Product Information
Connect to your entire system, including wireless and digital, without compromising on the thrill of music, with the deeply impressive Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II.
Building on success
The first CXA81 was a talented all-rounder with a string of awards to its name. The new Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II takes all that’s great about the original and refines it to perfection. At the heart of the latest model is a reference grade ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC (Digital to Analogue Convertor). Combined with a thorough re-engineering of the critical signal path, including the fitment of premium components from end to end, sound quality is purer and more three-dimensional than ever.
Still a powerful performer
Although the DAC and circuitry have been improved, the high spec power supply remains – and it’s just as impressive as ever. The toroidal transformer is a low noise, high efficiency and premium quality device that delivers ample headroom. The over-sized transformer gives the CXA81 Mk II a powerful, dynamic sound and a hefty 80W per channel power output - enough for ‘party level’ sound when the mood takes you.
Connect your digital devices
With its new, reference standard ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC, the CXA81 Mk II optimises the sound from your digital sources. With two optical digital inputs and one coaxial, you can connect up to three digital sources, such as a games console, TV and a CD transport – the Cambridge Audio CXC makes the perfect match.
Wireless HD Bluetooth
It's easy to link to a range of wireless music sources with Bluetooth onboard. Connect to your smartphone and stream from your favourite music streaming services. Alternatively, the high quality wireless link makes an ideal connection for the Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 turntable. The Bluetooth receiver is compatible with aptX HD, giving the highest quality sound possible from Bluetooth, right up to 24bit/48kHz. You also get the benefit of the sound passing through the ESS Sabre DAC, meaning precise, detailed sound from all your streamed music.
Hi-Res Audio via USB
If you enjoy Hi-Res sound, you’ll love the CXA81 Mk II. Using an asynchronous USB socket at the rear, you can connect up to your laptop, PC or server and stream Hi-Res music, right up to studio-quality 24bit/384kHz and DSD256. As well as improving the sound over your computer’s soundcard, the asynchronous ‘direct control’ link also greatly reduces jitter, for lower distortion and more precise audio.
Professional connection
More usually found on 'reference' hi-fi and professional equipment, the CXA81 Mk II boasts balanced XLR inputs. When connected to a suitable source, such as the Cambridge Audio CXN100, this gives a fully balanced connection for the ultimate analogue signal quality. Balanced connections are also less susceptible to signal loss, meaning you can run longer lengths with less distortion.
All for analogue
The Cambridge CXA81 has four line level inputs - enough for all your analogue sources. A pre-amp output is also fitted – ideal for power amp upgrades. Other handy connections include an RCA subwoofer output, headphone socket and connections for two pairs of speakers.
Roon Tested and install ready
A wide range of control sockets make the CXA81 Mk II ideal as part of a more complex home installation. RS-232C, IR input, trigger in/out sockets and Control Bus RCA phonos mean the amp is more than happy to work with a wide range home automation control systems. Plug in a PC or Mac via the USB and you’re also ‘Roon Tested’ for seamless connectivity.
Vibration resistant casing
With rigid, metal construction and low-resonance design, the casing helps shield the player from both mechanical and electrical interference, helping to improve clarity and reduce background noise. Isolating feet help adsorb vibration for a further reduction in distortion.
Iconic finish
Cambridge Audio’s Lunar Grey finish is quickly establishing itself as a signature colour and makes the perfect match for other Cambridge Audio components. The distinctive tear-drop profile gives the CXA81 Mk II a contemporary look and makes it the ideal partner for the CXC CD transport and CXN100 network player.
Make the best possible connection for all your sources and speakers, with the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II.
”Improvements in clarity, precision and spaciousness mean the amply-featured and user-friendly CXN100 streamer remains the one to beat at this price.” ’What Hi-Fi?’ – 5 Star review.
Improving on a winner
Winner of a cabinet full of trophies, the previous CXN network player was something of a legend within its own lifetime. Such was its influence that, in 2023, it was inducted into the What Hi-Fi? ‘Hall of Fame’. The Cambridge Audio CXN100 takes this winning formula and uprates the heart of the electronics for even better sound quality and greater Hi-Res music file compatibility.
