As a newcomer to hifi it never ceases to amaze me that people call $2000 hifi components “budget”
@gokhanersan85613 жыл бұрын
And unfortunately the difference between a $300 vs $2000 component is frequently minimal.
@danielloorbach56402 жыл бұрын
Will it be powerful enough for the Kef ls50 meta?
@stuartwiner79202 жыл бұрын
It's all relative. Expensive ones are well over $5K, and the ones on yachts and in Architectural Digest can be over $10K. Probably less than 1 person in a thousand could distinguish between high-end and ultra-high end. As with many other things, it's a scam at that level.
@Kami848 ай бұрын
I think its asinine
@brianyearling78105 ай бұрын
This one is $899... still a lot, but it never ceases to amaze me how some overdramatize and inflate a number:)
@CarlosPerez-eb5er3 жыл бұрын
As an owner of CXA81 I agree with you about your comments and analogies regarding the “Cambridge sound” and design. Having tried various external DACs at different price points I’m always surprised how well the internal DAC preforms. Would love to hear your opinion on their CXN v2. Keep up the good work.
@kiv9431 Жыл бұрын
I recently bought the CXA61 and I love it. It took me a while to find a good matching set of speakers though. I watched some speaker reviews and recommendations in general and came across Q Acoustics 3020i and 3030i. So I tried both. Didn’t like them because they sounded muffled in midrange and lacked clarity in general. Then someone recommended DALI Oberon 3 for CXA61, an I ordered those. I’m glad I did! What a change. They blew out of the water both 3020i and 3030i. Given the price difference it makes sense of course. But nevertheless, if you are looking for speakers then start with DALI Oberon 3 first. But it’s all subjective anyway.
@doifeellucky Жыл бұрын
I completely agree. I have the CXA60 and at the time everyone was hyping the Q Acoustics Concept 20’s. I had a demo with the CXA60 and also thought that they were dull and lifeless. The Richer Sounds manager recommended the Dali Zensor 3 and they are great for me.
@theelliejoel354911 ай бұрын
@@doifeelluckyzensor и oberon одно и то же, я сначала хотел, года два назад их, да дегег не было, теперь коплю на новые oberon 3.
@AL82RetrogamingLongplays3 жыл бұрын
I picked up a refurbished CXA61 from Cambridge Audio's own website earlier this year for £600 - a steal at that price! Paired with a pair of B&W 706 speakers; very pleased with the whole setup! The Bluetooth option is really useful when I'm connected to the VPN at work and lose regular internet!
@blarkdexture88993 жыл бұрын
Just picked up a 740A for 100 euro. Sounds great! Has a great display too. Rename inputs etc. Has 6,35 mm head phone input.
@mpolaud26003 жыл бұрын
I've tried the 6000A and CXA61 for several days, focusing on the listening experience, aiming to pick my favourite one at the end, regardless of the price. In my listening room, I found the Soundstage of the 6000A very big and impressive, almost to big to sound natural (!?), but at the same time, slightly foggy when compared to the CXA61, which had a bit narower soudstage, but a more precise and very clearer sound, to my ears. I finally picked the Cambridge.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Yep - you picked out the CXA61's characteristics there and your ears obviously like them :) And that's fine. That's why choice around this price point is important.
@DC-gw7tz3 жыл бұрын
Hi, may I know what speakers you are using and room size you are in? Wanting to know which amplifier gives you more of punchy/agile bass as well as which one is ‘brighter’?
@mpolaud26003 жыл бұрын
@@DC-gw7tz Bonjour, I used it with the B&W 606, in a 25m² room. I can't say if one was brighter than the other. Regarding the low end, maybe it was a slightly more present with the 6000A, but to me, the key differences between these two are not here. It's more a dilemma between great clarity vs wide soundstage. I sometimes miss the soundstage of the 6000A, but I'm sure I would miss the clearness of the CXA61 if I had chosen the 6000A...
@DC-gw7tz3 жыл бұрын
@@mpolaud2600, thank you for your reply. great help to my journey to find an amplifier for the rp600m.
@BogdanVeringioiu3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this review. I own this amplifier, paired with 2 Dali Oberon 5. I absolutely love it! I am a beginner in the Hifi audio world, I recently purchased the combination and it is extraordinary!
@khaada13 жыл бұрын
Just bought the exact same combo.
@rohanhope42873 жыл бұрын
did you try any others? thinking of going for the same combo. the audiolab 6000 maybe?
