Cambridge Audio CXN V2 (Limited Edition Black)

”This remains the best music streamer around at this price.” ’What Hi-Fi?’ 2022 award-winner.

Black Edition – limited edition finish
Limited to just 1000 models, the CXN Black Edition is something less run-of-mill. The sleek new style features a matte black, anodized aluminium facia with gloss black branding. As well as appealing in its own right, the CXN Black Edition makes the perfect partner for other black components you may have.

Powerful processor
The V2 version of the CXN features a faster processor for a richer Internet radio experience and a greater level of playback control. Introducing mpeg-DASH and HLS compatibility, the CXN V2 makes the most of Internet radio. BBC radio stations now sound better than ever when available at 320 kbps.

A sound emphasis
As ever, the CXN V2 puts sound quality first. Using twin Wolfson WM8740 DACs (Digital to Analogue Convertors), each channel has its own DAC to process its own information. This gives a more precise and accurate sound quality with improved stereo imaging. When combined with the 2-Pole Dual Differential Bessel filter, the DACs help give the CXN V2 outstanding levels of clarity and transparency of sound.

AFT2 Up-Sampling for the ultimate detail and least jitter
The Cambridge CXN V2 improves sound quality still further with an Anagram Technologies AFT2 24 bit/384 kHz up-sampling circuit. ATF (Adaptive Time Filtering) up-sampling 'stretches' the music to give the highest resolution possible. Up-sampling sound gives a smoother, more relaxed sound quality with added detail. You'll hear every detail, including every deep breath, squeaky chair and flutter of sheet music; in short, it's like being there for real.

What is ATF Upsampling Technology? Click here to learn more.

Stream all your stored music - including Hi Res files
With UPnP (Universal Plug n' Play) compatibility it's easy to connect the Cambridge CXN V2 to your home network and stream from your NAS drive, hard drive, PC or laptop. The CXN V2 accepts a wide range of files, including many Hi Res formats. ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, WMA, MP3, AAC, HE AAC, AAC+ and OGG Vorbis are all supported, making this a highly flexible streamer.

Connect to Internet radio and Spotify Connect
In addition to supporting over 20,000, easy to access Internet radio stations, the CXN V2 is compatible with the most popular music streaming services. Spotify is the world’s most popular streaming service and the CXN V2 has Spotify Connect built-in (requires Spotify Premium account). If you subscribe to Spotify Premium, you can control the Cambridge with the powerful Spotify Connect app on your phone or tablet. The CXN V2 also supports Napster, BBC iPlayer Radio, Aupeo! Pandora and Rhapsody.

AirPlay 2 and optional Bluetooth
In addition to comprehensive streaming capabilities over LAN, Wi-Fi and USB, the CXN V2 is also compatible with Apple's AirPlay 2 streaming. Use it with your iPhone, iPad PC or Mac and wireless stream your iTunes library or other compatible music services. Connect the optional BT100 dongle and you'll be able to stream your music from any smartphone, tablet or other device with Bluetooth built-in.

Built-in digital pre-amp - just add active speakers
If you're seeking quality hi-fi from a minimal system then the built-in digital pre-amp will appeal. Simply add active speakers via the digital or analogue outputs and you'll be able to control the volume and balance via the CXN V2.

Pro connections
When it comes to connecting up, the CXN V2 is in the pro league. The highlight is the fitment of XLR balanced sockets. When used with a compatible amplifier, such as the matching Cambridge CXA81, these connections give the ultimate analogue link possible, with greatly improved resistance to interference.

Quad USB interface
Added to this there are no fewer than four USB interfaces. The front-mounted socket is ideal for connecting devices such as a USB media stick. At the back, two interfaces take care of a more permanently connected media device plus the optional Bluetooth dongle port. A Type-B asynchronous USB input gives direct connection to your PC or Mac. This makes the ideal connection for hooking up your computer as it effectively 'controls' the PC's output for the best sound quality possible – with greatly reduced jitter.

Digital in and out
Optical and coaxial digital sockets are provided for both inputs and outputs. This lets you connect other digital components and take advantage of the quality DAC built into the CXN V2. It also means you can plug the CXN V2 into your AV receiver or digital stereo amp. Analogue phono outputs are also standard.

New Stream Magic app*
For the best streaming experience with your CXN V2, simply download the free Stream Magic app on your Android or Apple iOS device. Developed exclusively by Cambridge Audio, this bespoke app offers a customisable hub for fast access to the streaming features you use the most.

Vibration resistant casing
With rigid, metal construction and low-resonance design, the casing helps shield the player from both mechanical and electrical interference, helping to improve clarity and reduce background noise. Isolating feet help adsorb vibration for a further reduction in distortion.

For a comprehensively equipped network streamer that puts sound first, the Cambridge CXN V2 Black Edition is the one to beat.

*Please note that the Stream Magic app is not compatible with the Amazon Kindle Fire tablet.

Read about the Cambridge Audio CXN V2 on the Richer Sounds Blog