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Denon PMA-3000NE vs Cambridge Audio CXA81
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Denon PMA-3000NE

Integrated Amplifier | 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Denon PMA-3000NE
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Cambridge Audio CXA81

Integrated Amplifier | 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Cambridge Audio CXA81
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Cambridge Audio CXA81 Cambridge Audio CXA8...
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Denon PMA-3000NE vs Cambridge Audio CXA81 Integrated Amplifier Comparison

In this review, we will be comparing two different type of speakers . Denon PMA-3000NE is a speaker whereas the CXA81 is a Integrated Amplifier with built-in DAC speaker.

Let's have a brief look at the main features of Denon PMA-3000NE and Cambridge Audio CXA81 first before getting into our more detailed comparison.

Denon PMA-3000NE Key Specs

  • 80 watts RMS into 8-ohms
  • Built-in DAC
  • Phono Input
  • USB Input
  • Weight: 55.11 lbs / 25.05 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D):7-3/16inch x 17-1/8inch x 18-11/16inch

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 Denon PMA-3000NE 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 Denon PMA-3000NE over Cambridge Audio CXA81
Watts into 4-ohms 160 watts vs 120 watts Delivers higher power into 4-ohms speakers
Signal to Noise Ratio 110 dB vs 105 dB Higher ratings results in cleaner sound
PhonoInput Yes vs No Connect a turntable directly to your amp
Optical Digital Inputs 3 vs 2 More options for connecting Digital sources

Reasons to choose Cambridge Audio CXA81 over Denon PMA-3000NE
Handheld Remote Yes vs No Control the amplifier by the included RC
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) 0.02% vs 0.07% Less Harmonic Distortion
Base Surface Area 1594.7cm2/ 247.2inch2 vs 2066.3cm2/ 320.3inch2 takes less space in your room
Height 115mm vs 183mm 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 Denon PMA-3000NE and Cambridge Audio CXA81 differs from each other.

Denon PMA-3000NE Inputs
  • Phono Input
  • 3 Optical Digital Input
  • 1 Coaxial Digital Input
  • USB Input:
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 Denon PMA-3000NE?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of PMA-3000NE:
  • Integrated amplifier
  • 68-inch AC power cord
  • Remote control (RC-1207)
  • 2 -inchAAA-inch batteries
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Information
  • 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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