Cambridge Audio has revamped its popular CXN100 streamer and introduced the CXN100 SE, which gains an HDMI eARC port. This lets you send soundtracks from movies, sports, TV, or games on your TV straight to your hi-fi system.
Apart from that, it’s technically the same as the previous model. The front panel still features a large 4.76-inch high-resolution color display that shows album artwork, playback info, and some VU meters for a bit of visual flair.
That’s good news because we were really impressed by the original CXN100 during our review, and it even won an Applause Award.
Like the CXN100, the SE runs on Cambridge Audio’s fourth-generation StreamMagic platform. This means it supports the Connect flavours of Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz, alongside Amazon Music, Deezer, and internet radio. Plus, it's Roon Ready and works with Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and Bluetooth.
The ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC remains the chip du jour, selected for its low distortion, wide dynamic range, and sound quality. It supports streaming up to 32-bit/192kHz high-res audio over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
You’ll also find flexible connections: USB, coaxial, and optical digital inputs await, while balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analogue outputs offer even more ways to connect your hi-fi world.
The CXN100 SE will launch in April as a limited-edition black model and in June as a lunar grey model. Better still, the price remains the same as the CXN100: £899 | US$1,099 | AU$1,899.
Furthermore, the CXN100 SE isn’t the only Cambridge Audio product to receive a classy black finish. The British company has also announced limited black versions of its CXA81 Mk II integrated amplifier and CXC CD transport. These are part of the CX Black range.
These devices are the same as their regular versions and cost the same: £999 | US$1,199 | AU$1,999 for the CXA81 Mk II, and £499 | US$599 | AU$1,099 for the CXC. Both will be available in April.
We’re currently reviewing a CXN100 SE, so stay tuned for our full thoughts.
For more information visit Cambridge Audio
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Posted in: Hi-Fi
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