Cambridge Audio EXA100

The EXA100 by Cambridge Audio: A Next-Generation Integrated Amplifier

The EXA100 is the result of three years of intensive development by the engineers at Cambridge Audio. This stereo integrated amplifier draws directly from the cutting-edge technology used in the high-end Edge series, particularly the Edge M monoblock amplifier. The result is a device that combines power and refinement, capable of satisfying the most demanding audiophiles.

The amplifier operates in Class AB, offering an optimal balance between performance and energy efficiency. At the heart of the EXA100 is a high-quality toroidal transformer, a direct legacy of the legendary Cambridge Audio P40 amplifier from the 60s. This heavily shielded transformer ensures stable and quiet power supply, significantly contributing to the overall sound quality.

Design and Construction

The EXA100 features a sleek and modern design that reflects its high-level performance. The milled aluminum front panel and robust casing demonstrate meticulous attention to detail. A distinctive design element is the top grille through which the polished heat sinks can be seen, combining aesthetics with functionality.

The front panel is equipped with a rotary knob potentiometer offering a pleasant and precise tactile feel. The central black display harmoniously completes the ensemble, giving the EXA100 a sophisticated look that fits perfectly into any audiophile environment.

Power and Sound Performance

With an impressive output power of 100 W per channel at 8 Ω (and up to 155 W at 4 ohms), the EXA100 is capable of driving a wide range of speakers, even in large spaces. This power reserve allows the amplifier to effortlessly handle the most dynamic musical passages while maintaining remarkable clarity and precision.

The extended frequency response from less than 3 Hz to over 40 kHz (+/-1dB) ensures faithful reproduction of the entire audible audio spectrum and beyond. This wide bandwidth contributes to the transparency and openness of the soundstage, allowing every musical nuance to be fully expressed.

Advanced Connectivity

The EXA100 shines with its versatility in terms of connectivity. It integrates a high-quality ESS Sabre ES9018K2M digital-to-analog converter (DAC), capable of processing high-resolution audio signals. This feature allows seamless integration with a variety of modern digital sources.

Notable connections include:

• An HDMI eARC input for easy connection to a TV
• Optical and coaxial digital inputs
• A USB input for direct connection to a computer
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog inputs
• Bluetooth aptX HD connectivity for high-quality wireless streaming

This diversity of connections makes the EXA100 an ideal central hub for any modern audio system, capable of adapting to a multitude of configurations and sources.

Audiophile Features

The EXA100 incorporates several features designed to satisfy the most demanding audiophiles. The “POWER AMP” mode allows bypassing the preamplifier section, offering the possibility to use the EXA100 as a pure power amplifier in a more complex setup.

The possibility of bi-wiring the speakers is also available, allowing for optimal separation of low and high frequencies for compatible speakers. A pre-amplified subwoofer output offers the flexibility to extend the low-frequency response if desired.

A CAP (Cambridge Audio Protection) system uses four different methods to detect and prevent potential issues such as power or temperature overloads, thus ensuring the device’s longevity and reliability.

Sound Optimization and Technical Innovations

Cambridge Audio engineers have paid special attention to every aspect of the EXA100’s design to maximize sound quality. The use of carefully selected components, mounted on four-layer printed circuit boards, helps minimize interference and optimize performance.

Grounding has been thoroughly studied at every stage of the design, reducing background noise and improving the overall clarity of the audio signal. This attention to detail results in a wide and detailed soundstage, where every nuance of the music is reproduced with precision and authenticity.

Usage Tips

To get the most out of the EXA100, it is recommended to place it in a well-ventilated environment, allowing for effective heat dissipation. Using quality cables for both input connections and speakers can help optimize sound performance.

During the initial setup, it may be beneficial to experiment with different connection configurations to find the one that offers the best results in your specific system. Feel free to use the digital inputs for compatible sources, fully benefiting from the high-quality built-in DAC.

Technical Specifications

Audio Performance

• Output power: 100 W (under 8 Ω)
• Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC): ESS Sabre ES9018K2M
• Compatible with PCM 32-bit, 192 kHz

Technical Measurements

• Frequency response: (−1 dB) 3 Hz to 40 kHz
• Input impedance:
  • Input A1 (balanced): 100 kΩ
  • Inputs A1-A4 (unbalanced): 45 kΩ
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) (unweighted):
  • < 0.002% at 1 kHz, at nominal power (8 Ω)
  • < 0.02% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, at nominal power (8 Ω)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 91 dB

Connectivity

• Analog inputs:
  • 4 stereo RCA jacks
  • 1 balanced XLR jack
• Digital inputs:
  • 1 HDMI eARC port
  • 1 USB-B port
  • 1 coaxial port
  • 2 Toslink optical ports
• Analog outputs:
  • 1 stereo RCA jack
  • 1 RCA subwoofer output

Physical Characteristics

• Power consumption:
  • In operation: 1,200 W
  • In standby: < 0.5 W
• Dimensions (H × W × D): 115 × 430 × 341 mm
• Weight: 12.8 kg