@rohanhope42873 жыл бұрын
@@khaada1 did you try any others? thinking of going for the same combo. the audiolab 6000 maybe?
@BogdanVeringioiu3 жыл бұрын
@@rohanhope4287 I did listen to the oberons in a dealer room which had them hooked to a yamaha amp. Also listened to the cxa61 to another dealer but combined with B&W 606 and Q acoustics concept 20. In the end I made up my mind for the cxa61 + oberon 5.
@kiv9431 Жыл бұрын
I tried CXA61 with Q Acoustics 3020i and 3030i, then with Dali Oberon 3. Oberon speakers had so much more clarity and precision across all frequencies so I picked them and returned Q Acoustics. It was easy decision.
@arthurwatts1680 Жыл бұрын
I have to hand it to you, Paul - I cant think of another reviewer who would take us on a tour of his Victorian corset collection to make a point ! Fashion does indeed come at a price ;)
@TheAudiophileMan Жыл бұрын
And you wondered why I have a flat tummy...
@deepee1544 Жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan😂
@Kayr3113 жыл бұрын
Thank you for doing this review and specifically comparing it to the 6000A, both of which are the two amps I was looking at to buy. I enjoyed your review on the 6000A as well btw. Considering tonal balance, soundstage, detail, feature set, and price, I think I'm still convinced the 6000A is the amp for me. But this video made a stronger argument. Seems like the 6000A sits in a class of its own, no? Punches 'way' above it's class and has a unique feature set at a price point that's very consumer friendly I think. Strangely, the 8000A isn't get as great reviews as the 6000A, I wonder why? Anyway, thanks again. Cheers
@jonathanreich63603 жыл бұрын
I picked up a refurbished CXA81 from Cambridge Audio (for about $300 USD less than list price) based upon the written reviews especially Stereophile which matched them with Quad S2s and said the match was excellent. I have Quad S1s so I couldn't resist and wanted to upgrade an integrated amp in my smallish living room and give my old NAD to my daughter. I agree that it has it's own particular sound which, because of the lack of tone controls, you will either like or not. I happen to like it because it has a large soundstage and, paired with my speakers, does some awesome stuff.
@thomasward003 жыл бұрын
I love my new Cambridge AXA 25, on this unit the loss of Tone Control is a deal killer for me.
@angelOcrisu3 жыл бұрын
Why didn't you opted for axa35? It has tone controls but hidden in the menu. Great sounding unit but it s a big piece o kit, wide and deep. This new gen cx doesn t need t.c. because they have their own sound signature.
@thomasward003 жыл бұрын
@@angelOcrisu I still love my tone controls.
@angelOcrisu3 жыл бұрын
@@thomasward00 Me too. It's always nice to adjust tge sound to your personal taste. I was just saying that higher tear equipment don t need tone controls because are intended to pure listening to their sound signature. It s a matter of taste in the end.
@michaelgoron42263 жыл бұрын
I've never found that a headphone adapter reduces sound quality...
@khaada13 жыл бұрын
Just picked one up for myself with a pair of Dali Oberon 5s. Can't wait to get them delivered and give them a listen.
@ralex36973 жыл бұрын
I have the cxa 81 as my back up, great amp Very musical Cambridge did a great job with this line
@cheynemcnab65403 жыл бұрын
@khaada1 how do you like this pairing? how would you characterize the sound?
@milanpuzak55233 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your confirmation...finally get cxa61and sounds superbs with emit 20. Now listening my favor songs and will try find any mistake after runnig all sistem...
@gigmcsweeney85663 жыл бұрын
I bought a CXA61 this week, though still waiting to unpackage it. Looking for another pair of speakers to add to my wharfdales and will either go for the Dali Oberons or B&W 606s. BTW, I got a £100 discount and paid £649 for my amp, so not a bad deal.
@paulreal5698 Жыл бұрын
Paired my CXA61 with Wharefedale 12.1’s. Sounds great.
@tessie42044 ай бұрын
Are you still happy with this setup?
@paulreal569817 күн бұрын
@@tessie4204yes. The wharfedale’s sound very natural and smooth paired with the CXA61.
@sixpotshot2 жыл бұрын
The Audiolab 6000A would be my choice but its back panel is, in my opinion, lacking in features and, albeit I am still undecided what amp is gonna join my old Roksan Caspian's (2x) right now the CXA61 is my favourite I don't think I can reach a Roksan Attessa (but I am trying!) least forget an upgraded Caspian combo set...the title doesn't carry any reference to any comparisons but the fact that you did compare it with the Audiolab 6000A was like, crikey, bonus! Thanks!
