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Cambridge Audio Evo 300 vs Cambridge Audio CXA81
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Cambridge Audio Evo 300

Integrated Amplifier | 300 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Cambridge Audio Evo 300
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Cambridge Audio CXA81

Integrated Amplifier | 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Cambridge Audio CXA81
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Cambridge Audio Evo 300 Cambridge Audio Evo...
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Cambridge Audio CXA81 Cambridge Audio CXA8...
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Cambridge Audio Evo 300 vs Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Amplifier Comparison

In this review, we will be comparing two different type of speakers by Cambridge. Cambridge Audio Evo 300 is a Streaming Integrated Amplifier speaker whereas the CXA81 is a Integrated Amplifier with built-in DAC speaker.

Let's have a brief look at the main features of Cambridge Audio Evo 300 and Cambridge Audio CXA81 first before getting into our more detailed comparison.

Cambridge Audio Evo 300 Key Specs

  • 300 watts RMS into 8-ohms
  • Built-in DAC
  • Phono Input
  • USB Input
  • Bluetooth v5.4
  • Weight: 15.87 lbs / 7.20 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D):3-9/16 x 15-5/16 x 14-13/16 inch

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

In the following sections, we will get into more detail in order to understand how Cambridge Audio Evo 300 and Cambridge Audio CXA81 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 Evo 300 over Cambridge Audio CXA81
Watts into 8-ohms 300 watts vs 80 watts Delivers higher power into 8-ohms speakers
Watts into 4-ohms 550 watts vs 120 watts Delivers higher power into 4-ohms speakers
Bluetooth Version v5.4 vs v4.2 Higher transfer rate and range
Wi-Fi Yes vs No High quality streaming over WiFi
PhonoInput Yes vs No Connect a turntable directly to your amp
Apple AirPlay Yes vs No Compatible with Apple Devices with AirPlay
Apple AirPlay 2 Yes vs No Compatible with Apple Devices with AirPlay 2
Built-in Chromecast Yes vs No Compatible with Chromecast Streaming
Roon Ready vs No Roon Compatibility
Built-in Chromecast Yes vs No Compatible with Chromecast Streaming
Max Sample Rate 768kHz vs 384kHz Play higher resolution media
Base Surface Area 1463.0cm2/ 226.8inch2 vs 1594.7cm2/ 247.2inch2 takes less space in your room
Height 90mm vs 115mm Easier to fit in smaller spaces

Reasons to choose Cambridge Audio CXA81 over Cambridge Audio Evo 300
Handheld Remote Yes vs No Control the amplifier by the included RC
Optical Digital Inputs 2 vs 1 More options for connecting Digital sources

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 Evo 300 and Cambridge Audio CXA81 differs from each other.

Cambridge Audio Evo 300 Inputs
  • Phono Input
  • 1 Optical Digital Input
  • 1 Coaxial Digital Input
  • USB Input:
  • Ethernet Port
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)
Outputs
  • Yes Preamp Outputs
  • 1/4 Headphone Output
Outputs
  • Stereo RCA, Sub Preamp Outputs
  • 3.5mm Headphone Output
  • Subwoofer Output
Cambridge Audio CXA81 Back View
Cambridge Audio CXA81 Back View (Click the image for the larger version)

What's in the Box of Cambridge Audio CXA81?

Here are the items that come with the 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
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