Network streamer of the EX Series
The Cambridge Audio EXN100 is the network player of the EX Series, refined in London starting from the best of the CX Series. The ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 converter has been fine-tuned along with every element of the signal path, and the post-DAC analogue stage has been significantly reworked to gain clarity, separation and soundstage width.
The stated figures bear this out: total harmonic distortion below 0.0005% at 1 kHz, frequency response from 7 Hz to 75 kHz (+0/-1 dB), signal-to-noise ratio above 120 dB and crosstalk below -120 dB at 1 kHz.
StreamMagic Gen 4 and streaming services
The fourth-generation StreamMagic platform gives access to Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Deezer and internet radio, plays MQA files and is Roon Ready. With Google Cast (also for Amazon Music) and AirPlay 2 the EXN100 joins a multiroom system alongside other compatible devices.
The StreamMagic app is used to browse the library, control playback and adjust the 7-band equaliser. The network connects over Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz); Bluetooth 5.0 supports SBC, aptX and aptX HD.
Digital inputs, HDMI eARC and balanced outputs
The inputs are an asynchronous USB for a computer, a USB port for drives, one TOSLINK optical, one S/PDIF coaxial and an eARC-compatible HDMI ARC for television sound. From USB, from drives and from UPnP the EXN100 accepts PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz, and DSD up to DSD512 from USB; HDMI eARC goes up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
On the output side there is an RCA pair, a balanced XLR pair and two digital outputs, coaxial and optical. Preamp mode lets it connect directly to a power amplifier or active speakers, with volume set on the unit; an RS232 control port is fitted too.
High-resolution display and dimensions
The 4.76-inch IPS TFT display (1,280 x 569 pixels) shows album artwork and track details, or VU meters for a classic hi-fi look. The finish is Lunar Grey.
It measures 430 x 90 x 305 mm (width, height, depth) and weighs 4.1 kg; it draws a maximum of 30 W and less than 0.5 W in eco mode. Supplied: mains lead, Control Bus cable, two antennas, quick start guide, safety sheet and registration card.
