CDX2 digital out to non Naim DAC

Hi-Fi Corner
1

Can CDX2 (year 2015) play digital out to non a Naim DAC ?

Can the digital out work only thru BNC connection?

What if the non Naim DAC doesn’t have a BNC input? Can use BNC to coxial adaptor ? ( huge sound degradation? )

Thanks in advance ?

2

I have a Naim DC1 cable with BNC to coaxial configuration. Sounds great and no need for an adaptor.

3

You mean you are using a BNC to Coaxial DC1 cable ? Do you have to change any settings on CDX2 ?

Thanks

4

Earlier CDX2s had no digital out. Naim could modify them to add an SPDIF output, but this permanently disabled the analogue output.

The later version had both analogue and digital out, with a switch on the back near the BNC socket. Best to get a BNC terminated cable rather than an adapter.

5

The CDX2.2 has a digital out as does the CD5XS.

On my CD5XS there’s a toggle switch on the back to select between digital out or analogue RCA (assuming CDC2.2 has too)

If you’re using a non-Naim DAC (with coaxial input) you can use the DC1 cable with BNC to coaxial configuration to connect from your CDX2.2 to DAC

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6

I have CD5XS rather than a CDX2 and very occasionally use it with my Auralic DAC. Since it is only very occasional use, I do use an adaptor and that will certainly get you started. But if you’re going to use this setup regularly, getting a cable with the right termination at both ends will be better for SQ. There are companies that will make you up a decent cable at very reasonable prices.

Roger

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7

Yes, I had a Mark Grant BNC to coaxial digital cable made up at a reasonable price.

My Naim DC1 BNC to coaxial has the edge though for sound quality.