Products must be brand new, with a similar guarantee and in stock
Cambridge Audio AZUR 851N (Black)
Network Music Player/Streamer
In stock
£1,399
”A premium music streamer with the performance to match.”– ‘What Hi-Fi’ 2018 award winner.
Putting sound quality first
As Cambridge's range-topping network music payer you'd expect the Azur 851N to be pretty special under the lid, and that's exactly what it is! The highest quality sound comes from the use of audiophile quality components and tireless research and testing. As an 8-series design, the 851N uses a substantial toroidal power transformer at its centre. This enables clean, effortless power to be supplied to the other components, allowing them to give their best. High quality Analogue Devices AD1955 DACs (Digital to Analogue Convertors) are configured in dual-mono mode, ensuring maximum channel separation and precise sound-staging.
Fully equipped for High Resolution Audio
At the heart of the 851N is a brand new Zander processor that facilitates 24-bit/192kHz file high resolution streaming from most methods - even Wi-Fi. On top of this, the 851N is compatible with a huge range of high resolution files, including ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, WMA, MP3, AAC, HE AAC, AAC+ and OGG Vorbis. The USB audio input also enables streaming of up to 24-bit/192kHz audio and even supports DSD streams from your computer. Originally designed for SACD players, DSD (Direct Stream Digital) encoded music files offer the same detailed, transparent sound as other high resolution file formats, giving you even greater choice of listening.
AFT2 Up-Sampling for the ultimate detail and least jitter
The Cambridge 851N improves sound quality still further with an Anagram Technologies AFT2 24 bit/384 kHz up-sampling circuit. ATF (Adaptive Time Filtering) up-sampling 'stretches' the music to give the highest resolution possible. Up-sampling sound gives a smoother, more relaxed sound quality with added detail. You'll also notice enhanced depth of sound and a more natural quality without the "edge" that can afflict digital music. You'll hear every detail, including every deep breath, squeaky chair and flutter of sheet music; in short, it's like being there for real! AFT2 even aids native 24-bit/192kHz recordings with a faster sampling rate for even less jitter.
What is ATF Upsampling Technology? Click here to learn more.
Connect to Internet radio and Spotify Connect
In addition to supporting over 20,000, easy to access Internet radio stations, the Azur 851N is also compatible with the most popular music streaming services. Spotify is the world's most popular streaming service and the Azur 851N has Spotify Connect integrated into it. If you subscribe to Spotify Premium, you can control the Cambridge with the powerful Spotify Connect app on your phone or tablet. Should you prefer other music services, the 851N also supports Napster, BBC iPlayer for radio, Aupeo! Pandora and Rhapsody.
AirPlay and optional Bluetooth
In addition to comprehensive streaming capabilities over LAN, Wi-Fi and USB, the 851N is also compatible with Apple's AirPlay streaming. Use it with your iPhone, iPad PC or Mac and wireless stream your iTunes library or other compatible music services. Connect up the optional BT100 dongle and you'll be able to stream your music from any smartphone, tablet or other device with Bluetooth built-in.
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 Azur 851N.
Fully connected, including XLR balanced sockets and 5 USBs
When it comes to connectivity the 851N lives up to its 8-series 'reference' billing. The highlight is the fitment of XLR balanced sockets. When used with a compatible amplifier, such as the matching Cambridge Audio 851A, these connections give the ultimate link possible, with greatly improved resistance to interference. There are also AES/EBU balanced digital input/output sockets for the ultimate digital connections. Added to this there are no fewer than five USB interfaces! The front-mounted socket is ideal for connecting temporary devices such as USB media sticks. At the back, three interfaces take care of more permanently connected media devices plus the optional Bluetooth dongle port. A Type B asynchronous USB input is provided for the direct connection of your PC or Mac. This makes the ideal connection for hooking up your computer as it will effectively 'control' the PC's output for the best sound quality possible. This greatly reduces jitter and gives the highest quality sound possible from your computer audio. Finally, both optical and coaxial digital sockets are provided for both inputs (x2) and outputs. This lets you connect up other digital components and take advantage of the quality DAC built into the 851N.
