Cambridge Audio L/RX Review: Can It Outshine KEF's Wireless Classics?

Explore the all-in-one power and sound of Cambridge Audio L/RX, a fresh contender in wireless stereo systems challenging KEF's iconic models.

A New Player in Wireless Stereo Systems

When Cambridge Audio L/RX stepped into the wireless stereo arena with their L/R line, it definitely caught my attention. As someone who's followed the British brand’s journey through amps and streamers, seeing them take a bold leap into all-in-one wireless systems was exciting. The market is fierce, with giants like KEF LS50 Wireless II and Triangle already making waves, but the demand for compact, versatile sound systems with built-in streaming and amplification has never been greater.

Back in December, I had the unique opportunity to visit Cambridge Audio’s London headquarters and listen to the flagship L/RX model firsthand. The question was simple: could Cambridge’s decades of engineering finesse translate into a formidable all-in-one speaker system?

With a price tag of $2,299 and slated for release in mid-2026, the L/RX aims directly at KEF's award-winning LS50 Wireless II. Expanding into this segment might just be a sharp move for Cambridge, tapping into a fresh audience outside traditional hi-fi circles—but the sound quality has to be top-notch.

Cambridge Audio L/RX Specifications

• Type: Active wireless stereo system
• Power: 800 watts total, Class D amplification
• Drivers: 28mm Torus tweeter, 2 × 127mm mid/bass drivers, 2 passive radiators
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC, USB-C, optical, RCA, subwoofer output
• Streaming: StreamMagic Gen 4 (AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Deezer, Qobuz)
• Wireless: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, WiSA HT (inter-speaker link)
• Phono Stage: Built-in MM phono preamp

Availability and Pricing Insights

Though the Cambridge Audio L/RX is fresh on the scene without widespread availability yet, it’s expected to land in the $2,000–$2,300 range in the US market. Locally, specialized hi-fi salons carry Cambridge gear, but the system hasn’t officially debuted here yet, so exact pricing in dollars may fluctuate with import costs.

The known competitor, KEF LS50 Wireless II, sets a high bar, so if the L/RX can deliver on price and performance, it’s bound to attract serious attention. Ordering directly from overseas remains an option, but beware—these units come hefty, and shipping plus insurance can bump up costs.

Streaming and Connectivity in Practice

A standout feature is the StreamMagic Gen 4 platform powering the L/RX. While popular services like Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz may face regional restrictions, AirPlay 2 and Google Cast support means you can easily stream your favorite local services—think Yandex Music or VK Music—right from your phone.

The system’s physical connectivity is generous: HDMI eARC for TV hookup, USB-C for inter-speaker wired links or audio input, optical and RCA inputs, plus a dedicated subwoofer output. Vinyl lovers will appreciate the built-in MM phono stage, allowing direct connection of turntables without extra gear.

Pro tip: UK versions might require a plug adapter, but European models include power cables compatible with local outlets.

Design and Build: Minimalist Powerhouses

The L/RX speakers flaunt a clean, minimalist look that’s both tasteful and modern. You can pick from classic whites or eye-catching oranges—a nice touch for those wanting their speakers to stand out or blend quietly into the room.

Though the biggest in Cambridge’s new lineup, these speakers are surprisingly compact and won’t overrun smaller spaces. Don’t let the modest size fool you: these bad boys pump out a combined 800 watts (400 per channel) through efficient Class D amps.

Another cool feature is the dual connection mode between speakers: you can hook them up with a USB-C cable or go fully wireless using WiSA HT tech—both supporting high-res 24-bit/96kHz audio transmission.

The secret sauce? The patented Torus tweeter, a ring-shaped design with a conical horn inside a rear chamber. Its double-radius profile—with a flatter top and steep sides—sharpens sound clarity and focus. The 28mm tweeter on the L/RX pushes 25% more air than typical dome tweeters, promising crisper highs.

Bass duties fall to two 127mm woofers, paired with 150mm side passive radiators, delivering rich low-end punch without bloating the cabinet size.

Functionality That Covers All Bases

Flip the left speaker around, and you’ll find a well-appointed panel: two USB-C ports (one for audio input, another to link to the right speaker), optical and RCA inputs, HDMI eARC for seamless TV integration, plus a subwoofer output if you crave extra bass oomph.

Vinyl enthusiasts will love the built-in MM phono stage for direct turntable hookups.

The StreamMagic Gen 4 streaming platform unlocks everything from UPnP to AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and internet radio—most of which we’ve seen flawlessly integrated in other Cambridge products.

Bluetooth provides a quick wireless fallback, and a wired Ethernet port keeps your connection rock-solid when streaming high-res tracks.

Sound Impressions: A Clean, Confident Performer

At the London demo, I got to listen to a pre-production Cambridge Audio L/RX. While the setting wasn’t ideal for a full test—plus Cambridge later tweaked the EQ to tame some brightness at high volumes—the system’s raw talent was clear.

The playlist mixed genres, from Prince’s funk to Alice in Chains’ grunge and Hans Zimmer’s epic scores. The L/RX produced clean, rhythmic, and detailed sound, revealing textures and layering with confidence.

Prince’s “1+1+1 is 3” came alive with funky grooves, while the gritty edge of “No Excuses” by Alice in Chains maintained clarity and space between instruments. The epic “Mountains” from Interstellar showed the speakers could handle loud volumes without strain.

One caveat was a slightly bright, sharp tone that could get tiring when cranked up, possibly a trait of this early unit or the demo room acoustics. Cambridge engineers have since adjusted the sound profile, so future versions might sound smoother.

For a quick comparison, KEF LS50 Wireless II was also played briefly. The L/RX easily out-louded the KEFs, offering more volume headroom, but which system nails rhythm and emotion better is a question for a deeper side-by-side test.

Preliminary Verdict: A Promising New Contender

All-in-one wireless speakers are clearly the future, combining convenience with great sound—and Cambridge Audio has thrown its hat into the ring with L/RX.

The first listen revealed enormous potential: powerful sound, compact form, rich features. Whether the L/RX can unseat top players like KEF LS50 Wireless II remains to be seen, but the signs are encouraging.

“Instead of feeling saturated after an hour of listening, I was left wanting more—that's always a good sign.”

FAQ

• How does the Cambridge Audio L/RX compare to KEF LS50 Wireless II in volume?
  The L/RX offers significantly higher maximum volume, easily out-louding the KEF LS50 Wireless II during demonstrations.
• What streaming services are supported on the L/RX?
  The system supports AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Deezer, Qobuz, and Internet radio via its StreamMagic Gen 4 platform.
• Can I connect a turntable to the L/RX?
  Yes, the L/RX has a built-in MM phono preamplifier, allowing direct connection of most vinyl turntables.
• Is the L/RX suitable for small rooms?
  Despite its power, the L/RX’s compact and minimalist design fits well even in modest living spaces.
• Does the L/RX support fully wireless speaker connections?
  Yes, the speakers can connect wirelessly using WiSA HT technology or via a USB-C cable if preferred.

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