Cambridge Audio CXA81

I like what I've read about this amplifier, but it has been out for a few years now. Does anyone know if it is going to be updated soon? I'd hate to buy it just to find out a few weeks later that a new model is shipping.

The CXA81 has not been tested for use with iPadOS via the USB-B input. It is only intended for use with Windows PC or Mac.

[ ZACHARY Jun 01, 2023 ] Staff

[ w_in_md Feb 16, 2023 ]

My remote for my CXA81 was accidentally left in a chair cover pocket and was washed. Is it possible to get. A new remote control?

At this time, Cambridge has not shared any info regarding an upcoming replacement.

[ ZACHARY Feb 17, 2023 ] Staff

[ Dave Dec 31, 2022 ]

Can I use the Cambridge CXA 81 as a preamp to two monoblock Bel Canto e.One Ref600 power amps? I know this CXA 81 has an RCA Stereo Output for sure that I can send to a more powerful integrated amp, but this is already an integrated amp and I love the award winning Bel Canto Ref 600 for my Legacy Audio Studio HD speakers. They just don't have the input capabilities of the Cambridge CXA 81.

It's possible Dave, though we do not carry the replacement remote only. It is possible to source it through Cambridge directly at the below link, but it sadly appears out of stock at this moment. https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/spare/cxa61-cxa81-cxc-cxn-remote-control

[ Bo Dec 31, 2022 ] Staff

[ MARK Dec 09, 2022 ]

Will the DAC play FLAC audio?

It would be possible to use the CXA81 as a pre-amp using its RCA outputs. However, this may be a bit redundant for your setup. There may be other ways to get the features that you're after. Our advisors would be happy to explore options via online chat or phone at 1-800-324-9695.

[ ZACHARY Dec 09, 2022 ] Staff

[ Djinx Apr 06, 2022 ]

Will it support the Bose 901 equalizer?

Absolutely!! I Love the sound of this DAC. It plays all of my FLAC audio including my books on audio FLAC files.

[ BRIAN Apr 06, 2022 ]

[ Rusty Jan 27, 2022 ]

How does this unit sound compare with Marantz PM7000N?

I quickly familiarized myself with the Bose 901 speakers and equalizer before answering. Although I do not have familiarity with that product, the section on compatibility in the 901 manual certainly suggests that there would be no problem in utilizing with the Cambridge CXA81.

[ JACK O Jan 27, 2022 ]

I'm sorry, I am not familiar with the Bose equalizer, but the Cambridge has line-level inputs if that's how an equalizer needs to be connected. Usually higher end components don't use equalizers because it would add something else to the signal path. The reason you get a fine component is so you won't need an equalizer.

[ Jose Jan 27, 2022 ]

[ ericng Jan 20, 2022 ]

Is it possible to utilize the onboard DAC with an iPhone? For instance using an Apple® Lightning® to USB Camera Adapter (USB-A) then a USB-A to USB-B cable? I'd prefer not to use Bluetooth in order to utilize Apple Lossless (ALAC) files. Thanks so much.

I have owned the PM7000N for 18 months and I am very happy with it. It is an excellent until to play back music from Apple Music.

[ CHARLES A Jan 21, 2022 ]

without plugging these amps into the speakers that you are using it is hard to tell. The CXA81 was a Integrated amp product of the year. 2021 The CX amp has more power 80 vs 60 amp, it does not have HEOS, or Airplay built in. But the built in DAC in the CX is amazing. ESS Sabre SE9016K2M DAC....Also are you spinning recods, or streaming ? there is no phono amp in the CX . just something else to consider. The blue tooth experience is HD quality and with the right streaming service sounds fantastic. I use Quboz, keep in mind to the Crutchfield team is amazing and very helpful.

[ Arthur Jan 20, 2022 ]

[ JTRDSM Jan 18, 2022 ]

Just ordered a CXA81 (should get it in 2 days) and was wondering if a chromebook can output to the USB port on the CXA81?

