The Audiophile MUSIC STREAMER! Cambridge Audio CXN100 Review

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

👍 Please remember to hit the Like button! 📌 FIND THE CXN100 HERE: bit.ly/49OCqxq 🆘 Don’t forget to Open the description box ABOVE. Still have questions? Hit 🖤 THANKS☝to highlight your Question! Please NO Links, Self Promotion, or Personal Info. Stay on topic and be respectful.

[@bzdtemp]

Great thoughtful review. While I do like gear I can control with an app, they on the same time have me worried a little about longevity. Maybe something to consider when doing reviews. Being able to use a app depends on having a phone or tablet that works with what system the app was programmed for, plus also access to download the app (not all apps are released globally). So some time in the future it may be that an app isn't kept available, or maybe you wanna move to some new phone not running either of the big two system. Anyway, what ever the reason I thing all gear should also run a build in webserver as well as have an app - gear that works as a webserver is about as universally accessible as there is, you can then control it using anything with a browser ie. computer, smart tv, smart phone, gaming console... be it an old one or something not even made yet.

[@srobak]

No Kristy thoughts on this one ?

[@mrpmj00]

No native Apple Music app is a no sale for me, whereas the Eversolo DMP-A6 does have it.

[@danilaros]

@@bzdtemp Yamaha wxc-50 has all that🙂 an app but we can also access the device in a browser directly

[@unstablenetwork4744]

Andrew and Kristi, Thank You for once again putting together a quality review. Cambridge may not enjoy the honest feedback, however we do. I hope they are receptive to the constructive suggestions. They are a solid brand.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I think Cambridge is a great brand, and I hope they find this video constructive. Thanks for watching!

[@abxaudiophiles]

GREAT rundown and overview Andrew. I personally have been living with many of these "All in One" style units and MAN, I am really loving the ease, lack of cable mess, set it and forget it, and total builder synergy you can get.. It is hard for some to see past the "Another Black Box" in my rack addiction some audio peeps seem to have. Anyway, awesome review, and I hope you and Kristi are doing great and have an awesome day!! PS - My wife and I are heading to see DUNE part 2 in IMAX today!!... OMG, i am soooo excited.. :)

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much for your support. If you enjoy all-in-one solutions, be sure to tune in next week. Probably one of my favorite products I've bought and reviewed in a long, long time. Enjoy the film!

[@KristiWright]

I hope you enjoy the movie! Thank you for showing up to support the video today! We really appreciate it.

[@carravagio16]

hey andrew / Kristi just wanted to say i picked up a Rotel A11 Tribute as an upgrade to a very old consumer reicever, you reviewed this integrated amp a year or so ago. i matched it with the A11 tribute cd player and i absolutely love the sound. Thanks for the review which helped w/ confidence in my purchase. Just wanted to say thanks and kudos for all the work you guys put in.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

The Rotel A11 Tribute is an excellent, easy-to-use integrated amplifier! Enjoy it!

[@aruth51485]

Great review.. hi Kristi, looking forward to you getting back to the videos. It’s always fun to hear your opinion:-)

[@robinkleinsteuber5217]

Absolutely, Agree! Missed her input!

[@bootneylee9802]

Just bought the Eversolo DMP6 Master Edition and never looking back. I do own the CX UHD for my 4k needs. Its nice.

[@rich-s6c]

Great video! I currently have the Cambridge AXA25 with a WiiM Pro. I'm considering getting the AXN10 because they would look cool together. 😅 Thanks for including it in your comparisons.

[@mrpmj00]

No native Apple Music app is a no sale for me, whereas the Eversolo DMP-A6 does have it.

[@umrryan]

Good morning, friends! I enjoyed the review and appreciated the specific details that you pointed out. I'm sure many will agree with your statement about expecting more. Have a great weekend!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks so much and have a great rest of your day too!

[@Big-J-8579]

I have the first CXN in my work rig and use it every day. It is paired with a CXA80 (bass and treble controls) and a CXC. The speakers are my vintage Vandersteen model 1b's. I stream using FLAC files on a USB drive in the back of the CXN though I have tried Tidal and the internet radio. I love this rig and enjoy the sound from the CXN.

[@techmed-rainer]

Danke!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

thank you!

[@thedrivebygg]

still got the original, its excellent

[@BryanRuby]

Great video Andrew. Given the thumbs-up from you on the sound coming from it's built-in DAC, at least one analog input and an HDMI input would have made the CXN100 so much more irresistible of a product for me buy.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

If those are criteria for a product to earn your business, stay tuned next week. I think you're gonna love what we have in store!

