A Review of The Cambridge Audio CXA-81 Integrated Amplifier!

Built for unpretentious listening fun.
Intro music by: Snake City - 'The Thought of You'
Cambridge CXA-81 Product Page:
www.cambridgea...
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Speakers used in the Evaluation
Dynaudio Evoke 10
www.dynaudio.c...
Triangle Trio
www.trianglehi...
Triangle BRO3
www.trianglehi...
ELAC DBR62
www.elac.com/s...
System Audio Legend SA-5
system-audio.c...
Klipsch Heresy IV
www.klipsch.co...
Harbeth P3ESR
harbeth.co.uk/...
Q-Acoustics 3030i
www.qacoustics...

[@crneuman]

Totally the opposite as to what Andrew Robinson said of the CXA81. He said if you have speakers that are already "bright", the CXA81 will be a great fit because of its laid back, warmer sound. I have no idea who to believe and really don't want to spend $1,300 to find out myself.

[@ZeitdiebX]

Simple answer. Believe this guy. Forget Robinson.

[@spokplumpen123]

​@@ZeitdiebXhaha. Cant stand Robinson either..

[@allwayzactive4599]

If you have many different speakers than you can test for your self I would take my set up to richer sounds and have a listen and I was impressed with the new Cambridge gear ......it's all about taste and if your speakers pair well other wise just save up and my a mac

[@ZeitdiebX]

@@allwayzactive4599There are so many factors to consider when it comes to great sound. Gear, room acoustics, interconnects, speaker placement. I tested my CXA 81 with three sets of speakers. An older ELAC model, very dynamic and on the brighter side of things at higher volume levels, my big floor standing speakers Magnat Signature 707 and Wharfedale Evo 4.2. the typical Cambridge sound with the slightly rounded treble and the very roomy, wide mids comes through on all of them. Very involving sound. Alive. Not flat and more on the analytical side of things like most B&W or KEF. I wouldn’t pair the 81 with Focal, though. That could be a bit too bright. But most speakers work great.

[@umbrollo]

It’s a slight warm sound. Solid bass. Drives hard and solid. High quality build

[@trekjudas]

When listening to a review it's very important to listen or read the whole thing. Just don't skip to the part where they say thumbs up or thumbs down, you have to listen to what qualities the equipment has. Does it have qualities and a "flavor" that you find appealing?

[@ulises3113]

Hello, thank you for your work. As you maybe noticed there are many forum about Cambridge cxa61/81 versus Audiolab 6000a. I had many ampligiets in the past and I find Audiolab 6000a impressive for its price. It's quality is incredible, options and so on. It is used with Tannoy revolution xt8f and xt6f. I cannot describe the sound I listened to. It would be interested to add audiolab 6000a to the comparison even if it is not in the same category. If you can , try audiolab and tannoy...

[@markd4292]

Thank you for all your speaker pairing with integrated amps segments. Big help, and great advice. Stay safe and healthy.

[@themastroiannis]

Audiolab 6000A... thoughts compared to the Cambridge?

[@umbrollo]

I have the CXA81 I can’t recommend it enough. Solid. Just works , sound is great and keeps getting the better the more you use it.

[@majidnourollahi1567]

Thank you for your great and informative review. Which one do you find better? The Cambridge cxa 81 or the marantz pm 7000n? Mostly in sound not the features.

[@newspooky]

Really love the way you review stuff. I own a Yamaha a-s501. Would it be possible for you to review the Yamaha R-N803 receiver? Just curious, how would to rate the sound signature of the Yamaha A-s series (warm, neutral) etc. Thanks.

[@1antastik]

Dear Sean, I have purchased and been listening to the CXA81 for 2 weeks, based on your review and recommendations. I wanted to thank you for your take and I must say that I am experiencing most of what you described. You are a very good reviewer. You've made a man happy, sir!

[@aggonzalez8096]

Are you still enjoying your CXA1? I am considering getting it but am also considering the marantz pm8006 and even the Yamaha as801. I play music through streaming, CDs, and vinyl.

[@1antastik]

@@aggonzalez8096 Yes I am! I have been able to compare its DAC to a Chord Qutest and it can defend itself, even if it is not at the same level. I don't know the PM8006, but if you use digital sources, I can tell you the CXA81 is pretty good. Hope it helps

[@aggonzalez8096]

@John Bravo Nope I ended up getting the yamaha AS801. I mostly use CDs but also vinyl and the Yamaha seemed to fit my needs and I got an open box deal for a great price. It sounds great, maybe not quite as much punch as I imagine other amps might provide, but it sounds beautiful when listening to something pretty and gentle (acoustic folk, or some downtempo electronic) and overall everything sounds good. Very easy to listen to amp that I have going almost all day on the weekends or off work. The DAC in it sounds good with my CD transport, but streaming through it sucks. The streaming software loses connection to something (???) every ten minutes. Its pretty much unusable. So for streaming you would need another DAC. I know you are not asking about the Yamaha just providing additional info about my experience with the amp I went with. I am still so curious about the cambridge products and the "cambridge sound" and may still end up getting on the next spree haha.

[@utube321piotr]

since I like buying second hand, I am debating between the AXR100 for $420 and/or CX81 for $920, all units 18months or younger - any sensible advice?