@dansmith30853 жыл бұрын
I recently purchased an AXR85 receiver from Cambridge that has a faulty cooling fan. Apparently, they are having a problem with this. There's a KZfaq video of an AXR100 with the same issue. I'm waiting to hear back from them.
@claudec25883 жыл бұрын
No need to go on with this review past the 7:27 mark. Lack of tone controls alone for me would be a deal breaker. No volume level display, small headphone jack, just confirms someone needs to be fired for designing this. The only positives, plenty of RCA inputs and no money wasted on a built-in phono stage. Anyone into vinyl as you pointed out, at this price point, would have an external phono stage.
@ralex36973 жыл бұрын
Quality amps don’t need tone controls
@TheNaboen3 жыл бұрын
When it comes to linguistic imagery, I think this is the most thriving review I have seen. Lovely
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
That’s very kind of you Bjarne. Thank you.
@abacar6134 Жыл бұрын
Just picked up an open box unit for $379 which is a steal!
@bradd38402 жыл бұрын
I love the image of the Turntable and Amp on the table with the nice plants. Did they become wireless?
@raymoore84353 жыл бұрын
I would like the 6000a, but the power is a little low.
@stevezeidman72243 жыл бұрын
Nice Job. I enjoyed your review. Very thorough.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Steve!
@scottmacdonald3295 Жыл бұрын
Good detailed review. Thanks
@andrewfurst57113 жыл бұрын
I don't understand this review with regard to the sound. Paul compares the CXA61 to a woman in a corset, where her figure might look really good as a result, but it's not her natural figure. He also compares it to a dog on a leash, which is only allowed to stray so far, rather than being able to run wherever it wants. But then he says that the CXA61 gives an honestly amplified rendering of the recording, thus if it's a harsh recording it sounds harsh, or a sweet recording sounds sweet, and that the amplifier is not doing things to improve the sound. How can both of these things be going on at the same time? Generally amps (and pre-amps and DACs and cables and speakers, etc.) are felt to be honest and analytical, or they are distorted but in a pleasant way, such as with tube amps adding (or adding back?) 2nd and 3rd order harmonic distortion. But you can't have both at the same time. So this review, while nicely done overall, left me very confused about the most important part of the unit, which is how it actually sounds.
@andrewfurst57113 жыл бұрын
After watching the sound portion again, I think Paul is saying that the frequencies are not extended on the CXA61, but that the unit is very accurate within the frequencies it allows to be amplified. Whereas the Audiolab unit might allow even more detail at very high and low frequencies to get through, even with the possibility that those might include unwanted noises (or at least unintended by the music producers for listening). I'm not sure this is what Paul meant, but it would be a way to reconcile the "dog on a leash" with the "doesn't attempt to modify the sound" (within the frequencies that it does allow to be amplified). Personally I straddle the line between wanting an "audiophile" system and merely wanting good mid-fi (maybe "upper mid-fi" if that's a term). Reason being, I want my CDs (yes I'm virtually all CD in listening habits) to sound "really good" to me, from the actual musicians I enjoy most, whether it's The Beatles, Classical, Baroque, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, etc. I don't want to wind up listening to only audiophile recordings (Diana Krall etc.) due to not being able to stand how my legacy 1960's to 1990's recordings sound (or my less-than-audiophile live recordings for that matter). So the quality of source material is a factor too when choosing a system for music reproduction, including the two choices of integrated amps that Paul mentions prominently in his review.
