Cambridge EXN100 Streamer DAC

Description

The Cambridge Audio EXN100 Network Player is a high-performance music streamer and digital hub designed for modern audiophile systems. Positioned in Cambridge Audio’s premium EX Series, the EXN100 blends cutting-edge digital streaming technology with refined analog engineering. Designed and tuned in London, it represents the company’s effort to push beyond the performance of its popular CX series and deliver a more sophisticated streaming source for high-end two-channel systems.

At the heart of the EXN100 is Cambridge Audio’s fourth-generation StreamMagic platform, a powerful streaming architecture that manages network connectivity, streaming services, and digital signal processing. This platform enables seamless integration with a wide range of services including Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, and internet radio, while also supporting Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Bluetooth aptX HD, and Roon Ready compatibility. The result is a flexible and stable streaming experience that works effortlessly with both mobile devices and dedicated hi-fi systems.

Digital conversion is handled by an ESS Sabre ES9028Q2M DAC, known for its extremely low distortion and high dynamic range. Cambridge Audio engineers carefully optimized the analog output stage following the DAC to enhance transparency, channel separation, and soundstage depth. This attention to the analog signal path helps the EXN100 deliver a musical presentation that combines precision with warmth and dimensionality.

The EXN100 supports an impressive range of high-resolution audio formats, including PCM files up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD512, allowing listeners to experience studio-quality recordings without compromise. With ultra-low distortion and a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 120 dB, the unit preserves subtle detail and dynamic nuance in complex recordings.

In addition to streaming capabilities, the EXN100 is designed as a central digital hub for a modern audio system. Its wide range of connections includes coaxial and optical digital inputs, asynchronous USB audio, HDMI eARC for television integration, and both analog and digital outputs. A preamp mode with volume control allows the EXN100 to connect directly to a power amplifier, effectively functioning as a digital preamplifier for minimalist systems.

The unit’s industrial design reflects Cambridge Audio’s contemporary aesthetic. The Lunar Grey aluminum chassis features a large 4.76-inch high-resolution color display that shows album artwork, playback information, or classic VU meters. The display is significantly larger and higher resolution than earlier models, making it easy to read from across the room.

Reviewers consistently highlight the EXN100’s balance of sonic performance and usability. According to coverage of the product launch, Cambridge Audio describes it as “our best music streamer yet,” reflecting years of refinement of the StreamMagic platform and digital circuitry.

With its advanced streaming ecosystem, high-resolution playback, and elegant design, the Cambridge Audio EXN100 is positioned as a centerpiece for modern hi-fi systems. Whether used as a digital source feeding a traditional integrated amplifier or as a standalone streaming preamp driving a power amplifier, it provides the flexibility, performance, and user experience expected from a contemporary high-end network player.

Specifications

• Product Type: Network audio streamer / DAC

• DAC: ESS Sabre ES9028Q2M

• Streaming Platform: StreamMagic Gen 4

• Supported Streaming Services: Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, Internet Radio

• Wireless Streaming: Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Bluetooth 5.0 (aptX HD)

• Roon Ready: Yes

• Supported Audio Formats:

  • PCM up to 32-bit / 768kHz

  • DSD64 – DSD512

  • FLAC, WAV, ALAC, AIFF, MP3, AAC, OGG, WMA

• THD: <0.0005% @ 1kHz

• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz ±0.1dB

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >120 dB

• Analog Outputs: 1 × RCA stereo

• Digital Outputs: Coaxial S/PDIF, Optical TOSLINK

• Digital Inputs: USB-B (asynchronous), Optical, Coaxial

• Other Inputs: HDMI eARC, USB-A for storage

• Network: Ethernet, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz)

• Display: 4.76″ IPS TFT color display (1280×569)

• Dimensions: 430 × 89 × 325 mm (16.9 × 3.5 × 12.8 in)

• Weight: 4.15 kg (9.1 lb)

• Power Consumption: 30 W max