Cambridge CXN100 Streamer DAC

Description

The Cambridge Audio CXN100 is a high‑resolution network audio player and DAC that represents a significant step in streaming‑centric hi‑fi, bringing powerful digital music access and exceptional sound quality to traditional stereo systems. Designed to integrate seamlessly with both vintage and modern amplifiers, the CXN100 combines elegant physical design with cutting‑edge internal technology to deliver what many audiophiles consider a future‑proof digital audio solution.

At its heart, the CXN100 employs a high‑performance ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC, capable of decoding PCM up to 32‑bit/768 kHz and native DSD up to 512, ensuring that music is rendered with remarkable detail, depth, and dynamic nuance. Cambridge Audio engineers simplified the signal path and upgraded the analog output stage with improved components — including new capacitors and optimized op‑amps — to enhance signal‑to‑noise ratio and lower distortion compared with previous generations.

The CXN100 is powered by StreamMagic Gen4, the brand’s latest streaming platform that delivers stable, intuitive access to an expansive ecosystem of music services. Users can stream from Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect with MQA decoding, Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer, and Internet radio, while also enjoying full support for Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth aptX HD, and Roon Ready integration. This flexibility makes it easy to access both lossless and high‑resolution content without relying on a computer or mobile device as the audio source.

In terms of usability, the CXN100’s intuitive high‑resolution color screen and tactile volume dial elevate the user experience by displaying album artwork, track information, and playback status clearly. Control is also possible via Cambridge’s StreamMagic app, allowing playback management, playlist creation, and preset programming from a smartphone or tablet. The app, combined with firmware‑over‑the‑air updates, helps ensure that the CXN100 remains technologically relevant long after purchase.

Audiophiles appreciate the CXN100 not only for its sound quality but also for its integration capabilities. It includes balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs, allowing it to function optionally as a digital preamplifier, while digital outputs (coaxial and optical) enable connectivity with external DACs or processors. Wired connections include USB audio and Ethernet, and wireless networking handles both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi‑Fi, offering robust connectivity options for a variety of setups.

Review Highlights

Critical response to the CXN100 has been overwhelmingly positive:

• What Hi‑Fi? awarded it 5 stars, noting that the streamer “remains the one to beat” in its category.

• HiFi Pig described the CXN100 as “a magical network server … welcome in anyone’s hi‑fi setup,” highlighting its combination of performance and ease of use.

• Reviewers emphasize the “big‑brand user experience” that marries high‑resolution playback with intuitive control and connectivity.

Owners often praise the CXN100’s organic, detailed presentation and seamless integration with multi‑room systems, although a small cohort notes occasional networking quirks — such as brief connection drops — that can surface in certain Wi‑Fi environments.

In summary, the CXN100 stands out as a flexible, powerful streamer‑DAC that brings together expansive streaming services, high‑quality digital conversion, and intuitive control. Whether used as the primary source in a hi‑fi setup or paired with external amplification and speakers, it delivers clarity, musical engagement, and long‑term adaptability that keep it competitive with much more expensive systems.

Key Specifications

Digital Conversion & Streaming

• DAC: ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC (32‑bit)

• Streaming Platform: StreamMagic Gen4

• Streaming Services: Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect (MQA), Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer, Internet Radio

• Wireless: Wi‑Fi IEEE 802.11 ac (2.4/5 GHz), Bluetooth aptX HD

• Multi‑Room: Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2, Roon Ready

Inputs & Outputs

• Digital Inputs: USB audio, S/PDIF coaxial, TOSLINK optical

• Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA

• Digital Outputs: S/PDIF coaxial, TOSLINK optical

Audio Format Support

• PCM: Up to 32‑bit/768 kHz

• DSD: Native DSD1‑512

• Codec/Formats: ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, WMA, MP3, AAC, HE‑AAC, OGG Vorbis

Control & Features

• Display: High‑resolution color screen

• Preamp Mode: Available via StreamMagic app

• App Control: StreamMagic app for iOS/Android

Physical

• Ethernet: 10/100 Mbit

• Dimensions: 430 × 85 × 305 mm

• Weight: 3.55 kg

• Power Consumption: ~30 W, standby <0.5 W (eco)