Yes, you can connect an iPhone to the CXA81. I am currently using a Lightning to USB A (camera adapter) and then a USB A to USB B cable. Have been playing 24bit/48 kHz and 24/96 ALAC via Apple Music with this setup - no issues. It did take me a minute to figure out how to switch the amp to USB mode though. You have to press the Bluetooth/USB button until it lights up red. When it is lit blue it is in Bluetooth mode.

[ SCOTT Oct 09, 2022 ]

I have not tried this, but it may work. Any digital input will use the onboard DAC. Only analog inputs bypass it.

[ RONALD Jan 18, 2022 ]

[ JEFFERY Dec 28, 2021 ]

Has anyone had any success with an IR extender? I have tried a couple different ones but none seem to be compatible with the remote/amp. Any recommendations would be appreciated. To clarify: my CXA 81 is positioned away from my main listening area, I was hoping to be able to control the volume with the remote by utilizing the 'IR' connection on the back via a IR extender more convenient to point my remote at, as of now I need to lunge off the couch to maybe get it to adjust the volume, etc.

We have not received any answers from other customers on your question. I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They should be able to help answer your question.

[ KENNETH Jan 01, 2022 ] Staff

[ PATRICK Dec 19, 2021 ]

How will this amp pair up to klipsch rp8000's ? Thanks

I just used a simple and cheap IR extender from Amazon, positioned the IR emitter in front of the receiver. Works fine for volume, but turning off requires 2 presses of the remote power button.

[ john Dec 20, 2021 ]

[ MIKE Dec 01, 2021 ]

Has anyone used this amp to drive a pair of KEF R3 speakers?

I don't have Klipsch speakers, but rather Polk LSiM 703. The Polks drop down to slightly less than 4 ohms at some frequencies. I've always had plenty of clean distortion free power with this Cambridge Amp. Would get it again.

[ RONALD Dec 01, 2021 ]

Not sure about rp8000s, but it makes my vintage Snells and newer Focal bookshelf speakers sing. Great amp for the $.

[ STEVEN Dec 01, 2021 ]

I am running a pair of RP-280F speakers off this integrated amp. Because of the efficiency of these speakers, the 81 is more than capable of powering the setup. If I was listening in a large room, 40%+ volume is more than sufficient. I have rarely used more than 40% volume listening to a CD. That is a characteristic of Klipsch efficiency. Now, because I stream off a laptop often, I send a 50% volume signal to 81 and use the amp's ample power to drive the speakers at a higher volume setting. That mimics a bi-power setup. I should also point out I use a 12 inch sub woofer to separate out the bottom end. To be fair, I could have used a smaller set of speakers but I wanted the ability to break out into a larger listening space. Overall it took a while and several hours to "burn" the speakers in properly. There are so many speaker combinations that could go with this amp. I like Klipsch but once I had them hooked up, I wanted the sub to balance them out for me. Getting that right sound becomes important because the sweet spot is driven entirely by speaker placement and not a non-existent balance control. Also keep in mind, the amp sends a flat frequency signal to the speakers (no bass and treble/midrange frequency adjustments). It's an audiophile thing :) I hope that helps.

[ AUBREY Dec 01, 2021 ]

[ ELIUD Nov 20, 2021 ]

I would like to drive 4 floorstanding speakers (A and B connections) in the same listening area, but also to increase total RMS output vs cutting in half from 80 watts per channel to 40 - which sounds like I'll be hooking up an additional amp. Is this simply done through the RCA pre-amp connection on the rear, and what amp would you suggest to pair with the CXA81? Thanks, Bill

I have not driven those speakers but it drives a pair of B&W towers with the same sensitivity rating just fine in a decent sized room. It's a solid amp that in my opinion shouldn't have trouble driving the KEFs.

[ JEFFERY Nov 22, 2021 ]

[ WILLIAM Nov 12, 2021 ]

I stream music primarily from Spotify from my phone. Will this amplifier handle this or should I also get the Cambridge Audio CXN V2 network audio streamer. Will there be a noticeable improvement in sound?

I would upgrade to the the Evo 150.. Better amp.. 150 watt.class D ..better DAC. non additional amp needed.

