Cambridge MXN10

Small, affordable and... superb

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Size really isn't everything. Whether it's a pair of speakers, a dinky DAC or even a portable Bluetooth speaker, there is absolutely no guarantee that size in any way correlates with great sound. Big and bulky units certainly have their place, and the trend towards more size equalling more sound is pretty inescapable, but that doesn't necessarily mean improvements in actual audio quality. In reality, the finest brands in the business often know how to get a lot out of a little.

That's just as well, because this affordable Cambridge Audio network music streamer is something of a tiddler. Neat, compact and easy to pop onto your hi-fi rack without needing three burly men and a new extension to install, the new Cambridge Audio MXN10 is one of the most unobtrusive network players you'll find, not to mention one of the least expensive. If this little thing has the sonic chops that belie its size and price, its rivals should be quaking in their figurative boots.

TECH SPECS

• Sources AirPlay 2, Bluetooth 5.0, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, Internet Radio

• Inputs USB-A

• Outputs Coaxial, optical, RCA line level

• Max file resolution 32-bit/768kHz PCM, DSD512

• Dimensions (hwd) 5.2 x 21.5 x 19.1cm

The MXN10 is a tiny little operator; a far smaller, narrower design than its larger counterparts such as the more traditionally sized Audiolab 7000N and even the fairly compact Bluesound Node (2024). Finished in smooth, inoffensive lunar grey, the MXN10 features four preset buttons on the right accompanied by a clearly demarcated power button and a small white light to tell you whether or not you are currently connected to the wi-fi. Clean, clear and simple are the watchwords here.