Intuitive app interface and colour display
With a free Apple/Android app you have effortless control over the radio stations with the comfort of your iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad or Android device. The app also seamlessly manages all your streaming content and is, in effect, a very user friendly way of bringing together and controlling all your digital sources. Boasting a new colour screen, it's now possible to display album art on the player. This makes it a pleasure to browse for albums and artists by whichever control system you use.
Full metal casing with extensive damping
Using a full metal casing, with rounded edges, doesn't just look and feel good, it helps the sound, too. The case is rigid and well damped, meaning that it won't resonate unhelpfully. The thick aluminium front panel looks the part and also acts as a shield against electrical interference from sources such as dimmers and RF devices. All these details combine to create a network player that not only looks stylish but also offers exceptional resistance to both mechanical and electrical interference.
A first-rate performer in every respect, the flagship Cambridge Azur 851N network player is the audiophile's choice of streamer.
Click here for link to our blog review
Putting sound quality first
As Cambridge's range-topping network music payer you'd expect the Azur 851N to be pretty special under the lid, and that's exactly what it is! The highest quality sound comes from the use of audiophile quality components and tireless research and testing. As an 8-series design, the 851N uses a substantial toroidal power transformer at its centre. This enables clean, effortless power to be supplied to the other components, allowing them to give their best. High quality Analogue Devices AD1955 DACs (Digital to Analogue Convertors) are configured in dual-mono mode, ensuring maximum channel separation and precise sound-staging.
Fully equipped for High Resolution Audio
At the heart of the 851N is a brand new Zander processor that facilitates 24-bit/192kHz file high resolution streaming from most methods - even Wi-Fi. On top of this, the 851N is compatible with a huge range of high resolution files, including ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, WMA, MP3, AAC, HE AAC, AAC+ and OGG Vorbis. The USB audio input also enables streaming of up to 24-bit/192kHz audio and even supports DSD streams from your computer. Originally designed for SACD players, DSD (Direct Stream Digital) encoded music files offer the same detailed, transparent sound as other high resolution file formats, giving you even greater choice of listening.
AFT2 Up-Sampling for the ultimate detail and least jitter
The Cambridge 851N improves sound quality still further with an Anagram Technologies AFT2 24 bit/384 kHz up-sampling circuit. ATF (Adaptive Time Filtering) up-sampling 'stretches' the music to give the highest resolution possible. Up-sampling sound gives a smoother, more relaxed sound quality with added detail. You'll also notice enhanced depth of sound and a more natural quality without the "edge" that can afflict digital music. You'll hear every detail, including every deep breath, squeaky chair and flutter of sheet music; in short, it's like being there for real! AFT2 even aids native 24-bit/192kHz recordings with a faster sampling rate for even less jitter.
What is ATF Upsampling Technology? Click here to learn more.
Connect to Internet radio and Spotify Connect
In addition to supporting over 20,000, easy to access Internet radio stations, the Azur 851N is also compatible with the most popular music streaming services. Spotify is the world's most popular streaming service and the Azur 851N has Spotify Connect integrated into it. If you subscribe to Spotify Premium, you can control the Cambridge with the powerful Spotify Connect app on your phone or tablet. Should you prefer other music services, the 851N also supports Napster, BBC iPlayer for radio, Aupeo! Pandora and Rhapsody.
AirPlay and optional Bluetooth
In addition to comprehensive streaming capabilities over LAN, Wi-Fi and USB, the 851N is also compatible with Apple's AirPlay streaming. Use it with your iPhone, iPad PC or Mac and wireless stream your iTunes library or other compatible music services. Connect up the optional BT100 dongle and you'll be able to stream your music from any smartphone, tablet or other device with Bluetooth built-in.
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 Azur 851N.