[@1antastik]

@@utube321piotr I don't know the AXR but you could get that AND a decent external dac and you would still spend less than the CXA

[@wiebl5266]

Great review. The comparison section... wow... makes you top of your game! You know your stuff! Most of all, it gives the audience a clear "grading" of the amp you are reviewing. I'm battling with myself on whether I should a streamer and dac... the amount of money people spent on it to make sound good is insane! Love to hear your recommendations.

[@Gary_M]

I bet this amp and the Elac Debut Reference bookshelves would be a nice little system for $2Gs. Especially if you already had a subwoofer laying around.

[@BigPoppa-t3z]

You better have one cuz you will never be able to adjust any treble or bass if needed. If you like the pure only ok. Better get sub.

[@Cheetorblz]

It seems kind of strange that you would do a review but not review the streaming just because that's not your preferred method of listening. Makes the review pretty incomplete, no?

[@1moderntalking1]

I bought the best budget amp out there- AXA35 . Super smooth with power- at its price, very happy with it thank God!

[@1999zrx1100]

I ran one of these while I was shopping for a new Luxman. Had just sold a McIntosh MA6600 and using this to fill in for a few weeks. Speakers used were the Harbeth 30.1. Have to admit I was very impressed with most this had to offer. I had a phono preamp hooked up so I could run my turntable. The imaging was surprisingly good at this price point, the bass was deep and tight. The only thing I noticed was when you rolled off the volume the sound sort of went flat. But from about 9:00 or 10:00 on the dial she comes alive. The build quality is stellar. Overall for the $ especially on the used market this can’t be beat.

[@panosevaggelatos3004]

Thank you so much for the review! I am considering the amp... question: how would it perform with a pair of KEF R3 Meta or LS50 Meta?.

[@DavidGonzalez-fh9zn]

I love my Cambridge cx81, it pairs with Dali Opticon mk2. I agree, the sound is warm, very pleasant to listen to music for hours. I recommend it.

[@kvrhifi]

Like i said many times. You let us know right expectations.

[@benoitguilbault6339]

Nicely produced piece Sean! Loved the music clips and vanity shots. Well done sir.

[@mmdusa]

Superb review Sean. Would be awesome if they'd send you their top o' the line EDGE series. I have yet to see a review on those. (Except for the one done by a Russian guy, in Russian, that I don't speak). Thanks!

[@udyb]

Have you considered testing rega components, Sean? Rega elex-r would be a competitor to this Cambridge, I think.

[@samidebs3559]

Hi do you think the Cambridge CXA81 sounds good with KLH model five?

[@simianinc]

Every review I've seem for this on KZbin interprets the characteristic differently. I've seen it described as warm and cool, as having a large and a shallow soundstage, that it's dynamic and that it's laid back. I've also seen reviews that you should bring your own DAC, or as you say, the inbuilt DAC is fine.

[@raymoore8435]

I agree with you on that. A salesperson told me it was on the cooler side of neutral. Mixed reviews for sure.

[@sdemosi]

I use this with the CXN V2 and I find it a warm but clear amp. I find the sound stage to be excellent, wide and deep enough for me. The articulation is impressive. I've heard it with Tannoy's XTF8s, Fyne Audio 500s and DALI Opticon 8s. It works best at 90dB /W at 1m sensitivity. I'm also thinking it would kick ass with Canton Vento floorstanders so that's my late spring /early summer experiment. I've seen some great deals on the CA CX set of the CXC CD transport, CXN V2 streamer & CXA81 integrated amp. This is a hugely versatile setup. Find the right speaker for your tastes and you'll have an extremely well built and matched system that will make you want to relisten to your favourite music for the joy of discovering nuances.

[@simianinc]

@@sdemosi Thanks, I actually purchased the amp. I’m using the Bluesound node 2i as a source, and the CXC on order. It works well with the Kef LS50s, which was my main reason for interest.

[@Xavman54]

@@simianinc Hi, So u got CXA81 with KEF LS50 (NOT the Meta), correct ? how does it sound ? do u play low/medium/high volume ? thanx for your answer if u have time.

[@simianinc]

@@Xavman54 I enjoy the sound on the original LS50s. When there's no one else around, I tend to like playing around 75-80dB, which in my room is about 10 o'clock on the dial (so about a third). I have added a sub-woofer, as the Kefs don't give a deep enough bass for my taste - thankfully, the CXA81 has a subwoofer out

[@snipervision1]

I would love for someone to review the outlaw audio rr2160mkII. Most liked the first version so I am very interested in the mark2. Great review!

[@johanvergote7985]

Great amplifier. Connected to dynaudio excite x18, it sounds great. The best amp i have owned. Much better than Yamaha, nad, rotel. Only speaker connectors are too close for wiring, banana plugs are recommended.

[@gokhanersan8561]

What about tone controls?

[@johanvergote7985]

@@gokhanersan8561 i was also afraid to miss tone control, especially the bass knob. However with good speakers, tone control is not needed. Besides, tone control only induces distortion and speaker damage if you play too loud. Trust me, the amp plays perfect without tone control.

[@cunningtim]

Thanks for another great review. Why don't more decent amps have two sets of speaker outputs like this Cambridge? I don't want to use two pairs of speakers at the same time, just switch between two sets, which I'm sure is a need a lot of audiophiles have.

[@RMASUPERFLY]

I have the AXR100 and truly enjoys it. You just convinced me to get the CXA81. Cheers!