[@scottbaylor6215]

Being a Cambridge audio fan, I enjoyed this review and I am in agreement with what you stated. Having no HDMI was a huge miss. I own the CXA81,,CXC, and CXN2, Solo Phone Amp and I love the combination. I don't use my CXN2 as a preamp, just streamer and DAC. I wouldn't upgrade anything. The only thing I'm after? Is more listening time. Keep up the good work and putting out the straight dope. PS Miss Kristi’s take, just saying.

[@joylessdancer4554]

But Cambridge said you didn't want HDMI 😅

[@scottbaylor6215]

@@joylessdancer4554 Yeah, but I can tell you from the Facebook pages, they took some heat not having that feature. It was a cost play, they didn’t want to hurt their margin. But I say, $1,000 for this feature is table stakes but that's my opinion.

[@maxpower78-15]

I may not be into streaming, but if i were, the inclusion of xlr and rca outs is pretty cool. Missed Kristi’s take on this one. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

The flexibility of both outputs is nice for sure. Kristi and I are going to be bringing you some new types of content that we think will be more interactive with you all. Stay tuned!

[@davidwho7847]

Thank you, Andrew! Great review as always. My current setup is WiiM Pro into a Denafrips Enyo. The CXN100 is relatively the same amount of money as that setup, and I have no buyer's remorse.

[@sdemosi]

I own and love the CXN 2. I am most definitely a Cambridge customer. I would have upgraded if they included HDMI or the sound was much better with features such as room eq. Maybe the sound is much better but I haven't seen a review say that yet. So I don't know how well they understood their customers in the update of this product. It seems like a missed opportunity to transform the CX suite.

[@Skye_the_toller]

Arcam and Cambridge seem to be at the same place… missing the evolution of the market, or just being too late for their products.

[@sdemosi]

@@Skye_the_toller can't disagree. The Evo was on paper a great product but I didn't like the sound. Compared to brands like NAD they are now behind the times and they don't offer the same sound quality /£ as Audiolab.

[@javabear564]

I was excited to try this but after one week of numerous factory reboots and freezing up I sent it back. Went with the Hi Rose RS250A

[@marklloyd4153]

O thank you both . This was so great but I miss Kristis input as I like her slant on things as well as yours . I’m keeping my A8 Eversolo though

[@AxSeyffert]

HDMI is a must! Have my CXA81 in my room using a Node X... When I turn on the TV boom! audio through my Focal Vestias. If I want music I go to the App and play from Tidal and done!

[@kjbunnyboiler]

Afternoon Andrew and Kristi👍👍

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Good morning (or afternoon). Appreciate you sticking with us given the time change. Hope your Sunday is off to a great start!

[@KristiWright]

Good to see you, KJ!

[@kjbunnyboiler]

@@KristiWright no live comments today Kristi?

[@KristiWright]

No. We are reviewing how we do things on the channel and hope to bring you our conversation in a new way soon.@@kjbunnyboiler

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You may want to watch the channel tomorrow (3/15)!

[@Stereotyp01815]

Instead of the CXN100, I would go for the EVO 75. It doesn't cost much more, it can do everything the cxn can do and it also has an amplifier, HDMI and an analogue input as well as a headphone jack. I somehow don't understand the product policy...

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Good note and point. Appreciate you catching that.

[@KristiWright]

Yep.

[@CommanderGinyu]

Weird comparison. The CXN is a streamer the EVO 75 is an amplifier. If you’re looking for a separate component for your existing system the EVO is pointless. Different target audiences

[@KristiWright]

I would argue the audience is very similar, and if CA wants to argue cost savings, then why wouldn't their customer base go for the better overall value of the Evo line?@@CommanderGinyu

[@Stereotyp01815]

@@CommanderGinyu The CXN is also marketed by CA as a preamp. So completely comparable in this respect. The EVO is better equipped and processed in all respects. In contrast to the cxn, the display is also of a usable size. And how much would it cost without an amplifier? So that just makes me think.

[@chrisveltman1795]

Not sure what happened. Regarding the echo chamber, there is a lot of good hifi product out there. And there are lots of parrots. I appreciate that this channel doesn’t pay much attention to other hifi channels, and really strives to give your personal experience.

[@KristiWright]

Extremely positive reviews perform better by a multitude of metrics. Views, $$, keeping brands happy...

[@chrisveltman1795]

@@KristiWright that is a very interesting reality. Integrity can be hard to find, and I appreciate yours.