Fully connected, including XLR balanced sockets and 5 USBs
When it comes to connectivity the 851N lives up to its 8-series 'reference' billing. The highlight is the fitment of XLR balanced sockets. When used with a compatible amplifier, such as the matching Cambridge Audio 851A, these connections give the ultimate link possible, with greatly improved resistance to interference. There are also AES/EBU balanced digital input/output sockets for the ultimate digital connections. Added to this there are no fewer than five USB interfaces! The front-mounted socket is ideal for connecting temporary devices such as USB media sticks. At the back, three interfaces take care of more permanently connected media devices plus the optional Bluetooth dongle port. A Type B asynchronous USB input is provided for the direct connection of your PC or Mac. This makes the ideal connection for hooking up your computer as it will effectively 'control' the PC's output for the best sound quality possible. This greatly reduces jitter and gives the highest quality sound possible from your computer audio. Finally, both optical and coaxial digital sockets are provided for both inputs (x2) and outputs. This lets you connect up other digital components and take advantage of the quality DAC built into the 851N.
Intuitive app interface and colour display
With a free Apple/Android app you have effortless control over the radio stations with the comfort of your iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad or Android device. The app also seamlessly manages all your streaming content and is, in effect, a very user friendly way of bringing together and controlling all your digital sources. Boasting a new colour screen, it's now possible to display album art on the player. This makes it a pleasure to browse for albums and artists by whichever control system you use.
Full metal casing with extensive damping
Using a full metal casing, with rounded edges, doesn't just look and feel good, it helps the sound, too. The case is rigid and well damped, meaning that it won't resonate unhelpfully. The thick aluminium front panel looks the part and also acts as a shield against electrical interference from sources such as dimmers and RF devices. All these details combine to create a network player that not only looks stylish but also offers exceptional resistance to both mechanical and electrical interference.
A first-rate performer in every respect, the flagship Cambridge Azur 851N network player is the audiophile's choice of streamer.
Click here for link to our blog review
6 Year Supercare £139.85
Add our Supercare to your basket when you check out. We'll cover your items for 6 years and give you your money back if unused.
Lowest price guaranteed!
We’ll beat any genuine advertised price, even from the web & give you up to £100!
We're confident that our prices are amongst the very keenest out there, so we've made it as easy as pie to qualify for our Price Beat. Richer Sounds also guarantees to beat web prices, and Price Beat is even valid for 7 days after purchase, so if you've seen a cheaper price, let us know, and we'll happily beat that price by up to £100!
Products must be brand new, boxed, carry a comparable guarantee and be in stock at time of purchase. Richer Sounds price used to compare will be net of any voucher / trade in discounts.
T&Cs apply
Products must be brand new, boxed, carry a comparable guarantee and be in stock at time of purchase. Richer Sounds price used to compare will be net of any voucher / trade in discounts.
T&Cs apply
Free UK delivery
Next day delivery and timed options available. Please see checkout for further details.
Buy now, pay later available
on purchases over £500
We offer 6 month interest free options. Call or ask in-store for details
For purchases over £500, pay a 10% deposit now and the balance in 6 months. Pay the balance in full before the end of the 6 months and there is no interest to pay whatsoever, just a one-off settlement fee of £29. Find out more
Disabled assistance
Richer Sounds are happy to offer FREE delivery on all our products to blind, partially sighted and disabled customers.
Please place orders online, then contact webaftersales@richersounds.com who will advise on how to arrange the refund of your delivery charge
Richer Sounds exclusive model
”A premium music streamer with the performance to match.”– ‘What Hi-Fi’ 2018 award winner.Putting sound quality first
As Cambridge's range-topping network music payer you'd expect the Azur 851N to be pretty special under the lid, and that's exactly what it is! The highest quality sound comes from the use of audiophile quality components and tireless research and testing. As an 8-series design, the 851N uses a substantial toroidal power transformer at its centre. This enables clean, effortless power to be supplied to the other components, allowing them to give their best. High quality Analogue Devices AD1955 DACs (Digital to Analogue Convertors) are configured in dual-mono mode, ensuring maximum channel separation and precise sound-staging.
