Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII Integrated Amplifier
Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII Review — 80W Integrated Hi‑Fi Amp with ESS Sabre DAC & aptX HD (Lunar Grey)
Introduction
The Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII is a high‑performance integrated stereo amplifier aimed at music lovers who want an all‑round, two‑channel hub for digital and analog sources. Manufactured by Cambridge Audio, a long‑established British hi‑fi company, the CXA81 MkII sits in the company’s mid‑to‑high range and is designed to drive demanding speakers while offering modern digital connectivity and a reference‑grade DAC. With 80 watts per channel, Class‑AB amplification and an ESS SABRE DAC, the CXA81 MkII targets listeners building a dedicated two‑channel rig for critical listening, desktop hi‑fi, or a main living‑room system.
Overview
– Manufacturer: Cambridge Audio
– Product category: Integrated stereo amplifier / Hi‑Fi system
– Intended use: Driving bookshelf and floorstanding loudspeakers for two‑channel music playback; serving as the central amplifier for digital sources (PC/Mac, streamer, phone via Bluetooth), CD transport, DACs and studio‑grade components.
Appearance and Build
The CXA81 MkII is presented in the Lunar Grey finish and follows Cambridge Audio’s understated, functional design language. The unit appears to be built from quality materials — a metal chassis with a solid, machined front panel and a prominent volume control — giving it a premium, durable feel. Internally, the inclusion of a toroidal transformer suggests a robust power supply and careful internal layout; externally, the amp’s clean lines and uncluttered faceplate make it visually compatible with both modern and traditional audio systems.
Unique design elements worth noting: the presence of balanced XLR inputs (useful for connecting higher‑end streamers/preamp sources such as the CXN100), multiple digital inputs on the rear, and an emphasis on low‑noise, high‑current Class‑AB amplification. The overall aesthetic is functional and elegant rather than flashy — tuned for users who prefer a refined hi‑fi appearance.
Key Features & Specifications
- Power: 80 watts per channel (suitable for driving demanding speakers)
- DAC: ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC — reference‑level digital‑to‑analog conversion
- Amplifier class: Class‑AB (balanced, warm, dynamic performance)
- Power supply: Toroidal transformer (improved sound staging and low noise)
- Digital inputs: TOSLINK (optical), Coaxial S/PDIF, USB Audio input (PC/Mac)
- Wireless: Bluetooth with aptX HD for higher‑quality wireless audio (compatible with aptX HD‑capable devices)
- Balanced connectivity: XLR inputs (for premium source connections such as the CXN100)
- Roon Tested: USB connectivity and compatibility with Roon via connected PC/Mac
- Price (as provided): $1199
- Part number / model: CXA81 (Model C11310K)
- Warranty: 2 years
Real‑World Usage & Performance
The CXA81 MkII is built to be a versatile central component. Below are practical observations for several common setups and listening scenarios.
Hifi two‑channel listening (reference/critical)
Connected to a pair of mid‑to‑high sensitivity bookshelf or floorstanding speakers, the CXA81 MkII delivers a clean, controlled sound with good dynamic headroom. The Class‑AB output stage provides a slightly more organic, natural tonal balance compared with some Class‑D designs; transients have a satisfying attack and decay, and the toroidal transformer contributes to a low noise floor and convincing sense of scale. The ESS SABRE DAC brings strong detail retrieval and clarity through digital sources, making high‑resolution files sound lively and revealing.
Desktop / Nearfield setups
Used on a desktop with active/ passive speakers, the amp’s 80W per channel is more than sufficient for nearfield listening and allows you to push small speakers harder without distortion. The USB audio input works well for connecting a PC or Mac, and Roon compatibility is a plus for users with large music libraries or who rely on Roon workflows.
Wireless & mobile playback
Bluetooth aptX HD support makes the CXA81 MkII convenient for quick streaming from phones or tablets with higher‑quality Bluetooth codecs. While wireless will not replace a dedicated network streamer for the highest fidelity, aptX HD offers a notably better wireless listening experience than standard SBC Bluetooth.
Integration with other components
The balanced XLR inputs make it straightforward to integrate the amp with higher‑end streamers or preamplifiers. The variety of digital inputs (optical, coaxial and USB) means you can connect a CD transport, TV or computer directly without needing an external DAC. If you use a turntable, note that a phono stage is not listed in the provided specifications — plan to add an external phono preamp if you want to connect a passive turntable.
Limitations and notes on real‑world use
– The CXA81 MkII is a two‑channel integrated amp, not a network streamer or multi‑channel home theatre processor. If you want built‑in streaming services (TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, Chromecast, or built‑in Roon Ready hardware), you’ll need to add a dedicated streamer / network player.
– The provided specification does not list a built‑in phono input or headphone output; if either is essential to your setup, confirm the model’s I/O before purchasing or budget for an external phono preamp / headphone amplifier.
– At this price point, the amp competes with both premium integrated amplifiers and combinations of separate power amps and DACs. The CXA81 MkII is strong value for users who want a single chassis solution with a high‑quality on‑board DAC.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Strong, musical 80W per channel Class‑AB amplification — able to drive demanding speakers with authority
- High‑quality ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC — excellent digital clarity and resolution
- Robust power supply with toroidal transformer — low noise and good soundstaging
- Balanced XLR inputs and multiple digital inputs (USB, coax, optical) increase system flexibility
- Bluetooth aptX HD — higher‑quality wireless streaming from compatible devices
- Roon Tested (USB) — easy integration into computer‑based hi‑fi setups
- Well‑built, understated Lunar Grey aesthetic that fits most interiors
Cons
- No built‑in network streaming services indicated — requires a separate streamer for integrated streaming platforms
- Phono input and headphone output are not listed in the provided specs — may require additional components for vinyl or headphone users
- At $1199, competition exists from other integrated amps and separates — some buyers may prefer a dedicated external DAC or phono stage
- Not a multichannel solution — only suitable for two‑channel listening unless used as part of a larger system with additional amplification/processing
Conclusion
The Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII is a compelling integrated amplifier for listeners who want a musically engaging, technically capable two‑channel amp with a very good on‑board DAC. Its combination of 80W Class‑AB power, an ESS SABRE32 DAC, toroidal transformer power delivery and balanced inputs make it a flexible hub for quality digital and analog sources. The aptX HD Bluetooth support and Roon compatibility add modern convenience without compromising core performance.
For buyers who prioritize sound quality, the CXA81 MkII offers excellent value and will satisfy most music‑first systems. However, if you require built‑in network streaming, a phono stage for a turntable, or a dedicated headphone amp, plan to add those components separately. Overall, the CXA81 MkII is a strong, well‑executed integrated amplifier that balances refinement, connectivity and raw driving ability — a very good choice for a two‑channel hi‑fi system in the Lunar Grey finish.
Quick Specs Summary
- Model: CXA81 MkII (C11310K)
- Power: 80 W/ch
- DAC: ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32
- Inputs: USB Audio, Coaxial, TOSLINK, Bluetooth aptX HD, Balanced XLR
- Transformer: Toroidal
- Price: $1199
- Warranty: 2 years