[@CButti-x1s]

Good morning Andrew and Kristi. Excellent review. Love your honest opinions on these products and contrasting them with other options. As someone who uses an outboard DAC (Denafrips Ares II) using an R2R based approach that many consider to offer a warmer sound, I find it interesting that many streamers featuring the latest ESS Sabre chip based DAC's seem to be trending more in this warmer direction versus the previous more detailed end of the spectrum. What's truly great with the Denafrips was the ability to update the FPGA's software with newer software that truly altered the sound character of the DAC from one that was previously on the very warm side to one that is a little more on the detailed side. If one didn't like the new sound, they could simply reinstall the old software. A real bonus in my opinion. Anyway keep the great reviews coming.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate you sharing. I didn't know that about the Denafrips.

[@richh650]

Excellent review Andrew. I appreciate how you explained both the very good, as well as the probable misses of the CA. Thank you.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sunvalleydrivemusic]

Great review! Really helpful!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for watching!

[@TheGreatBobby]

I agree! Excellent review! I was looking forward to it.

[@24kHERTZ]

In my experience, within the Cambridge Audio lineup, the step up from the CXN is the Azur 851 streamer, which I use in my lounge, while the CXN V2 is set up in my second music room. The difference in quality between these two DACs is significant, and a second-hand Azur can be found on eBay in the UK for around 500 pounds. However, when it comes to whether the CXN 100 represents amazing value for money, I’m not entirely sold on the idea of trading in my CXN V2 for it. The new features don’t excite me as much as I hoped. I believe the CXN series could benefit from a more substantial refresh, perhaps with the addition of tone and EQ controls. I find these controls particularly missed when switching genres, for example, from neo-classical to house music. Similarly, when comparing streaming services like Qobuz and Tidal, the need for tone adjustment becomes apparent-Qobuz can sound overly bright, requiring tonal tempering, while Tidal sometimes lacks brightness, a gap that tone controls could easily bridge. This feature could also enhance the streaming quality of vinyl recordings on KZbin, where tone control can significantly improve the listening experience.

[@mr.b4444]

That is my question. I purchased a Cambridge Azure 851N a couple years ago and it has been a solid performing DAC. I use it to play FLAC files from a USB SSD drive. I wonder if this CXN100 has a little more sparkle on the top end which I would prefer. Generally speaking British audio products tend to sound a bit rolled off on the top (the British sound).

[@MaZEEZaM]

NO, It very much depends on the inclusion but as an example, if it was the choice of including the latest HDMI vs a little increase in cost, without a second thought, I want HDMI on all HI-FI equipment I buy and the problem with customer based surveys is that I as a potential customer Won't buy an Amp or Receiver that doesn't include HDMI. My only question I am interested in asking is, does it include the latest HDMI and USB C or not. I Love my music but 95% of my music source is my computer and want the option to connect a Blu-ray player via HDMI.

[@scottygdaman]

as always a good show . thx guys

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for watching!

[@DigitalPhilosophers]

Thanks for this honest review 🕊️

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Always!

[@ramin3080]

Thank you very much for the quick and thorough review. I have been using the CXA81 and CXN v2 for two years and have tested with many speakers and have always heard a very satisfying and wonderful sound. But after watching many reviews of CXN100, I got a little discouraged. Because I mostly use it as a pre-amp, I expected that the changes I needed, including tone control and HDMI, would be added to the new version (balance is available in CXN v2). I am waiting for your suggestion for a Streamer+DAC+ Pre Amp with SLR output to connect to power amplifier. The result of my searches was the EverSolo DMP-A8 Many thanks

[@regardtvandermerwe2675]

Great review as usual.

[@simonprice6025]

This is an odd review in the sense Andrew clearly doesn’t rate the product (and should be commended for letting people read between the lines) but indicates the Eversolo EQ means the A6 is equal to the Cambridge on SQ , yet there is mention of buy the Cambridge if you want a certain sound character. Also despite the fact the A6 is cheaper and has loads of features.

[@AngelJax-m2y]

I was completely lost after 2 minutes. I just want to stream lossless files through a stereo system and it's been a nightmare. I just want something simple that's not Bluetooth I don't want an app I just want to airplay my music from my iPhone. Why is this so difficult?

[@crBudgetWatches]

Airplay is not lossless , it’s not a good medium if you want good streaming. You can stream lossless with this device or the Wiim Ultra using Tidal or other lossless services. Both the Cambridge , the Ultra and the Eversolo are great for this at different price points and their apps are very good.

[@AngelJax-m2y]

@@crBudgetWatches Airplay 2 is lossless but only if you have the ALAC file actually downloaded to your device. Thank you for the other advice though, good to know. I will check out ever solo.

[@alexf65-A]

Thanks for the review. After watchiing it and hearoing your final thoughts i bought another streamer (Denon Dnp-2000ne) which I found with a good deal this week and i like a lot the way it sounds. I will keep following your great reviews.