[@deepmystic333]

The Marantz PM8006 has tone controls for bass, treble and MID (rare thing to come by), direct power amp input if you want to pair with your receiver and a very good phono pre. I can excuse the rest, but, this Cambridge unit is just a big loser without tone controls!! Did these Brits assume every recording out there is the same or everyone's listening to the same 2 songs over and over? Tone controls is a MUST!

[@ufarkingicehole]

Not everyone wants 3 way eq built in. I prefer an external eq as well.

[@andreassouth1523]

Nice review.Without tone controls and aggressive top end.Not for me thanks!! Prefer Yamaha A-S801.

[@gokhanersan8561]

“without tone controls and an aggressive top end” is absolutely mind blowing how no reviewer mentions the elephant in the room.

[@LorDarkGoose]

Why do so many audio manufacturers insist on boosting the treble/highs? This is true in most modern amplifiers, speakers and DACs. Are they trying to push their product to adolescents or retired folks with bad hearing? With all of them being boosted it’s nigh on impossible to get a balanced sound match... 🤔

[@jasonlsimmons]

Damn, no tone control! The CXA80 has tone controls. Might be better to just get a killer external DAC to use with the CXA80.

[@aileensy1682]

is cambridge CXA-81 sound good for pairing with wharfedale evo 4.4 ?

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

Nice review Sean , I have seen alot of great comments on cambridge audio here lately , i been eyeballing their CXCv2 cd transport only no built in dac , I like that idea less is more And yes I still love my CDs/SACD/HDCD, Streaming is convenient and yes i stream also ,but spining the silver disk is my number 1 go to for sound quality playback 😆

[@petethegreekre]

Wow, everyone's hungry for what amp pairs well with what speaker! I wonder why that isn't a thing on these platforms?

[@evil_twit]

Because people serious about audio don't subscribe to snake oil crap. Him talking about the massive soundstage makes me think CA are doing DSP shenanigans.

[@donalddeorio2237]

Good review, Cambridge Audio has been making good quality products since Henry Kloss got it going. Enjoyable as always

[@donalddeorio2237]

Wrong about Henry Kloss, another company, after Advent and KLH

[@donalddeorio2237]

The reason for the confusion is Kloss cofounded Cambridge Sound works and manufactured speakers and table top radios. Anyone interested in the history of audio should look him up.

[@milesdufourny4813]

Wrong company. Cambridge Audio started out as a British manufacturer.

[@ralex3697]

Donald DeOrio Actually they have not, a lot of their prior units have been rather disappointing. This has finally brought them back into the game. Very respectable. I bought this amp all prepared to return it, but this amp truly is a keeper.

[@gianlucabassi8853]

When everybody Will own amps without tone controls marketers Will decide to build again amps with tone controls and people Will change their amps again...and so on...they've got to sell. If you have a cxa60 with tone controls KEEP It. Even the DAC improvements over its Wolfson are a marketing invention.

[@feelgeorge]

If you had to pick a DAC to as an additional option to pair with the CX81 what DAC would you pick?

[@Mladenac]

CX81 has DAC already

[@MsSpookykid]

According to you’re pairing suggestions the KEF R3 should be be great with them. But even though they’re having theire sensitivity at 86dzb ?

[@jackhagerman2918]

I wonder if this amp will power Elac uni-fi 2.0 speakers and if the amp is too bright for them?

[@hbg70]

You need to continue like this Sean. You’re the best I know on yt

[@Diatonic5th]

Great review! As the owner of a CXA-80, I was surprised to hear that the treble is boosted on the CXA-81. The CXA-80 is a warm sounding amp that pairs well with bright speakers, like my LS50's. I would imagine that Cambridge changed the sound signature a bit to offset the decision to remove tone controls. The tone controls on my CXA-80 have come in handy with poorly recorded albums.

[@ralex3697]

Diatonic5th Quality amps should not have tone controls. Bad recordings are bad recordings, they should not be corrected with tone controls.

[@funkaholic1972]

@@ralex3697 Technically you are right, for the most pure audio path. Still I happen to disagree. There are bad recordings that still contain very good music, music that I want to listen to. If I can sweeten a bad recording with a littleEQ I will happily do so. If the recording is good, then I like to be able to bypass the tonal controls for a direct path.

[@gokhanersan8561]

All amps needs tone controls. Some recordings will definitely need tweaking. Manufacturers began removing them to make room for Bluetooth, usb, etc.

[@Uojomo]

@@funkaholic1972 Well said.

[@andrehb]

@@ralex3697 "Quality amps should not have tone controls." Tell that to Ken Ishiwata

[@georgeleehk]

Great review as always. Since you are reviewing British designed amps, it would be interesting to hear what you think about the Audiolab 6000A which was also highly rated by Whathifi in comparison to the Cambridge.

[@mrpositronia]

Yes, good shout!

[@petermartin6919]

I have the audiolab 6000a and the 6000 CDT and it sounds great, I would also be interested to hear a review of the 6000a. Great review as usual.

[@glissonj73]

Will Vandersteen 2C speakers sound good with the CXA81???

