Streaming amplifier with 150 W per channel
The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 SE brings together a stereo amplifier with 150 W per channel into 8 ohms and the brand's streaming platform in a single case: just add a pair of speakers for a complete high-resolution system. It is 317 mm wide, roughly the size of a vinyl record sleeve.
The power stage uses Hypex NCOREx Class D modules, tuned by Cambridge Audio to work in synergy with the rest of the circuit: the stated result is a warm, dynamic and controlled sound with any speaker. The four-layer printed circuit board reduces signal interference.
StreamMagic Gen 4 and ESS DAC
The StreamMagic Gen 4 platform gives access to Spotify Connect, TIDAL (with MQA), Qobuz, Deezer, Amazon Music and internet radio; there are AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in and Roon Ready certification, also useful for multiroom listening. The network connects over Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi.
Conversion is handled by the ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC. The USB Type B input accepts PCM up to 24-bit/384 kHz and DSD256 (USB Audio Class 2); the TOSLINK optical input goes up to 24-bit/96 kHz, the coaxial and TV ARC inputs to 24-bit/192 kHz. Bluetooth 4.2 supports SBC, aptX and aptX HD.
Analogue inputs, phono and outputs
On the analogue side there is one RCA input, one balanced XLR input and a phono stage for moving magnet cartridges, which lets a turntable be connected without an external preamplifier. Outputs: two pairs of speakers (A+B), headphones on a 3.5 mm socket, a preamp output and a subwoofer output.
The Evo 150 SE is controlled with the supplied remote, the StreamMagic app or the front-panel controls, dominated by the large dual-concentric dial.
Interchangeable side panels
The box contains two sets of side panels, attached magnetically and easy to change: one in real wood, the other with a modern industrial look. The finish is black.
It measures 317 x 89 x 352 mm (width, height, depth) and weighs 5.3 kg; frequency response runs from 20 Hz to 20 kHz (+0/-3 dB), maximum power consumption is 700 W and standby consumption is below 0.5 W. Also supplied are the mains lead, two AAA batteries, the quick start guide and the safety guide.