[@SandsOfArrakis]

Cambridge Audio CXA 81, CXC V2, CXN V2 and a DacMagic 200M here. I'm using the DacMagic's DAC for the sound. So I am using my V2 purely as a streamer. The DacMagic having the same DAC as the new CXN 100, but as a twin DAC variety. I don't see a reason to upgrade to the CXN 100 as I am more than happy with the Cambridge stack that I currently have. The only gripe I have with Cambridge is that they still haven't updated the V2's firmware to get Tidal Max working with both Tidal Connect and Tidal with StreamMagic. You can get up to 24/192 with Roon though.

[@glennsinner5986]

I missed not hearing from Kristi!❤

[@KristiWright]

Thank you, Glenn. I'll be back in some capacity shortly.

[@robinkleinsteuber5217]

​@@KristiWright 😊👍

[@giacomonovara]

A little bit surprised that you said that balanced and unbalanced outputs sound very similar. I would expect that balanced ones are better

[@thelonewolf666]

why

[@Skye_the_toller]

No supposed to be different for short cables 😜

[@Music.Movies.67]

No difference between Unbalanced and RCA over a short cable

[@maxpower78-15]

Here we go! Coffee in hand per usual.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Just finished mine, so I'm ready to go now! Thanks for watching!

[@KristiWright]

Good to see you!

[@maxpower78-15]

@@KristiWright 👍

[@gavriushka]

I’m a little late today but wonder, what do you think of a piece like this not having an HDMI? I know I’m being a bit of a broken record, but I feel like a piece of equipment that can be used as a full digital preamp, should have it just like super integrates. Is it just me? Either way, Cambridge Audio feels to me like it’s a brand that truly cares about audio and style. They look good, sound good (Evo doesn’t count), and they truly can last a long time. Lovely piece. But they just need a bit more attention to detail (market itself specifically) and they’d be absolutely killing it. Great review and I like the room more and more!

[@KristiWright]

[@gavriushka]

@@KristiWright Hello ma’am! Hope you’re having a lovely day!

[@austinpowers6260]

Seems like Andrew overall isnt very impressed with new Cambridge Audio gear...I love my EVO 150. Its better than my Uniti Atom was, and that's saying a lot.

[@mr.b4444]

I purchased a Cambridge Azure 851N a couple years ago and it has been a solid performing DAC. I use it to play FLAC files from a USB SSD drive. I wonder if this CXN100 has a little more sparkle on the top end which I would prefer. Generally speaking British audio products tend to sound a bit rolled off on the top (the British sound).

[@nyplantings2420]

So many choices. As much as I research and try creative keywords the recurring theme is that only after I purchase my best choice in audio equipment does the real informative and best choices pop up automatically!

[@MrVuvu]

Thank you but no Krystie (hope I spelt that correctly)?! I don't always agree with her but good to get both your opinions.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Stay tuned and maybe turn on channel notifications because I think you'll be happy!

[@thedrivebygg]

These are super reliable 👍

[@Harry-Giles]

Very fair review. Absolutely agree that a product can be excellent on many things yet lack features that are important. You definitely have to compare it with the competition. I think room EQ and HDMI are two big missed opportunities. If anything CA should take this review as a reasonable nudge in the right direction.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I hope they see it as helpful too, but you never know with this industry. Thanks so much for watching as always!

[@eugenenelson9124]

As an Apple Music user I think my Eversolo DMP-A6 serves me better. The fact that I have the Apple Music app natively on the Eversolo was a big win for me. I have downloaded my entire Apple Music Library in Hi Res on my 2TB internal NVME SSD (Sold separately) so I am able to play these Hi Res files offline. I’ll always opt for the A6 over this. The Eversolo has many more features at a lower price point. Sorry Cambridge Audio!

[@Scopolamine46]

Listening pleasure it’s what a music lover yearns for. My sole purpose for streaming is to find new music that I don’t have in my CD or vinyl collections and purchase an occasional hard version. My PS Audio DSD DAC/Streamer has all of a sudden stopped performing at all except to my iPad endpoint which I use for GUI and not for listening. This may be an inexpensive fix rather than repairing my current unit

[@MaciejMiklas]

Hope they will release black verson..... becaue I have all in black :(

[@Ceko]

I just love how you say Yamaha

[@movie_av_impulse]

12:13 flying solo today I think in some way shape or form... We all expect more for the money then again they would just charge more money for more features. I guess there's really never a happy medium. 😂 But aesthetically that is a beautiful looking piece of equipment. Then again, what are the points of the beauty and the elegance if you Don't enjoy what you have? P.S. Tell Kristi My Wife and I said good morning..

