Audiophile-Grade Integrated Amplifier Knows How to Have Fun: Cambridge Audio CXA81 Touts ESS Sabre DAC, Plays 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256, Features High-End Construction

Take your system to the next level while enjoying the smooth, high-resolution fidelity of up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 with the Cambridge Audio CXA81 integrated amplifier. Part of the British manufacturer's cutting-edge CX Series Version 2, it outputs 80Wpc and includes an audiophile-grade ESS Sabre ES9010K2M 8740 DAC. An asynchronous USB input allows you to play music straight from your computer, while a fully symmetrical circuit board with balanced XLR connections and three optical inputs add more flexibility. What's more, you can stream from any Bluetooth-enabled device courtesy of integrated aptX HD Bluetooth that supports 24-bit/48kHz.

Equipped with a low-flux toroidal transformer featuring separate dual-mono windings, twin rectifiers, and separate power supplies for the l/r amplifiers, CXA81 takes hold of loudspeakers and produces soundstages noticeable for depth, headroom, architecture, detail, and richness. Aesthetically, a new wedge-foot support base that makes the integrated appear as if it floats ups CXA81's appeal. What's more, the all-metal casing speaks to CXA81's build quality and focus on sound. This is one piece of high-end kit that knows how to have fun. 100% Music Direct Guaranteed.

"The Cambridge Audio CXA81 sets a new baseline for integrated amps at this level. It's a rare product that has the ability to make us switch off our reviewing brain and simply let us be wowed by the music.... Take into account its broad range of connections and features, and this is easily an amplifier that could last for as long as you wish—probably until you're ready to spend a fair amount more on a significant upgrade."
—What Hi-Fi?, five-star review, 2022 Product of the Year Winner: Best Stereo Amplifier

"[The] CXA81 could be the perfect start to a system that is one step up from entry-level high end."
—Muse Kastanovich, The Absolute Sound

"I greatly enjoyed my time exploring the CXA81. It helped me realize how much music can be had for such a low price. It knocked me flat with its ability to sound good in so many ways. It is versatile, well-made, and smartly designed. Most important, it sounds good to great."
—Ken Micallef, Stereophile