Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier - Dreamedia AV

Vendor: Cambridge Audio

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier

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Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier

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Unleash the Full Potential of Your Music Collection

Dive into an immersive auditory experience with the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier, where every note and nuance is rendered with pristine clarity. This amplifier is designed for the discerning audiophile who seeks the emotional impact of a live performance from the comfort of their home.

The Heart of Your Audio System

The CXA81 stands at the center of your audio setup, delivering 80 watts of power per channel into 8 ohms, and 120 watts into 4 ohms. This generous power output ensures that your speakers are driven with precision, control, and ample headroom, giving life to every soundtrack, whether you're enjoying a quiet evening or hosting a lively gathering.

Crafted for the Purest Sound

Impeccable Sound Quality

With a frequency response that stretches from below the threshold of human hearing to the very limits of high-resolution audio (>5Hz–60kHz +/-1dB), the CXA81 captures the full spectrum of sound. The total harmonic distortion is kept exceptionally low, preserving the integrity of the original recording.

Superior Amplification

The Class AB amplifier stage in the CXA81 has been meticulously optimized, resulting in sound that is both powerful and refined. The toroidal transformer provides an unwavering power supply to the amplifier circuits, ensuring dynamic and transparent sound quality.

State-of-the-Art Digital-to-Analog Conversion

At the heart of the CXA81's digital audio prowess is the ESS Sabre ES9016K2M DAC. This 32-bit DAC supports high-resolution audio up to 384kHz via USB, and DSD256, guaranteeing that your high-resolution audio files are reproduced with exceptional detail and accuracy.

A Hub of Connectivity

Digital and Analog Inputs

With a variety of inputs, the CXA81 is equipped to handle any source you throw at it. From traditional analog devices to modern digital music sources, connect with 4 RCA inputs, a balanced XLR input, digital coaxial, dual TOSLINK optical inputs, and USB audio.

Bluetooth aptX HD

Wireless connectivity is a breeze with built-in Bluetooth aptX HD, allowing you to stream high-quality audio directly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

Multi-Room Audio

Expand your listening experience to multiple rooms by connecting a second set of speakers. The CXA81 can power a second zone without compromising on sound quality, making it perfect for those who love to fill their entire home with music.

Design That Speaks Volumes

The CXA81 boasts an elegant and minimalistic design, crafted from high-grade aluminum and steel. Its aesthetic is as refined as its audio output, fitting seamlessly into any home décor.

Key Features at a Glance

Power Output: 80W RMS into 8 Ohms, 120W RMS into 4 Ohms
DAC: High-quality ESS Sabre ES9016K2M
Frequency Response: <5Hz–60kHz +/-1dB
Connectivity: Extensive analog and digital inputs, Bluetooth aptX HD
Multi-Room: Connect a second set of speakers for audio in another room
Design: Premium build with aluminum and steel

In the Box

The CXA81 comes with everything you need to get started:

CXA81 Integrated Amplifier
Power Cable
3 x AAA Batteries for the remote
Remote Control
Control Bus Cable
Bluetooth Antenna
Quick Start Guide
Safety Guide

Embrace the Sound of Excellence

Whether your passion lies in classic rock, the intricate layers of jazz, or the expansive soundscapes of orchestral pieces, the CXA81 brings forth a sound that is as transparent and detailed as it is emotional and enveloping. It is a testament to Cambridge Audio's commitment to audio excellence and a true work of art for any home theater or music enthusiast.

Why Choose the Cambridge Audio CXA81?

For the Audiophile

The CXA81 is more than just an amplifier; it's a gateway to audio nirvana. The attention to detail in its design and engineering ensures that the sound you hear is true to the artist's vision.

For the Tech Enthusiast

With its state-of-the-art DAC and wide range of connectivity options, the CXA81 is a forward-thinking piece of technology that caters to both high-resolution digital audio formats and classic analog sources.

For the Style-Conscious

The sleek design of the CXA81 makes it more than just an audio component — it's a statement piece that reflects your taste for quality and elegance.

