Cambridge Audio has launched the EX Series, comprising the EXA100 stereo integrated amplifier and EXN100 music streamer. The EXA100 stereo integrated amplifier is the power behind the new EX Series.
Over three years in the making, and with almost 60 years of audio expertise behind it, the EX Series is the successor to Cambridge’s Azur 851 range – and EXA100 is its beating heart.
Drawing on trickledown amplifier technology from the flagship Edge M monoblock power amp, EXA100 offers a wide soundstage from 100W per channel of Class AB amplification.
A huge array of connectivity options, a built-in DAC, HDMI eARC and a dedicated Power Amp Mode make it functionally as accomplished as it sounds.
“We believe this is, pound for pound, the finest amplifier we’ve ever built. It exemplifies the new EX Series, overdelivering on performance and versatility in this category,” says James Johnson-Flint, Owner and CEO of Cambridge Audio. “EXA100 is a serious step up for anyone upgrading from our CX amps, and the perfect stepping stone to the Edge range.”
The EXA100 houses an advanced toroidal transformer, heavily shielded, super-quiet and flanked by heavy-duty heat sinks. The amplifier modules are based on those in the Edge M power amp, and EXA100 even uses the same power transistors as its monobloc stablemate, delivering high-end quality at a fraction of the cost.
The approach to internal design can also be seen in everything from the four-layer PCBs to the proprietary CAP protection system, which uses four different methods to detect potential issues, such as power and temperature overloads, and take preventive action.
EXA100’s connectivity is comprehensive, befitting a modern integrated amplifier.
On the analogue side, inputs comprise a set of Balanced XLRs and three sets of RCA stereo sockets. For output, you get a front-mounted 6.3mm headphone socket, a stereo pre-out and a subwoofer pre-out for adding extra bass options to a set-up. There are two sets of speaker outputs, allowing users to power music in two different rooms or add a secondary outdoor speaker pair.
EXA100 is also a digital audio powerhouse, thanks to an ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC (digital-to-analogue converter) and an array of dedicated digital connections. HDMI eARC enables easy connection to a TV, with the benefit of volume control via the TV’s remote.
There are also inputs for USB Audio, digital coaxial and two TOSLINK optical sockets.
Bluetooth aptX HD is also available for added convenience, or to stream vinyl wirelessly from a Cambridge Audio Alva turntable.
Switch the EXA100 to Power Amp Mode and it transforms literally into that – a stereo power amp – so that it can be paired with the preamp of choice or used as part of a multi-channel home cinema system.
This means it can optionally be used in pre/power combination with the new EXN100 music streamer with its digital-only Preamp Mode. EXN100 provides the streaming brains and volume control, all controllable via the StreamMagic app, while EXA100 delivers power and detail.
The EXA100 features a milled aluminium front panel and a tactile knurled volume knob. Visually it again partners perfectly with EXN100, with matching Lunar Grey finishes and a full-height centre panel that boldly cuts through the fascia.
EX Series introduces a new remote control, supplied with EXA100, that also provides command over EXN100.
https://www.cambridgeaudio.com