Best sound quality yet
At the heart of this Cambridge network player is a brand new DAC (Digital to Analogue Convertor). The ESS Sabre32 Reference device produces higher resolution sound than before, delivering a sound that’s more lifelike than ever. It also features incredibly low distortion, further reducing background noise and letting you hear detail that might previously have been missed.
Compatible with more Hi-Res music files than ever, including MQA
The CXN100 takes a big step up in Hi-Res music file compatibility. The new DAC and software facilitates file streaming to 32-bit/768kHz (up from 24-bit/192kHz) and DSD512 (up from DSD64). This means that you now get access to the highest quality recordings possible. MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) decoding ensures that you can hear Hi-Res music from a wider range of sources, including TIDAL’s top-tier streaming system.
StreamMagic Gen 4 – for a seamless user experience
Developed for over a decade, the latest StreamMagic Gen 4 module and software takes centre stage in this powerful player. Delivering the ideal combination of no-compromise sound quality, absolute signal stability and intuitive app control, it’s one of the very best streaming platforms in the business.
Premium music services, built-in
The CXN100 has a range of premium music streaming services built-in (subscription services may apply). These include Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz and Deezer. With vast music catalogues and access to high quality audio content, these services make the most of the player’s outstanding sound quality.
Stream your way
Whether you’re an Apple or Android fan, the CXN100 has the platform for you. Apple AirPlay 2 and Google’s Chromecast let you tap into both Apple and Google ecosystems – making this network player a seamless part of your system. Alternatively, for a quick and easy solution, you can now pair with the built-in Bluetooth receiver.
Radio made Hi-Res
Thanks to its MPEG-DASH support and, of course, the top quality audio electronics, Internet Radio sounds better than ever. What’s more, the vast choice of radio stations and podcasts, worldwide, leaves traditional FM and DAB radio floundering to compete. Simply select your choice of station via the StreamMagic app and enjoy radio at its very best.
Multiroom support, including Roon
The CXN100 effortless integrates into a wide range of multiroom systems. Compatible with Google Home and Apple AirPlay, it comfortably sits within a Google or Apple system. The player is also Roon Ready. This ensures that it can be incorporated into a mixed-manufacturer, Hi-Res, multiroom music system via Roon’s award-winning platform.
Wide range of input connectivity
Much more than just a wireless streamer, the CXN100 has a wide range of inputs, letting you make use of its premium quality DAC with other sources, too. The Type-B asynchronous USB input gives the best possible connection to your PC or Mac. There’s also a Type-A USB interface for local media devices. You can also boost the sound from your compatible games console, CD player, TV or other device, via the digital optical and coaxial inputs.
Built-in digital pre-amp - just add active speakers
If you're seeking quality hi-fi from a minimal system then the built-in digital pre-amp will appeal. Simply add active speakers via the digital or analogue outputs and you'll be able to control the volume and balance via the CXN100.
XLR Balanced connections for studio-quality link
When it comes to connecting up, the CXN100 is in the pro league. The highlight is the fitment of XLR balanced sockets. When used with a compatible amplifier, such as the matching Cambridge Audio CXA81, these connections give the ultimate analogue link possible, with greatly improved resistance to interference. Other outputs include RCA phono, digital optical and coaxial, giving this network player universal appeal.
Top quality style and finish
The distinctive teardrop profile gives the CXN100 a contemporary look and makes it the ideal partner for the CX digital amplifiers and CD transport. With rigid, metal construction and low-resonance design, the casing helps shield the player from both mechanical and electrical interference, helping to improve clarity and reduce background noise. Isolating feet help adsorb vibration for a further reduction in distortion.
Hear all your digital music at its very best, with the versatile Cambridge Audio CXN100.
”KEF’s Q Concerto Meta are grown-up all-rounders that deliver a top-class performance for the money.” ’What Hi-Fi?’ – 5 Star review.
A classic, reimagined
The original KEF Concerto began life right back in 1969. As a 3-way, larger bookshelf speaker, it was famed for its rich, full-bodied sound and ample bass response. Fast forward 45 years and the latest KEF Q Concerto Meta continues the tradition but, with nearly half a decade’s worth of evolution, is more insightful, more precise and simply more natural sounding than ever. It’s still a 3-way design and it’s still slightly larger than average, and when it comes to all-round ability, the Q Concerto Meta appeals just as widely as ever.
