Cambridge Audio CXA81 Review: Stereo Amplifier

Written by AudioGuru Staff | Updated January 10, 2023
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Cambridge Audio CXA81 Review: Stereo Amplifier

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 is a powerful stereo amplifier that outputs up to 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 120 watts per channel into 4 ohms. The amplifier uses Class A/B amplification, so you can be sure that the sound quality is better than any other comparable product on the market!

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Amplifier The frequency response ranges from 5 hertz to 60,000 hertz. It has four pairs of unbalanced stereo RCA inputs, as well as balanced XLR and optical digital inputs that can be used with the included adapters for compatibility with many other devices. With support for Bluetooth 4.2 aptX HD at 24-bit and 48 kHz, you’ll always have a reliable connection option, so you can listen over long distances!

It has two speaker outputs for Zone A and Zone B, as well as a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack, preamp output, and subwoofer output. It is 4.5 inches high, 16.9 inches wide, and 13.4 inches deep. It weighs 19.1 pounds.

Our Verdict

4.5

With the sole purpose of letting you to hear the most astonishing musical sounds, Cambridge Audio CXA81 was carefully designed and fine-tuned.

Pros

  • Bold, strong, and thorough presentation
  • Expert dynamics and timing
  • Comprehensive features and connections

Cons

  • Nothing for this cost

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Highlights

  • 80 watts per channel – the power to drive the most demanding speakers
  • Class AB Amplification – for balanced & efficient performance
  • Toroidal Transformer – for incredible sound-staging
  • High-Quality ESS Sabre ES9016 DAC – to realize digital music at its best
  • Digital inputs – TOSLINK, Coaxial & USB Audio Input (up to 32-bit/384kHz & DSD256 digital files from Mac/PC)
  • Balanced XLR inputs – for a premium connection
  • Bluetooth aptX HD input – connect wirelessly to devices, incl. Alva TT V2
  • A/B Speaker Zones – power 2 sets of speakers

What’s in the box?

Integrated amplifier, 6′ AC power cord, Remote control, 3 “AAA” batteries, Bluetooth antenna, 39″ mono-RCA control cable, Quick Start Guide, Important Safety Instructions

Price and Availability

Price and Availability

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 is available for just under ₹1,47,900. You can get more detailed information about the CXA81 current price and availability by consulting us.

Design


Design

With its most recent product portfolio, the CX series, Cambridge is maintaining the quality of its reputation. The new range shifts hues from garish golds and reds to more earth-toned whites, greys, and blacks in order to fit any consumer’s tastes. Each unit’s front tapers out for an appearance that makes them appear to be floating on your shelf.

A volume control knob and individual buttons for stations and sources are included on the front panel’s clean, modern design. A/B Speaker switching enables you to alternate between the speakers on each side of your table without disconnecting or turning them off. A headphone jack is also included in case someone wants to be alone while others are playing video games in public or watching late-night television at home.

Sound Quality

Sound Quality

The audio is clean and sharp without in any way overpowering the musical tone. These speakers are able to portray both low-frequency sounds as well as higher ones without sounding too much like it’s all just “pounding” at your ears occasionally (which I’ve found tends to happen on other systems), so you can feel every beat of your favourite song without getting tired of listening when you turn up the volume or switch to one with more bass.

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Specifications

Brand : Cambridge Audio
Model : CXA81
Dimensions : 115 x 430 x 341mm (4.5 x 16.9 x 13.4”)
Weight : 8.7kg (19.1lbs)
Power Output : 80W RMS into 8 Ohms, 120W RMS into 4 Ohms
Dac : ESS Sabre ES9016K2M
Frequency Response : < 5Hz– 60kHz +/-1dB
Max Power Consumption : 750W

FAQ’s

How is the design of Cambridge Audio CXA81?

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 probably features a simple, sophisticated design that emphasises use and functionality. In any event, to get a better feel of its design and build quality, it is a good idea to read reviews and go to a store where you can see it in person.

How is the sound quality of Cambridge Audio CXA81?

Without in any way dominating the musical tone, the audio is clear and snappy. You can feel every beat of your favourite song without getting tired of listening when you turn up the volume or switch to one with more bass because these speakers are able to portray both low-frequency sounds and higher ones without sounding too much like it’s all just “pounding” at your ears occasionally (which I’ve found tends to happen on other systems).

Is Cambridge Audio CXA81 a good amplifier?

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 is a superb amplifier that performs admirably in both music and home theatre applications, according to the majority of consumers. Due to its slick and modern design, crystal-clear audio, and a variety of connecting options, it is a versatile and adaptable alternative for a variety of audio settings. Consumers and critics alike have given the Cambridge Audio CXA81 high marks for its excellent sound quality and performance, with special emphasis being placed on its ability to produce a wide range of frequencies with clarity and detail and to drive a variety of speakers with ease.

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Conclusion

At this price point, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 establishes a new standard for integrated amps. It’s a unique commodity that can convince us to turn off our critical faculties and simply allow ourselves to be mesmerized by the music. Only a few of these items come into our lives each year, and Cambridge has undoubtedly made one of them with the CXA81 given the manner it destroys its competitors.

AudioGuru Staff

AudioGuru Staff

AudioGuru is a platform where we review and recommend audio products. When it comes to purchasing decisions, our journalists combine independent research with extensive testing to save you time, energy, and money. We’ll help you get it right, whether it’s finding an amazing product or getting useful advice.

Share Your Personal Experience by Writing a Review.

    I got this great amplifier which I'll never regret

    By Siddharth bora 

    Length of Use: 3–6 months

    Overall Experience:

    I chose the CXA81 after completing extensive research on integrated amplifiers. Stunning! According to the technical assessments, this amplifier will take some time to break in. If that is the case, I am in for a genuinely unique experience. Even though I was switching from an antiquated home theatre amplifier to a two-channel amp exclusively for music, I did not anticipate such a big difference.

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