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Cambridge Audio EDGE NQ
Network Music Player/Streamer/Pre-Amp
In stock
0% Interest Free Credit *
£3,499
”Simply put, if we had a budget of £3500 for a pre-amp and streamer, we’d buy the Edge NQ.”– ‘What Hi-Fi’ – 5 Star review. Tested at £3500
A reference standard for streaming music
Featuring the highest quality digital components and a revolutionary pre-amp design, the Cambridge Audio Edge NQ meets audiophile standards for sound quality.
Sound first principle
Painstaking developed over many years, the Edge NQ was tuned not by machine but by human ear. Once perfected, the end result delivers perfect musical balance with nothing added or taken away. With every component selected by listening session, the Edge NQ sounds closer to live music than ever. If you want to hear what the musician hears, listen to this.
Audiophile pre-amp design
Using a unique circuit board, the Edge NQ features DC coupled topology to replace conventional capacitors. A finely engineered, solid-state volume control matches the board to give the cleanest signal path and the lowest level of distortion.
Award-winning streaming software
As early pioneers of digital streaming, there’s few that produce music streaming software as good as Cambridge Audio. The latest version of the award-winning StreamMagic system features a faster chipset with support for 24bit/192kHz and DSD128 Hi-Res music files.
Stream it all
Designed to be amongst the most flexible music streamers in its class, the Edge NQ covers all the music sources you might need. Chromecast, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Spotify Connect (Spotify Premium account required) and Internet radio are all covered. On the socket front, HDMI, multi-USB, balanced XLR, optical, coaxial and RCA phono are all present and correct, making this surely the best-connected streamer in its class.
Chromecast built-in
With Google’s Chromecast built-in, you can stream music, podcasts and audio apps, including Google Play, at the touch of a button. Stream wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet or laptop and enjoy music up to 24bit/96kHz Hi-Res quality.
High resolution Bluetooth
With support for aptX, the Bluetooth receiver built-in gets the best from your smartphone or tablet. This wireless connection gets close to CD quality while offering the convenience of streaming music straight from your device.
The highest level of digital streaming – via USB
If you’ve got a precious digital music library stored on your laptop or PC then the very best way to access it is via USB. The USB Audio Class 2.0 interface supports up to 32-bit/384kHz or DSD256 for effortless Hi-Res music playback.
Studio grade XLR balanced inputs and outputs
If you prefer analogue connectivity then the Edge NQ has that covered, too. A set of XLR balanced inputs lets you connect a suitable CD player with studio grade precision. Balanced cables offer better shielding and a more stable signal, letting you hear every detail that the Edge NQ is capable of.
Connect your TV via HDMI
When your streamer sounds this good it would be a shame not to let your TV share the benefit. An HDMI with ARC (Audio Return Channel) means you can connect up your TV and benefit from its audio being played through the pre-amp – MTV will never have sounded so good!
Your other digital and analogue devices – fully connected
Thanks to built-in DACs (Digital to Analogue Convertors), the Edge NQ enhances the sound of your digital components. Plug in up to three devices, such as CD/DVD player, games console and set-top box and you’ll get a significant upgrade in sound. Music stored on memory sticks can easily be connected via the USB A-Type interface at the back. For analogue sources, there’s an additional two pairs of phono RCA inputs – perfect for connecting a quality phono stage.
Perfect partner
Designed to match the Edge W power amp, the Edge NQ provides the brains to the W’s considerable brawn. With the two sharing the same development process and sonic tuning, the sound signature of both is perfectly matched.
You’ve heard the rest, now hear the best – Cambridge Audio has the Edge.
A reference standard for streaming music
Featuring the highest quality digital components and a revolutionary pre-amp design, the Cambridge Audio Edge NQ meets audiophile standards for sound quality.
Sound first principle
Painstaking developed over many years, the Edge NQ was tuned not by machine but by human ear. Once perfected, the end result delivers perfect musical balance with nothing added or taken away. With every component selected by listening session, the Edge NQ sounds closer to live music than ever. If you want to hear what the musician hears, listen to this.
