The Cambridge Audio CXA81 MKII integrates sound fidelity through its advanced engineering. Designed for audio purists, it reveals the nuances of music like never before.
The CXA81 MKII operates on a custom Class AB amplifier design, which merges the low distortion characteristics of Class A with the efficiency of Class B. It features a toroidal transformer that aids in minimizing electromagnetic interference, thus maintaining signal integrity before amplification. The dual taps on the transformer enable it to deliver 80W RMS into 8 Ohms and 120W RMS into 4 Ohms, demonstrating its capability to manage both dynamic peaks and low-level passages with precision. The inclusion of the ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC ensures high-resolution audio processing, accommodating a range of digital formats up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. This careful selection of components and engineering techniques allows for a vivid and immersive soundstage, essential for true acoustic reproduction.
Key Features
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Power Output: With 80W RMS into 8 Ohms, this amplifier offers sufficient power to drive most speakers efficiently while handling dynamic range effectively.
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ESS Sabre DAC: The high-performance DAC enables playback of audio up to 32-bit/384kHz, ensuring that even the slightest details in the music aren't lost.
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Frequency Response: The unit boasts a frequency response from <5Hz to 60kHz, allowing it to reproduce low-end rumble and high-frequency detail accurately.
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Toroidal Transformer: This design reduces electromagnetic interference, contributing to a cleaner power supply for stable amplification.
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Bluetooth aptX HD: Supports high-definition audio streaming at 24-bit 48kHz, preserving the quality of the original sound while wireless.
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Minimal Design: The clean aluminum and steel chassis minimizes physical resonance, allowing for a clearer output while being aesthetically pleasing.
Technical Specifications
- Power Output: 80W RMS into 8 Ohms, 120W RMS into 4 Ohms
- DAC: ESS Sabre ES9018K2M
- Frequency Response: <5Hz–60kHz +/-1dB
- Analog Audio Inputs: 1x balanced XLR, 4 x RCA
- Digital Inputs: TOSLINK optical (16/24bit 32-96kHz PCM only), S/PDIF coaxial (16/24bit 32-192kHz PCM only), USB (up to 24-bit 384kHz PCM, DSD256 or DoP256)
- Bluetooth Version: 4.2 A2DP/AVRCP supporting up to aptX HD (24bit 48kHz)
- Bluetooth aptX HD Receiver: Built-in
- Roon Tested: Yes
- Remote Control: Yes
- Max Power Consumption: 750W
- Standby Power Consumption: <0.5W
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 115 x 430 x 341mm
- Weight: 8.7kg (19.1lbs)
