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Worthwhile performance

The CXA81 Mk II builds on the success of its multi-award winning predecessors. Since the development of our first integrated amplifier in 1968, we haven't looked back, we've looked for new ways to improve the listening experience. In doing so, we have realized that good sound never goes out of fashion.

The CXA81 Mk II is uncomplicated, superior and refined - and even more. With 80 watts per channel, it has full control over your music and brings out all the emotions and nuances.

Cambridge Audio CXA-81

Cambridge Audio CXA81 MK2

  • 80 watts per channel - enough power for the most demanding speakers
  • D/A CONVERTER ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 - reference level digital to analog converter
  • Class AB amplifier - for balanced and efficient performance
  • Toroidal transformer - for incredible sound reproduction
  • Digital inputs - TOSLINK, coaxial and USB audio input
  • Balanced XLR inputs - for first-class connection (to CXN100 etc.)

Details


Cambridge Audio PDS 1

What's new?

The inspiration for the CXA81 Mk II came from the possibilities offered by the ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 D/A converter and was nurtured by the new talent in our London workshop who asked the question: "Why not?". With a new D/A converter, a new philosophy, ten new op-amps and a whole host of listening tests, we've brought the CX Series to a head with the CXA81 Mk II.

Your world is a stage

When you listen to familiar music through the CXA81 Mk II, you immediately notice how detailed everything sounds. You notice instruments, subtle changes in sound and harmonies that you had previously ignored. Close your eyes and you'll be able to locate every musician in the sound. Once you've heard the CXA81 Mk II, there's no going back.

Cambridge Audio PDS 2
Cambridge Audio PDS 3

Carefree musicality

At the heart of the CXA81 Mk II is a class AB power amplifier with optimized capacitors. It combines the musicality of class A with the efficiency of class B. The amplifier's short signal path is efficient and leaves little room for interference. The result is a detailed sound that lets you feel the raw power of the music.

Loud, quiet, loud

Thanks to a massive toroidal transformer, the CXA81 Mk II delivers a generous 80 watts of power per channel. Thanks to the double lines on the left and right side of the amplifier board, each channel practically has its own power supply - the result is a lively sound image. It masters dynamic changes in the music - i.e. changes between loud and quiet passages - with ease.

Cambridge Audio PDS 4
Cambridge Audio PDS 5

Top playback

The CXA81 Mk has been designed to bring your digital music to life. It features the advanced ESS ES9018K2M D/A converter with its own unique circuitry. This means that digital audio files up to 24-bit / 384 kHz or DSD256 are reproduced accurately down to the smallest detail. The CXA81 Mk II combines unparalleled precision with vibrant musicality, and does so beautifully.

Connection options

The CXA81 Mk II is well equipped in terms of connections. In addition to optical and coaxial digital inputs and USB audio (for connecting computers), it has stereo RCA inputs, balanced XLR sockets and a high-quality wireless connection via Bluetooth aptX HD - perfect for our Alva turntables. You can even connect a second pair of speakers to listen to music in another room.

Cambridge Audio PDS 6
Cambridge Audio PDS 7

Total control

Designed to work with carefully matched equipment of comparable quality, the CXA81 Mk II is not cluttered with switches and knobs, keeping the signal path clean. Its minimalist aluminum front panel features a power button, input selection buttons and an extremely smooth volume control. The scope of delivery also includes a CX series remote control, which you can also use to operate other products in the series.

Designed for life

With its elegant, minimalist contours of aluminum and steel, the CXA81 Mk II is both physically and aesthetically indestructible. There should be no reason not to use an amplifier for many years, or to replace it at all. Building long-lasting products is just one of the ways we minimize our impact on the planet and maximize your listening pleasure.

Cambridge Audio PDS 8

(Quelle: www.cambridgeaudio.com)

Safety Instructions


Responsible person

Cambridge Audio (EU) Limited

Address

First Floor, Penrose 1, T23 KW81 Cork, Ireland

Contact

Email: compliance@cambridgeaudio.com

Cambridge Audio CXA61

Please read the following instructions carefully for your own safety before attempting to connect the unit to the mains supply. Following these instructions will also ensure optimum performance and a longer lifespan of the device:

  1. Read these instructions.
  2. Keep these instructions.
  3. Heed all warnings.
  4. Follow all instructions.
  5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
  6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
  7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
  8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
  9. Never defeat the safety purpose of the grounding-type plug. The grounding plug is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
  10. Protect the power cord from being walked on, kinked, or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
  11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
  12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
  13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
  14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when the power adapter or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

WARNING:

  • Do not place this apparatus in a closed area. If you wish to place the unit on a shelf, use the top shelf to ensure sufficient ventilation. Do not place objects on top of the unit. Do not place the unit on a carpet or other soft surface, and always keep the ventilation openings unobstructed. Do not cover ventilation with items such as newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, etc.
  • To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. Ensure that objects filled with liquids, such as vases, are not placed on the apparatus.
  • There is a risk of explosion if the battery is replaced incorrectly. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
  • Do not expose the battery (installed battery pack or batteries) to excessive heat such as direct sunlight or fire.
  • The apparatus shall be installed so that the mains plug can be easily disconnected from the outlet (or rear-panel mains distributor) at any time. Where the mains plug is used as the disconnect device, it shall remain readily operable.
  • Refer to the electrical and safety information on the rear panel before installing or operating the apparatus.
  • Only use the supplied power cord.

Use of the device in tropical climates (the unit should only be used at a maximum ambient temperature of 40 °C).

This unit is Class 1 and must be connected to a mains socket with a protective earth connection.

Symbols:

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated ‘dangerous voltage’ within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying the apparatus.