[ Arthur Nov 14, 2021 ]

[ TOM Oct 18, 2021 ]

6 answers

There is an insightful video by John Darko regarding the specific combination of the CXN V2 with the CXA81. Consequently, I made a subsequent purchase of the CXN. As I see it, I've committed to these components (and a pair of KEF R3 speakers); I'd feel perpetually annoyed by the thought of settling for a sub-optimal experience at this point. And, oh yes, I've signed up for Tidal. YOLO

[ ELIUD Nov 20, 2021 ]

I use a couple of iPhones and an iPod as music sources with the Cambridge Audio CXA81, BUT I don't stream the audio; I use a cable to connect the devices with the CXA81. Cleaner audio? Maybe.

[ JOHN Oct 23, 2021 ]

You can stream right to the CXA81 using the bluetooth connection. It sounds fine but if you want better sound get the CXN streamer. The dual Wolfson dacs in the CXN sound much better than the single Sabre dac in the CXA81. The streamer uses WiFi or an Ethernet connection so your phone is only a remote conrtrol. The best sound comes from connecting the CXN to the CXA81 using balanced XLR connections. Using the CXN gives you an open airiness and a wider and deeper sound stage with pinpoint imaging.

[ Wesley Oct 21, 2021 ]

The amp is bluetooth enabled, but it is not a streamer. You will need another device to stream to the amp.

[ STEVEN Oct 20, 2021 ]

I stream using Tidal from my phone and ipad directly to the receiver, and the sound is good - better than I had expected. If I use a cable to tether my phone directly into the digital port on the unit, the sound is even better. I've never tried the CXN V2 network streamer, so I am not sure if the sound would be better from that or not.

[ ROBERT Oct 20, 2021 ]

The amp will allow you to stream music from your device via a blue tooth connection. There is a small antenna in the back to enhance the connection. I stream from Tidal. Very easy to set up and operate. Love it!

[ THERESA Oct 20, 2021 ]

Does this amp have any left/right balance control?

[ Mark Oct 01, 2021 ]

Can this Cambridge Audio CXA81 amp drive KLH Model 5 speakers with their 6 ohm impedance and 90.5 sensitivity reasonably well?

Separate, symmetrical left and right channels are carefully engineered to deliver incredible sound-staging i want to say no. for there is no nob or controler to do such. The statement above is from the product feature list. i agree with the statement. The DAC in this amp is fantastic, and delivers music incredibly will. The DAC is this amp is better than a nuch more expensise amp that i purchased previously. beautiful amp creates amazing sound.

[ Arthur Oct 07, 2021 ]

Simply put, No.

[ JACK O Oct 01, 2021 ]

No, it doesn't. What you see is what you get. There's no other knob except volume control one.

[ ROM Oct 01, 2021 ]

[ PETER Aug 26, 2021 ]

I need a recommendation on bookshelf speaker options around $ 1000 USD for my CXA81 amp? I listen to all kinds of music but more Latin jazz, lounge or similar music.

For medium level listening, the CXA81 will deliver beautiful sound, great DAC in the system, depends on the power output of those JBLs too. i found that at higher volumes i wanted more power, i run a pair of B&W CM 5's with 88 db an 8ohm /120 watt max... i went to an amp with 200watt output, mid to higher volumes sound is amazing. At the time that i brough my 200 watt amp if the EVO 75 or 150 were available, i would have tackled one of those. Better power updated DAC.

[ Arthur Aug 27, 2021 ]

I would have no concerns about the ability of the amp to drive those speakers. The rated power output is 80W for an 8 Ohm speaker.

[ JACK O Aug 26, 2021 ]

[ Shemen Jul 29, 2021 ]

8 answers

I use an elac ub5 2nd gen with a rel sub. The kef ls 50 meta good option also. Try and listen before you commit to a speaker. Lots of options lots of opinions you are they only one that can decide what sounds best to your ears.

[ Warren Aug 01, 2021 ]

I got a new pair of Polk LSiM 703 at the same time. This speaker is no longer made, but can still be found at a few places. I listen to a variety of music genres also and really like these speakers. Search the net to find some reviews.

