Ever wanted big-speaker sound without the space-consuming amplifier? Step forward the Cambridge Audio MXW70- a half width power amplifier that ought to be big on performance but is actually small in stature. To keep it real I will talk you through what goes on inside this little grey box, and why it may well be the unsung hero of your hi fi system.
What Is the MXW70?
The Cambridge Audio MXW70 is a half width, power amplifier that will provide 70 watts per channel into 8 ohms, enough power to tackle the most demanding speakers without the size of a conventional amplifier
Build Quality & Design
It is housed in an all metal Lunar Grey enclosure, which has a minimalist feel about it – just a power button on the front. It is well made, strap like, and seems dependable, but is a little rough on the edges .
Power & Performance
With 70 W per channel into 8 ohms (and 125 W into 4 ohms) or 250 W when bridged to mono, this amp has more power than its size would imply t3.com. It is clean, musical, and punches above its weight in terms of performance.
Technology Under the Hood
Internally it features Hypex NCore Class D amplifier modules, designed by Cambridge to sound clear and musical- efficient power without sacrificing high end sound.
Connectivity Options
Rear view: Balanced XLR and RCA inputs, speaker binding post terminals, and a 12 V trigger with pass through. It even has a USB cable to power sync with the Cambridge MXN10 streamer
Stereo/Mono Mode
- Stereo: RMS 70W x 2.
- Mono/Bridged: 250⯿W total- a good choice when you require lots of headroom.
Dimensional & Area Economical Aesthetic
Measuring only 215 × 215 × 57 mm, the MXW70 is Mac Mini-sized, which is ideal for cramped shelves or desktop arrangements
Who Is It Aimed At?
It will be perfect where hi fi enthusiasts are short of space, or where it is being used with streamers such as the MXN10, or indeed anyone that wants clean powerful stereo sound but does not want the bulk of a separate amp.
Matching It with Other Equipment
It can be perfectly matched with the Cambridge MXN10 streamer to make a neat, all streaming system- one that is controlled through the StreamMagic app. It is also compatible with DACs such as the cambridge DacMagic 200M
Simplicity of use and apps integration
It is easy to set up once it has been plugged in. The 12V trigger usage is seamless with the streamer, and everyday use is as easy as pressing play on your phone.
Sound Signature
The critics applaud its rich, effortless sounding tonality, taut bass, and musicality. It is absorbing, well-textured and as good fun to hear–and a character which will be familiar to Cambridge listeners .
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High performance in a small package
- Balanced inputs (XLR)
- Good sound by size
- Can be bridged to 250 W.
- Rock Solid construction
Cons
- Standby LEDs strange slightly
- Austerity design can be utilitarian
- Single color available
Price & Value
At about £499 / $599 / €599 it represents excellent value, too, particularly when you take its Class D efficiency, balanced connections and musical performance into account.
Final Verdict
The Cambridge Audio MXW70 proves that size is not important when it comes to great sound. It is a compact yet powerful amp that is full of clever features, and as such is an excellent choice of modern hi fi enthusiast with limited space to play with.
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