WEEE SYMBOL

The crossed-out wheeled bin is the EU symbol for the separate collection of electronic waste. This product contains electrical and electronic components that should be reused or recycled and must not be disposed of with household waste. Please return the unit to your dealer or ask them for further information.

CE MARKING

This product, when properly installed in accordance with this manual, complies with the European Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU), the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (2014/30/EU), and the EcoDesign Directive (2009/125/EC). For continued compliance, only Cambridge Audio accessories should be used with this product, and servicing must be carried out by qualified personnel.

UKCA MARK

This product complies with the UK Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, the Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016, and the Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products Regulations 2020, when used and installed in accordance with this user manual. For continued compliance, only Cambridge Audio accessories should be used with this product, and servicing must be carried out by qualified personnel.

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY CE & UKCA

Hereby, Audio Partnership PLC declares that this product complies with the directives 2014/53/EU and the Radio Equipment Regulations 2017. The full text of the EU/UKCA Declaration of Conformity is available at: www.cambridgeaudio.com/compliance

BLUETOOTH operating frequencies: 2.402 GHz – 2.48 GHz, transmit power: 10 dBm.

RCM (REGULATORY COMPLIANCE MARK)

This product complies with the protection, EMC, and radio communications requirements of ERAC and ACMA.

VENTILATION

IMPORTANT – The apparatus will become warm during operation. Do not place objects on top of the unit. Do not install in closed compartments of bookshelves, display cabinets, or similar without adequate ventilation.

Ensure that small objects do not fall through the ventilation slots. In such a case, switch off the unit immediately, disconnect from the mains, and consult your dealer.

Please ensure adequate ventilation (at least 20 cm clearance on all sides). Do not place objects on top of the unit. Do not place the unit on a carpet or any other soft surface, and always keep the ventilation openings unobstructed. Do not cover ventilation with items such as newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, etc.

PLACEMENT

Select the location carefully. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not place objects with open flames, such as lit candles, on the apparatus. Avoid locations subject to vibration, excessive dust, cold, or moisture. The apparatus is intended for use in temperate climates.

The unit must be placed on a level surface. Do not place in built-in compartments of bookshelves, display cabinets, or similar. Do not place the unit on an unstable surface.

If dropped, even from a low height, the unit may cause serious injury and can be severely damaged. Place the unit out of the reach of children.

Due to magnetic stray fields, CRT televisions should not be placed near the apparatus as interference may occur.

Electronic audio components require a break-in period of about one week (with several hours of operation per day). During this time, the new components will settle, and the sound characteristics will improve.

POWER SOURCES

This product should only be operated with the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply in your home, consult your dealer or local power company.

The apparatus can remain in standby mode with < 0.5 W power consumption when not in use. If you plan not to use the apparatus for an extended period, disconnect it from the mains by unplugging the power cord.

OVERLOADING

Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles – this can result in a fire or electric shock hazard. Overloaded outlets, extension cords, worn power cords, damaged or cracked insulation, and broken plugs are dangerous. They can result in electric shock or fire.

Ensure all power cords are fully inserted. Do not bundle interconnects or speaker cables with the power cord to avoid hum and noise interference.

CLEANING

Clean the apparatus by wiping the cabinet with a damp, lint-free cloth. Do not use cleaning fluids containing alcohol, ammonia, or abrasives. Do not use aerosol sprays near or on the apparatus.

BATTERY DISPOSAL

Please dispose of depleted batteries according to local electronic waste regulations.

SERVICING

This product is not user-serviceable. Do not attempt to open or reassemble the apparatus in the event of a fault. Failure to observe this precaution could result in electric shock. Contact your dealer if service is required.

RF EXPOSURE STATEMENT

This device complies with FCC guidelines for RF exposure. This device should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body. Only use the supplied antenna.

MODIFICATIONS:

The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Cambridge Audio could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

Accessories


We offer not only a wide range of HiFi equipment, but also the appropriate accessories.

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nuCable Audio 6
nuCable Audio 6
Stereo RCA Cable
For players, amplifiers or active speakers.

Available, delivery time: 1-3 working days *

€10.00 / Piece

nuCable Audio 9
nuCable Audio 9
High End Stereo RCA Cable
For players, amplifiers or active speakers.

Available, delivery time: 1-3 working days *

€40.00 / Piece

nuCable Digital Pro
nuCable Digital Pro
High End Coaxial Cable
For players, amplifiers or active speakers.

Available, delivery time: 1-3 working days *

€23.00 / Piece

Content: 1,5 Meter (€15.33 / 1 Meter)

nuCable LS Silverline 2,5 mm²
nuCable LS Silverline 2,5 mm²
Premium speaker cable
For passive speakers.

Available, delivery time: 1-3 working days *

€8.00 / Meter

nuCable LS Studioline Flat 2,5 mm²
nuCable LS Studioline Flat 2,5 mm²
Flat speaker cable
For passive speakers.

Available, delivery time: 1-3 working days *

€36.00 / Piece

Content: 6 Meter (€6.00 / 1 Meter)

nuCable Y-Adapter 6
nuCable Y-Adapter 6
Subwoofer adapter
For subwoofers.

No longer available

€10.00 / Piece

nuCable Y-Adapter 9
nuCable Y-Adapter 9
High End Subwoofer adapter
For subwoofers.

Available, delivery time: 1-3 working days *

€32.00 / Piece

nuCable Y-Sub 6
nuCable Y-Sub 6
Subwoofer cable
For subwoofers.

Available, delivery time: 1-3 working days *

€10.00 / Piece

nuCable Y-Sub 9
nuCable Y-Sub 9
High End Subwoofer Cable
For subwoofers.

Available, delivery time: 1-3 working days *

€42.00 / Piece

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Technical Information


Subject to technical changes.