[ RONALD Jul 29, 2021 ]

I use a pair of Warfedale Diamond 225 speakers and they do a wonderful job with jazz of all styles. The 225s are a warm sounding speaker which works well with jazz. They aren't made anymore but in the $1000 range Warfedale Evo 4.1 or 4.2 would be a great choice as would be the Dyneaudio Emit 20. If you like a brighter treble B&W 606 or Focal 806 would be good choices

[ Wesley Jul 29, 2021 ]

I returned my Cambridge Audio amp for a Marantz. I can't help but I would speak to someone at Crutchfield.

[ JAMES Jul 29, 2021 ]

I would recommend the KEF LS50. That's what I have in my office and they pair very well with the CXA81. I would also highly recommend the Cambridge CXN to go with the CXA81 for network streaming, internet radio, and TIDAL, although the bluetooth function on the CXA81 seems to work well.

[ ERIC Jul 29, 2021 ]

Goldenear! My favorite. Also klipsch. Klipsch has horn for treble, but that's what I like. Listen to ad many as u can before purchasing. Course got my goldenear speakers without pre listening. Went by reviews.

[ KEITH Jul 29, 2021 ]

If you can stretch a little, the KEF LS50s sound great with this (these are the originals not the new Metas which might be available on the secondary market).

[ DAVID Jul 29, 2021 ]

Polk Audio Legend L100

[ John Jul 29, 2021 ]

Hi all. Is the Bluetooth in this unit transmit and as well as receive? Thank you!

[ Teelun Jul 02, 2021 ]

I have the cxa81 and often steam amazon HD from alexa show to the cxa. How much improvement if I added the cambridge media streamer? Does it support Amazon HD or would I need to change services.

A blue tooth connection is a handshake connection so to have that the CX transmitts a signal to capture a device that is looking for it. Like a iPhone or another device that wants to send music to the CX. Bluetooth playing of Hi Res files on the CX is awesome. You get amazing soundstage and instrumental reproduction. Great amp. Great sound.

[ Arthur Jul 03, 2021 ]

Bluetooth as a protocol is always bidirectional. But what you are asking might be a different question. This unit is a Bluetooth client, as in it can receive data (music) and playback. This is not a BT server. For e.g. you cannot connect a CD plaer to this amp and expect to broadcast that music via the amplifier's BT feature.

[ Krishnakumar Jul 02, 2021 ]

Pretty sure it only takes an input signal. The amp is a pretty basic power amp to provide power to unpowered speakers. I don't think there is anyway that the power output could be handled on a wireless signal. I also checked the manual which makes no mention of Bluetooth output.

[ JACK O Jul 02, 2021 ]

[ Warner Jun 24, 2021 ]

Will the headphone port power my HD 650s? The user manual just says headphones with 8 - 600 ohm recommended, but does not specify anything else. Does anyone have experience with high ohm headphones?

I am not sure a streamer adds much. The thing that Cambridge touts the most about the 81 is it's digital replication.

[ SCOTT Jul 14, 2021 ]

[ JONATHAN Apr 28, 2021 ]

Will the headphone port power my Sennheiser HD650s? The user manual just says 8 - 600 ohm is recommended, but doesn't specify if there is any sort of headphone amp. Does anyone have any experience with this?

[ Thomas May 18, 2021 ] Staff

[ JONATHAN Apr 28, 2021 ]

4 answers

I use Hd660 senheisers with great results

[ JAMES Mar 17, 2022 ]

I use an hd280 pro headphones with no issues. If your 650 has the same impedance it should be okay.

[ Warren May 04, 2021 ]

To my knowledge it doesn't have a headphone amp. I would check on the website for Cambridge.

[ MARTIN Apr 29, 2021 ]

I have the same cans as you. I don't know that the headphone amp is dedicated, if that's what you're asking. It sounded pretty good, probably in line with a dedicated Music Hall headhphone amp I used for a while., but it wasn't astounding. But it had no problem powering the 650s.

