Sound Quality
The original CXA81 was already one of the most transparent integrated amplifiers under $1,500, and the Mk II pushes that clarity further. Cambridge Audio has upgraded the DAC from the ESS ES9016K2M to the ES9028Q2M, and the difference is audible in the low-level detail retrieval and dynamic range.
The Mk II maintains Cambridge Audio’s signature neutral-to-transparent character. There is no warmth added, no bass boost, no treble sparkle — just the recording as it was mastered. Paired with revealing speakers like the KEF LS50 Meta, the CXA81 Mk II creates a wide, precisely defined soundstage with excellent depth layering. Instruments occupy distinct positions in space, and the sense of air between performers is tangible.
The upgraded analog stage delivers slightly better imaging and a quieter noise floor than the original. At 80W per channel into 8 ohms, the CXA81 Mk II has enough power to drive most bookshelf and medium-sized floorstanding speakers to satisfying levels. It doubles down into 4 ohms, making it a capable partner for demanding loads.
Build & Design
The Mk II retains the understated design language of the original: a clean brushed aluminum front panel with a central display, volume knob, and source selector. It looks identical to the Mk I from the outside, which will please existing CX-series owners who want a visual match with their CXN100 streamer.
Internal build quality has been improved with better capacitors in the power supply and a redesigned PCB layout that reduces signal path lengths. The rear panel layout remains unchanged, with four RCA inputs, one balanced XLR input, and a USB-B input for the built-in DAC.
Value Proposition
At $1,500, the CXA81 Mk II sits in a competitive bracket alongside the Rega Elicit Mk5 ($1,800), the Naim Nait 5si ($1,600), and the Marantz MODEL 40n ($1,500). Against all of these, the Cambridge offers superior DAC integration and the most neutral sound signature. The Marantz is warmer and includes streaming, the Naim has more rhythmic drive, and the Rega offers more power — but for pure transparency and value, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II leads.