@andrewfurst57113 жыл бұрын
@behexen250 Thank you, I think you are on the right track as far as what I like in audio. I've long wondered if someone could offer an adjustable stereo system, which could not only be tuned to the room acoustic's and the quality of the listener's ears, but which also could be adjusted depending on the quality of the source material. Too often I hear about audiophiles trying to get the clearest, most detailed system they can, only to wind up ONLY playing audiophile quality recordings because they now can't stand how their old formerly beloved recordings sound, warts and all. I realize that there have been components that allow various tweaks here and there, such as speakers that can have high-cut and low-cut switches, or equalizers, or units to enhance harmonics for a "tubey" sound or whatever. But what I'd like would be a central unit, presumably an integrated amplifier or pre-amp, possibly a DAC (or pre-amp/DAC), where a listener could adjust to get the best of all worlds - "sharpening" the analytics fully while listening to audiophile grade recordings, while "softening" or whatever is needed to make the beloved legacy recordings sound their best, most musical, etc. In terms of the Creek unit, I remember reading about that several years ago. It got rave reviews in the US press as I recall. I don't hear much about Creek Audio now, I guess they had one hit product and that was it, or maybe the founder left, or maybe it was the Chinese build that people saw as a negative, or maybe Creek is still good but not as well known. But that did seem to be the "it" product of its day, and I don't think Creek has had anything that is close to the high regard people had for the 5350SE. But I'm not so sure I'd want to buy a used component, especially one that old. On the other hand, $1500 for a new unit would have been beyond my grasp 20 years ago, and it's not exactly an easy lift today, so today's used discount would certainly be appealing. Also on the positive side, I like that it has 120 wpc at 4 ohms, which would probably work with my Martin Logan Motion 40 speakers. I understand that those speakers seem to be power hungry to yield their best sound, almost regardless of volume - though I'm not someone who blasts music at high volume.
@peace-yv4qd Жыл бұрын
I have the CXA61 coming to my front door anytime today. My reasons for buying this amp when I have five other amps that include tubed, solid state and price points? Curiosity for one and the fact it's been discounted to $599US.Almost 50% off retail. The speakers I pair it with are up in the air. I'm leaning towards the Dali Oberon 3's. Thanks for the review.
@rianredfield5252 Жыл бұрын
Another pairing for the cxa61 might be the Mission Lx3. For a lesser budget speaker, they pack a punch.
@bondgabebond49072 жыл бұрын
Seeing the lack of features on these products leaves me wanting. So bad that some expensive units have no turntable preamp has led me to buying a $60 preamp and connecting it to powered speakers, bypassing the need of an amp and saving me hundreds of dollars.
@themastroiannis3 жыл бұрын
great great review!! absolutely loved it! your analogies to the dog with a leash and the victorian corsets are great! i've been using an IOTAVX SA3 for the last year and a half and loving it. It has finally given me a taste of what hi-fi is about. the IOTA powers a pair of Q acoustics concept 40 towers (which i really love). I listen to mostly classical (orchestral and chamber) as well as lots of jazz and some folk rock. Do you think the cambridge CXA61 or the audiolab 6000A (or the rega brio, perhaps?) would produce any noticeable sonic improvement? i like an honest, open, dynamic sound (jazz and classical demand this kind of sound) and i listen to all my music on CDs and LPS. Would LOVE to have your opinion about it. Will it be a worthy upgrade? in which case, which one (between the audiolab, cambridge or rega) would be better? i must add my Q acoustics concept 40 sound waaaay better now with the IOTA than the silly receiver I used to have. thanks again for your reviews. they are wonderful!
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your kind words. For me, I prefer the 6000A, the extra space, air and detail is produces. The Brio is excellent too. You won't be disappointed with any of them, to be honest. The 6000A I find offers the best tonal balance. All three would be valid upgrades.
@themastroiannis3 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan thanks so much for your response! i really appreciate you taking the time to respond to dozens of questions from different viewers of your videos. will definitely follow your advice! will let you know how it goes! thanks again!
@sbatty65227 Жыл бұрын
A great review and am currently mulling over getting this or the AL6000a.The fact the CXA61 doesn't have a phono stage is not a big deal as I'd probably get a Rothwell to add my Rega P1. The only thing that puts me off the CXA61 is that 3.5mm headphone out as I'm flummoxed in how I'd add an external headphone amp (no tape loop) and still be able to listen to all sources connected to the amp. Asking the CA Support team is like hitting your head against a brick wall.
@TheAudiophileMan Жыл бұрын
That's frustrating, I can't check because I had to return the unit but I think if you connect the head amp to the pre outs then that should crack the case.
@daledrolet13323 жыл бұрын
Hi Paul. This is a great review. Months back you reviewed the IOTA SA3 and it has a neutral sound as well. How would you compare this to the CXA61? Cheers from Canada!
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I wouldn't, to be honest Dale because of the large price difference. The CXA61 is superior in sound terms but really, it should be at that price.
@intothedragon3 жыл бұрын
hows the pairing of the CXA61 with B&W speakers? I read somewhere that it makes it too bright.
@aptknifethrowerguy83423 жыл бұрын
i found a used cxa60 for 550$ in perfect condition to replace my onkyo power amp ive had for 35 years...rip dear friend
@gianlucabassi88532 жыл бұрын
Good for you. Cxa60 Is better.
