Cambridge Audio CXA81 MKII Review: Powerful, Clear, and Authoritative Sound

Experience the compelling sound and refined build of the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MKII, a flagship integrated amplifier that elevates your audio setup with clarity and punch.

Unboxing a Classic with a Fresh Twist

“Oh, hello old friend,” we thought as we dusted off our long-time companion, the Cambridge Audio CXA81, pulling it from its box with the reverence of a whisky lover unveiling a 40-year-old single malt Scotch. This integrated amplifier, first launched in 2019, swept the What Hi-Fi? awards for four consecutive years, often crowned the “Product of the Year” in the stereo amplifier category.

Today, it’s not nostalgia drawing us back but the exciting arrival of the second-generation CXA81 MKII. Set to appear in What Hi-Fi? reviews, this new model replaces the original CXA81 and intriguingly takes the spot as a more affordable counterpart to the CXA61—a four-time award winner itself in Cambridge Audio’s CX series.

We’re eager to see how this beloved model has evolved over six years (spoiler: quite a bit) and whether it can reclaim the crown snatched away by the Arcam A15 in 2023.

Cambridge Audio CXA81 MKII: Timeless Design and Solid Build

At first glance, the CXA81 MKII appears nearly identical to its predecessor. The chassis is unchanged, and spotting differences between the two requires a keen eye. The front panel’s lettering has shifted from “CXA81” to a simpler “CXA,” and removable stickers present on the original have been dropped. These subtle tweaks hardly scream innovation.

Is Cambridge Audio simply using up existing CXA81 cases, or did the design team find no need for a refresh? Despite the five-year gap since the original’s release, the stylish Lunar Grey exterior and its selection of ports still feel contemporary and relevant—a testament to thoughtful design longevity.

Technical Specifications

• Power Output: 80 watts per channel
• Phono Stage: None
• Inputs: 3 x RCA, Balanced XLR, Coaxial, 2 x Optical, USB Type-B
• Bluetooth: Yes (aptX HD)
• Outputs: Preamp out, Subwoofer out, 3.5mm headphone jack
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 11.5 x 43 x 34.1 cm

While the amplifier market isn't known for rapid aesthetic shifts, the CXA81 MKII still stands tall as an elegant, solidly built unit that’s well-equipped by today’s standards. The consistent retail price across generations—roughly $1,600 USD—speaks volumes about Cambridge Audio’s confidence in this design.

Design Features and Connectivity

One standout is the large, tactile volume dial on the front, complemented by a clever bottom-ledge design that makes the front panel appear to hover slightly above the surface it rests on.

Though a text-based display, like the one on the Arcam A15, might offer more info and style, Cambridge Audio’s choice of a simple LED panel and physical buttons wins points for straightforward usability.

In terms of connectivity, the CXA81 MKII leaves no stone unturned. Alongside the usual trio of line inputs, two optical, and one coaxial digital input, it includes a USB Type-B port and balanced XLR input, perfect for hooking up anything from music streamers and CD players to computers or TVs.

Cambridge Audio also offers the CXN100 streamer, a natural match for this amplifier, complete with balanced XLR outputs, ensuring seamless integration for those seeking a high-end digital music experience.

Thanks to built-in aptX HD Bluetooth, you can stream wirelessly without needing a separate device, though Bluetooth naturally has its limits in audio fidelity.

On the rear panel, preamp and subwoofer outputs allow system expansion by adding external amps or subwoofers. The Control Bus syncs compatible Cambridge devices for unified operation.

Under the Hood: What’s New?

Like recent iPhone models, the CXA81 MKII doesn’t flaunt its upgrades, it quietly integrates them. Cambridge Audio swapped out internal components with more premium parts in the Class A/B amplification stage and upgraded the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to the advanced ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32. This DAC supports PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD256 formats.

So, while external features and looks remain familiar, Cambridge Audio promises a leap in sound quality.

