Amplificateur intégré Cambridge Audio AX R100D

This new Cambridge Audio AX R100D amplifier/tuner replaces Cambridge Audio's well-known SR20. It carries over most of its functions while undergoing a real makeover and several notable improvements.

Cambridge Audio AX R100D: front panel

To begin with, the exterior has been reworked and quality has greatly improved. It sports a very handsome dark grey aluminium front panel specific to this new AX series.

At its centre sits an LED display showing all the functions and, among other things, the radio stations being listened to, since this AX R100D has an FM tuner and DAB digital radio reception.

On the right are a large-diameter volume knob and an Aux (MP3) socket in 3.5 mm mini jack format. On the left is a 6.35 mm stereo jack headphone output.

Below the display are the buttons for accessing the inputs and the preset stations (10).

Cambridge Audio AX R100D: rear panel

The back of the unit reveals a Type F antenna socket for FM (75 ohms) and DAB reception, a Bluetooth 5.0 antenna and a USB socket. Note that this does not process signals; it only offers the option of charging a device.

There are 2 speaker outputs (A and B), separately switchable via a selector on the front panel.

The analogue inputs number 3, to which are added an MM phono input, a subwoofer output (Sub Out) and a fixed audio output (Rec Out).

The advantage over the AX R85 integrated amplifier is the addition of a DAC processing PCM signals from 16 to 24 bits with a maximum resolution of 32 to 192 kHz on the optical Toslink inputs and also on the coaxial SPDIF input.

Cambridge Audio AX R100D: matching

The Cambridge Audio AX R100D is rated at a very comfortable 100 watts into an 8-ohm load.

This power allows this integrated amplifier to be paired with a wide choice of bookshelf and floorstanding speakers in the €450/1,200 a pair range.

Cambridge Audio AX R100D: testing and listening

You find the dynamic, full sound of British manufacturer Cambridge Audio. It favours presence, scale and substance.

The bass is surprising for an amplifier in this range, in its structure and articulation.

The phono input lets you make the most of a good turntable (e.g. Rega Planar 2, Pro-Ject X1, etc.).

The FM tuner is a real plus; it shows that this source still has plenty of good years ahead. The addition of DAB digital reception turns this amplifier toward the future.

For a coherent system, it's advisable to pair it with the Cambridge AX C35 CD player.

The Cambridge Audio AX R100D integrated amplifier is an excellent amp that offers many strengths for its price: a phono input, an analogue and digital tuner, a DAC able to process, among other things, the stereo digital signals from a TV, and comfortable power that lets it drive a large number of Hi-Fi speakers.

An integrated amplifier with no real competition at this price.

FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Cambridge Audio AX R100D integrated amplifier

Does the AX R100D have a tuner and a DAC?

Yes. It has an FM tuner and DAB digital radio reception, as well as a DAC processing PCM signals from 16 to 24 bits up to 192 kHz on the optical Toslink and coaxial SPDIF inputs.

Does the AX R100D have a phono input?

Yes, an MM phono input that lets you make the most of a good turntable such as the Rega Planar 2 or the Pro-Ject X1.

How much power does the AX R100D deliver and which speakers can it be paired with?

It is rated at a very comfortable 100 watts into 8 ohms, which allows it to be paired with a wide choice of bookshelf and floorstanding speakers in the €450 to 1,200 a pair range. For matching, see how to choose your Hi-Fi speakers. For a coherent system, it can be paired with the Cambridge AX C35 CD player.

Which inputs and outputs does the AX R100D's rear panel offer?

The back reveals a Type F antenna socket for FM (75 ohms) and DAB reception, a Bluetooth 5.0 antenna and a USB charging socket. There are two switchable speaker outputs (A and B), three analogue inputs, an MM phono input, a subwoofer output (Sub Out) and a fixed audio output (Rec Out).

Are the FM/DAB tuner and the phono input genuinely usable day to day?

Yes: the FM tuner is a real plus, and the addition of DAB digital reception turns this amplifier toward the future. The MM phono input lets you make the most of a good turntable without needing a separate phono preamplifier, which greatly simplifies an entry- or mid-range setup.