Cambridge CXA81. Not too expensive, but a great sounding amplifier with DAC

The CXA81, the older of the two stereo amplifiers in the second generation CX family, is no exception. It has been introduced since 2019. The CXA81 can do everything an amplifier in this class should be able to do, even more. It also sounds great. Listen to it with your eyes closed, and you can hear what a much more expensive amp would sound like. So yes, it is definitely a bargain.
00:00 - The importance of an amplifier
00:53 - Cambridge Audio always helps
01:54 - features and specifications
03:09 - pros and cons

[@SandsOfArrakis]

Got mine this week. Already owned the Cambridge CXC and CXNv2. So I now have the full set. After testing it a few days, I actually prefer the CXA81's DAC over the CXNv2. And it gives the CXC and TV a real nice sound. I've paired it with a pair of Dali Spektor 2 speakers and a JVC subwoofer. I live in a small apartment, so the Dali's are more than capable of filling the place with great music.

[@timothyfreeseha4056]

Comprehensive overview. I'm glad you included your own preference as part of the vetting process! Does it compete at its price point with the additional costs of import and distribution & network in your country?

[@thelawman4684]

Two other disadvantages in my book. 1. I have the Cambridge CXNv2 streamer, which has it's own (possibly better) DAC, so I don't need another DAC. 2. I have been told that you cannot use it as a standalone power amp, which again is unusual for integrated amps at this price. The CXNv2 can also be used as a passive pre-amp, so again there is duplication here. What I'd like to see from Cambridge is a similar priced standalone power amp.

[@user-di3qh5hb7f]

我也想知道

[@timothyfreeseha4056]

Excuse me...assuming it is imported. Does that change the equation?

[@ramboss9831]

Is it good for jbl a170?

[@landosazo7506]

can you disengage the built in DAC and use a better external DAC?

[@roelrobles6371]

Match speaker for this amp

[@FunnyVideosLover]

How do you think it will pair with Elac uni fi?

[@ProfoundProductions]

Sounds great, I own that combo along with their streamer.