Cambridge Audio CX-A81 MKII Integrated Amplifier

Cambridge Audio CX-A81 MKII Integrated Amplifier

• 80 watts per channel – power to drive the most demanding speakers 
• ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC – reference level digital/analogue conversion
• Class AB Amplification – for balanced & efficient performance 
• Toroidal Transformer – for incredible sound-staging 
• Digital inputs – TOSLINK, Coaxial & USB Audio Input 
• Balanced XLR inputs – for premium connection (to CXN100 etc.)  
• Bluetooth aptX HD input – connect wirelessly to devices, incl. Alva TT V2
• Roon Tested – connect a PC or Mac over USB

Rewarding power
The CXA81 Mk II builds on the success of its multi-award winning predecessors. Since the development of the first integrated amplifier in 1968, Cambridge Audio has not looked back, but has constantly sought new ways to improve the listening experience. In doing so, they have recognised that good sound never goes out of fashion.

The CXA81 Mk II is uncomplicated, superior and refined - and even more. With 80 watts per channel, it has full control over your music and brings out all the emotions and nuances.

What's new?
The inspiration for the CXA81 Mk II came from the possibilities offered by the ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC. The new D/A converter gives the amplifier reference-level capabilities and outstanding sonic resolution, no matter which digital source you choose.
To further enhance the already outstanding sound quality of the CXA81, Cambridge Audio engineers have retuned and refined the sound, integrating ten new high-quality components into the circuitry. The result is even greater clarity and musicality.

Your World’s a Stage
What hits you first when you hear familiar music through CXA81 Mk II, is just how detailed everything sounds. You’ll pick up instruments, subtle shifts in tone, and harmonies you’ve previously missed. Close your eyes, and you’ll be able to place every musician in the soundstage.

Once you’ve heard CXA81 Mk II, there’s no turning back.

Effortlessly Musical
At the centre of CXA81 Mk II lies a custom-designed Class AB power amplifier stage with highly optimised components. It takes the musicality of Class A and blends it with the efficiency of Class B. The amp’s short signal path is super-efficient, leaving little opportunity for colouration.

The result is a detailed sound that connects you to the emotional power of your music.

Power!
Thanks to a chunky toroidal transformer, CXA81 Mk II delivers a generous 80 watts of power per channel. Dual taps into the left and right of the amplification board mean that, in effect, each channel has its own power supply – resulting in a vivid soundstage.

Dynamic shifts in music – like loud then quiet passages – are handled with ease.

Digital Love
Designed to bring your digital music to life, CXA81 Mk features the upgraded ESS ES9018K2M DAC (digital analogue converter) in its dedicated circuitry. This means that digital audio files, up to a heady 24-bit/384kHz or DSD256, are unpacked – with every subtle detail delivered in full.

CXA81 Mk II combines unparalleled accuracy with vivid musicality, doing so beautifully.

Get Connected
CXA81 Mk II has connectivity covered. As well as digital optical, coaxial and USB Audio (from computers), it features stereo RCA inputs, balanced XLR sockets plus wireless hi-res connectivity via Bluetooth aptX HD – perfect for the Cambridge Audio Alva turntables.

You can even connect a second set of speakers, to hear your music in another room.

Total Control
Designed to work with carefully matched kit of a comparable quality, CXA81 Mk II isn’t festooned with switches and dials – to keep the signal path clear. Its minimal aluminium fascia has a power button, input selectors and a beautifully smooth volume control.

It’s also supplied with a CX Series remote control, which you can use with other products in the series.

Designed for Life
With elegant, minimalistic lines, crafted from aluminium and steel, CXA81 Mk II will endure physically and aesthetically. There should be no reason to change an amplifier for many years, if at all.

Making products that last is just one of the ways that we can minimise our impact on the planet and maximise your listening pleasure.