Sound Performance: Clear, Bold, and Authoritative

Before switching on the MKII, we revisited the original to refresh our memory. Its sound was confident: clear, rich—especially in the midrange—and slightly forward, really putting music front and center. Its strengths remain enjoyable.

But when we fired up the CXA81 MKII, the improvement was as striking as the difference between Harrison Ford’s original Han Solo and the new Star Wars films. The music grabs you with sharper clarity, more detail, and openness.

This is a bolder, more commanding performer. The thick bass line in Mac Miller’s “What’s The Use?” hits with weight and power, even if it doesn’t quite match the veteran model’s musical drive. Imagine it like a panorama window inviting you into the scene right in front of you.

The midrange is lush and pure for its price, effortlessly conveying nuances like Adrienne Lenker’s sweet vocal sweetness in “Zombie Girl,” along with delicate dynamic shifts in her fingerpicked acoustic guitar. Deep bass notes add warmth and emotion.

The CXA81 MKII pairs beautifully with mid-range gear like KEF LS50 speakers, as well as our high-end reference system.

Digital and Bluetooth Sound Quality

Sound through digital connections stays solid and consistent. The new DAC chip’s impact is clear—improved tonal accuracy and detail. However, the power and scale feel less vast, as if the soundstage has been compressed compared to the older model. High frequencies become noticeably quieter, but tonality and overall sound quality remain solid.

Bluetooth remains a weak link in most amplifiers, including the CXA81 MKII. Wireless audio sounds rougher, less clear and detailed than wired connections, though it’s fine for casual, occasional listening.

Limitations Revealed with Different Music

Switching genres exposes some of the MKII’s shortcomings. Ocean Alley’s psychedelic rock track “Yellow Mellow” sounds somewhat muted compared to the original’s liveliness. The jazzy fusion of cymbals, keyboards, and guitar fills the soundstage but feels a bit monotonous, lacking dynamic rhythm shifts.

That’s when the award-winning Arcam A15 steps in as the leader in this price bracket. Its sound is more cohesive and musically dynamic, better capturing tempo changes and flow.

Though lighter in the bass, the Arcam is more agile in the lower register.

With Black Country, New Road’s “Besties,” the A15 again outshines the CXA81 MKII, conveying the playful harpsichord intro and rhythmic guitar supporting Georgia Ellery’s vocals with more finesse.

While the CXA81 MKII holds its own on pieces like the “Out Of Africa” theme, capturing string swells and woodwinds well, the Arcam offers a more expressive and organized delivery of complex instrumentation, making for a more engaging listen overall.

Final Verdict on the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MKII

The Arcam A15 is a special amplifier that’s won What Hi-Fi? awards two years running—a feat Cambridge Audio has enjoyed multiple times through models like the CXA81. While Cambridge Audio has enhanced the CXA81 in nearly every aspect, the MKII hasn't quite closed the gap with its strongest rival.

We appreciate how the CXA81 MKII immediately grabs attention with loud, clear, and rich sound. Our only wish is for it to inject a bit more musicality and drive to keep us thoroughly entertained.

Ratings:

• Sound: 4.5/5
• Build: 5/5
• Features: 5/5

“You immediately connect even more deeply with the music thanks to a significant boost in clarity, detail, and openness.” – Cambridge Audio CXA81 MKII Review

FAQs

• What is the power output of the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MKII?
  The amplifier delivers 80 watts per channel, suitable for most home audio setups.
• Does the CXA81 MKII support Bluetooth streaming?
  Yes, it includes aptX HD Bluetooth for wireless audio playback.
• Can I connect a turntable directly to the CXA81 MKII?
  No, this model does not include a built-in phono stage.
• What digital inputs are available on the CXA81 MKII?
  It offers USB Type-B, coaxial, two optical inputs, and a balanced XLR input.
• How does the CXA81 MKII compare to the Arcam A15?
  While the MKII improves on its predecessor, the Arcam A15 remains more dynamic and musically engaging, especially on complex tracks.

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