Fully equipped for High Resolution Audio
At the heart of the 851N is a brand new Zander processor that facilitates 24-bit/192kHz file high resolution streaming from most methods - even Wi-Fi. On top of this, the 851N is compatible with a huge range of high resolution files, including ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, WMA, MP3, AAC, HE AAC, AAC+ and OGG Vorbis. The USB audio input also enables streaming of up to 24-bit/192kHz audio and even supports DSD streams from your computer. Originally designed for SACD players, DSD (Direct Stream Digital) encoded music files offer the same detailed, transparent sound as other high resolution file formats, giving you even greater choice of listening.
AFT2 Up-Sampling for the ultimate detail and least jitter
The Cambridge 851N improves sound quality still further with an Anagram Technologies AFT2 24 bit/384 kHz up-sampling circuit. ATF (Adaptive Time Filtering) up-sampling 'stretches' the music to give the highest resolution possible. Up-sampling sound gives a smoother, more relaxed sound quality with added detail. You'll also notice enhanced depth of sound and a more natural quality without the "edge" that can afflict digital music. You'll hear every detail, including every deep breath, squeaky chair and flutter of sheet music; in short, it's like being there for real! AFT2 even aids native 24-bit/192kHz recordings with a faster sampling rate for even less jitter.
What is ATF Upsampling Technology? Click here to learn more.
Connect to Internet radio and Spotify Connect
In addition to supporting over 20,000, easy to access Internet radio stations, the Azur 851N is also compatible with the most popular music streaming services. Spotify is the world's most popular streaming service and the Azur 851N has Spotify Connect integrated into it. If you subscribe to Spotify Premium, you can control the Cambridge with the powerful Spotify Connect app on your phone or tablet. Should you prefer other music services, the 851N also supports Napster, BBC iPlayer for radio, Aupeo! Pandora and Rhapsody.
AirPlay and optional Bluetooth
In addition to comprehensive streaming capabilities over LAN, Wi-Fi and USB, the 851N is also compatible with Apple's AirPlay streaming. Use it with your iPhone, iPad PC or Mac and wireless stream your iTunes library or other compatible music services. Connect up the optional BT100 dongle and you'll be able to stream your music from any smartphone, tablet or other device with Bluetooth built-in.
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 Azur 851N.
Fully connected, including XLR balanced sockets and 5 USBs
When it comes to connectivity the 851N lives up to its 8-series 'reference' billing. The highlight is the fitment of XLR balanced sockets. When used with a compatible amplifier, such as the matching Cambridge Audio 851A, these connections give the ultimate link possible, with greatly improved resistance to interference. There are also AES/EBU balanced digital input/output sockets for the ultimate digital connections. Added to this there are no fewer than five USB interfaces! The front-mounted socket is ideal for connecting temporary devices such as USB media sticks. At the back, three interfaces take care of more permanently connected media devices plus the optional Bluetooth dongle port. A Type B asynchronous USB input is provided for the direct connection of your PC or Mac. This makes the ideal connection for hooking up your computer as it will effectively 'control' the PC's output for the best sound quality possible. This greatly reduces jitter and gives the highest quality sound possible from your computer audio. Finally, both optical and coaxial digital sockets are provided for both inputs (x2) and outputs. This lets you connect up other digital components and take advantage of the quality DAC built into the 851N.
Intuitive app interface and colour display
With a free Apple/Android app you have effortless control over the radio stations with the comfort of your iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad or Android device. The app also seamlessly manages all your streaming content and is, in effect, a very user friendly way of bringing together and controlling all your digital sources. Boasting a new colour screen, it's now possible to display album art on the player. This makes it a pleasure to browse for albums and artists by whichever control system you use.