Your Home Theater Deserves the Best

At Dreamedia, we understand the importance of having a home theater system that exceeds expectations. The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier is a centerpiece that will elevate your audio experience. Our team is available to design and integrate this exceptional amplifier into your home theater setup seamlessly, ensuring that you enjoy the best sound quality possible.

Embrace the full potential of your music collection with the Cambridge Audio CXA81. It's not just an amplifier; it's the heart of your audio system, delivering detailed, nuanced, and powerful sound that will leave you breathless.

Our Review

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier Review

Introduction

Cambridge Audio has long been synonymous with high-fidelity audio products that cater to audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike. With a legacy of crafting pure, natural sound, the brand's commitment to audio excellence is evident in its product lineup. The CXA81, positioned as a mid-to-high-end integrated stereo amplifier, aims to uphold this tradition by delivering pristine sound quality and a host of features designed to satisfy discerning listeners. In today's market, where digital convenience often intersects with analog performance, the CXA81 seeks to bridge the gap, offering a compelling blend of traditional audiophile virtues and modern connectivity.

Design

Aesthetics and Build Quality

The CXA81 sports an elegant, minimalistic design, with a sleek front panel that exudes a sense of sophistication. Crafted from robust aluminum and steel, the unit strikes an impressive figure that is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. The quality of craftsmanship is apparent, with no detail overlooked, from the precision-machined knobs to the robust chassis that promises longevity.

Ergonomics

The front panel layout is intuitive, with a clear and accessible arrangement of controls that make daily operation a breeze. The volume knob, with its satisfying tactile feedback, is a testament to Cambridge Audio's attention to the user experience. The included remote control complements the amplifier with its thoughtful design, providing a convenient way to adjust settings from across the room.

Features

The CXA81 is not just a pretty face; it's packed with features that make it a versatile centerpiece for any home audio system.

Power and Compatibility

Boasting 80W RMS per channel into 8 Ohms and an impressive 120W RMS into 4 Ohms, the CXA81 has the muscle to drive a wide range of speakers, from bookshelves to floor-standers. The ability to connect a second set of speakers for multi-room listening further showcases its flexibility, making it a powerhouse for those who value both power and finesse in their audio setup.

Digital-to-Analog Conversion

At the heart of its digital prowess is the ESS Sabre ES9016K2M DAC, a state-of-the-art component known for its exceptional signal-to-noise ratio and minimal distortion. This ensures that high-resolution audio files are rendered with utmost precision, delivering a listening experience that is both immersive and emotionally impactful.

Connectivity

The CXA81's array of connectivity options is a true highlight. Analog enthusiasts will appreciate the balanced XLR input and four RCA inputs, while digital users can take advantage of the coaxial, dual TOSLINK optical, and USB audio inputs. The integrated Bluetooth aptX HD receiver allows for high-quality wireless streaming, ensuring that convenience does not come at the expense of sound quality.

Additional Functionalities

As a Roon Tested device, the CXA81 promises a seamless experience with one of the most popular music management platforms. However, the absence of tone controls and a built-in phono stage may be seen as drawbacks for some users. Nevertheless, its standby power consumption of less than 0.5W is a nod to energy efficiency, which is an increasingly important consideration for modern electronics.

Performance

Sound Quality Assessment

The CXA81 delivers a sound that is transparent and detailed, with a frequency response that extends from below 5Hz to 60kHz. This wide range ensures that from the deepest bass to the highest treble, the sound remains faithful to the original recording. The initial brightness in the mids and highs, often reported, tends to mellow out after a break-in period, resulting in a sound that is nuanced and full of emotional impact.

Power Delivery

The amplifier's power delivery is smooth and authoritative, handling various speaker loads with ease. Its performance is consistent across genres, from the intricate details of classical music to the demanding dynamics of rock and jazz, making it a versatile choice for a broad spectrum of music lovers.

Soundstage and Separation

The CXA81 excels in creating a wide and deep soundstage, with excellent separation that allows each instrument to occupy its own space. This level of spatial reproduction is often found in amplifiers at higher price points, making the CXA81's performance particularly noteworthy.

