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Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII Lunar Gray — Review & Specs | Pricepect | Pricepect

Home Home Audio SystemsCambridge Audio CXA81 MkII Lunar Gray

Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII Lunar Gray — image 1

Cambridge Audio

Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII Lunar Gray

Expert Review Analysis

The Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII is a 80 W per channel Class AB integrated stereo amplifier featuring an ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC, aptX HD Bluetooth and Roon certification. It combines powerful, detailed sound with a compact chassis and versatile connectivity for modern two‑channel hi‑fi setups.

✓ Best for: Audiophiles building a two‑channel system in small to mid‑sized rooms who use 6–8 Ω, high‑efficiency speakers and want an all‑in‑one amp/DAC with Bluetooth, aptX HD and Roon support for streaming, CDs and computer sources.✗ Not ideal for: Listeners with very large listening spaces, low‑efficiency or high‑power speakers, or those who require a built‑in phono stage for turntables will find the CXA81 MkII less suitable.

Pros

✓Powerful 80 W per channel into 8 Ω (120 W into 4 Ω) delivers effortless dynamics and a vivid soundstage.
✓Integrated ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC provides detailed high‑resolution playback up to 32‑bit/384 kHz PCM and DSD256.
✓

Price History

Current

$1,199.00

Average

$1,199.00

Lowest

$1,199.00

Highest

$1,199.00

Price trend (90d):0.0%

Best Seller Rank History

Now#1,290Best#906Worst#1,290 -384

Lower = better sales rank

Rating Trend

Rating4.6/ 5Reviews16+-1 reviews +0.09

Specifications

Accessories

Remote Control IncludedYes, with 3x AAA batteries

Audio

Amplifier ClassClass AB

Frequency Response<5Hz–60kHz +/-1dB

DACESS Sabre ES9018K2M

DAC Supported Formats32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256, DoP256 via USB; 16/24-bit 32-96kHz PCM via TOSLINK; 16/24-bit 32-192kHz PCM via Coaxial; aptX HD (24-bit 48kHz) via Bluetooth

Analog Audio Inputs1x Balanced XLR, 4x RCA

Connectivity

Bluetooth Version4.2

Bluetooth CodecaptX HD

Design

Height115 mm mm

Width430 mm mm

Depth341 mm mm

Weight8.7 kg g

Transformer TypeToroidal

Features

Roon TestedYes

General

BrandCambridge Audio

Model NameCXA81 MkII

Warranty2 years

Power

Power Consumption (Max)750W W

Power Consumption (Standby)<0.5W

Software Compatibility

Roon CertifiedYes

Transformer Type

TransformerToroidal with dual taps

Remote

Remote ControlIncluded with 3 AAA batteries

Bluetooth

Bluetooth Version4.2 with aptX HD

Research Sources

upscaleaudio.com

dedicatedaudio.com

cambridgeaudio.com

architeg-prints.com

eardrumaudio.com

crutchfield.com

safeandsoundhq.com

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User Reviews

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4.6

(16 reviews)

$1,199.00

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C11310K 2 Years

Home Audio Systems

Versatile connectivity includes balanced XLR, multiple RCA inputs, USB, coaxial, optical, aptX HD Bluetooth and Roon certification.

✓Compact chassis still delivers authoritative sound suitable for small to medium listening rooms.

✓Toroidal transformer with dual taps enhances power stability, dynamic range and overall musical authority.

✓Dedicated remote control with three AAA batteries offers convenient operation without extra accessories.

✓Subwoofer and pre‑amp outputs add flexibility for expanded system integration and multi‑room setups.

Cons

✗Lacks a built‑in phono stage, so turntable users must add an external pre‑amp.
✗Maximum 80 W per channel (120 W @4 Ω) may be insufficient for very large rooms or low‑efficiency speakers.
✗Only one balanced XLR input limits connectivity options for high‑end source equipment.
✗Digital optical and coaxial inputs are limited to 16/24‑bit at lower sample rates compared with the USB input.

From Expert Reviews

Praised by Experts

✓Refined Class AB architecture delivers clean, low‑distortion power praised by reviewers.
✓Upgraded ESS ES9018K2M DAC provides precision and energy in digital sources, enhancing detail.
✓Toroidal transformer with dual taps creates an immersive soundstage and authoritative presentation.
✓Subtle internal component upgrades result in noticeable leaps in overall sound quality.
✓Professional editors describe the amp as powerful, clear and authoritative across the audio spectrum.

Criticized by Experts

✗Absence of a built‑in phono stage forces use of an external pre‑amp for vinyl playback.
✗80 W per channel rating may lack headroom for very large spaces or low‑efficiency, high‑power speakers.
✗Limited to 80 W output compared with higher‑power rivals, potentially reducing dynamic impact.
✗Only a single balanced XLR input may restrict connectivity for users with multiple pro‑grade sources.

From User Reviews

Users Love

✓Users report massive power that easily drives 90 dB+ efficient speakers without a separate amp.
✓Excellent streaming and DAC capabilities are praised for handling high‑resolution audio files.
✓High‑grade performance delivers nuanced playback and effortless handling of musical dynamics.
✓Compact size is appreciated while still providing an authoritative and detailed sound signature.

Users Complain About

✗Lack of a built‑in phono stage is a drawback for vinyl enthusiasts who need a turntable connection.

Expert Opinion

Professional reviewers highlight the CXA81 MkII's refined Class AB design, the upgraded ESS ES9018K2M DAC and the toroidal transformer as key factors that deliver precise, energetic and immersive sound. Editors note the subtle internal upgrades give a noticeable leap in clarity and authority, describing the amp as powerful, clear and well‑suited for modern streaming and high‑resolution sources.

What Users Say

Everyday users consistently praise the amp’s massive power, excellent streaming/DAC performance and the ability to drive efficient speakers effortlessly. The compact form factor and comprehensive connectivity are also frequently mentioned, while the lack of a built‑in phono stage is the only recurring drawback noted among vinyl owners.

Common Complaints

The only common complaint is the absence of a built‑in phono stage, requiring an external pre‑amp for vinyl playback.

How It Compares

vs. Cambridge Audio CXA81 (original)

Advantages

✓Upgraded ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC provides higher resolution than the original model
✓Toroidal transformer with dual taps improves power stability and dynamics

Disadvantages

✗Similar 80 W power rating means no increase in sheer output power
✗Higher price point than the original without a proportional power boost

Choose the MkII for better DAC performance and refined sound; stick with the original if budget is tighter and DAC upgrade isn’t critical.

vs. Cambridge Audio AXR100

Advantages

✓CXA81 MkII includes a high‑resolution DAC and balanced XLR input, which the AXR100 lacks

Disadvantages

✗AXR100 is lower‑priced and simpler, but offers no built‑in DAC or XLR connectivity
✗CXA81 MkII is larger and more expensive

Select the AXR100 for a budget‑friendly, straightforward amp; opt for the CXA81 MkII when you need integrated DAC, Bluetooth aptX HD and professional‑grade inputs.