Cambridge AudioCXA81 IntegratedStereo

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Stereo Amplifier (What HiFi? Awards 2022)

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 is a premium integrated stereo amplifier delivering 80 watts per channel with Class AB amplification, designed to bring your music to life with exceptional detail, power, and clarity. Featuring advanced digital connectivity and Bluetooth aptX HD, it offers unmatched versatility and sonic integrity for audiophiles and music lovers alike.

Key Features

• 80 watts RMS per channel into 8 Ohms, 120 watts into 4 Ohms with Class AB amplification for powerful, detailed sound
• Separate, symmetrical left and right channels engineered for exceptional sound staging
• Balanced XLR inputs minimise noise interference for pristine audio quality
• High-quality ESS Sabre ES9016K2M DAC supports digital sources via TOSLINK optical, coaxial, and USB inputs
• USB audio input accepts up to 32bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256 files from Mac or PC
• Built-in Bluetooth receiver with aptX HD for high-resolution wireless streaming
• Multiple analogue and digital inputs including 1 balanced XLR, 4 RCA, 1 S/PDIF coaxial, 2 TOSLINK optical
• Outputs include Speakers A+B, 3.5mm headphone, preamp output, and subwoofer output
• Remote control included for convenient operation
• Roon tested for seamless integration with Roon music software

Overview

Building on the award-winning CXA80, the CXA81 offers refined engineering and enhanced performance. Its over-specified toroidal transformer and optimised power amplifier stage deliver authoritative control over demanding speakers, ensuring dynamic shifts in music are handled with precision at any volume level. The advanced ESS Sabre DAC brings digital audio files to life with vivid musicality and accuracy.

The CXA81’s comprehensive connectivity options provide absolute flexibility, allowing you to connect a wide range of audio sources without compromising on sound quality or convenience. Whether streaming wirelessly via Bluetooth aptX HD or connecting digital and analogue devices, this amplifier is designed to be the centrepiece of your audio system for years to come.

Specifications

• Power Output: 80W RMS into 8 Ohms, 120W RMS into 4 Ohms
• DAC: ESS Sabre ES9016K2M
• Frequency Response: <5Hz – 60kHz +/-1dB
• Analogue Audio Inputs: 1x balanced XLR, 4x RCA
• Digital Audio Inputs: 1x S/PDIF coaxial, 2x TOSLINK optical, 1x USB audio, Bluetooth (integrated)
• 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 32bit 384kHz PCM, up to DSD256 or DoP256; Bluetooth 4.2 A2DP/AVRCP supporting up to aptX HD (24bit 48kHz)
• Bluetooth aptX HD Receiver Built-in: Yes
• Roon Tested: Yes
• Outputs: Speakers A+B, 3.5mm headphone, preamp output, subwoofer output
• Remote Control: Yes
• Max Power Consumption: 750W
• Standby Power Consumption: <0.5W
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 115 x 430 x 341 mm (4.5 x 16.9 x 13.4 inches)
• Weight: 8.7 kg (19.1 lbs)

What’s in the Box

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

Reviews

"The Cambridge Audio CXA81 integrated amplifier is probably the best-value amplifier in its class." - April 2020

"Class leaders are constantly being replaced in hi-fi, but rarely is it done so soundly as by Cambridge Audio’s CXA81 integrated amp." - September 2019

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