Cambridge Audio’s Refreshed CX Integrated Amp Range Now Available
The Cambridge Audio CX series landed five years ago and ticked a lot of boxes. Now the CX Series 2 range is hoping to emulate the first-gen CX's popularity.
It wasn't hard to predict that a CX range refresh was coming, especially when the CXN v2 network streamer and CXC CD transport was released last year. Cambridge Audio's CXA61 and CXA81 are set to replace the outgoing CXA60 and CXA80 and will be available in Australia soon.
Cambridge has kept the overall CX aesthetics; however, the balance and tone controls of the originals have disappeared from the front panel offering a more minimalist appearance. Naturally, you will find new components and new features on the second-gen CX integrated amplifiers.
Cambridge CXA61
The CXA61 (AUD $1,699 RRP) sticks with the 60 watts as sported by the CXA60; however, the DAC has been replaced with a cutting-edge ESS Sabre ES9010K2M. You also get a USB input compatible with sources up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD256. Finally, the CXA61boasts aptX HD Bluetooth for wireless audio up to 48kHz 24Bit.
Meanwhile, there are four RCA sockets and a single 3.5mm jack providing analogue inputs. Outputs include RCA preamp, subwoofer and 3.5mm headphone.
Cambridge CXA81
The CXA81 (AUD $2,199 RRP) is an 80-watt-per-channel integrated amp just like its predecessor. Also, as with the previous range, the 81 promises a bit more of everything compared with the 61. For instance, the DAC inside the CXA81 is the more advanced ES9016K2M model.
As well as sporting a similar range of ins and outs as the CXA61, the CXA81 swaps out the 3.5mm input for an XLR balanced input.
According to Australian distributor, Synergy Audio Visual, the new models are available in Australia from next week.
For more information, visit Cambridge Audio.
Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
Posted in:Hi-Fi
Tags: cambridge audio synergy audio visual
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