@Techoni3 жыл бұрын
Ridiculous mistakes at this price point. There's no excuses...
@citycafe2912673 жыл бұрын
Thank you Sir !!
@luton_gmanrock3 жыл бұрын
The lp's behind Paul grabbed my attention more, Tangerine Dream and Gary Numan,
@ulises31133 жыл бұрын
Hello, thank you for your review. I think if we take account price-qualiy, the Audiolab 6000A seems to be more interesting. Do not forget for those who have an home-cinema amplifier that Cambridge cxa61 has not bypass option unlikely to Audiolab 6000a. Bypass option is only reserved to Cambridge cxa81''s. I wonder if it is worth replacing Audiolab 6000a by Cambridge cxa81. I say that because one week ago we compared at home Audiolab 6000a versus Hegel H 160 ( 800€ vs 2400) and discovered that if you don't like the amplifier's signature sound , you will not care of it has more details, more dynamic and so on. When listening to Hegel H160 we felt it had more control and detail than Audiolab's. However we found Hegel's sound very flat and in this field we largely preferred Audiolab. The sound was wider with audiolab.Even the way of how Audiolab worked, distributed and placed the sound. It is really strange because we felt that Hegel H160 had "better sound" but not homogeneous as Audiolabs'. On the other hand, Audiolabs launched a new firmware , specially for optical and coaxial imputs letting you to choose between a "normal or wide" sound and we are happy because we noticed that this firware give us a better sound when choosing "wide". Many amplifiers have a more transparency sound ( it makes me think of Pioneer's class D amplifiers as Pionner A70d, or 70DA which I do not really like, big power, but nothing really controlled, a sound I cannot bear more than 3 minutes ) and as they are more "clear" you listen or you feel more details. With Aufiolab , details are there but not as evident as it could be owing to its sounds signautre. I contacted Audiolab to explain my feelings in order to launch a new firmware , as a result of the effective last one, and I asked them to think of an option in sound for a little more transparency as " normal or wide option". These two options are more evident when listening rather than you choose " phase, fast and slow" option you can use with Aufiolab. What you you think about ‽
@mpolaud26003 жыл бұрын
The new firmware you're talking about, isn't it for 6000A PLAY only ?
@ulises31133 жыл бұрын
The firmware I speak about is for Aufiolab 6000A
@ulises31133 жыл бұрын
Hello, I have ordered Cambridge cxa81 and I have Audiolab 6000A. Both will be compared plug into the Tannoy xt8f and x6f
@carlitro95003 жыл бұрын
Hi Ulises31, Interesting test: Which was better for you?
@mrpositronia3 жыл бұрын
I've had my combo of CX-A60 and Tannoy XT6F for 3 years now and the pairing is very enjoyable. Many hours have passed by listening. Although, I'm now close to upgrading to a Hegel H120 integrated amp.
@TheSujanroy3 жыл бұрын
Have been running a CXA61 with QAcoustics 3050i. No sampling or trialing available for high end equipment here in Mumbai, India, especially with the pandemic. On the whole, quite happy with the combo. As the amp and speakers were run in the sound got sweeter. I do need to give it a bit of a 'V shape' on the EQ though. Enjoy your email newsletters too.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Sujan! and thanks for your insight on the 61.
@faludabutt82533 жыл бұрын
It’s no audiophile amp. Good enough for HIFI enthusiasts. It’s sure over priced.
@faludabutt82533 жыл бұрын
x that amp you get after spending $25000 on experimenting. No pain no gain. My friends and acquaintances say that they never listened to a system as good as mine. The whole set-up costs $20,000. And speakers are only $1000
@faludabutt82533 жыл бұрын
x My problem with listening to music has been this. How real or clean Sax or piano I could listen to? It’s a never ending story. I have moved away from loud volume. My power amp is only 18 per channel. But pre-amp provides a 10db gain. Plus 95db/m full range single driver speakers give provide enough volume. I think at medium volume, you could feel the instruments more. Well I took a huge risk with my set-up. If you ever are in London,
@faludabutt82533 жыл бұрын
You are welcome to listen to my gear
@hgodfreyАй бұрын
It went looking for tasty morsels of detail?
@deepee1544 Жыл бұрын
Let's get this to 1000 likes!