Full metal casing with extensive damping
Using a full metal casing, with rounded edges, doesn't just look and feel good, it helps the sound, too. The case is rigid and well damped, meaning that it won't resonate unhelpfully. The thick aluminium front panel looks the part and also acts as a shield against electrical interference from sources such as dimmers and RF devices. All these details combine to create a network player that not only looks stylish but also offers exceptional resistance to both mechanical and electrical interference.
A first-rate performer in every respect, the flagship Cambridge Azur 851N network player is the audiophile's choice of streamer.
Click here for link to our blog review
Apple AirPlay
Yes
Audio Inputs
6 (AES/EBU, coaxial x 2, optical x 2, USB)
Audio Outputs
4 (coaxial, optical, balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA)
Bluetooth
Optional
Dimensions WxDxH (mm)
430 x 360 x 115
DLNA Compliant
No
HDMI
No
Headphone Output
No
High Resolution Audio
Yes
Power Consumption - Standby
1
Pre Output
Digital pre amp
Remote Control
yes
Smart Remote Control
No
Smartphone control
Yes
App Control
Yes
Text Display
yes
Tone Controls
No
Tuner Radio
Internet
USB
4
USB Input
1
Weight (KG)
8
Wi-Fi Built In
yes
Wireless Connection
Yes
XLR Balanced Outputs
Yes
XLR Inputs
AES/EBU Balanced
Brand
Cambridge Audio
Colour
Black
Rated 5 out of
5
by
justagirlwholovesmusic from
Fantastic - 851N/851W & CXC
I have finally completed my system, running the 851N as the central hub, routed to the 851W power Amp and CA CXC to the 851N. Balanced interconnects from 851N to 851W.
The sound is beautiful, richly detailed, with a lovely warmth. The 3D stereo image is fantastic.
As a streamer, the 851N works very well, ipod, laptop etc all link well via the Blue tooth dongle. I have to say I am most taken back by the quality of the DAC, extremely pleased. My system is singing :).
Date published: 2018-09-13
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Anonymous from
Cambridge 851N - Great piece of Kit
Only had the streamer for a couple of weeks but I can safely say it ticks all the boxes. Build quality, ease of connectivity and the sound.
I am using it with Tidal and am over the moon with the whole package.
I have also connected it to my Arcam CD player and the DAC’s produce a great sound, although now I have listened to Tidal I think my CD player is getting dusty.
Thanks Richer Sounds Manchester for the help and advice in helping me choose a Great piece of kit”.
Date published: 2018-08-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
pablo243 from
Really good piece of kit.
Bought this to upgrade my old Marantz network streamer. Very easy to setup, although i didn’t use the wi-fi dongle, and have it plugged into my network. Easy to use, and has a nice clear screen which is a big improvement over the old kit. Played all the files i have given it, from mp3’s to 24bit high def tracks, and all are played with impressive sound quality.
Date published: 2018-07-27
Rated 5 out of
5
by
John 49 from
Cambridge Azur 851N
I have had the 851N for a couple of weeks now and in a nutshell it is brilliant. Upsampling gives whatever source you put through it that extra polish to the presentation. If you are in the market for this type of unit “DO” make sure you listen to the 851N.
Date published: 2018-07-02
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Lymeswold from
Stunning Network Player
Been living with the Azur for just over a month having upgraded from a CXN and WOW what a difference. Level of detail and deep controlled bass is outstanding. Really makes the sound three dimensional especially with HI Res 24 bit Flac files.
Running this wonderful unit with an Audionote Oto Single ended valve amp and Kerr Acoustic K100 Transmission Line speakers.
Date published: 2018-05-28
Rated 5 out of
5
by
jarvop from
good sound
Cambridge Audio products are usually excellent sounding and the Azur 851N is no exception .
The music has all the dynamics/lucidity/depth and space that you would want.
I am very gad to have bought it and would heartily recommend it!
