Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Network Player
User Manual
Important Safety Instructions
Please read these instructions carefully before connecting the unit to the mains power supply to ensure safe operation and prolong the unit's life.
⚠️ WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture.
- Read and keep these instructions.
- Heed all warnings and follow all instructions.
- Do not use this apparatus near water.
- Clean only with a dry cloth.
- Do not block ventilation openings.
- Do not install near heat sources.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding-type plugs.
- Protect the power cord from damage.
- Only use manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories.
- Use caution when moving the unit with a cart to avoid tip-over injuries.
- Unplug during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
- Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
Batteries shall not be exposed to excessive heat.
The unit is Class 1 construction and requires a protective earthing connection.
Ensure ample ventilation (at least 10cm clearance all around). Do not place objects on the unit or obstruct air inlets/outlets.
This unit must not be used near water or exposed to liquids.
Symbols:
- Lightning Flash with Arrowhead: Alerts to un-insulated 'dangerous voltage' within the enclosure.
- Exclamation Point: Alerts to important operating and maintenance instructions.
- WEEE Symbol: Indicates separate collection for electrical and electronic equipment.
Compliance Marks: CE MARK, RCM (Regulatory Compliance Mark), CU-TR MARK.
Ventilation: The unit can become hot. Do not stack units or place in enclosed areas without sufficient ventilation.
Positioning: Choose a location away from direct sunlight, heat sources, vibration, dust, cold, or moisture. Install on a sturdy, level surface. Avoid placing other equipment on top of the unit.
Power Sources: The unit draws <0.5W in Standby mode. To turn off, unplug from the mains socket.
Wi-Fi Information & FCC Statement
This unit is intended for use with the EW-7611ULB WiFi Dongle.
FCC Statement: Caution regarding Radio Frequency Radiation. Minimize human contact during normal operation. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating with any other antenna or transmitter.
Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC):
- Equipment: Network Player
- Model: CXN V2
- Trademark: Cambridge Audio
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) no harmful interference, and (2) acceptance of any received interference.
Responsible Party in US: Audio Partnership LLC, 1913 N Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 60647.
Federal Communications Commission Notice: Tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits. Generates, uses, and can radiate RF energy. May cause harmful interference to radio communications if not installed/used per instructions. User is encouraged to correct interference by reorienting antenna, increasing distance, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer.
FCC Caution: Unauthorized modifications may void user's authority to operate.
FCC Radiation Exposure Statement: Complies with FCC limits for uncontrolled environments. Install and operate with a minimum distance of 20cm between radiator and body. 2.4GHz operation in the USA is firmware-limited to channels 1-11.
Modifications: FCC requires notification that unauthorized changes may void operating authority.
Limited Warranty
Cambridge Audio warrants this product against defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty periods vary by country. Contact your dealer for service and retain proof of purchase.
Canada-Industry Canada (IC): This radio transmitter is approved by Industry Canada and complies with Class B digital apparatus standards. Operation is subject to two conditions: no harmful interference, and acceptance of any interference.
Europe-European Union Notice: Audio Partnership PLC declares compliance with Directive 2014/53/EU. Full text available at https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/DoC.
WARNING: To reduce exposure to electromagnetic radiation, maintain at least 20cm distance from the Wi-Fi Antenna during normal operation.
Product Details for Wi-Fi Dongle EW-7611ULB: Frequency 2.412 GHz-2.472 GHz, Max. transmit power 21dBm. Trading name: EDIMAX. Manufacturer: Audio Partnership Plc.
Warranty Exclusions: Does not cover cosmetic damage, acts of God, accident, misuse, abuse, negligence, commercial use, modifications, improper operation, maintenance, installation, or unauthorized repairs. Products sold 'AS IS' or 'WITH ALL FAULTS' are not covered.
Limitation of Liability: Repairs/replacements are the exclusive remedy. Cambridge Audio is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. This warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties.
Some regions may not allow exclusion of incidental/consequential damages or implied warranties.
Rear Panel Connections
Diagram shows 10 connection points:
- 1. POWER SOCKET: Connect the supplied power cable here.
- 2. USB SOCKETS:
- Wi-Fi Dongle: Pre-fitted for 802.11b/g/n networks (2.4 GHz for 'n'). Ensure unit is within router range. Do not connect/disconnect when unit is on.
- Local Media: Connect USB storage devices for music files. Can also connect optional Cambridge Audio BT100 Bluetooth Adaptor. Not intended for Apple mobile devices.
- 3. ETHERNET: For connecting to a 10/100BASE-T LAN. Defaults to Ethernet if connected.
- 4. DIGITAL INPUTS: Two inputs (S/PDIF Co-axial and TOSLINK Optical). Suitable for 16-24 bit content up to 192kHz (TOSLINK recommended up to 96kHz).