DAC Performance

The onboard ESS Sabre DAC is a standout feature, providing digital-to-analog conversion that rivals standalone DACs in its price range. It brings out the subtleties in high-resolution audio files, ensuring that the digital listening experience is as close to the original as possible.

Bluetooth Performance

While the inclusion of Bluetooth aptX HD is commendable, users have reported issues with connectivity and reliability. When functioning properly, it offers a convenient and high-quality streaming option, but the inconsistencies can be a source of frustration.

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Pros:
- Detailed and nuanced sound quality with emotional impact
- High-resolution audio support with state-of-the-art DAC
- Versatile connectivity options, including Bluetooth aptX HD
- Ability to connect a second set of speakers for multi-room listening
- Quality build and elegant design
- Transparent sound with plenty of power
- Good value for the price
- Great separation and soundstage
- Suitable for a wide range of speakers and music genres

Cons:
- Brightness in mids and highs during initial use
- Lack of tone controls and built-in phono stage
- Oversensitive volume control with remote
- Potential issues with dynamic range music due to bright treble
- Bluetooth connectivity can be unreliable

Final Thoughts

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to audio excellence. Its combination of sound quality, features, and design make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home audio system. While it has its quirks, such as the lack of tone controls and occasional Bluetooth hiccups, these are minor compared to the amplifier's overall performance and value proposition. In a market crowded with competitors, the CXA81 distinguishes itself as a versatile and refined option that is sure to delight both audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Specifications

Amplifier Section

Number Of Channels: 2
Stereo RMS Power (8 Ohms): 80 watts
Stereo RMS Power (4 Ohms): 120 watts
Frequency Response: <5Hz–60kHz +/-1dB
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.002% at 1kHz, <0.02% 20Hz-20kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N): >93dB (unweighted)
Amplifier Class: AB

DAC Section

DAC Type: ESS Sabre ES9016K2M
DAC Bit Depth: 32-bit
DAC Sample Rate (USB): Up to 384kHz
DAC DSD Support: Up to DSD256 or DoP256

Connectivity

Analog Audio Inputs: 4 x RCA, 1 x balanced XLR
Digital Audio Inputs: 1 x S/PDIF coaxial, 2 x TOSLINK optical, 1 x USB audio
Bluetooth Version: 4.2 A2DP/AVRCP
Bluetooth Codec: aptX HD (24bit 48kHz)
Outputs: Speakers A+B, 3.5mm headphone, Preamp Output, Subwoofer Output

Compatibility

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)

Features

Bluetooth aptX HD Receiver Built-in: Yes
ROON Tested: Yes
Remote Control: Yes

Power Consumption

Max Power Consumption: 750W
Standby Power Consumption: <0.5W

Physical Dimensions

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 Reviews / QA

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Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier

Need Help?

Free Shipping

Free Returns

Unleash the Full Potential of Your Music Collection

The Heart of Your Audio System

Crafted for the Purest Sound

Impeccable Sound Quality

Superior Amplification

State-of-the-Art Digital-to-Analog Conversion

A Hub of Connectivity

Digital and Analog Inputs

Bluetooth aptX HD

Multi-Room Audio

Design That Speaks Volumes

Key Features at a Glance

In the Box

Embrace the Sound of Excellence

Why Choose the Cambridge Audio CXA81?

For the Audiophile

For the Tech Enthusiast

For the Style-Conscious

Your Home Theater Deserves the Best

Our Review

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier Review

Introduction

Design

Aesthetics and Build Quality

Ergonomics

Features

Power and Compatibility

Digital-to-Analog Conversion

Connectivity

Additional Functionalities

Performance

Sound Quality Assessment

Power Delivery

Soundstage and Separation

DAC Performance

Bluetooth Performance

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Final Thoughts

Specifications

Amplifier Section

DAC Section

Connectivity

Compatibility

Features

Power Consumption

Physical Dimensions

Included Accessories

Trusted by over 5,500+ customers

Product Comparisons

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