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Cambridge Audio EXA100 vs Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II
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Cambridge EXA100

Integrated Amplifier | 100 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Cambridge Audio EXA100
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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 EXA100 Cambridge EXA100
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Cambridge CXA81 II Cambridge CXA81 II
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Cambridge EXA100
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Cambridge CXA81 II
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Cambridge EXA100 vs Cambridge CXA81 II Integrated Amplifier Comparison

In this review, we will be comparing EXA100 and CXA81 Mk II, two Integrated Amplifiers by Cambridge. Let's have a brief look at the main features of Cambridge EXA100 and Cambridge CXA81 II first before getting into our more detailed comparison.

Cambridge EXA100 Key Specs

  • 100 watts RMS into 8-ohms
  • Built-in DAC
  • USB Input
  • Bluetooth
  • HDMI Input (eARC)
  • Weight: 28.20 lbs / 12.82 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D):4-1/2inch x 16-15/16inch x 14-9/16inch

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

What size room are the Cambridge EXA100 and Cambridge CXA81 II 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 EXA100 Cambridge CXA81 II
Near-field Poor Poor
Small Room Poor Average
Mid-size Room Good Good
Large Room Good Average
Very Large Room Average Poor

In the following sections, we will get into more detail in order to understand how Cambridge EXA100 and Cambridge CXA81 II 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 EXA100 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 155 watts vs 120 watts Delivers higher power into 4-ohms speakers
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) 0.002% vs 0.02% Less Harmonic Distortion

Reasons to choose Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II over Cambridge Audio EXA100
MSRP Price(*) 1,199USD vs 2,199USD costs less (*prices may change depending on the seller, location and time)
Signal to Noise Ratio 105 dB vs 91 dB Higher ratings results in cleaner sound

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 EXA100 and Cambridge CXA81 II differs from each other.

Cambridge EXA100 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
  • HDMI eARC
  • XLR Input Port
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
Outputs
  • Stereo RCA, Sub Preamp Outputs
  • 3.5mm Headphone Output
  • Subwoofer Output
Outputs
  • Stereo RCA, Sub Preamp Outputs
  • 3.5mm Headphone Output
  • Subwoofer Output

What's in the Box of Cambridge EXA100?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of EXA100:
  • Power cords, Remote control, Welcome letter, Registration Card, Safety guide
  • What's in the Box of Cambridge CXA81 II?

    Here are the items that come with the 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
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