Date published: 2018-05-11
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Martin2964 from
Absolutely awesome sound - that's all that counts
Being of a certain age, all my music is in 30 years of CDs and 10 years of LPs before that. If I were my children and didn't own any physical music the calculation would be different, but over the years I have come back to it being all about sound quality - and therefore no streamer is worth having if it can't at least match CD quality. And up to now every one I've listened to (including big names like, er, Naim, haven't cut it. On the other hand, if I could just have access to just about every record ever made at the same sound quality or better than my CDs, well that might just be worth paying for.... The rest of my system isn't so amazing - 15 year old Arcam amp and CD player, plus stand-top Dynaudio speakers - all cost about £3,000 in 2002, but I've never tired of the sound it makes. I have now had the Azur 851N for about 4 months so feel I've test driven it properly and my conclusion is simply this - the sound is consistently fabulous. And I'm just using Spotify. I tend to agree it's odd that it's not set up for Tidal and the App for the 851N itself isn't great but I haven't had any of the usability problems that others mention at all. I play everything over the Spotify app on iphone or ipad with Airplay and keep hearing detail I hadn't picked up on my CDs, whilst the treble/bass balance is spot on (as I've got older bass can sound too boomy, but if you detune it everything sounds light and brittle - I don't get any of that with the 851N). I guess the ultimate acid test is - for the same music do I choose to play CD or stream it now - and the answer is I now stream. The 851N is undoubtedly expensive but anything that couldn't beat my CDs for quality wouldn't be worth having. This does and therefore is.
Date published: 2018-04-29
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Stumps72 from
Impressive all round.
Excellent purchase. Makes everything you feed it sound better than ever. The upsampling works flawlessly and even the radio sounds stunning. I'm using it as the hub of my system as everything is connected to it and as a pre-amp I'm struggling to find fault with it. Build quality is impressive too,which you'd expect at the price. Speaking of which,it is pricey but well worth the money if you can stretch to it. It hasn't disappointed. At all.
Date published: 2018-04-28
£1,399
Cambridge Audio Network Music Player/Streamer is rated
out of
5 by
42.
6 Year Supercare £139.85
Add our Supercare to your basket when you check out. We'll cover your items for 6 years and give you your money back if unused.
6 YEAR SUPERCARE COSTS JUST £9.99 ON ALL ITEMS UNDER £100, OR 10% OF PURCHASE PRICE ON ANYTHING OVER £100.
We think you’ll agree that our Supercare guarantee offers fantastic value. What’s more, if you don’t use our it in the 6 year period, we’ll refund the cost of it. You really can’t say fairer than that!
Plus, if we can’t fix a fault, we will give you a like-for-like replacement.
Find out full details here.
Lowest price guaranteed!
We’ll beat any genuine advertised price, even from the web & give you up to £100!
We're confident that our prices are amongst the very keenest out there, so we've made it as easy as pie to qualify for our Price Beat. Richer Sounds also guarantees to beat web prices, and Price Beat is even valid for 7 days after purchase, so if you've seen a cheaper price, let us know, and we'll happily beat that price by up to £100!
Products must be brand new, boxed, carry a comparable guarantee and be in stock at time of purchase. Richer Sounds price used to compare will be net of any voucher / trade in discounts.
T&Cs apply
Products must be brand new, boxed, carry a comparable guarantee and be in stock at time of purchase. Richer Sounds price used to compare will be net of any voucher / trade in discounts.
T&Cs apply
Free UK delivery
Next day delivery and timed options available. Please see checkout for further details.
Buy now, pay later available
on purchases over £500
We offer 6 month interest free options. Call or ask in-store for details
For purchases over £500, pay a 10% deposit now and the balance in 6 months. Pay the balance in full before the end of the 6 months and there is no interest to pay whatsoever, just a one-off settlement fee of £29. Find out more
Disabled assistance
Richer Sounds are happy to offer FREE delivery on all our products to blind, partially sighted and disabled customers.
Please place orders online, then contact webaftersales@richersounds.com who will advise on how to arrange the refund of your delivery charge