[@JBrm]

This the third review in a row where you say you wouldn’t pair the amp with a bright speaker. So which amp would you actually pair with a bright speaker? :D

[@scottpurchas]

How did the Cambridge sound with your Dynaudio speakers? I'm considering one of these amps & am wondering how they might pair with my Dynaudio Audience 52 speakers. Thanks for any thoughts

[@dlilliehook]

Scott Purchas I run my new CXA81 with my old Dynaudio Audience 70 speakers. Admittedly I have not compared it on any other speakers, but I think they sound excellent together! Relaxing powerful sound, great presence, and fantastic imaging! I think only my listening room is the biggest limitation to hearing the potential of this combo now before I turn to possibly upgrade the speakers. Very happy with the Cambridge. Bought the Alva turntable as well, and it really sounds great also via Bluetooth.

[@scottpurchas]

@@dlilliehook Thanks very much for your reply, that's helpful. I wrote to Cambridge Audio and they also said they should work well together.

[@alpatissafe]

Can anybody vouch for how the CX81 pairs with KEF LS50 speakers? Interested in upgrading as I don't think my Audiolab 6000a has the oomph the get the best out of them.

[@JPWinters]

Not sure about the CX81 but I had a 6000a and felt it lacked some oomph as well power & bass wise. Still a good amp, just would not pair it with neutral or cool or dry speakers. I did an A/B comparison with the Marantz PM8006 and chose the Marantz. The PM8006 had significantly more power on tap, more bass, more rythym, better imaging. It just doesn't have quite as much upper-midrange bite as the 6000a. More of a neutral midrange and slightly warm but still very detailed treble.

[@gokhanersan8561]

@@JPWinters Had the exact same experience with Audiolab 6000 vs Denon pma800 - powering Dynaudio Emit10 speakers. No reviewer ever talks about Audiolab’s lack of bass power. Good for intimate acoustic music. Lifeless with pop and rock or large orchestral stuff.

[@cschruu]

I was at my local Cambridge Dealer and I listened to both the CXA81 and the AXA35 (I was choosing between the AXR100D and the CXA61, but they were both not available for presentation). The CXA81 just sounded more effortless and a little bit more relaxed. Listening to „Leave“ by R.E.M., the AXA35 just wasn‘t able to present all the dynamics when the track got busy, but the 81 just kept on going. It also offered a much more defined Soundstage as the 35. In the End, I decided to buy the AXR100D because 450€ Price Difference (with the Solo Phono Stage added to the 61) is too big for me to justify right now. Nevertheless, I would’ve still bought the CXA61 if I already had better Speakers etc. I will definetly revisit the CX Series in a couple of years.

[@mchazelover]

Great review, I think you described the sound signature well. I tried it with my Klipsch Rp 600m and it wasn’t for me but I can see why it is liked. A little too much detail/ treble for me I think

[@blakenewton2781]

That's why I am going with the Iota VX amp and later stack. I have Klipsch speakers and they are very we hat do they say... Tilted forward. And with the music I listen to, that's probably just too much

[@ProfoundProductions]

Interesting, vocals seemed too laid back on my Elac UniFi 2.0s, thought it might pair better with Klipsch.

[@errorsofmodernism9715]

The RP600 has a little too much treble with just about anything unless your listening to only vocals

[@mchazelover]

@@errorsofmodernism9715 yeah I agree I changed to a different speaker now 👍

[@stephenhall3515]

Some CA integrated amps need a long time to 'burn in' (which is not a myth but has little to with heat) and generally level out to A to B. As they have to tone controls as such and alteration of frequencies benefits from using a simple analog mixer or equalizer at either end of the IN/OUT signal journey. What was probably happening in the brand new 81 being tested was that the op-amps would tend to, as it were, "run rich" but when components settle to typical voltages from source there is a settling down. Oddly, the large sound stage is not an affect of this process but is a genuine feature of CA equipment going back decades and it comes from high quality design and engineering. Not everyone likes "the Goldilocks Zone" in hi-fi but can buy something else or swap about other items. The fact that I still use the selfsame CA Dacmagic, transport and sometimes an amp now as I bought nearly 40 years ago speaks volumes because I have always been a tinkerer with speakers and sources. This amplifier will drive moody and demanding speakers as well as such as B&W traditional ones and never seem to age.

[@Trollberg]

the cx61 is $600 would i notice a big difference with kef r3?

[@philipaparker]

I have this same combo in my living room. Huge sound stage, excellent imaging. I have the R3 about 6 inches from the back wall which increases the bass. Highly recommended.

[@BJyelhsA]

Great review thanks. If the ESS DAC is so much better than the Wolfson I hope they upgrade the 851 series next and I'll be upgrading my 851n/w streamer and power amp

[@jerseytiger1980]

Some of the design choices that Cambridge made with this unit just seem odd. The $350 AXA35 has a digital screen so you can actually see the sound level when turning the volume control. The $1300 CXA81 has a piece of black plastic to just coverup the buttons. The $350 AXA35 has a 1/4” headphone output. The $1300 CXA81 has a 3.5mm headphone output. The next line up should be adding features, not taking them away, it’s not like Cambridge doesn’t have these parts already. I also don’t really understand the point of having balanced inputs if the preamp only has unbalanced outputs. The main benefit of XLR over RCA is in longer runs. The longest run is going to be to speakers. The inputs are most likely going to be used to connect a device that is a few inches away. I don’t use XLR so maybe there is something that I don’t see here.

[@tinob7]

I have a question for owners of this product. Not that long ago I purchased this amp. I prefer to have the display permanently switched off. No matter if the amp is switched on or off - the LED on the manual power-switch always has the same brightness. So it is impossible to tell by the LED if the amp is switched on or switched off (since I have the display switched off permanently). Can anyone confirm this is the way it is supposed to be (or not...)?