- 5. DIGITAL OUTPUTS: Coaxial and TOSLINK Optical outputs for connecting to DACs or recording devices. Pass through source audio unprocessed.
- 6. USB AUDIO IN: USB B type socket for PC/Mac/Linux audio playback. Use Hi-Speed USB cables (under 3m recommended). Turn volume down or switch unit off before connecting/disconnecting.
- Ground Lift Switch: Disconnects USB interface earth from chassis earth to reduce hum. Default is 'Ground'.
- 7. IR (INFRA RED) EMITTER IN: 3.5mm mini-jack for receiving IR commands from multi-room systems.
- 8. CONTROL BUS: RCA phono sockets (In/Out) for receiving/sending control commands between components.
- 9. BALANCED AUDIO OUTPUT: Two XLR sockets for balanced audio output, offering better noise rejection. Wired Pin 1: Ground, Pin 2: Hot, Pin 3: Cold.
- 10. LINE OUTPUT: RCA phono stereo output for connecting to amplifier line-level inputs.
Front Panel Controls
Diagram shows 12 controls:
- 1. STANDBY/ON: Switches between On and Standby modes. Standby is low power (<0.5W). ECO mode and NETWORK STANDBY options are available in settings.
- 2. USB: For connecting USB storage devices (1A max current). Not for Apple devices.
- 3. SKIP: Skips tracks forwards or backwards.
- 4. PLAY/PAUSE: Starts and pauses playback.
- 5. STOP/DELETE: Stops playback or deletes items in menus.
- 6. DISPLAY: Shows unit status.
- 7. (i) INFO: Toggles between 'Now Playing' screen views.
- 8. HOME: Navigates to the Home screen.
- 9. INFRARED SENSOR: Receives IR commands from the remote control. Requires clear line of sight.
- 10. RETURN: Goes back to the previous menu.
- 11. (MORE): Shows the queue for UPnP/USB playback.
- 12. NAVIGATION/SELECT (ROTARY DIAL): Rotates to navigate menus; press to select. Features a 'Fast Scroll' function for long lists.
Remote Control
The remote control allows combined control of CXN v2 and other CX range products.
- 1. STANDBY/ON: Switches between On and Standby/Idle modes.
- 2. BRIGHTNESS: Adjusts display backlight (off, dim, bright).
- 3. MUTE: Mutes audio output.
- 4. (MORE): Toggles 'Now Playing' and 'Queue' displays for media playback. For Internet Radio/Streaming Services, brings up interactive menus.
- 5. DIGITAL INPUTS: Selects digital input source.
- 6. RANDOM: Toggles random/shuffle playback.
- 7. REPEAT: Toggles repeat playback (track or album/artist).
- 8. VOLUME: Adjusts volume.
- 9. HOME: Navigates to the top Home Menu.
- 10. (INFO): Toggles between Menu and 'Now Playing' screens.
- 11. SKIP: Skips tracks forwards or backwards.
- 12. ENTER: Accepts highlighted item/function. In tuner mode, press and hold to store presets.
- 13. NAVIGATION: Navigates menus.
- 14. RETURN: Returns to the previous menu.
- 15. PLAY/PAUSE: Starts or pauses playback.
- 16. PRESETS: Directly accesses stored presets.
Overview & Getting Connected
The CXN v2 plays media from various sources:
- Internet Radio: Access to ~20,000 stations, sorted by Location, Language, Genre. Lists are updated automatically.
- Streaming Services: Similar to Internet Radio but often interactive and may require subscriptions (e.g., Spotify, Pandora, TIDAL). Cambridge Audio acts as an intermediary.
- Network Media: Supports compressed formats (MP3, AAC, WMA, Ogg Vorbis) and lossless formats (PCM/WAV, FLAC, ALAC) up to 24-bit/192kHz. Requires compatible server and network. Wi-Fi is not recommended for content above 24-bit/96kHz lossless.
- USB Media: Connect USB flash drives or hard drives. Browses folders. UPnP is recommended for better features like album art and browsing. Supports NTFS and FAT32.
- Podcasts: Supports third-party podcast services and personal podcast URLs.
Getting Connected:
Requirements: Broadband internet connection, network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
Network Connections:
- Wired: Connect via Ethernet cable (Category 5/5E) to a 10/100BASE-T port. Unit defaults to Ethernet if available.
- Wireless: Connect via Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n). Requires WEP/WPA key if network is encrypted.
IMPORTANT: Ensure your wireless access point/router is powered up and working. Read your router's instructions.
The CXN v2 can be configured for Wired, Wireless, or Auto connection.
Operating Instructions
Connecting to a Wireless Network
Place the CXN v2 within range (10-30m) of your wireless network. Turn it on. The unit will automatically connect and obtain an IP address. If no network is found, move the unit closer or check your network.