@fletchermunson62253 жыл бұрын
I hate to admit this, but I ordered a Cambridge integrated and quickly returned it for lack of banana plug capacity. I hadn't purchased a new piece of gear in a long time and had no idea that some manufacturers now put plugs in their banana sockets. In the case of the Cambridge the plugs are so seamless that the speaker outs look like they have one solid piece of plastic as a fastener. I might ad that the information sheet, (I won't call it a manual) contained little information and made no mention of the plugs, leaving me in the dark. The dealer pointed out my error to my embarrassment.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
And I'm glad you've brought up this point James. Even if you download the manual from the Cambridge website: techsupport.cambridgeaudio.com/hc/en-us/articles/360002695458-CXA61-81-Manual...there is no mention of the plugs. Well, I didn't see any mention. It's a simple point to address and Cambridge is not the only outfit to miss it. I'm not surprised that it caught you out. I remember when I first saw these plugs a while back and it foxed me too.
@fletchermunson62253 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks for making me feel better. That said, I have had four eye operations and the nuances of vision escape me these days. I'm falling apart like a leper on a trampoline.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Sorry to hear about your health issues James and I wish you well in the future. Eye problems are no joke, I realise. That said, let us not lift Cambridge off the hook on this one. I feel that the manual writer 'assumed' the user would know about the plugs. One thing I was taught when I started out in journalism was this: never make assumptions when your audience is concerned. Take care of yourself and good luck for the future.
@jonathanreich63603 жыл бұрын
I actually contacted the store I bought it from. That was my one big surprise that the binding posts looked like solid cheap plastic. However, they informed me that there were caps. Once I took out the caps, banana plugs worked fine. I also found out that the manual does not recommend bi-wiring for lower impedance speakers. I initially did that and then stopped. I don't think the sound quality changed. The binding posts came close to me sending it back but once I pulled out the caps, it works fine.
@lev_anni8 ай бұрын
Why the AXA35 does not have this USB input, would be just ideal for me :( this modes lack Bass, Treble controls and have USB, AXA35 lacks USB but has Bass Treble :(
@deathtodigital40973 жыл бұрын
I got the SR20 a couple of years back as I couldn't stretch to the cxa60. Paired with some monitor audio bronze 5s it's been a decent system for my money but I have always wondered about whether I should have held out
@ladonna84312 жыл бұрын
did anyone try this amp with harbeth p3esr ?
@califmike20033 жыл бұрын
3.5mm to 6.4mm doesnt affect sound in any shape or form at all. Dont like there is not tone control, no bass, no treble, total deal breaker for sure i dont care how good it sounds.
@ryanbailey1123 жыл бұрын
How does this stand up to the Audio lab 6000a? Or a NAD C 3020 BEE? Great videos thanks mate.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I prefer both to the NAD and I cover the 61 vs 6000A in the video. Click here if you need easier searching on that one: theaudiophileman.com/cxa61-integrated-amplifier-review-cambridge/
@ryanbailey1123 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks for getting back to me. So I stumbled on a Arcam FMJ A28 in mint shape for a song and grabbed it. Now to get my first speakers.
@aceofspades6667 Жыл бұрын
Would this be a nice fit with harbeth? Maybe a p3esr or 30.2?
@PTibor-mo1tf2 жыл бұрын
i dont get it.....per channels 60 w but why they says in the back 600w?????
@moribnd2 жыл бұрын
Audiophile Man: which integrated amplifier around $1000 would you recommend for an even/linear sound profile, neutral-to-warm sound and adequate “air” to compensate for some poor quality metal or rock recordings? I enjoy the mids in my AXR100, but it exhibits saturation in upper mids and lower treble when playing Judas Priest. Unpleasant and not an amp I want to keep. I also do not need 100 watts.
@TheAudiophileMan Жыл бұрын
Audiolab 6000A
@stephenchadwick58522 жыл бұрын
Don't think you should be playing Kylie Minoque on a piece of kit like that enjoyed your review Steve Manchester UK
@user-xd2bv6ns2l2 жыл бұрын
Please tell me. Is it possible to turn on A + B (4 speakers play, like in Yamaha? Or only A or B play? Can I connect 2 speakers via Bi-Amping?
@grahamehedger4498 Жыл бұрын
Can I pick your brains? I have a pair of elderly Monitor Audio RS8s, fed by a Marantz PM6005 and the source is mainly FLAC or CDs through a Cambridge 752BD. I now live in Spain and my living room is small (3.5 x 4.5 mtrs) and the speakers are stuck in corners - about 20cm from back wall and 10 cm from side walls. Mainly low - mid volume playing films, rock, blues and classical. At 64 years old, I know my ears ain't what they used to be, but the sound (unless it's really cranked up) sounds....dull. Lifeless. I was considering smaller towers (Dali Oberon 5) or replacing the amp (Cambridge CXA61 or Audiolab 6000). Or both. Being in Spain, home demo is out of the question, and an audition at the outlet is 50 euros!!! But in store won't replicate my house and the thought of lugging my MAs from a car park to the store fills me with dread! So..........what would be your - and others out there - opinion? Many thanks.