[ Matthew Apr 28, 2021 ]

I have a CXN v2 and a CXA81. Which is the best way to connect a subwoofer? Just for music.

[ Luis Mar 21, 2021 ]

Will the internal DAC transmit MQA?

This Integrated amp has a subwoofer preamp output making it the best connection for adding a subwoofer to the system

[ JASON Apr 05, 2021 ] Staff

[ DAREN Mar 18, 2021 ]

I tried connecting a turntable (with preamp) to the A1 inputs as I had other components connected to the other three RCA inputs. It didn't work. Any ideas about why not? For now I am using the A2 inputs that I was using for the DVD player. What's A1 for?

Ok, thanks for the question, I had no idea about what a MQA is . Master Quality Authenticated. Learned a lot. According to the group in the link provided, The Cambridge DAC will utilize/interpret a MQA file, but under integrated amps they are not listed. If the same chips That are in the CXA 81 as a cambridge DAC then yes, it would. I will tell you this, The DAC in the CXA 81 is amazing, the playback on Hi Res files is beautiful, depth, accuracy spacing and precise delivery is terrific. I found Hi Res played back better than expected. Link about MQA Google MQA. List of compatible devices can be found in the definition. This is a great amp, if in doubt, you have 60 days to figure it out at at home. Good luck. Happy listening.

[ Arthur Mar 19, 2021 ]

[ ROY JAMES Feb 24, 2021 ]

Hi, i own an auralic mini, which can output at up to 32/384 via usb. I noticed the cxa81 will input up to 32/384 via usb. Does the cxa81 display the sample rate so that you know what it is playing? Also, is there a usb cable on the market that can handle 32/384? I've been looking at cables but only seen usb class 2 audio ones that claim up to 24/192

I found the answer to my own question in the online manual. The button for A1 on the front panel toggles between the balanced and the unbalanced A1 inputs (the color blue lights for the unbalanced input). Not intuitive, but at least the problem is solved.

[ ROY JAMES Mar 26, 2021 ]

[ Adeyyyyy Feb 02, 2021 ]

How do I connect a turntable to Cambridge Audio CXA81?

This unit has no display but for a few tiny LEDs that shows what the selected input is.

[ Krishnakumar Jul 02, 2021 ]

I just use it to listen to music.

[ MATTHEW Feb 03, 2021 ]

[ DOUG Dec 22, 2020 ]

5 answers

You need to have a phono amp

[ NAMHONG Dec 23, 2020 ]

According to the Cambridge website a preamp will be necessary. Since most of my old LP records sound like bowls of soaking rice crispies, I haven't played them in decades. I bought the CXA81 knowing the above, and am glad that I did. It's what is called, "a nice unit". Matt Hannon

[ MATTHEW Dec 23, 2020 ]

It doesn't have a phono input. You would need to get a separate phono preamp.

[ DAVID J Dec 23, 2020 ]

Use one of the analog channels. (I have my turntable hooked to A3). It sounds great. But keep in ming that you will need to ensure that the turntable has a pre-AMP either built into the turntable or as an add-on purchased separately prior to hooking into the amp, due to the weak signal generated by phonograph cartridges.

[ JACK O Dec 23, 2020 ]

You will need a preamplifier and rca cables.

[ MICAH Dec 22, 2020 ]

Does the Cambridge Audio CXA-81 have a home theatre passthru input? Cheers...

[ Joe Dec 06, 2020 ]

Can I run two sets of speakers at the same time on this model?

No it is an integrated stereo amplifier meant for music and not home theater. You would be better off connecting directly to your home theater components

[ Warren Dec 08, 2020 ]

yes i use the analog/AUX output to receive the input from the TV cable box and the phono for the DVD.sound's great.

[ Arthur Dec 07, 2020 ]

I don't believe so,, at least not for anything than 2 channel sound

[ GARRY Dec 06, 2020 ]

[ BILL Nov 12, 2020 ]

Can a microphone can connect to xlr input?

Yes, has A / B selector and both can be on.