Hear the sound, just as it should be, with MAT
Moving with the times, the KEF Q Concerto Meta is packed with the latest sound enhancing technology. Developed in conjunction with Acoustic Metamaterials Group, the Q Concerto Meta makes use of an exciting technology called MAT (Metamaterial Absorption Technology). The revolutionary material absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the tweeter, for lower distortion and a much purer, more natural sound.
Legendary Uni-Q drive units deliver studio quality sound
KEF’s history includes making some of the most precise-sounding monitor speakers available. Used in recording studios around the world, KEF-branded speakers and other brands using KEF drive units are behind so many classic mixes. Now in its 12th generation, the Uni-Q driver array places the revised tweeter within the middle of the woofer, creating a more cohesive sound. The aluminium woofer is light and rigid – making it fast to respond and entirely faithful to the music playing.
Shadow Flare for enhanced top-end clarity
Derived from KEF’s top-end models, Shadow Flare is a further upgrade for the Q Concerto Meta. Shadow Flare is a finely engineered surface that extends the waveguide effect of the Uni-Q driver array. Minimising the acoustic impact of ‘stray’ soundwaves, it improves clarity and reproduction of delicate details. Subtle nuances, such as the delicate brushwork on cymbals or the intricate overtones of a piano, are clearer than ever with this technology.
Dedicated bass for full-bodied sound
Unusually for this size of speaker, the Q Concerto Meta uses a 3-way configuration, with separate mid-range and bass drivers. A separate mid-range unit benefits vocals, with a clearer, more articulate sound bringing the performance to live. It also means that the woofer concentrates simply on the bass, with the hybrid woofer producing a deeper and more intense bass response than you might expect from this size of speaker.
Choice of sleek satin finish
The KEF Q Concerto Meta features a minimalist design for timeless appeal. Supplied with magnetically attached, colour-matched grilles, the style is crisp and clean whether the grilles are on or off. For the best match for your décor, the speakers are available in Satin Black, Satin White and Walnut finishes.
Hear what’s been missing from your music, with this KEF Q Concerto Meta’s enlightening sound.
Specifications
Reviews
Building on success
The first CXA81 was a talented all-rounder with a string of awards to its name. The new Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II takes all that’s great about the original and refines it to perfection. At the heart of the latest model is a reference grade ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 DAC (Digital to Analogue Convertor). Combined with a thorough re-engineering of the critical signal path, including the fitment of premium components from end to end, sound quality is purer and more three-dimensional than ever.
Still a powerful performer
Although the DAC and circuitry have been improved, the high spec power supply remains – and it’s just as impressive as ever. The toroidal transformer is a low noise, high efficiency and premium quality device that delivers ample headroom. The over-sized transformer gives the CXA81 Mk II a powerful, dynamic sound and a hefty 80W per channel power output - enough for ‘party level’ sound when the mood takes you.
Connect your digital devices
With its new, reference standard ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC, the CXA81 Mk II optimises the sound from your digital sources. With two optical digital inputs and one coaxial, you can connect up to three digital sources, such as a games console, TV and a CD transport – the Cambridge Audio CXC makes the perfect match.
Wireless HD Bluetooth
It's easy to link to a range of wireless music sources with Bluetooth onboard. Connect to your smartphone and stream from your favourite music streaming services. Alternatively, the high quality wireless link makes an ideal connection for the Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 turntable. The Bluetooth receiver is compatible with aptX HD, giving the highest quality sound possible from Bluetooth, right up to 24bit/48kHz. You also get the benefit of the sound passing through the ESS Sabre DAC, meaning precise, detailed sound from all your streamed music.
Hi-Res Audio via USB
If you enjoy Hi-Res sound, you’ll love the CXA81 Mk II. Using an asynchronous USB socket at the rear, you can connect up to your laptop, PC or server and stream Hi-Res music, right up to studio-quality 24bit/384kHz and DSD256. As well as improving the sound over your computer’s soundcard, the asynchronous ‘direct control’ link also greatly reduces jitter, for lower distortion and more precise audio.
