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Node 2i vs Cambridge 851N question

I have been streaming Spotify and Qobuz through a Node 2i and Orchid DAC. I have had a very difficult time discerning a difference between the two streaming services on a consistent basis. I recently purchased a Cambridge 851N streamer/DAC and was shocked to hear a radical difference between Spotify and Qobuz. Spotify sounded much worse and Qobuz sounded better. Has anyone experienced this? I can understand Qobuz sounding better, but why would Spotify sound worse than with the Node?

jrimer

Showing 1 response by soix

soix
8,655 posts
 

I am running the Cambridge with no external DAC. I have not tried the Orchid with the Cambridge because, honestly, it sounds fabulous as is.

This is an apples/oranges comparison.  You need to try the Cambridge with the Orchid with the same digital cable to make any assessments of the two as streamers.  My guess is the Orchid is smoothing over the deficiencies of Spotify whereas the more neutral DAC in the Cambridge points out the differences in stark contrast.  Just my semi-educated guess. 

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