[ CHRISTOPHER Nov 12, 2020 ]

Yes, you can run two sets.

[ JEFFERY Nov 12, 2020 ]

[ Aivs15 Nov 04, 2020 ]

Does it have bass and treble control?

I really have no idea! Crutchfield will probably be able to answer?

[ FOSTER Nov 04, 2020 ]

Most mic amps have a phantom power supply to power the mic. Don't think the CXA81 has a power source for the mic.

[ JOE T Nov 04, 2020 ]

[ Phil Oct 27, 2020 ]

13 answers

No. I think Cambridge must assume if you're spending $1200+ for your amplifier, you're gonna spend a good amount on a good pair of speakers such that you wouldn't need to increase the bass and/or treble. I have a not so great, but not terrible, pair of Polk Audio bookshelf speakers on stands and my system sounds great.

[ Joshua Nov 02, 2020 ]

This amp does not have tone controls of any kind, but the sound is so good, you won't miss it. I highly recommend this amp.

[ MICHAEL Oct 29, 2020 ]

No.

[ Charles Oct 29, 2020 ]

No, it does not. I haven't found this to be a problem with it powering my GoldenEar Triton 7's. It's a beautiful pairing.

[ RICH Oct 28, 2020 ]

It does not have base, treble, or EQ control more generally. You'll need to control these with a separate device, or if you stream, via your streaming app/device.

[ KUMAR Oct 28, 2020 ]

No, it does not have those controls. I noted that before purchase but since i do not generally alter from mid-settings on those controls when present, their absence did not affect my choice. I find the absence of a balance a bit more of a problem, since changing speaker position relative to where I sit in a room (or changing where i sit) is the only solution to that problem. Despite that, I am still quite pleased with the purchase.

[ JACK O Oct 28, 2020 ]

No it does not

[ MARK Oct 28, 2020 ]

It does not have bass / treble control.

[ ROBERT P Oct 28, 2020 ]

No, it doesn't. I have both the CXA81 and AXR100. The latter has the tone controls you are looking for and 100 also 100 watts per channel. In my opinion, at half the price, the AXR100 is a lot better choice. Don't let the price fool you!

[ ART Oct 28, 2020 ]

No and I don't miss them.

[ BRIAN Oct 28, 2020 ]

no it dos not. I use a Schiit Audio Loki EQ to balance my old 60s and 70s CDs

[ JOHN Oct 28, 2020 ]

[ JOHN A. Oct 28, 2020 ]

No, it does not.

[ JEFF Oct 27, 2020 ]

HDMI?

[ FRED A Sep 22, 2020 ]

5 answers

Nope

[ Warren Oct 19, 2020 ]

Negative. This is an integrated amplifier, not an AVR.

[ Matthew Oct 16, 2020 ]

There is no HDMI connection on the receiver that i can tell, this is an awesome receiver , it has a great DAC integrated in the system . Just make sure it will drive your speakers .

[ Arthur Oct 16, 2020 ]

There is no HDMI on the Cambridge Audio CXA81.

[ ROYAL H. Oct 15, 2020 ]

No.

[ GARRY Oct 15, 2020 ]

Why can't I get my new Cambridge Audio CX A81 amplifier to pair with my android phone?

[ HEIDI Aug 18, 2020 ]

I am debating between the NAD C368 and the Cambridge CXA81. I am looking for high quality sound. Which would be a better Amp? Thank you.

If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer.

[ KRISTINA Aug 28, 2020 ] Staff

I have an I iPhone so just not sure....just make sure the Blue tooth setting in on , on the receiver... on the phone Make sure you see the Cambridge 81x and connect If in the blue tooth setting of the android phone ....

[ Arthur Aug 18, 2020 ]

[ Lekhs Jul 12, 2020 ]

About Marantz rn1200 has Bluetooth 4.1 can we update it to 4.2 or should we wait to Bluetooth 5.00 ? Thanks

Thanks for your question. For information on selecting the best amp I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to help determine the differences between the amp models and help you make the best choice for your system.