[@KristiWright]

Hey Nick. Good morning to you both!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I agree we do often want more for less, however, they didn't really do much to change the 100 over the older v2 model outside of adding BT internally and swapping out DAC chips. I think they may have raised the price by $100, but I'm not sure, as I don't recall the original MSRP of the v2. Still a good piece, just not an entirely NEW product for 2024. Kristi's still here, but I'll make sure she knows. Oh, and I saw your DM this morning. I'll respond in a bit. Hang tight.

[@movie_av_impulse]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews No rush. I'm not going to start filming that until Wednesday I just wanted a little insight.

[@movie_av_impulse]

@@KristiWright good morning 🌞

[@artysanmobile]

Anyone paying attention lately will note that we are being sold the same capabilities that we already have, packed in a stylized box, and distinguished largely by the omission of features. Anyone with an iPad or home computer knows what I’m talking about. If you’re a bit of a geek, peripheral DACs are readily available to turn your Mac Mini or iMac into a very capable streamer and fully built and connectorized solutions number in the dozens as well. That’s a pretty brutal market concept we’re being asked to support.

[@Desertbiker617]

I totally agree. I had CXNv2 and it sounded average. Now I have Bluesound Node i2 connected to Denon PMA-A110 amp with it's own DAC. Sounds much superior.

[@cupavivuk2704]

@@Desertbiker617those Denon integrated DAC's are really good

[@mattharris6908]

Apple TV also is a very good much cheaper streamer

[@chrisgrotluschen112]

I know this is a off question but have u ever heard of ZU speakers u should get a pair and try them. I just got some this weekend and wow game changer

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I have heard of ZU speakers. If you Google Zu and my name you'll find my old written reviews.

[@demeyerb]

Any idea how the combination of the Cxa81 with the cxn100 would compare to the evo 150?

[@txerapng]

Good Sunday everyone. Kind of feel let down by the design coming from Cambridge Audio, I love their design on most products, but the screen on this model feels disconnected from the unit.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

The design is largely unchanged from the 4-5-year-old CXN v2. I would've liked a little more of a visual refresh but as far as streamers go, the 100 is still a looker in my book.

[@KristiWright]

Hi! I would like to see companies take advantage of the full screen or at least reduce the casing around the screen to give the display a cleaner look.

[@txerapng]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I think it could also be the screen, it looks cheap for the asking price, I can’t tell if it’s the background on the unit or if the screen has really poor black levels. The EverSolo looks much more modern. Still, Cambridge Audio’s design has been one of my favourites over the years.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@@txerapng The screen is not up to EverSolo's standard. It's not your eyes.

[@txerapng]

@@KristiWright this! I think one of the best screen-integration designs out there on Hi-Fi are from Lyngdorf, screen doesn’t look out of place and feels like a part of the design. Do you have any examples of your favourites, Kristi?

[@chebrubin]

We are using new Sony cameras? This is Kristi and Andrews new level of 4k content production. I am assuming very good Sony cameras and Mac based editing and production workflow. The look of the the equipment front on direct shots is fantastic mesmerizing. Revealing equipment we want and you are still reviewing but assembled in your space as they are a primary fixed permanent fixtures in your main listening area. Like showing your Focal towers flanking your main front wall screen proscenium is the main feature in the content. And the beautiful stone room with the concrete credenza and 100" flat screen just sit on the wall is so appealing and integrated into a living space is engaging. Your living room, the lighting and mise-en-scène mix of crutch field and modern living home decor i is why I come back over and over again. Your living channel will be amazing.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Nope, it's the same camera we've used for the last two-plus years. I'm just dialing in the image each week using filters and lenses. When we started off the year shooting in this new direction with the window more behind or over my shoulder, I had to rethink my prior lens and filter setup. It took me a few weeks to work it out, but I think we're there now. Do you agree?

[@chebrubin]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Yes. Starting to mimic Super 35MM cinema look. Please keep it up.

[@jeffreybrohman4582]

Any experience with the Hifi Rose 150B. Checked it out at the FLAX 24😅 and it seems to be a solid unit and the front screen is second to none.

[@SammeerSRaawat]

Awesome review

[@improvedgarage]

I just picked up a C658 and was confused by the optical and coaxial digital outputs on that as well. When you have such a great internal dac, I can't understand the desire to take digital audio out of the device.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Guess they want to give folks the option 🤷‍♂

[@Phoenix_1991]

Some people use DAC's that are like $5000. I guess it would be a deal-breaker for those people if they unit didn't have a digital output and I can understand that even if I would NEVER buy a DAC that expensive.