Audiophile pre-amp design
Using a unique circuit board, the Edge NQ features DC coupled topology to replace conventional capacitors. A finely engineered, solid-state volume control matches the board to give the cleanest signal path and the lowest level of distortion.
Award-winning streaming software
As early pioneers of digital streaming, there’s few that produce music streaming software as good as Cambridge Audio. The latest version of the award-winning StreamMagic system features a faster chipset with support for 24bit/192kHz and DSD128 Hi-Res music files.
Stream it all
Designed to be amongst the most flexible music streamers in its class, the Edge NQ covers all the music sources you might need. Chromecast, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Spotify Connect (Spotify Premium account required) and Internet radio are all covered. On the socket front, HDMI, multi-USB, balanced XLR, optical, coaxial and RCA phono are all present and correct, making this surely the best-connected streamer in its class.
Chromecast built-in
With Google’s Chromecast built-in, you can stream music, podcasts and audio apps, including Google Play, at the touch of a button. Stream wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet or laptop and enjoy music up to 24bit/96kHz Hi-Res quality.
High resolution Bluetooth
With support for aptX, the Bluetooth receiver built-in gets the best from your smartphone or tablet. This wireless connection gets close to CD quality while offering the convenience of streaming music straight from your device.
The highest level of digital streaming – via USB
If you’ve got a precious digital music library stored on your laptop or PC then the very best way to access it is via USB. The USB Audio Class 2.0 interface supports up to 32-bit/384kHz or DSD256 for effortless Hi-Res music playback.
Studio grade XLR balanced inputs and outputs
If you prefer analogue connectivity then the Edge NQ has that covered, too. A set of XLR balanced inputs lets you connect a suitable CD player with studio grade precision. Balanced cables offer better shielding and a more stable signal, letting you hear every detail that the Edge NQ is capable of.
Connect your TV via HDMI
When your streamer sounds this good it would be a shame not to let your TV share the benefit. An HDMI with ARC (Audio Return Channel) means you can connect up your TV and benefit from its audio being played through the pre-amp – MTV will never have sounded so good!
Your other digital and analogue devices – fully connected
Thanks to built-in DACs (Digital to Analogue Convertors), the Edge NQ enhances the sound of your digital components. Plug in up to three devices, such as CD/DVD player, games console and set-top box and you’ll get a significant upgrade in sound. Music stored on memory sticks can easily be connected via the USB A-Type interface at the back. For analogue sources, there’s an additional two pairs of phono RCA inputs – perfect for connecting a quality phono stage.
Perfect partner
Designed to match the Edge W power amp, the Edge NQ provides the brains to the W’s considerable brawn. With the two sharing the same development process and sonic tuning, the sound signature of both is perfectly matched.
You’ve heard the rest, now hear the best – Cambridge Audio has the Edge.
6 Year Supercare Guarantee
£349.85
Add our Supercare Guarantee 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
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
All products that are available to purchase on the Richer Sounds website can be delivered free to blind, partially sighted or those with a disability.
Please contact web after sales for more info.
For delivery of in-store only deals, please contact your local store for more details.
T&Cs apply - see our delivery page.
For delivery of in-store only deals, please contact your local store for more details.
T&Cs apply - see our delivery page.
* 18 months 0% Interest Free Credit is available on this Network Music Player/Streamer/Pre-Amp instore and via telesales, please ask or call for details. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to status. Click here for more info. Offer excludes Clearance, Refurbished and Open Box products.
A reference standard for streaming music
Featuring the highest quality digital components and a revolutionary pre-amp design, the Cambridge Audio Edge NQ meets audiophile standards for sound quality.
Sound first principle
Painstaking developed over many years, the Edge NQ was tuned not by machine but by human ear. Once perfected, the end result delivers perfect musical balance with nothing added or taken away. With every component selected by listening session, the Edge NQ sounds closer to live music than ever. If you want to hear what the musician hears, listen to this.
