Cambridge Audio Unveils the New EX Series: EXA100 Integrated Amplifier and EXN100 Music Streamer
Cambridge Audio is capping off the year with an impressive new product lineup, introducing the high-end EX Series. This series features the robust EXA100 Stereo Integrated Amplifier and the innovative EXN100 Music Streamer.
The British audio experts describe the EXN100, priced at $1,799, as the "streaming intelligence of the EX Series," while the EXA100, retailing for $2,199, is hailed as “the finest amplifier we’ve ever built in terms of value” and takes on the role of the series’ “core component.” This model is seen as a worthy successor to the acclaimed Azur 851 range.
EXA100 Stereo Integrated Amplifier Overview
Cambridge Audio has made significant strides this year with an array of new hi-fi products, including the unique Evo One wireless streaming speaker, the Evo 150 DeLorean Edition integrated amplifier, and the enhanced CXA81 Mk II Stereo Amplifier. However, the new EXA100 Stereo Integrated Amplifier and its accompanying EXN100 music streamer represent a distinct evolution for the brand.
Boasting an impressive 100 watts per channel of Class AB power, the EXA100’s amplifier modules are derived from those in the high-end Edge M power amplifier, which retails for $5,000. It utilizes the same monobloc power transistors, allowing Cambridge Audio to deliver “high-end performance at a more accessible price point.”
In terms of connectivity, the EXA100 is well-equipped with all the necessary analog inputs and outputs. It includes balanced XLR inputs for connecting to the EXN100 streamer or other devices, and three RCA input sets for sources such as turntables or CD players. A 6.3mm headphone output, a stereo preamp output, and a subwoofer output are available on the front panel. Additionally, double speaker posts let you operate multiple sets of speakers or extend audio to another room or outdoor setup.
For those who enjoy watching movies and television, the EXA100 excels as well. It offers HDMI eARC for PCM audio up to 24bit/192kHz alongside USB, digital coaxial, and two TOSLINK optical inputs that accommodate a range of streaming services delivering high-resolution and/or lossless sound, such as Tidal and Qobuz. Its integrated ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC ensures exceptional sound quality for all connected digital inputs. Moreover, if wireless functionality is a priority, the EXA100 supports aptX HD Bluetooth, allowing you to enjoy high-resolution audio even over a wireless connection.
The EXA100 can undoubtedly stand alone as a powerful integrated amplifier for any high-fidelity setup. However, for those looking to maximize their experience, combining it with the EXN100 Music Streamer allows you to utilize the EXA100 in digital-only Preamp Mode, enhancing the audio performance for streaming. The system can be controlled via the StreamMagic app or the new remote that comes with the EXA100. The matching Lunar Grey finish adds a polished aesthetic to any audio setup.
James Johnson-Flint, CEO of Cambridge Audio, stated, “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. The EXA100 is a noteworthy upgrade for anyone moving up from our CX amps and serves as an excellent introduction to the Edge series.”
The EXA100 is available for $2,199 at cambridgeaudio.com and authorized retailers.
EXN100 Music Streamer Highlights
Also unveiled is the EXN100 Music Streamer, considered the brain behind the EX Series. This device is equipped with a DAC derived from the praised CXN100, featuring the newly designed ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC, which supports PCM digital signals up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD 512. Cambridge Audio claims this technology results in “exceptional dynamic range and minimal distortion.”
The heart of the EXN100 is the fourth generation of the StreamMagic platform, enabling it to manage the streamer’s hardware and facilitate seamless communication with the StreamMagic app. It also integrates with third-party software and interacts with various streaming services within your home network.
StreamMagic provides access to all popular streaming services, including Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Deezer, and Qobuz, along with support for Roon Ready, UPnP, and Internet Radio, as well as Chromecast, AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth aptX HD. Just like the EXA100, the EXN100 includes digital connectivity options like HDMI eARC, USB, coaxial, and TOSLINK optical connections, as well as analog output via balanced XLR.
Users will find that the intuitive StreamMagic app allows for comprehensive system control. If paired with the EXA100, an additional remote is also available for purchase separately.
The EXN100 boasts a sleek Lunar Grey design and now features a larger 1280 x 720 color screen, which is 25% more expansive and higher resolution than the CXN100’s display. Users can customize this screen to show album art, a clock, or VU meters.
Matt Dore, chief technical officer of Cambridge Audio, remarked, “After 13 years of developing the StreamMagic platform, we have created a robust and outstanding streaming experience. The EXN100 is the ideal modern implementation of our StreamMagic technology, representing our finest music streamer to date.”
The EXN100 is now available for $1,799.