[@improvedgarage]

yea it just doesn't seem necessary.. when a modi for $129 sounds so good. i guess to each their own, but i would rather remove the optical and coax and add a sub out. @@Phoenix_1991

[@mr.potatofries8094]

Good afternoon Andrew, just seen a previous and seen you had a what looks to be a swollen lymph node on your arm usually caused by irritation by working on a desk. Although harmless it will keep building up blood. You should still get it removed before it starts to grow to the bone and will start to cause discomfort.

[@rocknrollxray]

Listen, Wiim is rockin the whole damn industry for a streamer. There is truly no reason to use anything else unless you're buyin this for the DAC or just love Cambridge stuff. I feel like their market is quickly shrinking.

[@russellparker4568]

😬 on the budget end yes, WiiM pro plus is easily bettered by the CXN’s little brother, the MXN10, £449. The question is, how does the MXN10 compare to the WiiM ultra.

[@vascoernesto78]

Updated video compared to the Wiim Pro Ultra please.

[@markrobin8172]

All well and good, but it's currently unavailable to my preferred dealer or through Crutchfield. A lot of unobtainium until May!!

[@craigosterberg5045]

Thanks for sharing

[@marccaudio]

Hegel has a streaming Integrated Amp. It would be nice if you could get your hands on one of them to review.

[@KristiWright]

It would be nice however, I'm afraid that we've exhausted our efforts to review Hegel.

[@KAL-589]

So, does that mean the Focal Aria Evo X review is coming, soon? 😊❤

[@JC-qc5nx]

A Borreson X series review would be nice so that we could get a good idea of how that tweeter behaves, not to mention the rest of the bandwidth, with a measurement of it's response in your room. This speaker is getting alot of attention and a proper shakedown of it from you guys would be nice.

[@Karto86]

Would love your opinion on wiim pro plus, which has much better dac / analog chain than the standard wiim pro.

[@KristiWright]

08:28

[@Karto86]

​@@KristiWright Can't find mention about the plus version :)

[@KristiWright]

👍@@Karto86

[@mocomike01]

Honest and maybe ignorant question here... Why is "cost" the prevailing excuse HiFi companies don't include HDMI in their $1000+ products, yet other companies have no financial problems adding multiple HDMI in $300 AVRs?

[@Dan-t5p8t]

precise. I use an avr only because I have the opportunity to have my apple tv set to it and control everything with the apple remote and I don't want to run everything through my tv before it gets down to my amplifier so therefore the choice has become an avr but I have no use for 9 channels and everything else it can do, I simply don't understand why more manufactures don't throw hdmi in and out on their amplifiers, preamplifiers and these streamers, after all we are in 2024 and you had that option last year for almost 1000 years, so the hifi manufacturers simply have to enter the game and become a bit more modern 😁

[@predragKrasulja]

AVR with cost of 300 will have built-in significantly cheaper components. CXN (from v1) has also linear power supply and it is a really great product. Are we able to hear differences in sound between cheaper and more expensive product - that's another question.

[@MH-rl9ep]

@@Dan-t5p8tCheck out Denon and Marantz who both have a stereo integrated amp with multiple HDMI inputs and HDMI-arc.

[@jasonallen1205]

About what i expected. Nothing stands out that says i NEED this. As an owner of a bluesound NODE 2, i could probably spend a 1000 dollars getting a killer DAC to my tastes, or a 1000 towards getting a really nice preamp. this product is for someone getting their first system who doesn't have one, not someone wanting to upgrade.

[@KristiWright]

The Node is a great product. My 2 cents -- Someone getting their first system is probably looking at something from WiiM which does more than this product for less.

[@jasonallen1205]

Yes, you are correct. A wiim streamer is definitely a great way to get into streaming!

[@Ko12309]

Great video! If you get the chance, I’d love to hear your views on the SONOS Amp/Port

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Stay tuned. We just got one!

[@johnd7268]

Great review and alternate suggestions! I wonder how this would compare to the Audiolab 7000n Play. I guess the Audiolab would be less warm?

[@andrehendrik]

Great review. I have the V2, love the way it sounds -- particularly online radio and SoundCloud (via AirPlay). Playing hi-res Qobuz via StreamMagic has been patchy*. I really think Cambridge missed on opportunity by not including HDMI. And I *always* use my remote for volume, skipping tracks and putting the unit back into sleep mode when I'm done listening - they should have continued including a remote. Ironically, if I were to get the 100 I'd be most concerned about the sound. I know the Wolfson chips aren't as highly regarded as the new ones but they sure work well in the V2. (*Qobuz shares a lot responsibility, they lamely don't have a Connect feature, so you have to stream via StreamMagic)

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

If I still had our v2 I'm not sure I'd feel the urge to upgrade to the 100 either, especially given the fact that Cambridge didn't really add any features I would've really benefited from in my everyday life. Thanks for watching!