@gokhanersan85613 жыл бұрын
Does CXA61 have any tone controls accessible via the remote?
@TheAudiophileMan2 жыл бұрын
I'm afraid not.
@fabiogil76973 жыл бұрын
I would like to suggest a theme for a new video: Integrated amps vs Active Speakers
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I'm not sure the comparison is wholly fair, Fabio. Any particular reason why you'd like to see that theme in action?
@fabiogil76973 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan I would like to know if it is fair and why? There is a huge demand for compact sound systems with promises of equivalent and even superior quality of the new active speakers.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I've already addressed this issue, fabio. Please check out this video: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/j9qbhbaLqbjTemQ.html
@fabiogil76973 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks, I'll watch it at home ...
@bs00004313 жыл бұрын
Is it a good replacement and step up from denon 600ne?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Indeed, yes.
@IKB20233 жыл бұрын
Hello, thank you for the video. Yamaha as501 or cambridge cxa61 ?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Cambridge.
@amarcy53693 жыл бұрын
Great review Paul it might be worth mentioning that Cambridge does have some reliability issues with their equipment. Which may put some potential buyers off. But that Said they do produce some very impressively performing hifi . Regards from Mike in the U.K.
@johnbarleycornmustdie3 жыл бұрын
I had the CXA60 and the CXC transport and can vouch for this. It was glitchy with lights flashing when they shouldn’t do or the dimming unresponsive and erratic. I sold the amplifier on. I also found the mid range a little muddled too. I don’t regret it. Kept the CXC, although it too has its “moments” it seems to be happier now it is divorced from the CXA60.
@amarcy53693 жыл бұрын
@@johnbarleycornmustdie sorry you have been a victim of some of the negative aspects of the brand . I feel it’s a bit of a mine filed in this price range . I myself still consider the rega brio to hold its ground . Despite its lack of digital connection . But in fairness to Paul his remit is to judge it on purely on its merit. But regards this particular brand you are the best person to pass judgment . Best wishes and kind and kind regards Mike in the U.K.
@johnbarleycornmustdie3 жыл бұрын
@@amarcy5369 I eventually found my way to the Rega Brio (the 2017 incarnation) and it’s good and reliable. I agree some digital inputs would be welcome but it is does what it does well and does no more. I think it is common for some new amps with all manner of digital inputs and buttons to go wrong at some stage. I often see a lot of Arcam products being on sale as shop returns and I believe they also can prove glitchy, although I have limited experience of this brand. If Cambridge have sorted out the reliability with the new versions then all well and good. When I did have issues I found the Cambridge technical support to be very good and responsive but there were some things they couldn’t solve.
@pocketoperatorjams983 жыл бұрын
Are the 4 speaker outputs there to play 4 speakers at the same time or to A and B test them? I need an amp that will power 2 monitor audio Sf2 and 2 Vector speakers. I hope you can help, thank you.
@mrpositronia3 жыл бұрын
They are for listening options. You can have two pairs connected for sudo quadraphonic sound, or in separate rooms, or indeed, you could bi-wire your speakers, if they also have two sets of binding posts. You could even connect two pairs of subwoofers using the 'B' set of posts. A+B speaker outputs are very common.
@premajwani12902 жыл бұрын
you were comparing 60 and 61 and you started audiolab
@JuanLega3 жыл бұрын
Nice review. Can you do the 851W by Cambridge Audio..?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I'll certainly make a note for the future, Juan.
@DC-gw7tz3 жыл бұрын
Hi, how would you compare the CXA61 against the audiolab 6000a? I have a klipsch rp600m (i.e. lively with forward sound), which one would be a better pairing? Thank you.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
The video provides a comparison between the two amplifiers. Hopefully you can make a decision from the supplied info.
@DC-gw7tz3 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan, Thank you for your reply. I understand the you prefer the tonal balance that the 6000a has over the CXA61. Though, may I ask which one would have a more punchy/agile bass? Also, which Q acoustics speaker would be the direct competition of Klipsch rp600m?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Probably the 6000A, although overall, the 61 has the greater overall focus. The 3050i floorstanders would be the price comparison although the lower cost 3030i would be a good option for standpoint play.
