Cambridge Audio CXA81
Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier
- 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
80W RMS into 8 Ohms, 120W RMS into 4 Ohms
ESS Sabre ES9016K2M
<5Hz– 60kHz +/-1dB
1x balanced XLR, 4 x RCA
1 x S/PDIF coaxial, 2 x TOSLINK optical, 1 x USB audio, Bluetooth (integrated)
TOSLINK optical: 16/24bit 32-96kHz PCM only, S/PDIF coaxial: 16/24bit 32-192kHz PCM only, USB: audio profile 1.0/2.0 (default 2.0), up to 24-bit 384kHz PCM, up to DSD256 or DoP256, Bluetooth: 4.2 A2DP/AVRCP supporting up to aptX HD (24bit 48kHz)
Yes
Yes
Speakers A+B, 3.5mm headphone, Preamp Output, Subwoofer Output
Yes
750W
<0.5W
115 x 430 x 341mm (4.5 x 16.9 x 13.4”)
8.7kg (19.1lbs)
CXA81 Integrated Amplifier, Power Cable, 3 x AAA Batteries, Remote Control, Control Bus Cable, Bluetooth antenna, Quick Start Guide, Safety Guide
Rewarding Performance
Our CXA81 integrated amplifier builds on the foundations laid by the first CX Series, and over 50 years’ experience of building amps. It offers a progressive perspective – effortless, poised and sophisticated. 80 watts per channel give CXA81 complete authority over music, to reveal every emotion and nuance from your whole music collection – be that streamed or on disc.
Raising the Standard
How do we improve on CXA81, an amplifier regarded by many as the standard-bearer at its price point?
Focusing on the all-important signal path, we re-engineered it with premium components end to end, plus an upgraded DAC and a whole load of listening and tuning; all part of a relentless drive to deliver new clarity and depth.
Your World’s a Stage
What hits you first when you hear familiar music through CXA81 Mk II, is just how detailed everything sounds. You’ll pick up instruments, subtle shifts in tone, and harmonies you’ve previously missed. Close your eyes, and you’ll be able to place every musician in the soundstage.
Effortlessly Musical
At the centre of CXA81 Mk II lies a custom-designed Class AB power amplifier stage with highly optimised components. It takes the musicality of Class A and blends it with the efficiency of Class B. The amp’s short signal path is super-efficient, leaving little opportunity for colouration.
Power!
Thanks to a chunky toroidal transformer, CXA81 Mk II delivers a generous 80 watts of power per channel. Dual taps into the left and right of the amplification board mean that, in effect, each channel has its own power supply – resulting in a vivid soundstage.
Digital Love
Designed to bring your digital music to life, CXA81 Mk II features the upgraded ESS ES9018K2M DAC (digital analogue converter) in its dedicated circuitry. This means that digital audio files, up to a heady 24-bit/384kHz or DSD256, are unpacked – with every subtle detail delivered in full.
Get Connected
CXA81 Mk II has connectivity covered. As well as digital optical, coaxial and USB Audio (from computers), it features stereo RCA inputs, balanced XLR sockets plus wireless hi-res connectivity via Bluetooth aptX HD – perfect for our Alva turntables.
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