Audiophile pre-amp design
Using a unique circuit board, the Edge NQ features DC coupled topology to replace conventional capacitors. A finely engineered, solid-state volume control matches the board to give the cleanest signal path and the lowest level of distortion.
Award-winning streaming software
As early pioneers of digital streaming, there’s few that produce music streaming software as good as Cambridge Audio. The latest version of the award-winning StreamMagic system features a faster chipset with support for 24bit/192kHz and DSD128 Hi-Res music files.
Stream it all
Designed to be amongst the most flexible music streamers in its class, the Edge NQ covers all the music sources you might need. Chromecast, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Spotify Connect (Spotify Premium account required) and Internet radio are all covered. On the socket front, HDMI, multi-USB, balanced XLR, optical, coaxial and RCA phono are all present and correct, making this surely the best-connected streamer in its class.
Chromecast built-in
With Google’s Chromecast built-in, you can stream music, podcasts and audio apps, including Google Play, at the touch of a button. Stream wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet or laptop and enjoy music up to 24bit/96kHz Hi-Res quality.
High resolution Bluetooth
With support for aptX, the Bluetooth receiver built-in gets the best from your smartphone or tablet. This wireless connection gets close to CD quality while offering the convenience of streaming music straight from your device.
The highest level of digital streaming – via USB
If you’ve got a precious digital music library stored on your laptop or PC then the very best way to access it is via USB. The USB Audio Class 2.0 interface supports up to 32-bit/384kHz or DSD256 for effortless Hi-Res music playback.
Studio grade XLR balanced inputs and outputs
If you prefer analogue connectivity then the Edge NQ has that covered, too. A set of XLR balanced inputs lets you connect a suitable CD player with studio grade precision. Balanced cables offer better shielding and a more stable signal, letting you hear every detail that the Edge NQ is capable of.
Connect your TV via HDMI
When your streamer sounds this good it would be a shame not to let your TV share the benefit. An HDMI with ARC (Audio Return Channel) means you can connect up your TV and benefit from its audio being played through the pre-amp – MTV will never have sounded so good!
Your other digital and analogue devices – fully connected
Thanks to built-in DACs (Digital to Analogue Convertors), the Edge NQ enhances the sound of your digital components. Plug in up to three devices, such as CD/DVD player, games console and set-top box and you’ll get a significant upgrade in sound. Music stored on memory sticks can easily be connected via the USB A-Type interface at the back. For analogue sources, there’s an additional two pairs of phono RCA inputs – perfect for connecting a quality phono stage.
Perfect partner
Designed to match the Edge W power amp, the Edge NQ provides the brains to the W’s considerable brawn. With the two sharing the same development process and sonic tuning, the sound signature of both is perfectly matched.
You’ve heard the rest, now hear the best – Cambridge Audio has the Edge.
Brand
Cambridge Audio
Pre Amplifier
Yes
Weight (KG)
10.2
Bluetooth
Yes
Smartphone control
Yes
Dimensions WxDxH (mm)
460 x 405 x 120
HDMI
1
Freq Response (Hz)
20 - 20,000
XLR Balanced Outputs
Yes
Remote Control
yes
Wi-Fi Built In
yes
Phono Input
No
Optical Digital Inputs
2
USB Input
2 + 1 utility
XLR Inputs
Yes
Pre Output
XLR & RCA Phono
Headphone Output
Yes
Analogue RCA Inputs
2
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Chris L from
Wonderful insightful sound
Can’t recommend this highly enough. Brings recordings to life in a thoroughly enjoyable way. Insightful dynamics, crisp delivery, engaging treble and mid range underpinned by a confident bass.
Date published: 2019-12-30
Rated 3 out of
5
by
Johnlad from
Sounds OK but less connectivity than 851n
I was looking for an upgrade to my 851n and logically thought the bigger,newer model from the same maker would be the place to start.
Richer Sounds loaned me the streamer for 2 weeks to use in my system.