[@ralphmcmahan2139]

So, I race R/C cars and trucks. They tend to go faster with more decals/stickers on them... Is that the reason for all the stickers on this? Do they make it sound better?

[@ZeroFidelity]

Can confirm: Adds 5hp.

[@trekjudas]

I think electronic manufactures should use acrylic for their chassis. It's a non-vibrating material and it's see-through so we can see its guts. What? We're nerds! we wanna see the beautiful electronics inside!

[@rianredfield5252]

Nice info, since no tone controls, someone needs to make a review showing the Schiit loki introduced into the mix! Another fine vid.

[@fyfesandy3491]

Will the KEF R3 might complement the higher treble on the CXA81?

[@fts81]

I’m actually facing a dilemma, good one😀. I have an entry level marantz pm5005, which is ok, playing my emotiva erc3, a network player and my music hall mmf5.1. Speakers are monitor bronze. I’m considering to upscale my amp, because I’m happy with my components in general. This Cambridge looks very sweet, I’m willing to go for it. Could it be s good fit for me? Any other amp to consider? I’m so confused.... thanks!

[@eliasdimakis8155]

Thanks Sean! Do you believe that the 81 would be a good match for the Boreas? Got the BR08 recently as my first audio gear and see the CX series as a potential next step. Judging from my temporary setup in my living room, I enjoy them being full sounding and engaging, and would say that they need something to bring clarity in the mid-range and control over the ample bass that comes with them. Further, is there any chance that the cxa81 would be a little too bright when combined with the Bros' top end?

[@lucianvictorgudiu8926]

Have you found anything ? I got the borea 02 and want to buy the cxa61 , I dont know how they pair

[@eliasdimakis8155]

@@lucianvictorgudiu8926 Unfortunately not yet. I would be leaning towards the CXA61 or the Audiolab 6000A, but local distributors are negative to the idea of home equipment trials, thus we can just wait for the pandemic to fade out or buy on our own risk.

[@MegaEpstein]

Sorry but could you please confirm that Topping e30 has better dac than this amp ?

[@trekjudas]

I recently just found out how amazing a 70s receiver can sound when paired with modern speakers!

[@4991544]

What receiver?

[@markd4292]

Kevin. I couldn't agree more. I just bought before this goofy pandemic, a vintage Mitsubishi DAA15DC dual mono block amp and DP 9 preamp. Man, the construction is Mmm NICE, and the sound, wow: Neutral and clean and muscle. I am waiting for stores to open to get speakers and am looking at either Klipsch Hersey IV, or JBL Studio 590's, or Fyne Audio speakers 503's: all horns, but I dig horns. If you ever get a chance to see the Fyne, check them out, there look great and outstanding reviews. Stay safe and healthy. Peace.

[@dougg1075]

Welcome

[@trekjudas]

@@4991544 I'm currently using a super low powered Sansui with my super-efficient Focal 806s. It sounds amazing!

[@trekjudas]

@Fat Rat In my experience modern speakers tend to outclass vintage ones. Vintage amps on the other hand just crush it!

[@kotowski525]

Thanks Zero, saw this was posted the second I was searching for this amp. How do you think this would compare to the CXA80?

[@ZeroFidelity]

No worries. I couldn't tell you how it compares. I never had the CXA80. From what I've read, the 81 uses the same circuit. Only with better op amps, caps, and some other parts. You'll likely need to do some more digging to satisfy that question.

[@kotowski525]

​@@ZeroFidelity Thanks for the response!

[@pc166829]

@@kotowski525 I have had the 80 and now have the81. 80 was very good indeed but the 81 is so much better.

[@cupavivuk2704]

@khory kotowski the previous model had a Wolfson DAC and it didn't have built in bluetooth aptx. I assume that the digital components on the CX81 are better.

[@j-rod6420]

At least there's a volume marker now.I had to add one to my cx80.This can be very shocking when you turn it on after a part night.

[@seanmcmahon8830]

Do you think it would be well matched to the wharfedale lintons?

[@beyond-the-river]

Can you compare this to Audiolab 6000a?

[@woodplay13]

Hi I'm your new suscriber. Youre doing very good job, explaining in that manner that most people will understand❤ There is new model of this one on market. Should I buy this discounted or new one is better?

[@JEG6919]

Whaddaya know, it can be had via Amazon. Who’d a thought?

[@ZeroFidelity]

You mean a relatively small package that's easy to ship, being sold by retailers that demand being on Amazon as a part of the contract, is on t3h platform? Be still my heart!

[@JEG6919]

Zero Fidelity like speakers? Hello triangle? Anyone home?

[@ZeroFidelity]

@@JEG6919 - Oh, you mean the least expensive speakers in the line?

[@JEG6919]

Zero Fidelity Sell ALL items online lad. Like ALL hi fi items. We are WAY past the point.

[@ZeroFidelity]

@@JEG6919 I'll meet you halfway on this one. Too many manufacturers and distributors I know continue to cling onto the old and dying B&M business model. Namely dealership territories and keeping models beyond a certain price 'exclusive' as an attempt to support the dealers and to maintain and sense of 'prestige'. Many of these companies would be doing way better if they would have adapted 10-15 years ago. Having said that... Amazon isn't really the place for most of it. And there are plenty of products that require more of an in-home installation in order to achieve the kind of performance that the product is truly capable of. From somebody who actually knows what they are doing. But yes, I'll partially with you on the general sentiment.

