Cambridge Audio has announced two new products of note so far in 2024, the Melomania M100 Wireless ANC Earbuds and the Evo 150 Delorean Edition Network Amplifier. The latest addition to their 2024 product line is the CXA81 Mk II integrated stereo amplifier which is an upgrade from the current CXA81.
Overview
Cambridge Audio made its first integrated amplifier in 1968. Since that time they have continually made tweaks and changes in successive models to improve functionality and the audio listening experience.
The CXA81 MK II builds directly on its immediate predecessor the CXA81 by introducing new premium components to the circuitry and improving the signal path.
The combination of Class AB amplification and a heavy-duty toroidal transformer provides musical detail with the power to drive even demanding speakers. With 80W per channel, the CXA81 MK II provides authority over your music revealing every emotion and nuance.
The new ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC (digital-to-analog converter) elevates the amplifier with reference-level capabilities and outstanding sonic resolution, whichever digital source you choose.
In addition to the DAC change which provides better channel separation, Cambridge Audio also incorporated 10 new op-amps allowing for more precise component tuning that supports improved depth and better stereo imaging.
RCA and XLR inputs for analog sources are complemented by TOSLINK, Coaxial, and USB Audio digital connections. Bluetooth aptX HD is also built in for high-quality wireless listening.
The CXA81 Mk II Integrated Stereo Amplifier joins Cambridge’s recently launched CXN100 Network Player, a replacement for the highly acclaimed CXN V2. The CX Series is rounded out by the CXC Compact Disc Transport to complete a hi-fi stack that is designed to elevate your home audio listening experience.
Features
- Enhanced sound with new premium components within the amplification circuitry
- ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC for reference-level digital-to-analogue conversion
- New supporting op-amp circuitry and tuning.
- 80 Watts per channel to drive even the most demanding speakers
- Class AB amplification for balanced and efficient performance
- TOSLINK, Coaxial, and USB Audio digital inputs
- Balanced XLR inputs for premium connection to the new CXN100 Network Player
- Bluetooth aptX HD input to wirelessly connect devices such as the Alva TT V2 turntable
- Designed, engineered, and acoustically optimized at Cambridge Audio’s London-based workshop, music venue, and HQ, Melomania
Comparison
| CXA81 Mk II | CXA81 | |
| MSRP | $1,199 (US) | $999 (US) |
| Amplifier Class | AB | AB |
| Power Output @ 8 OHMS | 80 Watts | 80 Watts |
| DAC | ESS SABRE ES9018K2M | ESS SABRE ES9016K2M |
| Frequency Response (+/-1dB) | <5Hz – 60kHz | <5Hz – 60kHz |
| Analog Inputs | 4 x RCA 1 x Balanced XLR | 4 x RCA 1 x Balanced XLR |
| Digital Inputs | 2 x Toslink (16/24-bit 32-96kHz) 1 x S/PDIF (16/24-bit 32-192kHz) | 2 x Toslink (16/24-bit 32-96kHz) 1 x S/PDIF (16/24-bit 32-192kHz) |
| USB | 1 x Asynchronous Audio profile 1.0/2.0 (default 2.0) up to 32-bit 384kHz PCM up to DSD256 or DoP256) | 1 x Asynchronous (Audio profile 1.0/2.0 (default 2.0) up to 32-bit 384kHz PCM up to DSD256 or DoP256) |
| Bluetooth | Version 4.2 (A2DP/AVRCP supporting up to aptX HD 24-bit 48kHz) | Version 4.2 (A2DP/AVRCP supporting up to aptX HD 24-bit 48kHz) |
| Speaker Outputs | A+B | A+B |
| Preamp Output | 1 x RCA | 1 x RCA |
| Headphone Output | 1 x 3.5mm | 1 x 3.5mm |
| Subwoofer Output | 1 x RCA | 1 x RCA |
| Roon Tested | Yes | Yes |
| DSD Playback | DSD256 | DSD256 |
| PCM Native Playback | 16-24 Bit | 16-24 Bit |
| RS232 Control | Yes | Yes |
| THD (Unweighted) | <0.002% 1kHz at 80% of rated power <0.02% 20Hz – 20kHz at 80% of rated power | <0.002% 1kHz at 80% of rated power <0.02% 20Hz – 20kHz at 80% of rated power |
| Input Sensitivity | Input A1-A4 (unbalanced) 370mV RMS | Input A1-A4 (unbalanced) 370mV RMS |
| Input Impedance | Input A1 (balanced) 50 kOhm Input A1-A4 (unbalanced) 43 kOhm | Input A1 (balanced) 50 kOhm Input A1-A4 (unbalanced) 43 kOhm |
| Damping Factor | >110 at 1kHz | >110 at 1kHz |
| Max Power Consumption | 750 Watts | 750 Watts |
| Standby Power Consumption | <0.5W | <0.5W |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 430 x 115 x 341mm (16.9 x 4.5 x 13.4-inches) | 430 x 115 x 341mm (16.9 x 4.5 x 13.4-inches) |
| Weight | 8.7kg (19.1lbs) | 8.7kg (19.1lbs) |
Price & Availability
Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II will be available from May 2024 for $1,199 at cambridgeaudio.com and authorized retailers. International pricing is set at £999 or €1199.
Tip: The CXA81 MK II will be shown at Axpona 2024 in booth 534 from April 12 through the 14th 2024.
Related Reading
ORT
April 14, 2024 at 2:44 am
It needs VU Meters. Now. Before it is ever released upon the buying publice. Looks matter and all this needs to complete its look are a pair of working VU Meters.
Some might say “No one records anymore, ORT. Who needs VU Meters?” I say “The real audio enthusiasts with the wherewithal to buy one of these beauties, that’s who?!
And to those that claim “…VU meters introduce “noise” into the playback!” I say, “STIU you frAudiophile”!! No one believes your stupid lies anymore!”
Looks matter. If one can hardly tell the REAL WORLD difference between integrated amps, then I say “…show them the difference. CLASSIC LOOKS!”
ORT
David
April 15, 2024 at 12:07 am
VU meters. I’m with you on that, ORT. It would be a very aesthetically pleasing unit with the addition of some bouncing needles and a lovely glowing light. Though I would further suggest, since we are being needy here, make those lights adjustable in color and intensity. Even further, let’s not forget the decadent and oh so enticing cherry on top – HDMI ARC, please.
ORT
April 15, 2024 at 11:11 pm
Well said, brother David! Well said, indeed!
HUZZAH for color and brightness adjust ability on the VU Meters and you are correct again on HDMI ARC (and perhaps eARC?)!
ORT