Through the line level connections (where we use our reference Naim ND555/555PS music streamer as well as the more price compatible Marantz CD6006 CD player) we’re pleased by the amplifier’s lively nature. It’s simply more fun to listen to, regardless of input chosen. While still recognisably related to the older amp, this new one sounds more transparent and playful. While that hefty price suggests that the CXA61 might struggle against more affordable rivals, it doesn’t take long to realise Cambridge’s detail tweaks have worked really well. We’re pleased to report that all of this work has paid off. While the basic analogue circuit hasn’t been revamped, the engineers have improved sound quality by changing most of the op-amps in the signal path and upgrading the capacitors in both the pre and power sections of the amp. We wouldn’t necessarily disagree, but it’s still neater to have it all in one box. Of course, we’re sure the company would point towards its fine, affordable Alva outboard phono stages and suggest that’s the route to take if vinyl replay is a priority. That should be enough for most systems, though we’re seeing more focus on phono inputs over the last couple of years, so it’s a bit of a surprise that Cambridge has decided to omit that from this amp. This integrated still has four line-level stereo RCA inputs on the back and a 3.5mm jack for portable music players on the front.
The power output remains a solid 60W per channel and there’s no change as far as connectivity is concerned. Looking at the specifications, it would be easy to assume that little had changed on the analogue side. Cambridge has also courted the home install market with the addition of a RS232 port and trigger inputs that help to integrate the CXA61 into an automated system.
The old amp needed an optional Bluetooth dongle that added a premium to the price. Bluetooth is built-in too, and it’s of the better aptX HD (24-bit/48kHz) variety.
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