Professional connection
More usually found on 'reference' hi-fi and professional equipment, the CXA81 Mk II boasts balanced XLR inputs. When connected to a suitable source, such as the Cambridge Audio CXN100, this gives a fully balanced connection for the ultimate analogue signal quality. Balanced connections are also less susceptible to signal loss, meaning you can run longer lengths with less distortion.
All for analogue
The Cambridge CXA81 has four line level inputs - enough for all your analogue sources. A pre-amp output is also fitted – ideal for power amp upgrades. Other handy connections include an RCA subwoofer output, headphone socket and connections for two pairs of speakers.
Roon Tested and install ready
A wide range of control sockets make the CXA81 Mk II ideal as part of a more complex home installation. RS-232C, IR input, trigger in/out sockets and Control Bus RCA phonos mean the amp is more than happy to work with a wide range home automation control systems. Plug in a PC or Mac via the USB and you’re also ‘Roon Tested’ for seamless connectivity.
Vibration resistant casing
With rigid, metal construction and low-resonance design, the casing helps shield the player from both mechanical and electrical interference, helping to improve clarity and reduce background noise. Isolating feet help adsorb vibration for a further reduction in distortion.
Iconic finish
Cambridge Audio’s Lunar Grey finish is quickly establishing itself as a signature colour and makes the perfect match for other Cambridge Audio components. The distinctive tear-drop profile gives the CXA81 Mk II a contemporary look and makes it the ideal partner for the CXC CD transport and CXN100 network player.
Make the best possible connection for all your sources and speakers, with the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II.
”Improvements in clarity, precision and spaciousness mean the amply-featured and user-friendly CXN100 streamer remains the one to beat at this price.” ’What Hi-Fi?’ – 5 Star review.
Improving on a winner
Winner of a cabinet full of trophies, the previous CXN network player was something of a legend within its own lifetime. Such was its influence that, in 2023, it was inducted into the What Hi-Fi? ‘Hall of Fame’. The Cambridge Audio CXN100 takes this winning formula and uprates the heart of the electronics for even better sound quality and greater Hi-Res music file compatibility.
Best sound quality yet
At the heart of this Cambridge network player is a brand new DAC (Digital to Analogue Convertor). The ESS Sabre32 Reference device produces higher resolution sound than before, delivering a sound that’s more lifelike than ever. It also features incredibly low distortion, further reducing background noise and letting you hear detail that might previously have been missed.
Compatible with more Hi-Res music files than ever, including MQA
The CXN100 takes a big step up in Hi-Res music file compatibility. The new DAC and software facilitates file streaming to 32-bit/768kHz (up from 24-bit/192kHz) and DSD512 (up from DSD64). This means that you now get access to the highest quality recordings possible. MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) decoding ensures that you can hear Hi-Res music from a wider range of sources, including TIDAL’s top-tier streaming system.
StreamMagic Gen 4 – for a seamless user experience
Developed for over a decade, the latest StreamMagic Gen 4 module and software takes centre stage in this powerful player. Delivering the ideal combination of no-compromise sound quality, absolute signal stability and intuitive app control, it’s one of the very best streaming platforms in the business.
Premium music services, built-in
The CXN100 has a range of premium music streaming services built-in (subscription services may apply). These include Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz and Deezer. With vast music catalogues and access to high quality audio content, these services make the most of the player’s outstanding sound quality.
Stream your way
Whether you’re an Apple or Android fan, the CXN100 has the platform for you. Apple AirPlay 2 and Google’s Chromecast let you tap into both Apple and Google ecosystems – making this network player a seamless part of your system. Alternatively, for a quick and easy solution, you can now pair with the built-in Bluetooth receiver.
Radio made Hi-Res
Thanks to its MPEG-DASH support and, of course, the top quality audio electronics, Internet Radio sounds better than ever. What’s more, the vast choice of radio stations and podcasts, worldwide, leaves traditional FM and DAB radio floundering to compete. Simply select your choice of station via the StreamMagic app and enjoy radio at its very best.
Multiroom support, including Roon
The CXN100 effortless integrates into a wide range of multiroom systems. Compatible with Google Home and Apple AirPlay, it comfortably sits within a Google or Apple system. The player is also Roon Ready. This ensures that it can be incorporated into a mixed-manufacturer, Hi-Res, multiroom music system via Roon’s award-winning platform.