When your network is found, select its ESSID (name). If encrypted, enter the WEP/WPA key using the rotary dial. The CXN v2 remembers the key.
Note: Rebooting your CXN v2 after connection is recommended to check for firmware updates.
Home Menu
The Home menu provides access to: Presets, Radio, Music Library, Inputs, Settings. Navigate using the rotary dial or remote control.
Presets
Save favorite Internet Radio stations or Streaming Services. UPnP/USB Media cannot be preset. To save, select the stream, go to Home > Presets, select 'Set Preset', and choose a location.
Note: Empty presets are not displayed. Saved presets are deleted upon online registration/re-registration.
Radio
Access thousands of internet radio stations. Quality varies by broadcaster. Explore new music globally.
How to Use Radio: From the Home menu, select 'Radio'. Choose from categories: Location, Genre, Search Radio Stations, Streaming Services, Podcasts.
- Location: Browse stations by country.
- Genre: Browse by content type (e.g., Classic Rock, Sport).
- Search Radio Stations: Search by station name.
- Streaming Services: Access third-party services.
- Podcasts: Access local podcast services or personal URLs.
Note: If a station is unavailable, email support@cambridgeaudio.com to suggest it.
Music Library
Access media from UPnP/DLNA Servers or USB Media.
UPnP Servers: Connect to computers or NAS devices with UPnP AV Server software. Browse by Album, Artist, Genre. Requires compatible server software. See https://techsupport.cambridgeaudio.com/ for guides.
Alphanumeric Search: Search for albums or tracks within UPnP servers.
Now Playing Screen: Displays current track/station info, codec details, and playback time. Press 'i' to view.
RANDOM: Toggles random playback on/off. Displays a ? icon when active.
REPEAT: Toggles repeat playback (track or album/artist) on/off. Displays a ? icon when active.
USB Media: Play audio from USB drives. Copy files, connect to unit, select 'Music Library' > 'By Album' or 'By Artist'. Supports FAT32, NTFS. Not for DRM-protected files.
Inputs & Connectivity
Queue & Playlist
Queue: View and edit the playback queue using the 'MORE' button. Switching to standby deletes the queue.
Playlist: Supports various playlist formats for permanent storage. Access playlists from USB Media or UPnP servers.
Inputs
The CXN v2 has multiple input options:
- USB: For connecting USB storage or the BT100 Bluetooth adaptor.
- D1-D2 (S/PDIF Coax/TOSLINK Optical): Digital inputs for sources like PCs or CD players. Optimizes sound quality.
- Bluetooth: Requires optional BT100 adaptor for wireless streaming from phones/tablets/laptops. Supports SBC and aptX codecs.
- Spotify: Control via Spotify app for Premium users.
Advanced USB Audio
Supports USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed) and USB 1.1. Compatible with USB 3.0 ports.
Supports USB Audio 1.0 (up to 24-bit/96kHz, driverless) and USB Audio 2.0 (up to 24-bit/192kHz, requires Windows driver).
Use with PCs: Default is USB 1.0. For USB 2.0, download the Cambridge Audio USB Audio 2.0 Driver from https://techsupport.cambridgeaudio.com.
Use with Macs: No extra drivers needed. Works with native Mac OS-X Audio 1.0 or 2.0 drivers.
Use with Linux: Works with most distributions in USB Audio 1.0 mode. USB Audio 2.0 may require driver loading depending on the distribution.
BT100 & Bluetooth Audio Streaming
The optional BT100 adaptor enables Bluetooth audio streaming. Plug into rear USB. A 'Bluetooth' menu item appears in Digital Inputs.
Pairing: Insert BT100, double-click button to enter pairing mode. Put your audio source into pairing mode. Select 'Cambridge Audio BT100' on your device. The LED indicates status.
Note: Can pair up to 8 sources. Many sources keep the link active after playback; deselect playback to allow other sources access.
Spotify
Connect your CXN v2 to the same Wi-Fi as your Spotify app. Play a song, tap the Connect icon, and select your CXN v2. Visit www.spotify.com/connect for details.
AirPlay
Connect CXN v2 to your network. Open your app, tap the AirPlay icon (?), and select CXN v2.
Chromecast Built-in
Stream music from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Use the Cast button in compatible apps. Works with iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac, Windows, Chromebook. Discover apps at google.com/cast/apps.
Settings
Access various configuration menus:
- Network: Configure network settings, scan for networks, enter network name, view current configuration, edit configuration (Static IP/DHCP), check Wi-Fi strength, signal warning, Wi-Fi region, and wired/wireless connection preference.
- Firmware: Displays hardware/software version numbers. Check for updates online and install new firmware. Important: Do not interrupt firmware updates.
- Display Brightness: Adjust backlight (off, dim, bright).
- Device Name: Set the UPnP Client name for your CXN v2.