[@alanip4577]

How does it compare with the more expensive 851A? I plan to use it to run the Buchardt S400. Which would be a better choice? If not these two could you suggest any alternatives? (Up to USD2000) Thanks!

[@loryssloryss7770]

I have this brand new amp and everything working well when I listen music, but when I don't listen and touching anything on amplifier then turn off every time sfter 20 minutes 😢

[@arthurwatts1680]

Sean, I'm more than happy to hear your opinion of any component, but personally I take anything from WHF with a bucket of salt. I've had several CA amps and they've all performed well for the price, but WHF are blatant shills IMO. Thanks for the review.

[@marctoupin3968]

What Hi-Fi?, Cambridge Audio and Richer Sound have some kind of incestuous relationship. I take any reviews from What Hi-Fi? with a big grain of salt. That said, I own an integrated amp (Azur 851A) and a network player (Stream Magic 6) from Cambridge Audio and I’m really happy with my kit.

[@gokhanersan8561]

I feel the same. Cambridge made an amp much more expensive than the previous model (cxa60), without tone controls and WhatHifi tried to convince buyers that it was ok. Just recently What Hifi announced that amp (cxa61) as the years 2nd best, placing Marantz 6007 on top of the list.

[@bryansu]

what if you stack the cambridge with their amp "Cambridge Audio Azur 851W", will it be better? how about the Cambridge Audio Azur 851A as compare to the CXA-81 ? any luck that you going to get it for review?

[@sdemosi]

The Azur 851A is more articulate & has better bass control. They both have a warm mid range which is typical of Cambridge Audio. I like the CA treble which tends to be pronounced. CA class AB amplifiers need a bit of warming up so the CXA81 tames its treble after a few weeks. Their amplifiers do great guitar plucks. I get the feeling the design team really likes acoustic rock 😁 The Azur is subtly different but sounds better imo and has more power with lower THD. The chassis is bigger and heavier. It feels more premium. The soundstage is smaller than the CXA but still very good. The only thing that stopped me getting the Azur is it's an older amp (launched about 9 years ago) and it makes sense for CA to upgrade it this year or early in 2022. It also lacks digital inputs & AptX, which are likely upgrades as the CXA models have them. CA is missing a newish amp between the CX and the Edge range which is much more expensive. If they launch it I might upgrade my CXA81. Having said that I've seen some great deals on the Azur 851 set of network steamer, CD transport and amplifier. If you like the sound and don't need the latest and greatest then it's a good buy. I'd probably hold out until the reviews of the Evo appear as that may be preferable, or until a new Azur is launched.

[@victorpirsoul3979]

Really glad to see this review. I've been using the CXA60 for a few months now, with the Triangle Borea BR03 speakers, and I really enjoy this combination. While the CXA60 is the previous version, the guts are essentially the same (amp section) as the CXA61, the little brother of the CXA81. Thanks for your candid review, as always!

[@babupranav]

I tried the same combo with both the cxa60 and cxa80 but just couldn't get it to sound good, was thin and a little rough sounding. Tried with the internal dac and node 2i. I finally found bliss with the parasound 275v2 amp, another one of seans recommendations. Sounds much fuller/dynamic and smoother than the cxas. Didn't want to return the cxas since the refurbs are such good deals :(

[@Stevef2234]

@@babupranav Triangle Borea BR03 have these speakers as well. With the parasound 275v2 amp - what pre amp are you using? Looking for a good pair for my speakers.

[@BrianNC81]

Looks nice but expensive for what you get. I paid $1100 for a new loaded with features Denon AVR-X4500. Sounds great for home theater or just stereo listing.

[@reviewmirror591]

You can't compare it with an avr reciever with tons of compromised features.

[@magoo47]

Fan of your work Sean! Do you think this amp will be ok to drive Dynaudio Emit M20/Evoke 10/ Evoke 20?

[@oneiros1401]

I have Martin Logans Motion 40i paired with this amp - gorgeous sound. The only complaint about the amp is its remote - it's huge! And 90% of the buttons you won't use. They make the same remote for all of their products. Out of 48 buttons, (48!!) you'll use maybe 5. Plus the remote uses an odd number of batteries: 3, so you'll always have an extra battery laying around.

[@oneiros1401]

@Barefoot The pair, speakers and amp, are insanely loud. Honestly I haven't pushed it all the way yet, as it is very very loud. Probably did about 70-80% of the full volume and it gets to an unbearable point where the whole house is shaking. I was concerned with not enough bass, as the 40i, on paper, don't go as low as you would think, but I was mistaken, bass is sublime, I ended up not needed a separate sub. Internal dac works perfectly fine. One thing I would recommend is bi-wiring, this amp and these speakers are setup for that. One thing you will love about this setup is the highs, I personally do not like listening to vocals or any music with a lot of highs, that is until I got these speakers, the tweeter is a completely different design, it brings vocals and high notes to life, it literally feels like somebody is there in front of you singing or playing a guitar.