[@andrehendrik]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews agreed -- cheers

[@BrunoP]

The back of the CXN100 and DAC's chip are pretty similar to the Dacmagic 200M, I wonder whether they share similar sound quality and signature Thanks for the review!

[@Mr123gggg]

I have a Oppo Sonica Dac that has been doing all those things now for 10 years.

[@lfazio9690]

Good morning to all and Happy Sunday! And screw you Daylight Savings Time! For me, this piece strikes me as a bit underwhelming; hard to eliminate value oriented feature sets that are missing and purists are likely taking a different route. But, good to know it’s SQ has an attractive analog appeal 👍. Hope everyone enjoys the day.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for joining us and yes, DST has likely thrown everyone off a little.

[@sam24bstroke6]

How does this compare to the Fiio. The A6 has Apple music

[@phitur]

pre-amp allows to mitigate the effect of channel imbalance at low volume that comes with MANY new amps (unfortunately)

[@lonniefarmer7067]

Great review, thanks! No HDMI, means no enticement for me. I run into this with high end stereo where the hard choice is great equipment or A/V pleasure (unless you spend 60K).

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate you watching and commenting Lonnie. Be sure to tune in next week. I think you'll really enjoy that product. One of my favorite purchases I've made in a long time!

[@HifiSammy]

Still waiting for a solid streamer with a hdmi out so we can art display on our tv while the music is playing. Roon has this feature and it is great if not a bit clunky.

[@MosesGonzalez-y9d]

Thanks for another informative video. I have a Cambridge CXA80 and was debating adding the CXN100 for the streaming component, or selling the CXA and getting the Yamaha RN2000A. I do not need HDMI. Do you have a leaning?

[@JoshWoodby]

Unpopular opinion: This is exactly what a person like myself is looking for. Internet Radio, SPIDF, COAX, DLNA, Chromecast, USB AUDIO, and Preamp Audio adjustment. Mixes ALL my digital solutions and outputs Analog through a capable DAC to my Aux input to my real high end Preamp that then feeds my Audiophile system. I switch to Aux and I have everything this product does... I switch to Phone I have my turntable... Simplified and easy. Preamp function is just to give easy volume control and that is all I want. I have a real preamp.

[@brendanhoffmann8402]

I got the Matrix Mini i pro (2015 model with the ES9016 Ultra chip)... I wonder how it might differ other than its price (they're like twice as expensive) to the new streaming versions (mini i pro 4). It's still a really great DAC and I can't afford Roon or the new model either!

[@frederikjacob1985]

I own the cxn V2. Loved the sound of it but once i've put it into my accuphase cd player dac... What a difference... Not going to buy the newer version thow 😅

[@neoaryan1266]

It has same DAC as V2? Can V2 also be used as DAC? if yes, how can i use V2 as DAC?

[@carryin_on]

I love hifi, but I struggle to see the point of separate streamers and DACs myself. I connect a decent RCA cable from the back of my amp into my iPad and get excellent sound on Spotify Premium, especially with a few tweaks on the equaliser settings. It often sounds better than my cd player to my ears, and I have no need for Bluetooth.

[@ronlysons6750]

How do you get the RCA cables to connect to your iPad ? I wouldn't mind trying that. I can connect my iPad using usb. Is this the same?

[@carryin_on]

@@ronlysons6750 just use an rca to 3.5mm jack cable into the headphone socket (or get a USB-C adapter on newer models). The sound quality is excellent on my system, with a boost to the treble on Spotify’s equaliser.

[@ronlysons6750]

@@carryin_on Thanks for that, I have Spotify, never seen an equaliser though, how do I find it?

[@carryin_on]

Just got to Settings and Playback, then scroll down to find Equaliser. It makes a big difference on a good system.

[@ronlysons6750]

Thanks, Iv'e just tried it with a short phono lead I have and it works a treat. I think it might even be better than the Node I have.@@carryin_on

[@dawaynecleckley8673]

Hi Andrew and Kristi. I left a comment/question on your video here after viewing it, but I did a poor job of being clear in what I was asking. I'm sorry! I'm going to try again. Question/clarification: If I'm using optical from a streamer into a DAC, would I necessarily experience a change in soundstage (as an example) between products - say the WiiM Pro and EverSolo A6. I think you were speaking from the perspective of using the EverSolo A6 as a DAC which is where you would find the differences, but I'm not certain. If so, that's good to know. I know you discussed this in the video, but can you clarify that for me? Thanks for being awesome!!

