CAMBRIDGE AUDIO CXA81 MKII

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II – Integrated Stereo Hi-Fi Amplifier

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II is an integrated stereo amplifier designed to deliver high-quality audio performance, powerful dynamics and detailed musical reproduction. Building on the success of one of the most appreciated models in the CX range, it combines a powerful Class AB amplification stage, an advanced digital section and extensive connectivity, making it the ideal centrepiece for a modern Hi-Fi system.

Delivering 80 watts per channel into 8 Ohms and 120 watts per channel into 4 Ohms, the CXA81 Mk II can drive a wide range of loudspeakers with authority and control. Its power supply and output stage are designed to provide stable power delivery, convincing dynamic response and precise speaker control, even during demanding musical passages.

Class AB amplification: power, control and musicality

The Class AB amplification circuit is one of the key strengths of the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II. Its design aims to combine refined musical detail with the ability to reproduce dynamic changes with energy and precision. The result is a balanced, engaging and nuanced listening experience, suitable for a wide variety of musical genres.

Its exceptionally wide frequency response, extending from below 5 Hz to 60 kHz, helps deliver a detailed soundstage, with controlled bass, natural midrange and clear high frequencies. A damping factor greater than 110 also ensures effective loudspeaker control.

ESS Sabre DAC and high-resolution audio

The CXA81 Mk II features an ESS Sabre ES9018K2M digital-to-analogue converter, designed to make the most of digital sources and reproduce high-resolution music with precision and naturalness.

The USB input allows direct connection to a computer and supports PCM files up to 24-bit/384 kHz and DSD256. Optical Toslink and coaxial S/PDIF digital inputs are also provided, making it easy to connect televisions, CD players, streamers and other compatible digital sources.

Extensive connectivity, including Bluetooth aptX HD

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II offers an extensive range of connections for exceptional versatility. Analogue connectivity includes four RCA inputs and one balanced XLR input, while a front-panel 3.5 mm AUX mini-jack provides convenient connection for portable devices.

Built-in Bluetooth 4.2 supports SBC, aptX and aptX HD codecs, allowing wireless music streaming from compatible smartphones, tablets and computers, with transmission quality up to 24-bit/48 kHz via aptX HD.

Additional connections include a preamplifier output, a dedicated output for an active subwoofer, A+B loudspeaker connections and a 3.5 mm headphone output. The supplied remote control provides convenient access to the amplifier's main functions.

Elegant design and quality construction

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II follows the clean, minimalist design language of the CX series, with refined lines, an aluminium front panel and a construction combining aluminium and steel. It is designed to integrate elegantly into a high-quality Hi-Fi system while offering solid build quality and straightforward operation.

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile integrated stereo amplifier capable of handling analogue and digital sources, Bluetooth streaming and high-resolution audio files, without compromising the quality and enjoyment of Hi-Fi listening.

Main features

• Class AB integrated stereo amplifier.
• 80 W RMS per channel into 8 Ohms.
• 120 W RMS per channel into 4 Ohms.
• ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC.
• USB audio input supporting PCM up to 24-bit/384 kHz and DSD256.
• One coaxial S/PDIF and two optical Toslink digital inputs.
• Bluetooth 4.2 with SBC, aptX and aptX HD support.
• One balanced XLR and four RCA analogue inputs.
• Front-panel 3.5 mm AUX mini-jack input.
• Preamp output and subwoofer output.
• A+B loudspeaker connections.
• 3.5 mm headphone output.
• Remote control included.

Technical specifications