Cambridge Audio MSX 20 white

Two 57 mm transducers housed in a 750-gram enclosure. The MSX 20 takes the proven formula of the Minx series, which Cambridge Audio has been selling for over ten years, and gives it a matte finish and a name aligned with the rest of the current lineup. The principle remains the same: offer a satellite speaker capable of producing a wide soundstage in a format that disappears visually.

BMR Technology, or How to Break Free from the “Sweet Spot”

Conventional speakers project sound in a relatively narrow cone. Move from your armchair and the sonic balance changes. BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) transducers, developed by Tectonic Audio Labs and used by Cambridge Audio since the first Minx generation, work differently.

Their flat diaphragm combines two operating modes: a classic piston movement for low and mid frequencies, and a surface vibration that generates high frequencies through wave propagation across the diaphragm itself. This dispersion reaches nearly 180 degrees. You no longer need to sit exactly between the two speakers to hear the stereo image correctly.

The fourth generation BMR transducer fitted to the MSX 20 uses a more powerful magnet than previous versions. The diaphragm excursion (its maximum displacement) increases from 2.2 mm to 4 mm, which improves integration with an optional subwoofer.

Two Transducers for Deeper Bass

The MSX 20 sets itself apart from its smaller sibling, the MSX 10, with its two-way architecture. The two 57 mm BMR transducers share the frequency spectrum: one handles the mid-bass range, the other focuses on the low frequencies. This division delivers greater dynamics and low-end weight compared to a single-transducer speaker. The frequency response extends down to 120 Hz, which remains limited for music listening without a subwoofer, but is sufficient in a home theater system where a subwoofer takes over.

The nominal impedance of 8 ohms and sensitivity of 88 dB make the MSX 20 compatible with most amplifiers on the market, from entry-level models to high-end electronics. Cambridge Audio recommends a power output between 25 and 200 watts.

An Enclosure Designed for Rigidity

The cubic format of 79 × 155 × 97 mm imposes mechanical constraints. At these dimensions, the enclosure walls can easily resonate and color the sound. Cambridge Audio uses a structure reinforced with aluminum elements that stiffen the whole assembly. The matte finish, available in black or white, is a departure from the glossy lacquer of the older Minx models. It picks up less dust and fingerprints.

The binding posts accept 4 mm banana plugs or bare wire. No proprietary connectors: the MSX 20 integrates into any existing installation.

Three Possible Orientations, from Living Room to Home Theater

The speaker can be used upright, on its side, or wall-mounted using the included wall bracket. This versatility allows it to be used as a stereo front speaker, as a center channel placed under a television, or as a rear satellite in a 5.1 or 7.1 configuration.

The MSX 20 is a passive speaker: it requires an amplifier or a home theater receiver. Within the Cambridge Audio catalog, the CXA61, CXA81, or EXA100 amplifiers are natural pairings, with their subwoofer outputs making it easy to integrate an MSX Sub 200 or Sub 300. But there is nothing stopping you from connecting these speakers to an amplifier from another brand with decent bass management.

The Limits of the Compact Format

Reaching down to 120 Hz with an enclosure of this size involves compromise. With music featuring deep bass (electronic, hip-hop, certain classical recordings with organ), the MSX 20 alone will lack foundation. Adding a subwoofer then becomes necessary, which increases the budget and the overall footprint of the system.

The maximum power handling of 200 watts should not be misleading: pushing these small speakers at high volume in a large room will reveal their physical limits. They are designed for reasonable listening levels in moderately sized spaces.

Technical Specifications

Design and Drivers

• Type: compact 2-way satellite speaker with BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) technology
• Drivers: 2 x 57 mm (2.25”) BMR drivers
  • 1 driver dedicated to the mid-bass range
  • 1 driver dedicated to the bass range
• BMR technology: wide and even sound dispersion

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: 120 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 88 dB (2.83 Vrms @ 1 m)
• Impedance: 8 Ω
• Recommended amplifier power: 25 – 200 W

Integration and Use

• Possible configurations: stereo, multichannel, center channel
• Positioning: vertical, horizontal, wall-mounted
• Compatibility: hi-fi and home theater systems
• Ultra-compact format with wide soundstage reproduction

Construction

• Cabinet: rigid structure with aluminum reinforcements
• Finish: premium matte

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 79 x 155 x 97 mm
• Weight: 0.75 kg

Box Contents

• 1 speaker
• 1 wall mount
• Non-slip pads
• Quick start guide
• Registration card