Our Take
Cambridge Audio has launched a sequel to its Award-winning CXA81 stereo amplifier. The new Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II, as it is called, may not be an entire redesign or reimagining, keeping to the exact same dimensions and minimal aesthetic as its predecessor, just as the recently launched Cambridge Audio CXN100 music streamer stuck to the same design as the preceding, multi-Award-winning CXN (V2).
It's with the internal circuitry that Cambridge Audio has focused the core of the CXA81 Mk II's updates. There's a new DAC chip (an ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32) which handles up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 files and aims to deliver "outstanding sonic resolution" from digital sources. There are new premium components used in the amplification circuitry and the sound has been "re-tuned and greatly refined" by the brand's London-based engineers.
Pressed further upon these updates, a Cambridge Audio spokesperson told us: "Extensive comparative listening sessions were done with component swapping, with the aim to improve depth and sensitivity. The result was ultimately the use of ten new op-amps. We added that required depth, better stereo imaging and engagement by putting higher-quality components into the signal path. The improvement to the DAC also provided better channel separation."
Product Details
CXA81 Mk II builds on the success of its multi award-winning predecessors. We haven’t looked back since making our first integrated amplifier in 1968, always looking for new ways to improve your listening experience – while recognising that great sound never goes out of fashion.
CXA81 Mk II is effortless, poised and sophisticated – only more so. 80 watts per channel give it complete authority over your music, to reveal every emotion and nuance contained within it.
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
Tech Specs
| DIGITAL AUDIO INPUTS
| 1 x S/PDIF coaxial, 2 x TOSLINK optical, 1 x USB audio, Bluetooth (integrated)
|
| POWER OUTPUT
| 80W RMS into 8 Ohms, 120W RMS into 4 Ohms
|
| DAC | ESS Sabre32 ES9018K2M
|
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | <5Hz– 60kHz +/-1dB
|
| ANALOGUE AUDIO INPUTS
| 1x balanced XLR, 4 x RCA
|
| 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), up to 24-bit 384kHz PCM, up to DSD256 or DoP256, Bluetooth: 4.2 A2DP/AVRCP supporting up to aptX HD (24bit 48kHz) |
| MAX POWER CONSUMPTION | 750W
|
| STANDBY POWER CONSUMPTION | <0.5W |
| DIMENSIONS (W X H X D) | 115 x 430 x 341mm (4.5 x 16.9 x 13.4”)
|
| WEIGHT | 8.7kg (19.1lbs) |
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