I returned it after 5 days, I wasn’t convinced the sound was any better than the 851n when connected to the Roksan Blak amp I use.
But the Edge has no provision for digital XLR connection which I use for my CD, also lacks a digital output so no chance of upgrading to a better DAC in the future.
I didn’t require the pre amp function so decided I’d be better spending the £3500 cost of the Edge on a stand alone streamer which I did(Naim ndx2)
Ex demo,
WOW, better on all fronts, app is better, but the sound is head and shoulders above the edge.
My advice if you don’t need a pre amp is the Naim.
Date published: 2019-12-21
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Jasper tudor from
State Of The Art Hi Fi
I Have had my Cambridge Audio Edge NQ And power amp W for a week now.
It Sounds great. I felt the app needs up dating. I have better apps in the past. I can't get album art on the screen with my high res downloads. But with apple tv a film or a tv show you do get the art work. so that is a nice touch. the main importance is the sound. And boy it sounds great.
Date published: 2019-12-13
Rated 2 out of
5
by
Kemills1 from
Doesn’t meet expectations.
I already have a SM6 v2 and a pair of 851 power amps from CA all of which I’m very pleased with but I’d seen several glowing reviews of the edge NQ and I had to have one. I’ve never been more disappointed with a piece of CA equipment. The analogue section seems pretty decent but the digital side is another matter. Using the streamer it sounded ok but something wasn’t quite right but I couldn’t say what exactly. The sound wasn’t as engaging as using the SM6 with an out board dac going into an analogue input on the NQ. I tried a digital input on the NQ using the digital output of the SM6 but the problem persisted. Anyone thinking of getting one of these needs to have an extended session at home. I foolishly did not.
Date published: 2019-11-06
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Martyn27 from
An enthralling listening experience
I was fortunate enough to be able to upgrade my 851N / 851A and 851W (bi-amped) set-up in Feb (which is excellent in its own right) Knowing the Edge NQ / W was the succesor to the 851 series, it seemed a sensible place to begin, but not before looking seriously at alternatives from the likes of NAIM.
Dropping £6k on a streamer and amp is always going to necessitate lots of research and more than a few restless nights, but the fact that there were virtually no reviews of the Edge at the time of purchase made it even trickier and a major leap of faith: I auditioned the NQ / W duo at Richer Sounds Southampton and purchased it within 30 minutes, it really was that special an experience.
The NQ / W sound is notably more open and larger in everyway than the 851 set-up, with greater airiness and sublime control of serious bass depth. I actually bought the 851A after the 851W and 851N, predominately to be able to tweak the tone controls of that 851W / 851N combination, and I was concerned that the lack of tone controls of the Edge would be an issue, but absolutely not at all: there is nothing I would alter about the balance of sound the Edge produced: crisp, clean highs, wonderful open mids and that stunning bass that you feel but somehow never ever imposes or overpowers.
Regardless of musical genre, this system never fails to impress, and more that just once in a while makes my jaw drop in utter astonishment at what it reproduces from tracks that Ive listened to thousands of times before.
I connect the NQ and W via Chord Co Epic balanced XLRs and through KEF Reference floorstanders amd Chord Co Rumour cable (soon to be upgaded...): Tidal (Masters wherever possible) is sublime as the source, connected via a cable from a Macbook.
The Edge series is unreservedly recommended by me: a masterpiece of design and sheer sonic brilliance.
Date published: 2019-04-04
£3,499
Cambridge Audio EDGE NQ is rated
out of
5 by
5.
6 Year Supercare Guarantee
£349.85
Add our Supercare Guarantee 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 GUARANTEE 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
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
All products that are available to purchase on the Richer Sounds website can be delivered free to blind, partially sighted or those with a disability.
Please contact web after sales for more info.
For delivery of in-store only deals, please contact your local store for more details.
T&Cs apply - see our delivery page.
For delivery of in-store only deals, please contact your local store for more details.
T&Cs apply - see our delivery page.