USB, Bluetooth apt - X, Hi-Res, Roon Ready, and DSD CXA-81 MK2 05055300422903 The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II is the latest model in the high-end CX Series of integrated amplifiers from the British manufacturer. As the successor to the CXA81, it retains its main qualities while ...USB, Bluetooth apt - X, Hi-Res, Roon Ready, and DSD CXA-81 MK2 05055300422903 The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II is the latest model in the high-end CX Series of integrated amplifiers from the British manufacturer. As the successor to the CXA81, it retains its main qualities while introducing notable improvements, particularly in the digital section.
- High-end DAC chip: The CXA81 Mk II features a 32-bit ES9018K2M DAC chip from ESS Technology. This upgrade from the previous chip allows for extended signal support, including DSD formats up to DSD256 and PCM up to a resolution of 24-bit/384 k - Hz. - Higher quality components: Cambridge Audio engineers have integrated superior quality components into the amplification circuits.
This allows them to refine and enhance the sound output, offering a more precise stereo image and improved dynamics. - Signal path optimization: Emphasis has been placed on improving depth, sensitivity, and stereo perspective by using superior quality components in the signal path. This results in a more immersive and detailed sound experience for the listener.
At the heart of the CXA81 Mk II is a custom-designed class AB amplification stage. This choice allows for the musicality of class A to be combined with the efficiency of class B. The components have been meticulously selected and optimized to best preserve signal integrity.
The output power is 80 W per channel at 8 Ω and rises to 120 W at 4 ohms. This comfortable power reserve allows for the full potential of most hi-fi speakers to be exploited. The amplifier is powered by a generous toroidal transformer.
Thanks to a dual winding design, each channel benefits from its own power supply, enhancing dynamics and spatialization. Even significant level changes are handled with ease. One of the main changes compared to the original CXA81 is the digital board.
It has been completely redesigned around the new ESS Sabre ES9018K2M digital-to-analog converter. This high-end 32-bit DAC supports PCM files up to 32-bit / 384 k - Hz as well as native DSD streams up to DSD256. Regardless of the resolution, every detail is reproduced with great precision.
The CXA81 Mk II also handles Bluetooth with the apt - X HD codec. This feature allows for high-resolution music streaming (up to 24-bit / 48 k - Hz) from a compatible smartphone or tablet. The CXA81 Mk II impresses with its extreme musicality.
The soundstage is wide and deep, with precise instrument placement. The reproduction gains in subtlety and nuance, revealing new details with each listen. The frequency response ranges from 5 Hz to 60 k - Hz (+/- 1 d - B).
The bass is ample and tight, without any heaviness. The midrange stands out for its clarity and accuracy. The highs, perfectly integrated, provide the necessary sparkle without ever becoming aggressive.
The signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 93 d - B at 1 W under 8 Ω and reaches over 105 d - B at full power. The damping factor of 110 at 1 k - Hz ensures optimal control of the speaker membranes. Thanks to its low distortion level and high transparency, this Cambridge Audio amplifier literally elevates the speakers it drives.
It knows how to fade into the background to allow the full expression of the qualities of other components. - Power: 80 W RMS (8 Ω), 120 W RMS (4 Ω) - Class A/B amplification - Toroidal power supply - ESS Sabre ES9018K2M converter - Frequency response: < 5 Hz - 60 k - Hz ± 1 d - B - Optical TOSLINK: MIC (PCM) 16/24 bits, 32-96 k - Hz - Coaxial digital (S/PDIF): MIC (PCM) 16/24 bits, 32-192 k - Hz - USB: - Audio profile 1.0/2.0 - MIC (PCM) up to 24 bits, 384 k - Hz - DSD256 or Do - P256 - Analog inputs: 4 RCA jacks, 1 XLR jack - Digital inputs: 2 TOSLINK jacks, 1 S/PDIF jack, 1 USB port - Outputs: preamplification, headphones, subwoofer - Wireless connection (Bluetooth) 4.2 with A2DP/AVRCP - Supports apt - X HD (24 bits, 48 k - Hz) - Roon certified - Dimensions (H × W × D): 115 × 430 × 341 mm - Weight: 8.7 kg - Power consumption: - Maximum: 750 W - Standby: < 0.5 W - CXA81 integrated amplifier - Remote control with 3 AAA batteries - Power cable - Control bus cable - Wireless antenna (Bluetooth) - Quick start guide - Safety guide