Cambridge Audio EXN100

Extensive features, refined performance

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Cambridge Audio's music streamers have had a terrific run recently. From the budget MXN10 to the mid-priced CXN100, the brand's network audio players have achieved five-star success thanks to strong features, ease of use and great performance for the price.

And now the company can add another string to its bow. The new Cambridge Audio EXN100 aims to bridge the gap between the mid-range CXN100 and the flagship Edge NQ streamers; it is priced competitively at ₹2,04,000.

While it follows a similar design language to the existing CX range with an uncluttered, metal chassis in the customary 'lunar grey' finish, the EXN100 is slightly taller, and has a larger TFT colour display screen. It may not be the most avant-garde in terms of styling, but overall it's a smart, well-built unit.

The knurled control/volume dial feels classy - both to the touch and in how it smoothly turns. The EXN100's 1280 x 720 screen has pleasing contrast and shows off colourful album artwork, song information and more in a crisp, bright manner that's easy to read.

The simple buttons and dial on the front panel offer basic playback and source selection, but you will need the accompanying StreamMagic app to fully control this streamer.

You don't get a remote; you do get one with the partnering EXA100 amplifier, but we find the app to be the most useful way of controlling the EXN100 anyway.

Cambridge Audio's streamers tend to be well-oiled machines and the EXN100 is no different. Whether it's through the well laid-out app or the physical controls, the EXN100 is responsive and smooth in use. When used as a preamplifier, the numerical digital display moves intuitively in perfect concordance as we turn the volume dial. A small thing, but pleasing nonetheless.

Wide streaming support