Wide range of input connectivity
Much more than just a wireless streamer, the CXN100 has a wide range of inputs, letting you make use of its premium quality DAC with other sources, too. The Type-B asynchronous USB input gives the best possible connection to your PC or Mac. There’s also a Type-A USB interface for local media devices. You can also boost the sound from your compatible games console, CD player, TV or other device, via the digital optical and coaxial inputs.
Built-in digital pre-amp - just add active speakers
If you're seeking quality hi-fi from a minimal system then the built-in digital pre-amp will appeal. Simply add active speakers via the digital or analogue outputs and you'll be able to control the volume and balance via the CXN100.
XLR Balanced connections for studio-quality link
When it comes to connecting up, the CXN100 is in the pro league. The highlight is the fitment of XLR balanced sockets. When used with a compatible amplifier, such as the matching Cambridge Audio CXA81, these connections give the ultimate analogue link possible, with greatly improved resistance to interference. Other outputs include RCA phono, digital optical and coaxial, giving this network player universal appeal.
Top quality style and finish
The distinctive teardrop profile gives the CXN100 a contemporary look and makes it the ideal partner for the CX digital amplifiers and CD transport. With rigid, metal construction and low-resonance design, the casing helps shield the player from both mechanical and electrical interference, helping to improve clarity and reduce background noise. Isolating feet help adsorb vibration for a further reduction in distortion.
Hear all your digital music at its very best, with the versatile Cambridge Audio CXN100.
”KEF’s Q Concerto Meta are grown-up all-rounders that deliver a top-class performance for the money.” ’What Hi-Fi?’ – 5 Star review.
A classic, reimagined
The original KEF Concerto began life right back in 1969. As a 3-way, larger bookshelf speaker, it was famed for its rich, full-bodied sound and ample bass response. Fast forward 45 years and the latest KEF Q Concerto Meta continues the tradition but, with nearly half a decade’s worth of evolution, is more insightful, more precise and simply more natural sounding than ever. It’s still a 3-way design and it’s still slightly larger than average, and when it comes to all-round ability, the Q Concerto Meta appeals just as widely as ever.
Hear the sound, just as it should be, with MAT
Moving with the times, the KEF Q Concerto Meta is packed with the latest sound enhancing technology. Developed in conjunction with Acoustic Metamaterials Group, the Q Concerto Meta makes use of an exciting technology called MAT (Metamaterial Absorption Technology). The revolutionary material absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the tweeter, for lower distortion and a much purer, more natural sound.
Legendary Uni-Q drive units deliver studio quality sound
KEF’s history includes making some of the most precise-sounding monitor speakers available. Used in recording studios around the world, KEF-branded speakers and other brands using KEF drive units are behind so many classic mixes. Now in its 12th generation, the Uni-Q driver array places the revised tweeter within the middle of the woofer, creating a more cohesive sound. The aluminium woofer is light and rigid – making it fast to respond and entirely faithful to the music playing.
Shadow Flare for enhanced top-end clarity
Derived from KEF’s top-end models, Shadow Flare is a further upgrade for the Q Concerto Meta. Shadow Flare is a finely engineered surface that extends the waveguide effect of the Uni-Q driver array. Minimising the acoustic impact of ‘stray’ soundwaves, it improves clarity and reproduction of delicate details. Subtle nuances, such as the delicate brushwork on cymbals or the intricate overtones of a piano, are clearer than ever with this technology.
Dedicated bass for full-bodied sound
Unusually for this size of speaker, the Q Concerto Meta uses a 3-way configuration, with separate mid-range and bass drivers. A separate mid-range unit benefits vocals, with a clearer, more articulate sound bringing the performance to live. It also means that the woofer concentrates simply on the bass, with the hybrid woofer producing a deeper and more intense bass response than you might expect from this size of speaker.
Choice of sleek satin finish
The KEF Q Concerto Meta features a minimalist design for timeless appeal. Supplied with magnetically attached, colour-matched grilles, the style is crisp and clean whether the grilles are on or off. For the best match for your décor, the speakers are available in Satin Black, Satin White and Walnut finishes.
Hear what’s been missing from your music, with this KEF Q Concerto Meta’s enlightening sound.
