Cambridge Audio CXN 100
Audiophile network player with ESS Sabre32 DAC, fitted with balanced XLR outputs and compatible with the main streaming services, to bring an existing hi-fi system into the digital world.
Description
The CXN100 is a network player designed to connect a hi-fi system to today's digital sources and streaming services. It sits between traditional analogue sources and online listening, handling digital-to-analogue conversion and signal distribution to an amplifier.
The ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 converter, paired with redesigned internal circuitry, processes the signal in 32-bit over a simplified path, which limits interference between stages and preserves signal detail right through to the output. The balanced XLR and RCA analogue outputs allow it to be paired with amplifiers fitted with balanced or standard inputs, while the coaxial and optical S/PDIF digital outputs offer the option of driving an external DAC. On the network side, dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi and 10/100 Mbit Ethernet handle stream reception, complemented by a USB Type B input for playback from a computer and Bluetooth for mobile sources.
- Extensive compatibility: Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect with MQA, Qobuz, Deezer, built-in Chromecast, Airplay 2 and Roon Ready
- Playback of lossless and high-resolution formats, including FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF and DSD up to x512
- High-resolution colour screen displaying album artwork
This network player is aimed at owners of an established hi-fi system wishing to add today's digital capabilities without replacing their amplifier, as well as users of high-resolution streaming platforms seeking neat integration into an existing system.
Technical specifications
| DAC | ESS ES9028Q2M |
| USB audio input | USB Type B 2.0 |
| Digital inputs | USB, Bluetooth, coaxial S/PDIF, Optical |
| Analogue outputs | Balanced XLR and analogue RCA |
| Digital audio outputs | Coaxial and optical S/PDIF |
| Compatibility | Bluetooth (SBC, AAC), Airplay 2, built-in Chromecast, Internet radio, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, MQA, Qobuz, Deezer, Roon Ready |
| Audio formats | ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD (x512), WMA, MP3, AAC, HE AAC, AAC+, OGG Vorbis |
| Ethernet | 10/100 Mbit |
| Wi Fi | IEEE 802.11ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz) |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 430 x 85 x 305 mm |
| Weight | 3.55 kg |
What to check before buying used
On a network player of this generation, the first point to check is the firmware update via the StreamMagic app, which is required to retain access to active streaming services. Also check that Wi-Fi and Ethernet work correctly, along with the response of the touch-sensitive volume dial, a mechanical element prone to wear on units that have seen heavy use.
Looking for this reference: CXN 100 ?
Tell us what you are looking for: our merchants are notified, and one of them may have it in stock.