Cambridge Audio Edge W Review: A Powered Amplifier

Simple, powerful, transparent and engaging, the Edge W is Cambridge Audio's top power amplifier.

Written by AudioGuru Staff | Updated January 6, 2023
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Cambridge Audio Edge W Review: A Powered Amplifier

The seriousness with which Cambridge Audio has treated its new Edge series of hi-fi separates cannot be disputed. The trio of higher-end components, which are part of a range created to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary, maintain the brand’s reputation for value while charging a higher price. The Edge NQ streaming preamplifier and Edge W stereo power amplifier are the two cornerstones of the line. The company has offered them since the 1980s as its most prestigious components.

The new Edge W is loaded with capabilities that transform it from a preamp into more of a digital hub that, if desired, can also play analogue sources. Dominic Baker, technical director at Cambridge Audio, declined to specify the sort of DAC that is integrated, but it supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and is DSD256-capable, and it can be accessed via aptX Bluetooth as well as optical, coaxial, or USB inputs. Network streaming is integrated, and Edge Remote, a free software for iOS and Android, also offers Chromecast, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Google Play, and internet radio.

Our Verdict

3.0

With the release of the new Edge W, Cambridge Audio has outdone itself. It is aesthetically pleasing, pleasant to use, and loaded with functionality. It has a joyful, cheery nature underpinned by real power and insight, and it sounds really well for the money.

Pros

  • Top-shelf sound reproduction
  • Enough power to handle nearly all loudspeakers
  • Price-no-object manufacturing and finish

Cons

  • Challenging input-identification ergonomics
  • No phono input

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Highlights

  • Switchable stereo balanced xlr and unbalanced rca inputs
  • Stereo balanced xlr and unbalanced rca loop outputs for connecting to another amplifier
  • 5-way binding post speaker connectors
  • Switchable 12-volt in/out trigger
  • Curved extruded aluminum front panel minimizes vibration-induced distortion
  • Detachable power cord

What’s in the box?

Stereo power amplifier, 5′ AC power cord and User Manual.

Price and Availability

Price and Availability

The Cambridge Audio Edge W is available for just under ₹4,20,000. You can get more detailed information about the Edge W current price and availability by consulting us.

Design


Design

At 8 ohm, the Edge W power amplifier is said to deliver 100 W RMS per channel and twice that into 4. With only 14 components in the signal path, it has been constructed in a minimalist manner, according to Dominic Baker, despite being a massive monster that resembles an American super-fi power amp costing ten times as much as its price. The bulky aluminium casework, which has twin toroidal transformers intended to cancel out each other’s electromagnetic interference and massive heatsinks on either side of the case, accounts for a significant portion of the device’s weight. There are robust speaker wire connectors, switchable RCA or XLR inputs, and even a useful auto-power off function on the back

Sound Quality

Sound Quality

The sound is quite open, which is another impression Edge W left me with. The music’s openness enables it to demonstrate an expansive, free-flowing, generous, and natural sound field. A great open sound also translates to improved instrument separation. The higher the openness of the sound, the more calm and natural the music sounds, and the more layered the sound field are all benefits, particularly when playing a symphony. I want to hear that sound effect. As a result, when I hear the audio, I worry a lot about how open the system is to sound.

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Specifications

Brand : Cambridge Audio
Model : Edge W
Dimensions : 150 x 460 x 405mm (5.9 x 18.1 x 15.9″)
Weight : 23.6kg (51.9lbs)
Continuous Power Output : 100W RMS into 8 Ohms; 200W RMS into 4 Ohms
Frequency Response : <3Hz – >80kHz +/-1dB
Max Power Consumption : 1000W

FAQ’s

How is the design of Cambridge Audio Edge W?

The Cambridge Audio Edge W is a high-end integrated amplifier with a sleek and modern design. It features a clean and minimalist front panel with a small display screen and a few buttons for controlling the volume and input selection. The rear panel has a variety of connectivity options, including multiple analog and digital inputs, as well as speaker outputs. The Edge W also has a high-quality metal chassis and a sturdy build quality, which gives it a premium feel and helps to protect the internal components. Overall, the Cambridge Audio Edge W is designed to be a high-performance and versatile amplifier that can be used in a variety of audio setups.

How is the sound quality of Cambridge Audio Edge W?

The Cambridge Audio Edge W is designed to deliver high-quality sound with a wide frequency response, low distortion, and a strong signal-to-noise ratio. It uses a high-quality analog preamplifier stage and a powerful Class AB amplifier to provide a robust and detailed sound that is suitable for a wide range of music genres. Many users and reviewers have praised the Cambridge Audio Edge W for its excellent sound quality, noting its ability to reproduce a wide range of frequencies with clarity and detail, as well as its ability to drive a variety of speakers with ease. Overall, the Cambridge Audio Edge W is considered to be a high-performance amplifier that is capable of delivering exceptional sound quality for both music and home theater systems.

Is Cambridge Audio Edge W a good amplifier?

The Cambridge Audio Edge W is generally considered to be a high-quality amplifier that is well-suited for both music and home theater applications. It has a sleek and modern design, a clean and detailed sound, and a wide range of connectivity options, which make it a versatile and flexible choice for a variety of audio setups. Many users and reviewers have praised the Edge W for its excellent sound quality and performance, noting its ability to deliver a wide range of frequencies with clarity and detail, as well as its ability to drive a variety of speakers with ease.

That being said, whether or not the Cambridge Audio Edge W is the right amplifier for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s always a good idea to consider the specific requirements of your audio setup and listen to a few different amplifiers to find the one that best fits your needs.

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Conclusion

After hearing the Cambridge Audio Edge W Power Amplifier, I honestly offer this 50-year-old company my utmost admiration. They set a goal to provide an amplifier product without any compromises, regardless of price, for their 50th anniversary.

On the one hand, regardless of price, Cambridge Audio produces the best goods in their opinion. However, the cost is not excessively high. That is the primary factor that astounds me and deserves the utmost respect. Isn’t that how audio products should be in order for everyone to afford them?

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.

    The Music you play is loud and clear

    By Sahil Bedi 

    Length of Use: 3–6 months

    Overall Experience:

    When I get this Edge W its music power is absolutely outstanding as it gives the loud music along with the clarity. It has also given me a dynamic and punchy sound for my movie.

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