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Cambridge Audio CXA81 vs Denon PMA-1700NE
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Cambridge Audio CXA81

Integrated Amplifier | 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Cambridge Audio CXA81
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Denon PMA-1700NE

Integrated Amplifier | 70 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Denon PMA-1700NE
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Denon PMA-1700NE Denon PMA-1700NE
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Denon PMA-1700NE
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Cambridge Audio CXA81 vs Denon PMA-1700NE Integrated Amplifier Comparison

In this review, we will be comparing CXA81 and PMA-1700NE, two Integrated Amplifiers from Cambridge and Denon. Let's have a brief look at the main features of Cambridge Audio CXA81 and Denon PMA-1700NE first before getting into our more detailed comparison.

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Key Specs

  • 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms
  • Built-in DAC
  • USB Input
  • Bluetooth v4.2
  • Weight: 19.10 lbs / 8.68 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D):4-1/2inch x 16-15/16inch x 14-9/16inch

Denon PMA-1700NE Key Specs

  • 70 watts RMS into 8-ohms
  • Built-in DAC
  • Phono Input
  • USB Input
  • Weight: 38.80 lbs / 17.64 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D):5-5/16inch x 17-1/8inch x 17-5/8inch

What size room are the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and Denon PMA-1700NE 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 Audio CXA81 Denon PMA-1700NE
Near-field Poor Poor
Small Room Average Average
Mid-size Room Good Good
Large Room Average Average
Very Large Room Poor Poor

In the following sections, we will get into more detail in order to understand how Cambridge Audio CXA81 and Denon PMA-1700NE 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 over Denon PMA-1700NE
MSRP Price(*) 1,299USD vs 2,099USD costs less (*prices may change depending on the seller, location and time)
Watts into 8-ohms 80 watts vs 70 watts Delivers higher power into 8-ohms speakers
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) 0.02% vs 0.07% Less Harmonic Distortion
Bluetooth Yes vs No Stream music via Bluetooth devices
Total Analog Inputs 5 vs 3 More options for connecting Analog sources
Preamp Outputs Stereo RCA, Sub vs No Connect a powered subwoofer or second amplifier.
Base Surface Area 1594.7cm2/ 247.2inch2 vs 1948.8cm2/ 302.1inch2 takes less space in your room
Height 115mm vs 135mm Easier to fit in smaller spaces

Reasons to choose Denon PMA-1700NE over Cambridge Audio CXA81
Watts into 4-ohms 140 watts vs 120 watts Delivers higher power into 4-ohms speakers
Signal to Noise Ratio 107 dB vs 105 dB Higher ratings results in cleaner sound
PhonoInput Yes vs No Connect a turntable directly to your amp

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 Audio CXA81 and Denon PMA-1700NE differs from each other.

Cambridge Audio CXA81 Inputs
  • Total Number of Analog Inputs: 5
  • 2 Optical Digital Input
  • 1 Coaxial Digital Input
  • USB Input:
    • USB-B(Connect to your PC for playback of stored files)
Denon PMA-1700NE Inputs
  • Total Number of Analog Inputs: 3
  • Phono Input
  • 2 Optical Digital Input
  • 1 Coaxial Digital Input
  • USB Input:
Cambridge Audio CXA81 Back View
Cambridge Audio CXA81 Back View (Click the image for the larger version)

Outputs
  • Stereo RCA, Sub Preamp Outputs
  • 3.5mm Headphone Output
  • Subwoofer Output
Outputs
  • 1/4 Headphone Output
Denon PMA-1700NE Back View
Denon PMA-1700NE Back View (Click the image for the larger version)

What's in the Box of Cambridge Audio CXA81?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of CXA81:
  • Integrated amplifier
  • 6-feet AC power cord
  • Remote control
  • 3 AAA batteries
  • Bluetooth antenna
  • 39-inch mono-RCA control cable
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • What's in the Box of Denon PMA-1700NE?

    Here are the items that come with the PMA-1700NE:
  • Integrated amplifier
  • 68-inch AC power cord
  • Remote control (RC-1249)
  • 2 AAA batteries
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Information
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