Cambridge Audio MXN10 Compact Network Player Review

Introduction

Cambridge Audio has established itself as a purveyor of high-fidelity audio equipment, offering products that often strike a balance between performance and value. The network player market segment is rapidly evolving, with users expecting not just high-quality audio, but also versatile streaming capabilities and ease of use. The Cambridge Audio MXN10 Compact Network Player enters this competitive field with the promise of delivering on all these fronts.

Design

The MXN10 sports a minimalistic yet elegant lunar grey finish that should blend seamlessly into most home theater setups. The build quality is typical of Cambridge Audio—solid with a premium feel, despite the unit's small footprint of 5.2 x 21.5 x 19.1cm and a lightweight chassis at 1.2kg. This compactness is a boon for those with limited space.

Input and Output Layout

The rear panel of the MXN10 is home to a variety of connections. There's a USB Type A input for direct digital connection, while outputs include coaxial, optical, and RCA line level. The absence of balanced outputs may be a downside for audio purists seeking the cleanest signal path, but for most users, the provided options will suffice.

Features

Connectivity

The MXN10 offers both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, catering to the needs of wireless aficionados and those who prefer a wired network connection for stability. Despite the wired option not being gigabit-capable, which can limit network throughput, it should not impede the streaming of high-resolution audio for most users.

Streaming Services and App Compatibility

The player supports an impressive array of streaming services, including Spotify Connect, Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, and others, alongside Google Chromecast and AirPlay 2. This caters to a broad audience, ensuring that most users' streaming needs are met. However, the absence of native support for Tidal Masters' MQA files and Apple Music's high-resolution streaming may deter some users.

Internet Radio and File Playback Capabilities

The inclusion of internet radio with MPEG-DASH support is a welcome feature, offering high-quality streaming radio options. The MXN10's ability to locate and play music files from NAS devices on the same network enhances its appeal as a central audio hub.

User Interface and Control

StreamMagic App Functionality and User Experience

The StreamMagic app is the control center for the MXN10. It's responsive and intuitive, allowing users to navigate through various settings and music libraries with ease. The setup process is straightforward, with the app quickly recognizing the MXN10 upon installation.

Lack of a Physical Remote and Its Implications

The omission of a physical remote means users are reliant on the StreamMagic app for control. While this is in line with modern usage patterns, it could be a drawback for those who prefer the tactile response of a remote or do not always have a mobile device within reach.

Volume and Playback Control Options

Volume can be adjusted via the app or from within supported streaming apps, offering flexibility for users. This approach is in keeping with the MXN10's streamlined ethos but may be limiting for users who seek more granular control.

Audio Technology

DAC Specifications and File Resolution Support

The ESS Sabre ES9033Q DAC is a hallmark of quality, supporting file resolutions up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512. This ensures that the MXN10 is more than capable of delivering high-resolution audio fidelity.

Absence of MQA Support and Balanced Outputs

While the DAC is impressive, the lack of MQA support for Tidal Masters may alienate audiophiles who have embraced this format. Similarly, the absence of balanced outputs is a point of contention for those seeking professional-grade audio connections.

Bluetooth 5.0 and Its Performance

Bluetooth 5.0 is present, offering a stable and quality wireless connection for compatible devices. This adds to the versatility of the MXN10, though it's worth noting that the best audio quality will always be through a wired connection or high-resolution streaming protocols.

Performance

Sound Quality

The MXN10 delivers a spacious and well-organized soundstage, with a dynamic expression that will please audiophiles. Its strengths lie in its composed performance, convincing rendering of tone and texture, and the ability to deliver rhythm and swing. It handles a variety of music genres with a powerful yet clean and organized rendition, standing up well against competitors in its price range.

Streaming and Network Performance

The MXN10's setup is user-friendly, and the network recognition is immediate. The non-gigabit Ethernet does not hamper performance significantly, and the responsiveness of the streaming services is excellent, with little to no buffering or connectivity issues.

Practicality and Use Cases

The MXN10 is suited to a wide range of users, from those looking to dip their toes into high-resolution audio streaming to seasoned audiophiles seeking a compact and feature-rich network player. It integrates well with existing setups, though high-resolution enthusiasts might miss the MQA and balanced output options.

Pros and Cons Recap

Pros:n- Compact and stylish designn- Wide array of streaming servicesn- High-resolution file support with a quality DACn- Intuitive StreamMagic app controln- Simple setup and network integration

Cons:n- No physical remote includedn- No MQA support for Tidal Mastersn- Lack of balanced outputsn- No native Apple Music high-resolution streamingn- Non-gigabit wired networking

Final Thoughts

The Cambridge Audio MXN10 is an impressive entry-level network player that offers high-quality sound, a broad feature set, and a user-friendly experience at an affordable price point. Its compact design and streaming capabilities make it a strong contender in its segment. Despite its few drawbacks, for those who can live without MQA, balanced outputs, and a remote, the MXN10 is an excellent choice that punches above its weight, offering a high-value proposition to both newcomers and audiophiles alike.