Page 109 - Hi-Fi World (January 2020)

REVIEW

Cambridge

Powerhouse

Cambridge Audio’s new CXA61 amplifier is a do-it-all unit that combines great sound with
complete connectivity. Jon Myles listens in.

ambridge Audio’s roots 256 DSD data streams. That just about of the best I have used in terms of
lie way back in 1968 with covers all files most users will possess. ease of use and layout. It feels solid
the slimline P40 amplifier. Other upgrades include new op-amps, and works with no lag at all – not
What was so special about improved capacitors and a simpler something you can say about all
it? Well, it was actually circuit designed to reduce distortion. remote controls.
Cthe first amplifier to use a Bluetooth is now also built in Build-wise the Cambridge well
toroidal transformer – something we (an optional dongle was needed on befits its £750 price tag. There are
just take for granted nowadays – but the previous model). Power output no rough edges in any sense of the
at the time it allowed slimline design. remains the same at 60 Watts per phrase and it feels solid and well-
Which goes a long way to explain channel (see Measured Performance constructed. It is quite large at 115mm
Cambridge Audio’s ethos down the for full details) that, to some, might x 430mm x 341mm (H/W/D) but still
years – innovation allied to decently sound a little limited, but to be honest fits a standard 19in (483mm) wide hi-fi
priced yet good sounding products. most of us only really use a few Watts rack with room to spare.
Hence the new CXA61 integrated of power even to drive the most
amplifier that includes both analogue demanding of loudspeakers. SOUND QUALITY
and digital inputs, replacing its well- Connections include four I connected the Cambridge to a pair
regarded CXA60 predecessor. analogue inputs, plus coaxial and of PSB T20 floorstanders and our
The Wolfson 8740 DAC of the Toslink digital inputs. The input chosen reference Oppo 205BDP universal
previous model has been replaced by is indicated on a front panel display, to disc player using Titan Audio’s new
an ESS Sabre SE9010K2M digital-to- the right of which sits a large rotary interconnects (see review in this
analogue convertor – one of the best volume control. However the easiest issue) and also used a FiiO M7
on the market – allowing conversion way to control the CXA61 is via its portable player for high-resolution
of 32-bit/384kHz PCM files as well supplied remote control which is one playback into the digital section.

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