- Audio:
- Digital Pre-amp Mode: Enables volume control via the CXN v2's DSP, allowing direct connection to a power amp. Set to 'On' in settings.
- Balance: Adjustable when Digital Pre-amp Mode is enabled.
- USB Audio Class: Select USB Audio 1.0 or 2.0 for compatibility.
- Remote Code: Select Option 1 (default), Option 2 (for remote clashes), or Option 3 (no remote).
- Language: Change the display language. The unit restarts after selection.
- Power:
- Instant On: Enables Idle mode for quicker wake-up via network/app.
- Automatic Power Down: Set unit to switch off after a period of inactivity (15 mins to 1 hr, or OFF).
- Edit Digital Input Names: Customize names for digital inputs (e.g., USB Audio, D1-D5).
- Factory Reset: Resets all settings to factory defaults. Note: WEP/WPA keys will be lost.
Cambridge Connect App
Free Apple/Android app for wireless control of CXN v2 and other Cambridge Audio products. Allows control of Internet Radio, Streaming Services, UPnP Media, Presets, etc. Requires Wi-Fi connection. Search 'Cambridge Audio' on app stores.
Volume control via the app is possible using the CXN v2's digital pre-amp or via a connected Cambridge Audio Azur amplifier/AV Receiver using the Control Bus.
Technical Specifications
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
D/A Converters | Dual Wolfson WM8740 24-bit DACs |
Analogue filter | 2-Pole Dual Differential Bessel Double Virtual Earth Balanced |
THD @ 1kHz 0dBFs | <0.001% 24-bit |
Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz +/- 0.1dB * |
Signal to Noise ratio | -112dBr |
Total correlated jitter | < 130pS |
Crosstalk @ 1kHz | < -100dB |
Digital outputs | S/PDIF Co-axial: 16/24-bit, 32-192kHz; TOSLINK Optical: 16/24-bit, 32-96kHz |
Audio Formats | WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF (up to 24-bit/192kHz), WMA, MP3, AAC, OGG Vorbis |
Streaming Protocols | RTSP, MMS, HTTP, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Google Chromecast |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n), Ethernet (IEEE 802.3, 10/100 Base-T) |
Wi-Fi Encryption | WEP, WPA, WPA2 |
USB | 3 x USB 1.1 (1A current limited each) |
File systems | FAT32, NTFS |
Mains inlet voltage | 100-240 VAC (switch mode) |
Standby consumption | <0.5W |
Max power consumption | 30W |
Dimensions (H x W x D) | 85 x 430 x 305mm (3.4 x 16.9 x 12.2") |
Weight | 4 Kg (8.8lbs) |
* Steep filter disabled.
iRadio/Streaming Services output as 16-bit data. Incoming streams below 32kHz sample rate cannot be output over S/P DIF/TOSLINK.
For compressed streams, resolution is limited by encoding. For Media content, outputs in native resolution (16/24-bit, 32-96kHz) with bit-for-bit transfer.
Troubleshooting
Visit https://techsupport.cambridgeaudio.com/ for help.
Network Connection Issues:
- Confirm computer can access the internet on the same network.
- Check DHCP server availability or static IP configuration.
- Ensure firewall is not blocking necessary ports (UDP/TCP 80, 554, 1755, 5000, 6000, 7070).
- Check access point does not restrict MAC addresses.
- Verify correct WEP/WPA key entry (case-sensitive). Consult network configuration if 'Wireless error' persists.
Streaming Service Issues:
- Station may not be broadcasting or may have reached listener limits.
- Link in database may be outdated.
- Internet connection speed may be slow. Try playing via broadcaster's website.
UPnP Playback Issues:
- Ensure UPnP server software supports the file type (e.g., some don't serve FLAC).
- CXN v2 plays non-DRM files only.
- For 24-bit WAV/FLAC, a wired Ethernet connection is recommended.
- Check CXN v2 supports the file type (WMA, AAC, MP3, Vorbis, FLAC, WAV supported; ALAC, WMA Pro, RAW, AU not supported).
USB Media Playback Issues:
- Check CXN v2 supports the file type.
- CXN v2 plays non-DRM files only.
- Ensure USB device does not draw more than 1A.
- Check device is formatted in FAT32/NTFS.
- Organize USB media into Artist/Album folders for better browsing performance.
For all servicing, contact your dealer.
Support & Contact
FAQs and Support: Please visit https://techsupport.cambridgeaudio.com
Contact Technical Support:
- Email: support@cambridgeaudio.com
- UK: +44 20 7551 5422
- US: +1 877 357-8204
- HK: +852 2499 6018
Company Information:
Cambridge Audio is a brand of Audio Partnership Plc.
Registered in England No. 2953313
Gallery Court, Hankey Place, London SE1 4BB, United Kingdom
Website: WWW.CAMBRIDGEAUDIO.COM