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Cambridge Audio CXA81 vs NAD C 368 BluOS-2i
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Cambridge Audio CXA81

Integrated Amplifier | 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Cambridge Audio CXA81
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NAD C 368 BluOS-2i

Integrated Amplifier | 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms

NAD C 368 BluOS-2i
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Cambridge Audio CXA81 Cambridge Audio CXA8...
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NAD C 368 BluOS-2i NAD C 368 BluOS-2i
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Cambridge Audio CXA8...
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NAD C 368 BluOS-2i
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Cambridge Audio CXA81 vs NAD C 368 BluOS-2i Integrated Amplifier Comparison

In this review, we will be comparing two different type of speakers . Cambridge Audio CXA81 is a Integrated Amplifier with built-in DAC speaker whereas the C 368 BluOS-2i is a Streaming Integrated Amplifier speaker.

Let's have a brief look at the main features of Cambridge Audio CXA81 and NAD C 368 BluOS-2i 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

NAD C 368 BluOS-2i Key Specs

  • 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms
  • Built-in DAC
  • Phono Input
  • USB Input
  • Bluetooth v4.0
  • Weight: 17.20 lbs / 7.80 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D):4inch x 17-1/8inch x 16-5/8inch

What size room are the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and NAD C 368 BluOS-2i 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 NAD C 368 BluOS-2i
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 NAD C 368 BluOS-2i 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 NAD C 368 BluOS-2i
MSRP Price(*) 1,299USD vs 1,749USD costs less (*prices may change depending on the seller, location and time)
Watts into 4-ohms 120 watts vs 80 watts Delivers higher power into 4-ohms speakers
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) 0.02% vs 0.03% Less Harmonic Distortion
Signal to Noise Ratio 105 dB vs 98 dB Higher ratings results in cleaner sound
Bluetooth Version v4.2 vs v4.0 Higher transfer rate and range
Total Analog Inputs 5 vs 2 More options for connecting Analog sources
Base Surface Area 1594.7cm2/ 247.2inch2 vs 1840.1cm2/ 285.2inch2 takes less space in your room

Reasons to choose NAD C 368 BluOS-2i over Cambridge Audio CXA81
Wi-Fi Yes vs No High quality streaming over WiFi
PhonoInput Yes vs No Connect a turntable directly to your amp
Coaxial Digital Inputs 2 vs 1 More options for connecting Digital sources
Apple AirPlay Yes vs No Compatible with Apple Devices with AirPlay
Apple AirPlay 2 Yes vs No Compatible with Apple Devices with AirPlay 2
Roon Ready vs No Roon Compatibility
BluOS Yes vs No Compatible with BluOS Wireless Ecosystem
Height 102mm vs 115mm Easier to fit in smaller spaces

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 NAD C 368 BluOS-2i 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)
NAD C 368 BluOS-2i Inputs
  • Total Number of Analog Inputs: 2
  • Phono Input
  • 2 Optical Digital Input
  • 2 Coaxial Digital Input
  • USB Input:
    • USB-A(Thumbdrive/External HD)
  • Ethernet Port
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
  • Stereo RCA Preamp Outputs
  • 1/4 Headphone Output
NAD C 368 BluOS-2i Back View
NAD C 368 BluOS-2i 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 NAD C 368 BluOS-2i?

    Here are the items that come with the C 368 BluOS-2i:
  • Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier
  • 6-feet AC power cord
  • MDC BluOS 2i module (pre-installed)
  • 2 Antennas
  • Remote control (SR 9)
  • 2 AA batteries
  • USB/WiFi dongle
  • Antenna
  • 41-inch USB extension cable
  • Quick Setup Guide
  • Mounting Instructions
  • Warranty Information
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