CAMBRIDGE AUDIO CXA81 MkII Integrated Amplifier

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II Integrated Amplifier

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II Integrated Amplifier builds upon the legacy of one of the industry's most celebrated amplifiers, delivering even greater clarity, detail, and musical engagement. With a powerful 80 Watts per channel Class AB amplifier design, premium ESS Sabre DAC technology, balanced XLR connectivity, and Bluetooth aptX HD streaming, the CXA81 Mk II is engineered to reveal every nuance of your music collection. Whether you're streaming high-resolution audio, connecting premium source components, or building a sophisticated hi-fi system, this integrated amplifier delivers exceptional performance, authority, and refinement.

Featuring a custom-designed toroidal transformer, upgraded internal components, and an ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC capable of handling high-resolution audio up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256, the CXA81 Mk II creates a spacious, immersive soundstage with remarkable depth and precision. Designed with Cambridge Audio’s signature minimalist styling, its elegant aluminum and steel chassis complements any listening environment while offering long-lasting durability and timeless appeal.

Specifications

• Amplifier Type: Integrated Amplifier
• Amplification Class: Class AB
• Power Output: 80W RMS per channel into 8 Ohms
• Power Output: 120W RMS per channel into 4 Ohms
• DAC: ESS Sabre ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC
• Frequency Response: <5Hz – 60kHz ±1dB
• Analogue Inputs: 1 x Balanced XLR, 4 x RCA
• Digital Optical Input: TOSLINK 16/24-bit, 32-96kHz PCM
• Digital Coaxial Input: S/PDIF 16/24-bit, 32-192kHz PCM
• USB Audio: Audio Profile 1.0/2.0, up to 24-bit/384kHz PCM
• DSD Support: Up to DSD256 and DoP256
• Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 4.2
• Bluetooth Codecs: aptX HD, A2DP, AVRCP
• Bluetooth Resolution: Up to 24-bit/48kHz
• Bluetooth Receiver Built-In: Yes
• Balanced XLR Input: Yes
• Roon Tested: Yes
• Dual Speaker Outputs: Yes
• Remote Control Included: Yes
• Transformer Type: Custom Toroidal Transformer
• Maximum Power Consumption: 750W
• Standby Power Consumption: <0.5W
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 115 x 430 x 341mm (4.5 x 16.9 x 13.4")
• Weight: 8.7kg (19.1lbs)
• Construction: Aluminum and Steel Chassis

What It's Great At

• Driving demanding bookshelf and floorstanding speakers with authority and control.
• Delivering warm, detailed, and highly engaging audiophile-grade sound.
• Streaming high-resolution music wirelessly with Bluetooth aptX HD.
• Integrating seamlessly into modern hi-fi systems with balanced XLR and digital inputs.
• Revealing exceptional detail and dynamics from both digital and analog sources.
• Supporting Roon-based music libraries for a premium streaming experience.
• Creating a wide, immersive soundstage with excellent instrument separation.
• Providing a long-term upgrade path for serious music enthusiasts.

Expanded Key Features List

• 80 Watts Per Channel Output: Delivers powerful and controlled amplification with 80W RMS into 8 Ohms and 120W RMS into 4 Ohms for exceptional speaker compatibility.
• Class AB Amplification: Combines the musical warmth of Class A designs with the efficiency and dynamic performance of Class B amplification.
• ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC: Premium digital-to-analog conversion provides outstanding resolution, accuracy, and detail retrieval from digital sources.
• High-Resolution Audio Support: Supports PCM playback up to 24-bit/384kHz and DSD256 for reference-quality digital music reproduction.
• Custom Toroidal Transformer: Supplies clean, stable power with reduced noise and improved dynamic performance across all listening levels.
• Balanced XLR Input: Enables low-noise connections for premium source components and professional-grade audio equipment.
• Bluetooth aptX HD Streaming: Delivers high-quality wireless audio with enhanced resolution and lower compression compared to standard Bluetooth.
• Roon Tested Certification: Integrates seamlessly with Roon music management software for convenient access to digital music libraries.
• Dual Speaker Outputs: Allows connection of two pairs of speakers for multi-room listening or speaker system flexibility.
• Wide Frequency Response: Extends from below 5Hz to 60kHz for exceptional accuracy, airiness, and sonic realism.
• Minimalist Premium Design: Elegant aluminum fascia and intuitive controls create a clean, sophisticated appearance that complements any system.
• Comprehensive Connectivity: Includes balanced XLR, RCA, USB, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth inputs for maximum system compatibility.

FAQ Section

Q: How much power does the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II deliver?
A: The CXA81 Mk II delivers 80 watts RMS per channel into 8 Ohms and 120 watts RMS per channel into 4 Ohms, providing excellent control and dynamic performance.

Q: Does the CXA81 Mk II include a built-in DAC?
A: Yes, it features a premium ESS Sabre ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC for exceptional digital audio performance and high-resolution playback.

Q: What high-resolution audio formats are supported?
A: The amplifier supports PCM audio up to 24-bit/384kHz via USB and DSD256 or DoP256 playback for audiophile-grade digital listening.

Q: Does the CXA81 Mk II support Bluetooth streaming?
A: Yes, built-in Bluetooth 4.2 with aptX HD allows high-quality wireless music streaming from compatible devices.

Q: Can I connect balanced audio sources?
A: Absolutely. The amplifier includes a dedicated balanced XLR input for superior noise rejection and premium source connectivity.

Q: Is the CXA81 Mk II compatible with Roon?
A: Yes, it is Roon Tested, ensuring seamless integration with the Roon music management and streaming platform.

Q: Can I connect two sets of speakers?
A: Yes, dual speaker outputs allow you to connect and switch between two speaker pairs or extend music into another room.

Q: What makes the CXA81 Mk II different from previous generations?
A: The Mk II features upgraded internal components, refined tuning, improved DAC implementation, enhanced clarity, greater detail retrieval, and expanded connectivity for a superior listening experience.