CDX2 or HDX

Posted by: Cunnifer on 13 March 2009

Hi Guys

I had some bad news this week. My 6 year old CD5X was damaged whilst being shipped by DHL (who are not accepting responsibility). I have taken it into my local dealer for repair, but the cost of doing it isn't worthwhile in my view.

My remaining options are to buy a new CDX2 or an HDX but i can't decide and neither are available here for a demo. What i have been quoted makes CDX2 quite reasonable, whereas the HDX would be a very expensive unexpected upgrade (50% more). However, i would stretch to the HDX if it were a better long-term buy.

I have been reading the discussions on the Forums and i am leaning towards the CDX2, and then adding an XPS2 later on. I don't see myself getting the same enjoyment by downloading files from the net or ripping as i do from buying CDs. Also i still struggle with using my ipod! That said, i love listening to music and i can't argue that many of the extra features the HDX offers over the CDX2 are tempting.

My existing set-up is a Nac112, Nap150x and Neat Momentum4i's. I plan to upgrade the amps next before anyone comments on these!

Thanks guys
Cunnifer

Posted on: 13 March 2009 by Bruce Woodhouse

Ultimately you need a dem. Sorry, but that is the truth

Buried somewhere in this forum you'll find my experiences of HDX/XPS vs CDS3. Suffice to say I think they are close in performance, if slightly different character. I used to own a CDX2/XPS and from my vague recall I think the HDX is simply more pleasing.

The HDX is not difficult to use. Once your collection is ripped I'm finding the interface/search is easy.

I still buy new music on CD, I also buy on download. Buying the HDZ does not mean stopping your CD buying habit!

Bruce

Posted on: 13 March 2009 by gary1 (US)

Cunnifer,

Bruce's point is well taken about a demo if at all possible. Probably worth a trip to a dealer where you can dem, any expense involved is worth making to avoid a financial and musical error at that cost. Is the CDX2 your looking at ex-dem is that why there is a 50% price increase for the HDX?

I actually have bought more CDs since I got the HDX since I can rip them and put them away and not look at them again.

Long-term: HDX

Just look at all the discussions about downloading music and especially the potential for 24 bit. If the DAC is a success then you have an additional upgrade for the HDX. Because of the way the HDX was developed it can be the Hub of your system for a long time.

Many sites allow for free downloads to try. So you can learn how to do the download stuff before making an error with a purchase.