[@gottrekk5798]

Eversolo DMP-A6 is bright and very digital, definitely not for everyone.

[@SemiramisHotel89]

Maybe not for my bright triangle speakers !!!

[@iggymasu]

How does it compare against the 851N?

[@dawaynecleckley8673]

Good afternoon! Thanks for this review. It was Uber helpful! I have always been curious whether you receive a bump and sound quality by using a higher quality streamer. But from what you are saying, it depends on if you are using it as a DAC, correct? So, question: I'm running the WiiM Pro on my Emotiva PT2 via light pipe (digital). Since I wouldn't be using any of these products as a DAC, would upgrading to the Eversolo going digital to the PT2 provide me with a discernable difference in instrument, separation and sound stage?

[@markpatterson8922]

You say Apple Music is supported by the competition. Which competition (for lossless)? Have not found any.

[@Music.Movies.67]

If HDMI is that important you could always get a HDMI audio extractor box and go Optical to HDMI input on the extractor box then connect HDMI out to the TV

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You lose CEC that way.

[@ch33psk8]

Yep, works for me

[@jmx5s23]

In comparison to the Rotel RAS-5000? Aside from the price difference for the amplifier, seems comparable in features.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I had planned on commenting on how one could "build" a more budget 5000 by going with, say, the CXN100 and a separate amplifier, but when I pitted that setup head-to-head, the Rotel, for as stripped down as it is in places, was the better way to go IMHO.

[@jmx5s23]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews perfect, thank you!

[@Teachering]

I'm an old guy. I understand little if anything concerning the use of a streamer. Admittedly, listening to Andrew Robinson wax eloquent about this Cambridge unit catches my interest, but I am unwilling to take the plunge and buy a music streamer. As regards how one connects and operates a streamer like the Cambridge CXN100 is beyond my knowledge. I have the fear that if I was to buy this music streamer it would sit unused.

[@pookiestock]

@@Teachering Just think if a streamer as a radio station on a tuner/receiver. Hope that helps.

[@Teachering]

@@pookiestock Thank you, yes, pookiestock, your comment is helpful. I am beginning to get the picture.

[@luizmellegari2082]

Muito inseguro

[@cliffordhamblen5477]

I have a top of the line Pioneer Elite AV receiver with 11 channels. It will stream music from several services and from my NAS. Am I missing anything by not having an appliance like the CXN100 streamer? I assume the DAC in my Receiver that was over $2000 is in the same league as the DAC in the CXN100

[@joylessdancer4554]

Surprised we still have no Eversolo DMP-A8 review....just saying.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Stay tuned.

[@johnnydardenne7840]

where's Krysties opinion ?

[@effar]

Could someone please explain exactly what a HDMI port would add? Couldn’t you just connect this to a tv via an optical / RCA cable? Thanks

[@NosEL34]

Yes you could. But then you need your cable or TV remote to change the channels..and a separate remote to control the volume. HDMI eArc you can control all of it with your cable remote..and most times with your stereo remote too. HDMI will also transfer the streamers screen to the big TV screen.

[@effar]

@@NosEL34 ok thanks for explaining. So everyone in the comments is forming a judgement on this streamer based on the fact that you’d have to use two remotes instead of one when you connect it to a tv? I guess I’m out of touch but that seems bizarrely unimportant.

[@NosEL34]

@@effar I think a lot of other people would agree with you as well. But then there is also the crowd that cares more about the video connection between products . Currently my main streamer & TV go into my dac so I use 2 remotes for TV watching. Not really a big deal but I've had an all in one integrated with HDMI eArc & I do miss it. Once you've had it you really don't wanna go back...but it certainly isn't a deal breaker for me.

[@user-gs4oi1fm4l]

Unless I'm mistaken I believe if you have a reciever with variable volume control on its pre outs you can hook up the amp to that and still get all the control in one remote that way... at least that's my plan if I find a good deal on a Sony 5000es.

[@therealSIRBOOM]

If it had a quality phono input for even just MM, it'd be impossible to keep in stock. That'd make this a viable pre-amp for... anything, especially the many strong and affordable "just amplifiers" available from smaller brands or even to get past Cambridge's own lower spec DACs in their CXA model, which is likely an amp people will want to place above this on their shelf. HDMI... meh, I guess that'd be nice to have if a TV is involved.

[@GrorgeGoodall]

Another great critical review Andrew - how would you compare it to the (more affordable) digital source from iotavx (the np3) which runs the WiiM software ?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I have no experience with the iotavx.