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Here in the Barn, my files sit on the aforementioned Synology NAS, which is connected, via a length of AudioQuest Vodka Ethernet cable, to my router. Another length of Ethernet cable, AQ Diamond, runs from that same router to a DJM Electronics GigaFOILv4-INLINE Ethernet Filter, through another length of AQ Diamond Ethernet cable and into a Raspberry Pi 4 (running RoPieee/Roon). The Pi’s USB output is connected to the Denafrips IRIS DDC, which converts that USB input into a Coax output that’s connected to the same Denafrips ARES II DAC as the CXC transport, using the same model AudioQuest Coffee Coax cable. In addition, since I run Roon I have a dedicated server that houses the Roon Core software, which is also connected to that router, and via subscriptions to Qobuz and Tidal (Qobuz sounds a bit better to my ears), I also have access to their millions-of-albums libraries. When comparing a CD-quality file streamed from Tidal or Qobuz, and even hi-res titles, to its CD cousin in the CXC spin machine, the results pretty much bore out what most people say about these things — the CD typically sounded better. How much better depended on the CD and the file in question, and at times I would say the differences between a CD and a stream were negligible. But I would give the overall edge to the Cambridge CXC when it comes to sound quality, where it offered a more nuanced and resolute sounding presentation as compared to streaming’s sometimes slightly sloppier and less well defined presentation. We’re not talking night and day differences, but the Cambridge CXC won this tight sound quality battle by a pit and land. [footnote 2] We also ensure that our staff are adequately trained in protecting your personal information. Our procedures mean that we may occasionally request proof of identity before we share your personal information with you.
I’ll compare the Cambridge A80/CXC versus the Arcam A29/CXC , both with Tannoy XT8Fs and see how they sound. Will also try swapping the CXC for Yamaha CD and see what that does, not sure if you have thoughts there…
And that’s only based on its sonic performance. Take into account its broad range of connections and features, and this is easily an amplifier that could last for as long as you wish – probably until you’re ready to spend a fair amount more on a significant upgrade. I’ve found the Wolfson DAC in the CXA60 delivers a slightly more focused center stage and slight bit more bass extension over the Denon’s Burr-Brown, but the Burr-Brown does offer a slightly wide soundstage. What is your thought on the CXA60/CXC combo given my listening preferences? I’m not opposed to another (relatively inexpensive) DAC like a Schiit, etc.
Meanwhile, the CXA81’s S/PDIF coaxial input will handle files up to 24-bit/192kHz, and its pair of optical connections take that up to 96kHz. You won’t find any digital inputs such as these on this amp’s main rival, the multi-Award-winning Rega Elex-R.To assist in any disputes, claims or investigations relating to your Cambridge Audio product or warranty matters; Respect your choices and will inform you if there are important changes that affect your personal information or how we use it. Roksan K3 – livelier. A bit more detail, and rendered more texture to voices and revealed modulation of voices that the Arcam homogenised. I’m very surprised RS didn’t suggest you audition the Cambridge 851 kit, especially as they’re the CA distributor and used to push their kit as much as possible. It seems that they sadly don’t push the high-end kit enough, no wonder their truly exceptional analogue preamp (the 851E) was recently discontinued. A great shame. At What Hi-Fi? we review hundreds of products every year at our state-of-the-art testing facilities in London, Reading and Bath, and some of those, inevitably, are CD players. We have complete control over our testing environment, and we test as a team of audio experts with a combined wealth of over a century of experience.
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