Cambridge Audio CXA81
— premium integrated amplifier combining Class AB warmth with modern Bluetooth convenience.
The Cambridge Audio CXA81 sits at the heart of the brand’s hi-fi range — a balanced, audiophile-grade integrated amplifier known for its musical clarity, robust build, and outstanding DAC performance. It takes everything that made the CXA80 great and refines it into a more expressive and connected amplifier for the modern listener.
Whether you’re streaming over Bluetooth aptX HD or running balanced XLR from a dedicated DAC, the CXA81 ensures a wide, dynamic soundstage and a sense of effortless control. Let’s dive into the details that make it one of the most respected mid-tier integrated amps on the market today.
| Rank | Model | Power Output | Bluetooth Version | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Cambridge Audio CXA81 | 80W x 2 (8Ω) | Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD | XLR Balanced Input, ESS Sabre DAC, Class AB | ≈ $1,299 |
Cambridge Audio CXA81: Performance & Sound Quality
The CXA81 delivers an incredibly smooth, neutral sound that’s distinctly Cambridge — open midrange, tight low-end, and sparkling highs without harshness. The Class AB topology gives it warmth and body, while the upgraded capacitors and power supply improve transient response and stereo separation.
It drives most bookshelf and floorstanding speakers effortlessly. Even at higher volumes, distortion remains minimal. The soundstage is deep and precise — vocals sit forward, instruments have space, and low-end remains controlled. It’s a refreshing return to musicality in an era of digital neutrality.
Connectivity & Usability
Cambridge equipped the CXA81 with everything you’d expect from a modern amplifier. You get RCA, XLR, optical, coaxial, and USB inputs plus a dedicated Bluetooth 5.0 receiver with aptX HD support. The built-in ESS Sabre DAC handles 32-bit/384 kHz playback — perfect for high-resolution streaming or PC-based audio.
The remote control is minimalist but functional, and front-panel controls are intuitive. Its Lunar Grey chassis exudes understated class, while the large volume dial gives it the feel of a traditional hi-fi amp — tactile and solid.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Exceptionally clear, balanced sound; premium build; versatile inputs; Bluetooth aptX HD; strong power output.
- Cons: No subwoofer out; lacks built-in streaming; slightly higher price than entry-level options.
Buying Guide: What to Know Before You Buy
If you’re choosing between the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and similar integrated amps, focus on a few key factors:
- Output Power: At 80W per channel (8Ω), it’s perfect for medium to large rooms.
- Impedance Matching: Works best with speakers rated 4–8Ω — avoid low-impedance loads without caution.
- Codec Support: aptX HD ensures near-lossless Bluetooth playback — a must for wireless audiophiles.
- Class AB Efficiency: Offers that analog warmth missing from many Class D designs.
Want to understand how these specs affect sound? See our guide on how amplifier wattage works and compare models in our best stereo amplifiers under $500 roundup.
Final Verdict
The Cambridge Audio CXA81 earns its reputation as one of the best integrated amplifiers in its class. Its clean power delivery, refined DAC, and timeless design make it a fantastic long-term investment for audiophiles who value both analog purity and digital convenience.
If you’re upgrading from an entry-level amp or exploring balanced audio for the first time, the CXA81 stands as the sweet spot — powerful, musical, and built to last.
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