Integrated Amplifier Focused on Clarity, Depth, and Control

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II is an integrated amplifier for demanding music reproduction, offering 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 120 watts into 4 ohms. The device is suitable as both a central hub in a classic hi-fi system and for modern, digitally-oriented setups.

Class AB Amplification, DAC, and Toroidal Transformer

The CXA81 Mk II employs custom Class AB amplification, combining warmth with efficiency. This concept is complemented by a toroidal transformer and a short signal path designed for minimal coloration. For digital music, an ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC is integrated, supporting high resolution up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. Thus, the amplifier combines power reserves, precision, and detail in a design optimized for musicality.

Connections and Integration in Hi-Fi Systems

Among the clear strengths of the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II are its versatile connectivity options. Available are balanced XLR inputs, four RCA inputs, TOSLINK, coaxial S/PDIF, USB Audio, and integrated Bluetooth 4.2 with aptX HD. Additionally, there are pre-out, sub out, headphone output, and two speaker outputs for speaker pairs A and B. This allows the amplifier to be flexibly integrated into various systems, for instance with a second pair of speakers in another room or as part of a system with other CX components.

Comfort, Operation, and System Functions

The CXA81 Mk II is deliberately minimalist in design, focusing on a clear operating structure with a power button, input selection, and volume control. In daily use, features such as standby mode with less than 0.5 watts, auto power down after 20 minutes of inactivity, and an included remote control provide convenience. For integration into networked playback chains, the model is Roon Tested and can be connected to a PC or Mac via USB. Compatible Cambridge products can also be controlled together via Control Bus.

Protection System and Special Features

Another distinguishing feature is the CAP5 protection system with five protection functions: DC Detection, Over Temperature Detection, Overvoltage/Overcurrent Detection, Short Circuit Detection, and Intelligent Clipping Detection. This protection concept is designed for reliability and a long lifespan for both the amplifier and connected speakers. Together with the high-quality material selection of aluminum and steel, the tidy design, and the wide range of source options, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II positions itself as a powerful integrated amplifier with a clear focus on sound quality, system integration, and everyday usability.

Technical Data

Product Type

• Integrated Amplifier

Output Power

• 80 W RMS into 8 Ohms
• 120 W RMS into 4 Ohms

Amplifier and Construction

• Class AB amplification
• Toroidal transformer

DAC

• ESS Sabre ES9018K2M

Frequency Response

• <5Hz – 60kHz +/-1dB

Bluetooth

• Bluetooth 4.2 A2DP/AVRCP
• supports SBC, aptX and aptX HD
• Bluetooth aptX HD receiver built-in: Yes

Roon

• Roon Tested: Yes

Analog Inputs

• 1 x balanced XLR (A1, L/R)
• 1 x RCA unbalanced (A1, L/R)
• 1 x RCA (A2, L/R)
• 1 x RCA (A3, L/R)
• 1 x RCA (A4, L/R)

Digital Inputs

• 1 x S/PDIF coaxial (D3)
• 2 x Toslink optical (D1, D2)
• 1 x USB Audio In (USB-B)

Other rear panel connections and interfaces

• RS-232C
• Control Bus In / Out
• IR In
• Trigger In / Out
• Bluetooth antenna connector

Outputs

• Speaker terminals A / B
• Pre-Out (L/R)
• Sub-Out
• Headphone output (3.5 mm, front connection)

Compatibility

• TOSLINK optical: 16/24bit 32–96kHz PCM only
• S/PDIF coaxial: 16/24bit 32–192kHz PCM only
• USB: Audio Profile 1.0/2.0 (Standard 2.0), up to 24-bit 384kHz PCM, up to DSD256 or DoP256

Remote Control

• Yes

Power Consumption

• maximum power consumption: 750W
• standby power consumption: <0.5W

Dimensions

• 115 x 430 x 341 mm (H x W x D)

Weight

• 8.7 kg

Scope of delivery

• Cambridge Audio CXA81 MKII
• Power cable
• Remote control incl. 3 x AAA batteries
• Control bus cable
• Bluetooth antenna
• Documents

Cambridge Audio (EU) Limited
First Floor, Penrose 1, Penrose Dock, T23 KW81 Cork, IRL
compliance@cambridgeaudio.com
https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/eur/de