Streaming vs. CD

I should have qualified streaming not including hi-res files.

I find Qobuz in hi-res really excellent for classical music. It’s gotten to the point on my system, for the first time, CDs sound identical to streaming. This was never the case previously.
‘Maybe it’s my new Cambridge streamer.

I absolutely concur that a well recorded 16/24 CD or file can sound better than a hi-res recording.  Happens all the time.

Extensively modified Rega RP3 turntable.
Clearaudio Virtuoso cartridge.
Cyrus CD transport.
OPPO 105 universal player
GeerFab DBOB Digital Extractor.
‘Cambridge CXV2 streamer.
‘Benchmark DAC3B DAC.
Conrad Johnson PV 11 preamp modified with Teflon caps.
Benchmark AHB2 Amplifier.
GoldenEar Triton ! Speakers.
Various aftermarket cabling.

arafiq,

Yes, the same DAC was used in both cases.
The Cambridge uses built-in Chromecast for hi-res files.
Downside is Chromecast streams only up to 96 kHz and inserts a brief pause between tracks. In Airplay mode there’s no pause but no hi-res.
However, the upside is that I believe the SQ to be better than
Node 2i in both modes no matter what the resolution  rate. To me, it’s just a fuller and more detailed sound. YMMD.

‘The Cambridge also has many features the Node doesn’t.
It’s worth a test try.

It’s now two years since my original post.  Since then I’ve acquired a whole new setup, including a new DAC (Benchmark) and streamer (Cambridge.) Now the SQ of streaming, using Qobuz or Idagio, is virtually indistinguishable from my CD transport (Cyrus.) I never though it was possible.  One factor in the equation was the purchase of a new streamer power cord ((Audioquest.). Made a major difference.

Mahler123,

I mostly use Qobuz as my streaming service. It can be accessed both through AirPlay and built in Chromecast. It decodes Chromecast in hi res 96HZ, but sounds great in either mode.  I’m not sure why you can’t.get Qobuz. Are you using the Streamagic app?  If not, download it and follow directions.
I have the Cambridge connected to my Benchmark DAC with high quality cables. The most dramatic improvement in sound was with the addition of a $300 Audioquest power cable.to the Cambridge.
I find the unit to sound quite better than the Node.
Good luck on setting it up properly