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Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II vs Cambridge Audio Edge A
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Cambridge CXA81 II

Integrated Amplifier | 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II
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Cambridge Audio Edge A

Integrated Amplifier | 100 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Cambridge Audio Edge A
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Cambridge CXA81 II Cambridge CXA81 II
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Cambridge Audio Edge A Cambridge Audio Edge...
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Cambridge CXA81 II
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Cambridge Audio Edge...
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Cambridge CXA81 II vs Cambridge Audio Edge A Integrated Amplifier Comparison

In this review, we will be comparing two different type of speakers by Cambridge. Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II is a Integrated Amplifier speaker whereas the Edge A is a Integrated Amplifier with built-in DAC speaker.

Let's have a brief look at the main features of Cambridge CXA81 II and Cambridge Audio Edge A first before getting into our more detailed comparison.

Cambridge CXA81 II Key Specs

  • 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms
  • Built-in DAC
  • USB Input
  • Bluetooth
  • Weight: 19.10 lbs / 8.68 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D):4-1/2inch x 16-15/16inch x 14-9/16inch

Cambridge Audio Edge A Key Specs

  • 100 watts RMS into 8-ohms
  • Built-in DAC
  • USB Input
  • HDMI Input (ARC)
  • Bluetooth v4.1
  • Weight: 53.70 lbs / 24.41 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D):5-15/16inch x 18-1/8inch x 15-15/16inch

What size room are the Cambridge CXA81 II and Cambridge Audio Edge A Amplifiers good for?

The size of the room in which you are planning to use these amplifiers is an important decision factor. Here we have compared their suitability to various sizes of environments considering their max power parameters:

Listening Environment Cambridge CXA81 II Cambridge Audio Edge A
Near-field Poor Poor
Small Room Average Poor
Mid-size Room Good Good
Large Room Average Good
Very Large Room Poor Average

In the following sections, we will get into more detail in order to understand how Cambridge CXA81 II and Cambridge Audio Edge A compares and end up with enough arguments to decide which one of these amplifiers is the better choice for you.


**This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.


Reasons to choose Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II over Cambridge Audio Edge A
MSRP Price(*) 1,199USD vs 6,499USD costs less (*prices may change depending on the seller, location and time)
Signal to Noise Ratio 105 dB vs 103 dB Higher ratings results in cleaner sound
Total Analog Inputs 5 vs 3 More options for connecting Analog sources
Roon Tested vs No Roon Compatibility
Base Surface Area 1594.7cm2/ 247.2inch2 vs 1867.1cm2/ 289.4inch2 takes less space in your room
Height 115mm vs 151mm Easier to fit in smaller spaces

Reasons to choose Cambridge Audio Edge A over Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II
Watts into 8-ohms 100 watts vs 80 watts Delivers higher power into 8-ohms speakers
Watts into 4-ohms 200 watts vs 120 watts Delivers higher power into 4-ohms speakers
Max Bit Depth 32-bit vs 24-bit Play higher resolution range media

Inputs and Outputs

The input and output selections that are offered is an important factor when comparing two amplifiers. Here you can find how the I/O selections of the Cambridge CXA81 II and Cambridge Audio Edge A differs from each other.

Cambridge CXA81 II Inputs
  • Total Number of Analog Inputs: 5
  • 2 Optical Digital Input
  • 1 Coaxial Digital Input
  • USB Input:
    • USB Type-B input for connecting a computer
  • XLR Input Port
Cambridge Audio Edge A Inputs
  • Total Number of Analog Inputs: 3
  • 2 Optical Digital Input
  • 1 Coaxial Digital Input
  • USB Input:
    • USB-B(Connect to your PC for playback of stored files)
  • HDMI ARC
  • XLR Input Port
Outputs
  • Stereo RCA, Sub Preamp Outputs
  • 3.5mm Headphone Output
  • Subwoofer Output
Outputs
  • Stereo RCA, XLR Preamp Outputs
  • 3.5mm Headphone Output
Cambridge Audio Edge A Back View
Cambridge Audio Edge A Back View (Click the image for the larger version)

What's in the Box of Cambridge CXA81 II?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of CXA81 Mk II:
  • Integrated amplifier
  • 6-feet AC power cord
  • Remote control
  • 3 -inchAAA-inch batteries
  • Bluetooth antenna
  • 39-inch mono-RCA control cable
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • Online Registration Card
  • What's in the Box of Cambridge Audio Edge A?

    Here are the items that come with the Edge A:
  • Integrated amplifier
  • 5-feet AC power cord
  • Remote control
  • 3 AAA batteries
  • Bluetooth antenna
  • Mono-minijack cable
  • User Manual
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