[ KRISTINA Jul 29, 2020 ] Staff

[ Eric Jun 28, 2020 ]

Can we add up the WiFi on it ? Or is it on pre-installed or not in here ?

[ Thomas Jul 13, 2020 ] Staff

[ Eric Jun 28, 2020 ]

7 answers

The CXA81 does not have WiFi. I have an older laptop that was not being used and is now my streaming device. It can send to the CXA81 via bluetooth or USB. I use bluetooth so I can keep the laptop near my preferred seat and search for the next track or album while listening to great music.

[ JOE T Nov 04, 2020 ]

You can send music to CXA81 wirelessly from another device (iphone, PC etc) via Bluetooth. But it doesn't have it's own wifi streaming capabilities built in. For that you need a separate streamer, such as Cambridge Audio's CXN2, which is highly regarded.

[ OLIVER Jul 01, 2020 ]

This amplifier has a Bluetooth aptX HD built in but no wi-fi capability. That is, you can stream music via Bluetooth but not wi-fi. If you want to stream music via wi-fi, you should consider pairing with a network streamer like the Cambridge Audio CXN V2 which is part of the CX range.

[ Albert Jun 29, 2020 ]

Bluetooth yes WiFi no. You want WiFi you have to get a streamer. Most streamers have tidal, Spotify etc and internet radio.

[ Steven Jun 29, 2020 ]

Dude, no direct wi fi connection on this device,You can connect from a laptop connected to wi -fi with a cable connection to the receiver. [provided in the box] Bluetooth is the path to excellent sound, the receiver has the qualcom aptx HD BT in it, and it is amazing to listen to. it will make you want to throw away any and all CD's in the home. I use Qobuz for HR streaming. You just need to figure out what device you are going to stream from, iPhone [which works great] tablet or laptop. As you know all these devices connect to the home wi-fi, then connect BT to the receiver. The DAC in the system is fantastic, sound alignment is fantastic. Another great feature, if you crash during a session, it automatically shuts down after 20 minutes on no activity. Beautiful piece of electronics, great value. 60 days to figure it out it too. The Crutchfield team is amazing to work with too.Have fun and great listening.

[ Arthur Jun 29, 2020 ]

There is no built-in WiFi. This unit has option to add WiFi thru the dedicated WiFi USB port which needs the optional WiFi dongle that is sold separately.

[ Krishnakumar Jun 28, 2020 ]

Bluetooth audio streaming

[ John Jun 28, 2020 ]

What would be your recommended large floor standing speakers to be matched with a Cambridge Audio CXA81 budget under $6000 for the pair?

[ KJARTAN Jun 06, 2020 ]

What type of usb connection is that on the back?

We have a lot of speakers that can be matched to this amp to give different end results on the final sound. I recommend contacting an advisor on 1-800-324-9695 to discuss your goals for the sound and other preferences to get a personal recommendation on speakers to use with this integrated amp

[ JASON Jun 20, 2020 ] Staff

[ RICHARD May 31, 2020 ]

The speaker's binding post on the back of the unit looks to be cupped. Will I have problems connecting my speaker cable flat spades to it?

That is USB-B connection. It's used to create a direct connection from a laptop or a computer to the CX. The CX then decodes the signal with its DAC and amplifies it. When using good software on your computer (J River Media, MusicBee) that is capable of Asynchronous connection, it provides the cleanest, best way to listen to digital music. You will be using the CX's DAC which is superior to anything on a computer, and most low to mid level standalone DACs.

[ Matthew Oct 16, 2020 ]

USB B

[ SHAUN May 31, 2020 ]

[ Jimmy May 06, 2020 ]

I mostly listen to music from spotify on my computer. I'm looking to set up a stereo system to upgrade the sound. I have a pair of descent speakers (i think) - Epos m12. I want to pair them with a stereo receiver with Bluetooth and DAC. I can use my computer or my phone as source. What should be on my short list. I looked at cambridge audio CXA81 & 61 and also on NAD C 658. Are there any other recommendations? I also have a creek regular receiver, maybe I should just add a bluetooth DAC convertor?

