The Cambridge Audio MXW70 fits big power into a small package

June 13, 2025 June 13, 2025

```html Cambridge Audio MXW70: Big Power, Small Package

Cambridge Audio MXW70: Big Power in a Small Package

Cambridge Audio, a renowned British audio company, is celebrated by audiophiles worldwide for its high-quality headphones, digital-to-analog converters (DACs), amplifiers, and more. Their latest release, the Cambridge Audio MXW70, is a powerful amplifier that packs a surprising amount of punch into a compact design. This review delves into its features, performance, and overall value to help you determine if it's the right addition to your audio setup.

The MXW70 is a particularly exciting release because it complements Cambridge Audio's existing MXN10 Music Streamer. The MXN10 is a premium network-connected audio streamer that forms the perfect core of any modern audio system. The MXW70 was meticulously designed to seamlessly integrate with the MXN10, but its versatility extends far beyond this pairing. Let's explore its capabilities in detail.

Powerful Performance in a Compact Form Factor

A high-quality amplifier is the backbone of any respectable audio system. It provides the necessary power to drive speakers and headphones effectively, ensuring optimal sound reproduction. The MXW70 demonstrates that powerful audio doesn't require a bulky, space-consuming device. Despite its small size, it delivers exceptional power.

The MXW70 maintains the elegant, recognizable aesthetic of Cambridge Audio's product line. Its two-tone gray finish echoes the company’s design language. The front panel is minimalist, featuring only the brand logo and a power button. This understated elegance allows the MXW70 to easily blend into any existing audio setup without dominating the space.

Unleashing the Power

The MXW70 boasts impressive power output: 70W per channel at 8Ω in stereo mode. This figure increases significantly in mono mode, reaching a substantial 250W per channel. This high power output ensures that it can effortlessly drive even demanding speakers.

For audio enthusiasts who desire superior amplification but are constrained by space limitations, the MXW70 is an ideal choice. Its $599 price point also makes it incredibly competitive, offering outstanding power and performance for its price range. It's a remarkable combination of value and quality.

Exceptional Audio Performance

Engineered and manufactured at Cambridge Audio's London headquarters, the MXW70 benefits from stringent quality control throughout its production process. At the heart of the MXW70 lies Hypex NCORE Class D amplifier technology. This cutting-edge technology guarantees crystal-clear audio, delivering the rich, immersive sound signature that Cambridge Audio is known for. You can expect the same exceptional audio quality found in other premium Cambridge Audio devices.

Comprehensive Connectivity

A versatile amplifier should offer diverse connectivity options to cater to a variety of audio setups. The MXW70 excels in this area, providing a comprehensive range of connection possibilities. It features both RCA stereo inputs and professional-grade XLR inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio sources. Additionally, it incorporates 12V pass-through for convenient automatic power switching.

This means you can use the StreamMagic app for remote control and easily turn the MXW70 on and off. This added convenience significantly enhances the user experience. Even if you don't own the Cambridge Audio MXN10, the MXW70 is still a highly adaptable device, working seamlessly with other components in your audio system.

A perfect pairing for the MXW70 is the Cambridge Audio DACMagic 200M DAC. This high-quality and budget-friendly DAC includes a built-in preamp, complementing the MXW70's capabilities for an even more enhanced audio experience.

Technical Specifications

Power Output: 2x70W (8ohm stereo), 2x 125W (4ohm stereo), 250W (8ohm mono)
Amplification: Class-D, Hypex nCORE
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 30kHz (-1dB)
Power Supply: SMPS
Bi-wiring possible: 1 set of terminals
Analogue RCA Inputs: 1 stereo
Balanced XLR Input: 1 stereo
Other inputs: 12v Trigger
Speaker Outputs: 1 set
Other outputs: 12v Trigger pass-through
THD+N (unweighted): <0.015% @ 5W/8ohm
S/N Ratio (REF 1W – 20k BW): 92dB (XLR), >89dB (RCA)
Crosstalk @1kHz: <-82dB
Gain: 22.2dB (XLR), 28.8dB (RCA)
Input Sensitivity: 3.6V (mono XLR), 1.65V (mono RCA), 0.9V (stereo RCA), 1.9V (stereo XLR)
Input Impedances: 22kohm (RCA), 35kohm (XLR)
Power Amp Damping Factor: 180 @ 1kHz 8ohm
Max Power Consumption: 300w
Standby Power Consumption: <0.5W
Dimensions (H x W x D): 57 x 215 x 215mm
Weight: 1.65kg

Price and Availability

Combining high-quality audio performance, a compact design, an attractive price point, and sophisticated aesthetics, the Cambridge Audio MXW70 is arguably one of the best amplifiers available this year. It will be available this summer, and purchases can be made directly from the official Cambridge Audio website. This amplifier represents an excellent blend of power, efficiency, and affordability, making it a compelling option for discerning audiophiles.