Cambridge Audio EXA100 – 100 W Integrated Amplifier with Modern Connectivity
The EXA100 stands at the core of Cambridge Audio’s EX series. With 100 W of Class AB power, a high-performance SABRE DAC, HDMI eARC input, Bluetooth aptX HD, and flexible connectivity, it blends classical amplification with today’s digital demands.
Key Features
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100 W Class AB amplification: Drives demanding speakers with confidence, delivering 155 W into 4 Ω loads
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ESS SABRE ES9018K2M DAC: Supports PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD-256, ensuring clean & precise digital reproduction
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HDMI eARC input: Seamless integration with modern TVs, passing two-channel PCM audio up to 24bit/192 kHz
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Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD: Quality wireless streaming from phones, tablets, or other devices
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Rich analogue & digital I/O: Four RCA line inputs, one balanced XLR, two optical (TOSLINK), one coaxial SPDIF, USB-B, plus subwoofer & pre-out
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Power Amp mode: Lets EXA100 act purely as a power amplifier behind a preamp or processor
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CAP protection system: Monitors power and temperature to prevent damage and ensure reliability
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Robust internal design: Shielded toroidal transformer, four-layer PCB, and oversized heatsinks for low noise and stability
Customer Benefits
EXA100 gives you freedom across your audio ecosystem. Want to use it as a main stereo amp today and a power amp tomorrow? No problem. It handles digital and analogue sources effortlessly, with HDMI eARC for TV, USB for digital sources, and strong analogue connections. The protection system gives peace of mind when driving challenging loads.
Quick Specs
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Power output: 100 W RMS into 8 Ω, 155 W into 4 Ω
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THD: < 0.002 % at 1 kHz, rated output
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Frequency response: < 3 Hz – > 40 kHz ±1 dB
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Inputs: 4 × RCA, 1 × XLR, 2 × Optical, 1 × Coaxial, 1 × USB-B, 1 × HDMI eARC
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Outputs: Speaker (A + B), Pre-out, Sub out, Headphone out
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USB audio support: Up to 24-bit/384 kHz PCM, DSD-256
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Dimensions (W × H × D): 43.0 × 11.5 × 34.1 cm
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Weight: 12.8 kg
What’s in the Box
- Cambridge Audio EXA100 amplifier
- Power cord
- Remote control
- Bluetooth antenna
- Documentation & setup guide
Use Cases / Ideal For
Perfect as the nerve centre of a high-end stereo rig, especially if you use both analogue and modern digital sources. Great for connecting turntables (via external phono stage), streamers, CD players, TVs, and integrating a subwoofer or adding a separate preamp.
Compatibility
Fully compatible with hi-res digital sources and standard analogue gear. Works with USB audio devices on both Class 1 and Class 2 modes. HDMI eARC connects directly to modern TVs. Speaker outputs support bi-wiring or driving a second pair.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Balanced mix of analogue and digital I/O in one chassis
- High performance DAC embedded, reducing external equipment
- Dual speaker outputs and power amp mode offer flexible configurations
- Strong protection system and robust internal design
⚠️ Cons:
- No built-in phono stage (requires external)
- Large and heavy — needs sturdy placement
- HDMI eARC only supports two-channel audio (no surround)
With EXA100, Cambridge Audio unites rich amplification, digital versatility, and forward-looking design into one elegant unit. It’s a modern integrated amplifier that suits serious listeners looking for flexibility, power, and craftsmanship.