@radiandrzgaming87083 жыл бұрын
Assembled in China... why is audio equipment expensive again?
@user-qv8lz5ds7m4 ай бұрын
👍
@KM7693 жыл бұрын
Have you heard polish group Republika (similar name to Republic)?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I'm afraid I haven't. Pray tell...
@tomfuegue3 жыл бұрын
How good is the ESS Sabre DAC of this amplifier?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I talked about that in the video.
@jeffbigbear17663 жыл бұрын
price a tad too high now for a cxa61
@tigerbalm6662 ай бұрын
Too many flaws like no USB, poor display info.....
@vibesahead3 жыл бұрын
Is there someone who have this CXA61 together with KEF LS 50 speakers? I have LS 50s but want other amp now. I like the Audiolab 6000A to but this is not strong enough i read. Someone?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
The 6000A should be fine - not sure why you would have heard otherwise.
@doifeellucky3 жыл бұрын
I've got the CXA60 with Dali Zensor 3's, and will be interested to hear your opinion on this model.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I like the 60, it remains a great second-hand buy and is ideal for a budget system, especially at todays prices (£300 or so in good condition?). I wasn't able to compare it to the 61 but, as I mention in the video, colleagues of mine have commented on the extra clarity from the 61.
@doifeellucky3 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan The Spendor A1's listed in the description are significantly more expensive than my Zensor 3's, but was wondering if upgrading to something in the £500-600 range would offer a good upgrade with the CXA60. Do you have any recommendations? I listen to everything from classical to heavy rock, electronic, pretty much anything. Thanks
@doifeellucky3 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan Also what sort of price point would you consider for an external DAC to offer a noticeable improvement? I appreciate you can't comment directly on the DAC in the CXA60.
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Can I ask what sort of source you'd be plugging into a DAC and I'd need a budget figure on that - otherwise I'm entering 'how long's a piece of string' time :)
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
I'd look carefully at the Q Acoustic 3030i speakers for the 60: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/h7hmmdeh18mVaJc.html
@DrDryce3 жыл бұрын
Thinking to pair this with B&W 606 S2. Thoughts?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Technically, you should be fine.
@gigel993243 жыл бұрын
Did you get them? How are they?
@hclandscapes3 жыл бұрын
I think this amplifier is too expensive when compared with the audiolab 6000A and the Cambridge build quality is poor in comparison
@robk57453 жыл бұрын
Talking out your ass again 🤣
@tomhughes51233 жыл бұрын
no wonder cambridge audio turned the comments off , we just bought the full set uo in black , the guy in the shop mentioned the new one was due out .. didnt say it was only available in grey the caniving bastards , so your not at all able to integrate the new amp without it looking like youv got a mix and match set up .. yes really pissed off at cambridge audio for that stunt
@RangerLaila3 жыл бұрын
Would this amp be worth 1100 GBP? It's what it will cost in Norway...
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
It depends on the price of the competition in your country but, all else being equal, there are better options.
@RangerLaila3 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan I think one competitor in Norway would be NAD C368, and that one is 850. I've seen CXA61 and C368 similarly priced elsewhere. The asking price for CXA61 is 250 more than the NAD, which seems a bit high imo.
@RangerLaila3 жыл бұрын
@@TheAudiophileMan I have discovered that the Rega Elex-R costs exactly the same as CXA61 in my country. If you disregard the difference in features, how do you think they comapare with regards to sound quality?
@milanpuzak55233 жыл бұрын
Have dynaudio emit 20 Is good pair with cxa 61?
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Yes, I think the 61 can handle those speakers.
@antoniogonzalezmedel3 жыл бұрын
and by the absent of tone control nothing to say ???????
@TheAudiophileMan3 жыл бұрын
Hurrah?
@jonathanreich63603 жыл бұрын
From what I've read, the units are designed to create a specific sound which, with some speakers, are quite exciting. The reviewer is quite right that this is not audiophile equipment, it is a specifically designed sound for certain people. If you like it and it works with your speakers (and I guess you aren't planning to upgrade speakers any time soon) it is great. For me, it works really well. Instruments sound very much as if you are in the same room and vocals are fantastic. If you want, you can add an eq either in your music source or say the Schiit Loki + somewhere in there. The bluetooth here is really good. If you are looking for a more audiophile type equipment, this isn't for you.