A Budget-Friendly High-End Integrated Amplifier That Lives Up to Its Promises: 80Wpc Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII Plays with Engaging Sound, Supports High-Res DSD256, Features Audiophile Build
You’ll need to look far and wide to find an integrated amplifier in this price class that tops the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII when it comes to musical naturalism, robust output, audiophile engineering, and versatile connectivity. Improving on the acclaimed original model with an enhanced DAC, shorter signal path, and revised internal components, the Roon-tested CXA81 MkII delivers 80Wpc to drive most loudspeakers with aplomb and lets you enjoy high-resolution audio up to DSD256 and 24-bit/384kHz. An asynchronous USB input allows you to play music straight from your computer, while a pair of balanced XLR inputs and three optical inputs add more flexibility. You can also stream from any Bluetooth-enabled device courtesy of integrated aptX HD Bluetooth.
Bolstered by a low-flux toroidal transformer and separate power supplies for the left/right amplifiers, CXA81 MkII reproduces the nuances, tones, and dynamic shifts that are crucial to hearing your favorite songs, albums, and performances in engaging high-fidelity sound. It helps produce soundstages replete with depth, headroom, detail, and richness. An ESS ES9018K2M DAC lends to its accuracy, a custom-designed Class AB power amplifier speaks to its efficiency, and clean aesthetics attests to its smoothness.
In addition to its solid albeit sleek steel and aluminum construction, a wedge-foot support base makes the 4.5 x 16.9 x 13.4-inch unit appear as if it floats on whatever surface on which it’s placed. A remote control adds to its convenience. Most importantly, this is one piece of high-end kit that knows how to have fun. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed.
- 80 watts per channel – power to drive the most demanding speakers
- ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC – reference level digital/analogue conversion
- Class AB Amplification – for balanced & efficient performance
- Toroidal Transformer – for incredible sound-staging
- Digital inputs – TOSLINK, Coaxial & USB Audio Input
- Balanced XLR inputs – for premium connection (to CXN100 etc.)
- Bluetooth aptX HD input – connect wirelessly to devices, incl. Alva TT V2
- Roon Tested – connect a PC or Mac over USB
- Power Specifications
- Power Output (8 Ohms): 80W RMS
- Power Output (4 Ohms): 120W RMS
- Max Power Consumption: 750W
- Standby Power Consumption: <0.5W
- Amplifier Details
- Number Of Channels: 2
- Amplifier Class: Class AB
- Frequency Response: <5Hz - 60kHz +/-1dB
- THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): <0.002% 1kHz, <0.02% 20Hz - 20kHz
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >93dB (unweighted)
- Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC)
- DAC Model: ESS Sabre ES9016K2M
- USB Audio Support: Up to 24-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256 or DoP256
- Bluetooth Codec: aptX HD (24bit 48kHz)
- Connectivity
- Analog Audio Inputs: 1x balanced XLR, 4x RCA
- Digital Audio Inputs: 1x S/PDIF coaxial, 2x TOSLINK optical, 1x USB audio
- Bluetooth: Yes, 4.2 A2DP/AVRCP
- Outputs: Speakers A+B, 3.5mm headphone, Preamp Output, Subwoofer Output
- Additional Features
- ROON Tested: Yes
- Remote Control: Yes
- Bluetooth aptX HD Receiver Built-in: Yes
- Physical Specifications
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 115 x 430 x 341mm
- Weight: 8.7kg
- Included Accessories
- Box Contents: CXA81 Integrated Amplifier, Power Cable, 3 x AAA Batteries, Remote Control, Control Bus Cable, Bluetooth antenna, Quick Start Guide, Safety Guide
User Manual (PDF, 3.4 MB)