In my opinion, the binding posts are MUCH better suited for banana plugs. You may be able to snug spades, but the connection will not be optimal. Love this amp, btw, its everything Crutchfield touts!

[ GARRY May 30, 2020 ]

The posts unscrew, so you should be good. There is a tab in the center of them that comes off and on for banana plugs. That is probably why it looks cupped in the photo.

[ Jeffrey May 26, 2020 ]

Did you mean capped. Yes they are but can be removed, I use banana clips and only had to remove the caps

[ ROBERT May 26, 2020 ]

[ Raphael Apr 20, 2020 ]

I have the CXA81 integrated amp and it has a really good DAC. I stream from a BlueSound Node 2i and the combination works well. I also tried an RME ADI-2 FS-2 DAC for a while, which was really terrific, but redundant since I already had the DAC in the integrated amp.

[ DARIN V Jan 25, 2021 ]

The CA 81x has N awesome DAC in it., if you are streaming a Hi Res file from a site... I use Qobuz... it sounds awesome... I stream from my iPhone. If in doubt take advantage of the 60 day return policy... your ears will tell you .

[ Arthur Apr 21, 2020 ]

[ Raphael Apr 20, 2020 ]

Can I use this like external amp ?

Depends on your budget. DAC/bluetooth would be lower cost than new Cambridge or NAD. Crutchfield has period of time can try unit and then keep or return if you are not satisfied with the results.

[ JOE T Nov 04, 2020 ]

The CXA 81 and 61 have a internal DAC and bluetooth.

[ ALVARO LUIS Apr 20, 2020 ]

[ New User Apr 06, 2020 ]

is dot indicating volume level on the volume control knob illuminated ?

Dude, I cannot answer that question. Depending on your speakers... this is a great amp... great DAC in the amp ....classical rock an roll all sound beautiful ..terrific power... easy to use..

[ Arthur Apr 21, 2020 ]

I don't think so, but I'm not sure. It can work as a pre-amplifier, that's for sure.Enter an answer to this question.

[ ALVARO LUIS Apr 20, 2020 ]

Sure, I would think so. You just use one of the line level inputs from your preamp into the Cambridge. At that point, it's simply amplifying the signal.

[ Matthew Apr 20, 2020 ]

[ DARIUSZ Mar 10, 2020 ]

Does the remote require a direct line of sight to the amp (I want to place the amp in an adjacent room)?

No painted white. Power switch is illuminated

[ John Apr 15, 2020 ]

The dot isn't actually illuminated but it is made of a shiny metal that is reflective and can be picked up visually in most lighting conditions in my 15 x 13 listening room.

[ STEVEN Apr 07, 2020 ]

it does not light up..there is a dimple indicating where the knob is in relation volume height. I hope that helps

[ Arthur Mar 10, 2020 ]

[ NEIL Feb 14, 2020 ]

Can I bi amp my speakers using the second set of speaker posts?

Yes, the remote operates using IR frequewncies, and will need line of site, or you would need to install an IR repeater system. https://www.crutchfield.com/shopsearch/ir_repeater.html

[ Thomas Mar 12, 2020 ] Staff

[ MattK Jan 16, 2020 ]

Does this amp have HT Bypass??

The amplifier only has two output stages, left and right. Both speakers a and b are each tied to the same output stage of the amplifier. So no you cannot bi_amp . If you meant bi - wire then yes you can bi_wire, but be careful with the impedance of the drivers as the will be in parallel and the amp is only rated at 4 ohm minimum.

[ Warren Feb 15, 2020 ]

No, the second posts are merely B (A/B setup). So effectively you can bi-wire, but not bi-amp

[ Krishnakumar Feb 15, 2020 ]

[ DOUGLAS Dec 17, 2019 ]

Does this amplifier have a Phono stage?

That particular model does not but the Cambridge Audio Azur 851A does: https://www.crutchfield.com/I-rET1c290/p_779851AB/Cambridge-Audio-Azur-851A-Black.html

[ CASEY Jan 08, 2020 ] Staff

[ EDWARD S Dec 15, 2019 ]