80 W Class AB integrated stereo amplifier
The Cambridge Audio CXA81 MK II is the new version of the most awarded integrated amplifier in the CX Series, reworked with higher-grade components and an upgraded converter to gain clarity and depth. It delivers 80 W RMS per channel into 8 ohms and 120 W RMS into 4 ohms, with a frequency response from below 5 Hz to 60 kHz within ±1 dB.
The Class AB power stage, developed by the brand, combines the warmth of Class A with the efficiency of Class B; the signal path is very short, to reduce colouration. The toroidal transformer with dual taps supports dynamics in both the loudest and the quietest passages.
ESS DAC and digital inputs
Conversion is handled by the ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC. The USB input (audio profile 1.0 or 2.0) accepts PCM up to 24-bit/384 kHz and DSD256; the TOSLINK optical inputs go up to 24-bit/96 kHz and the S/PDIF coaxial input to 24-bit/192 kHz. The USB connection to a PC or Mac is Roon Tested.
The built-in Bluetooth 4.2 receiver supports codecs up to aptX HD (24-bit/48 kHz) for wireless streaming; the Bluetooth antenna is supplied.
Analogue inputs and two pairs of speakers
The analogue inputs are one balanced XLR and four RCA. There are dual speaker outputs: a second pair can be connected to hear music in another room.
The aluminium front panel is pared back to the essentials, with power, input selectors and the volume knob. Supplied are the remote control with three AAA batteries, the power cable, the Control Bus cable, the quick start guide and the safety guide.
Finishes and dimensions
The CXA81 MK II is built from aluminium and steel and is available in Lunar Grey and in black: the latter is the limited-edition CX Black Edition, with a matt black anodised aluminium front panel and gloss black detailing. Sound and accessories are identical.
It measures 115 x 430 x 341 mm (height, width, depth) and weighs 8.7 kg. Maximum power consumption is 750 W, standby consumption below 0.5 W.