[@antoniocataldi7774]

Ciao. Scrivo dall'Italia e vorrei conoscere la tua opinione sull'interfaccia tra il Cambridge cxa 81 e un diffusore che tu conosci molto molto bene. Il Klipsh rp600m. Come suonerebbero insieme? Mi farebbe molto piacere il tuo parere perché io ho il Klipsh rp600m e mi interessa questo abbinamento. Ti ringrazio per le tue recensioni e ti mando un saluto cordiale. Ciao

[@ulises3113]

Hie, thank you. I think you would be surprised by testing the audiolab 6000a.

[@arcadiarhod]

Would like to see this reviewed too. I got the CXA61 over the 6000A

[@ralex3697]

Rhodri Matthews Good choice, Audiolab very boring and unmusical

[@ulises3113]

@@ralex3697 not agree with you. I compared the audiolab, Musical fidelity m2si and cam ridge cxa80. It was clear for me, audiolab and mf m2si

[@maxrider2887]

Carlos Carlos please try Iotavx Sa3

[@ulises3113]

@@maxrider2887 yeah but not bypass . Do it cannot be used with homecinema amplifier.

[@gustavobenitez9727]

I’m wondering if this will be a good pairing with the new kef LS50 meta speakers, any information would help

[@1antastik]

I have this combo and it is very good

[@cliffordcostley9798]

P.S.; How does this sound with Harbeths? And would it be good with Magnepan's in your opinion? Still considering Tekton OB Sigma's.

[@karimallidina6633]

You were not the only reviewer having issues with removing the lid to showcase the internals. Would have been worth having a close up view of the components..... timestamped in a video review for future reference.

[@MagicMastering]

Hello, would you advise a combo CXA81 with Harbeth P3 ESR?

[@stevec.6119]

I am absolutely sick to death about how almost 20000% of integrated amps and receivers built today have NO ext decoder/tape monitor circuits !!!! How is it that no matter what the price range, no one can put in a simple bypassable loop circuit on their products????? Some "non snob/peasant/irrelevant people still use external devices (carver holography, filter-equalizers, tape recorders, etc) to shape their stereo sound !!!! NO (yamaha for example) receiver, from their 300 series to their flagship s3000 has a monitor/ext circuit ??? Who the hell are these people that shit on a huge portion of the hi fi community, by decreeing that these types of features are no longer required or accepted as moral??? No matter what the brand (onkyo,yamaha, denon,CAMBRIDGE, pioneer,etc), all of them have decided not to add a BASIC ext loop circuit on their equipment !!!!!! Looks like I will be perusing vintage equipment web sites to upgrade my stereo. A pox on them all !!!

[@charlesgrubbs2101]

Well, the simple answer is that probably less than 1% of current audio users record to tapedecks anymore. I mean I haven't used one in probably 30 years, ever since computers gained cd writers and cars put cd players in them.

[@ralex3697]

Steve C. Yes and we should all go back to ceramic cartridges while we are at it. Go buy a used 70’s amp, stop complaining.

[@Robinson8491]

I was thinking of replacing my luxman reference stack with the cxa81, but you're comparing it to the iota so I guess it is not in the same league. Too bad, it sounded very promising and I love the way it looks

[@geographyinaction7814]

This sounds better than the iota.

[@haris525]

Brother great video! But I would just save up a little bit more money and buy a used parasound halo integrated. It has more power, features and reliability is better than CA. I have a Cambridge Audio Aruze 851 integrated amplifier that developed a volume knob issue that comes and goes, and apparently I am not the only owner with this issue. My parasound halo on the other hand is going strong and no issues so far. I picked up the halo used, and the 851 brand new. They both sound very nice!

[@ZeroFidelity]

The Hint 6 is such a great all-around piece. You'll be making a solid choice.

[@JPWinters]

I fixed the volume issue in 5 minutes by spraying some contact cleaner behind the volume knob after removing the top cover. It's literally just dust on the sensor.

[@arsalansuleman2956]

Thank you for this informative review, I bought IOTAVX SA3 & PA3 stack on your recomendation and I paired it with KEF LS50, I must say I am very happy withi my system. A friend replaced his IOTAVX Stack with CXA81 and he said its sound better than his IOTAVX. I would love to hear from anyone who has IOTAVX Stack , is it worth replacing it with CXA81? Many thanks

[@mwsaab9]

Great in depth review. Any thoughts on pairing it with wharfedale Evo 4.2 speakers?

[@interceptor7905]

What is the difference between integrated and pre-amplifier,still new in this field,thank you!

[@asadraza4697]

An integrated amplifier has a pre amp along with the power amp.. Whereas, A sepreate pre-amp is an amp which controls the input selection and frequency!

[@bunc7406]

Hmm.. So not great with s400 due to not enough power... and probably not good with the Triangles either.. cause the triangles are more energetic in the high end.. and forward sounding. LS50s maybe? .. then again.. maybe not.. I never got the cxa80 to sound good in my system.. this might end up being the same..

[@ZeroFidelity]

If the 80 never worked for you, then the 81 likely won't either considering how they both rely on the same circuit - only the 81 has some upgraded internal components. As for the S400's: The 81 has enough power for em'. It's more a matter of the voicing and the low damping factor that could be a problem.

[@edshipe2555]

@@ZeroFidelity So the damping factor has more impact on driver control than power? Thats why the Daynes Minuteo even with only 50 into 8 ohns is better at handling the long throw bass driver in the S400. Wish there were more vendors for it in the USA. Also more detailed specs would be nice. Sounds like it would be a nice match but might spring for the next one up for 2k USD.

