Cambridge Audio CXN100

Can this updated music streamer reach the heights of its illustrious predecessor?

- 

Following a much-loved, illustrious product is no easy task in the world of hi-fi. At best, the replacement can improve upon every element to deliver an even more engaging performance without sacrificing the original’s essence. At worst, it can completely detract from what made it so special in the first place.

Naturally, Cambridge Audio aims (and hopes) for its new CXN100 music streamer to be in the first camp. It has the ambitious task of following in the footsteps of the excellent CXN (V2), which has won a What Hi-Fi? Award six years in a row and has the distinction of being the first network audio streamer to enter our Hall of Fame.

But with the brand’s recent track record of five-star products, surely it should be plain sailing? The CXN100 doesn’t stray too far from its popular formula on the surface, but it has been completely redesigned internally – bringing with it more advanced features and specification and, for the most part, an improved audio performance.

The Cambridge Audio CXN100 costs ₨1.3L and is available to buy now globally. The CXN (V2) launched back in 2018, but the retail price has since risen in recent years. The new CXN100 fully replaces the CXN (V2) and the latter will now be sold only while stocks last – if you can find it, there may be a good deal to be had.

We’re not surprised to see a price hike in the new model, but nevertheless we are pleased that Cambridge Audio has been able to keep its streamer under the ₨1,50,000 mark.

Around this price level are rival streamers such as the Eversolo DMP-A6, while more affordable options from Bluesound (Node 2021), Audiolab (7000N Play) and Cambridge Audio itself – the MXN10 – are worthy alternatives.

Sleek finish