 100 Base-T
WI-FI : IEEE 802.11 b/g or n (2.4GHz)
MAX POWER CONSUMPTION : 30W
STANDBY POWER CONSUMPTION : <0.5W
REMOTE CONTROL : Yes
DIMENSIONS : 85 x 430 x 305mm (3.4 x 16.9 x 12.2”)
WEIGHT : 3.5Kg (7.7lbs)
BOX CONTENT : CXN (v2) Network Streamer, Power Cable, 3 x AAA Batteries, Remote Control, Control Bus Cable, Wi-Fi Dongle
ROON READY : Yes (Requires a Roon subscription)