[@thomasandersen1784]

Hi. Cambridge makes gear that last for a very long time, in the best British traditionel way, as the likes of Audiolab & Exposure. Rock solid affordable products, were a natural sounding amp is the key, and they have all done a pretty good job doing so for decades. My first "audiophile" products back in the days, were the very first Audiolab 8000A saw the light. Since then iv'e owned several British amps, and has always loved the simplicity and kind of "no bullshit", and nothing happens behind the curtains here. As for the lack of phono stage inside this new unit, i guess they thought about their own affordable phono stages, for your choice to mix/match? The amp is looking great btw. Cheers from Denmark

[@erikquinn707]

Hi, awesome review!! Question in regards to what speakers pair well with the Cambridge CXA-81. Will the Polk S55s speakers pair well with the CXA-81? Thank you

[@user-tf3xt2nk8p]

Good question, I'm wondering about that too.

[@davids4795]

I noticed a lot of factory refurbished available on Ebay, etc. Gives me pause that their quality control might be lacking. Just sayin.....

[@jzizmor]

Compare to Schiit Ragnarok.

[@ralex3697]

Joel Zizmor Not even remotely close

[@danielloorbach5640]

Would it fit with the Kef Meta's?

[@dennisheadley4408]

Anxiously waiting for your Yamaha review on the updated product.

[@ZeroFidelity]

haha Nothings landed yet!

[@dougg1075]

Man me too.

[@jonathanmarrero9709]

PLEASE URGENT!!!! SHAWN YOU HAVE TO REVIEW THE Anthem STR integrated ASAP

[@Dledwidge]

Great review! 👍🏻I’m trying to decide between this Amplifier and the Nad C-388. Which one would prefer out of these 2. Thanks

[@maccasnz3436]

Same dilemma here. I have had many NAD amps and hey are more neutral and warm. His comments about the high ends tend to define the main differences I think.

[@yerifan3161]

$1299 Made in China.

[@kramsniggah4333]

I had this amp on review for a couple of weeks, I desperately wanted to like it but it was so dry in the mid range and curtailed in lower bass and upper treble. The imaging was very two dimensional and very little width/depth. I also had the Arcam SA-20, it ran rings around the CA but was so boring without any 'bounce' or boogie factor. I'm still looking but so far ruled out after listening because they were too fierce/thin/bland: Rega Elicit-R (initially fun then thin, harsh and needs to be pushed) nasty), Roksan K3 ( more meat on it's bones but very grainy in upper mid and ragged top end). My search continues...

[@themastroiannis]

woow...

[@trucchuong1726]

Did you finally pick out your amp yet? Me too, I'm still looking and hearing these amps., which you clearly described above. I totally agree with your opinion. I've tried Marantz 8006, Denon 1600, and Audiolab 8300. They're almost in the range price of the 81. They're all pretty good for sound quality and price. My taste can go from Denon 1600, Audiolab 8300, and Marantz 8006, respectively.

[@christophergaus3996]

Try an A11 Tribute, they are still $800

[@clivepacker]

Great review. I’ve had the 81 for 3 months now, paired with PSB Alpha T20s and Emotiva ERC-4 CD player - using the balanced analog in on the 81. I love the wide and tall soundstage and the sense of presence of a live orchestra, being able to place instruments. The PSBs are a warm side of neutral so that probably makes them a good match for the detail of the 81. I had a Marantz PM6005 before and I would never have called that “muddy” but the 81 makes it seem like it was. It really works for me but I can see it may not for everyone.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Sounds like you're diggin it! Thanks for sharing.

[@saquibhussain6000]

Is the sound too forward, in your face?

[@clivepacker]

Saquib Hussain I don’t find it so. But the PSBs are a relaxed loudspeaker. A bright and forward speaker would not be a good match.

[@cmessi]

Is the treble harsh?

[@clivepacker]

The treble is detailed but I don’t find it harsh. Since I posted this I’ve upgraded to a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 500 7Gs which are detailed speakers but even so I don’t find it too forward. It’s not fatiguing to me like some setups can be.

[@SuperLber]

Cambridge Audio is a real bargain. I bought two years ago a topaz am10 (last version) and a separate pre phono CP2 and they sound great. It has a two lm3886 ic power stage and it is pretty good. I bought it for 160 euro and the pre phono for the same price, all brand new and I love them.

[@Jazzie_Fizzle]

Hi Sean, how do you think this amp will pair with the ELAC debut reference dbr62s?

[@vitorgoncalves6289]

Hi Sid, I just bought this amp to match a pair of ELAC DBR62s. The sound is very clear and defined. Great soundstage. However, it's not good at all in the higher frequencies. If you listen to music with lots of strings or brass, I wouldn't recommend this match. I'm seriously thinking about changing one of the components. The problem is that I'm not sure this is just a problem of the CXA81 or if it is the match with the DBR62s. In any case, I'd like to have a smoother higher frequency sound. I wonder what Sean would say about it.

[@blakenewton2781]

This just locked down the Iota VX for me. I can build it up and for me it's a big plus. And the silver/ grey finish on the Cambridge piece just doesn't appeal to me

[@Taffy84]

The Cambridge does come in black too.

[@ralex3697]

Blake Newton The Cambridge is better value. It is a fantastic amp. I am surprised that it is that good. I always found most newer Cambridge models manufactured in ROC were rather lacklustre. Furthermore the Lunar Grey finish is really nice.