Receiver Cambridge Audio AXR100

Briefly about the product

• receiver stereo
• power 100 W (per channel)
• phono stage MM
• AM / FM radio tuner
• signal-to-noise ratio 82 dB
• harmonic distortion 0.01%
• remote control
• weight 8.1 kg

The popularity of stereo receivers is growing rapidly. Until recently, it seemed that they were finally ousted from the market by multichannel home theater devices, and there would be no return to the old days. But once it was ordinary receivers, which were integrated amplifiers with a built-in tuner, that were the main engine of the Hi-Fi market.

History seems to have made another round and we have witnessed a renaissance in the two-channel receiver category. Several models of this class appeared in the assortment of all major manufacturers, and Cambridge Audio did not stand aside either. The new AXR100 tops the budget line of the AX, and it is even older than the integrated amplifiers included in the series.

We study

We have already begun to get used to the fact that the equipment of all modern receivers necessarily includes network functionality. However, the Cambridge Audio developers decided otherwise - it is better to spend the budget on increasing the power and a more advanced analog part, and Bluetooth will be enough for fans of wireless audio. Therefore, Cambridge Audio AXR100 does not have a built-in Wi-Fi module and an Ethernet port, but its power is 100 watts per channel.

The built-in analogue tuner operates on AM (522 - 1962 kHz) and FM (87.5 - 108 MHz), DAB digital is not supported. Physical keys for direct access to selected stations are located below a small LCD display that shows the frequency, input activated, and volume level. There are also buttons for selecting the active input. A large volume control knob is located on the right side of the front panel, under which you find an analog input on a 3.5 mm mini-jack. On the left side of the panel, we see a power button, a 6.3 mm headphone jack plus search and memorization keys for radio stations. On the back of the case there are separate connectors for two antennas - FM and AM; the device also has a built-in phono stage for moving magnet (MM) cartridges. The terminals for connecting the speaker systems are implemented on screw connectors; it is possible to connect two pairs of speakers.

The set of digital inputs includes two optical and one coaxial terminal, the USB port located next to them is intended only for the needs of the service department, or for charging gadgets. To connect signal sources, there are also three pairs of line inputs on RCA connectors, plus one pair for a turntable with an MM-head. There is also a linear analogue output, as well as a separate output for an active subwoofer. The kit also includes a small remote control.

Inside, the device looks very solid, an impressive toroidal transformer takes up a significant part of the case volume, as well as a large passive cooling radiator, which helps to keep the transistors of the output stage operating in class AB in the desired temperature mode. If the heatsink fails, a low-noise fan comes into play.

We connect

The audition took place in the office of the Russian distributor Cambridge Audio, in a well-known room with an area of ​​about 35 square meters. The partners were DALI Oberon 3 bookshelf speakers, and they are distinguished by the pressure in the low-frequency range, which is atypical for bookshelf monitors. A Naim Unity Core streamer was used as a signal source, the connection to the receiver was done digitally using a coaxial cable.

We listen

As always, the listening program included a variety of musical material - from classical music to extreme rock, and the source was streaming services and a music library on the internal storage of the audioserver.I must say that the serious impulse of the DALI Oberon 3 in the bass area did not surprise us, we were pleased with the fact that it was supported by the Cambridge Audio AXR100 without hesitation. In general, it is almost impossible to state the low-frequency range of the resulting system of claims. And if the bass is in place, then all other parts of the range are usually reproduced with dignity.

I have hardly ever come across systems and components that have high-quality low frequencies, but at the same time would have problems with the middle or high frequencies. As one of the famous American speaker developers used to say - "Get the bass right, and everything else will follow." This statement turned out to be absolutely true for this system as well - the receiver demonstrates the open and clear middle with silky and slightly restrained HFs, which is usual for Cambridge Audio components. In combination with an energetic bass and a good rhythm, a very lively and vigorous presentation is obtained, which is conducive to long listening. Reception at the receiver's tuner is reliable, however, it will be possible to achieve a convincing sound only if the broadcast signal is of high quality, which is rare today.

Output:

Surprisingly, in our digital age, Cambridge Audio has released not just a stereo receiver, but a device aimed at conservative audiophiles who prefer a wired connection. However, the lack of a Wi-Fi module is fully compensated for by excellent sound and increased power.