If you’re after a new amplifier and have a few grand lying around to help support the cause, then Cambridge Audio’s new Evo 300 would like to say hello.
The British company’s most powerful streaming amplifier to date, it slots above the existing Evo 150 SE, and is designed to deliver serious high-end performance without requiring separate amplifiers, streamers, DACs, and a shelf full of other Hi-Fi gubbins.
As for specs, the Evo 300 delivers 300W per channel courtesy of Hypex NCOREx Class D amplification arranged in a dual-mono layout. Cambridge Audio says that the design improves stereo separation, control, and dynamic performance, particularly when paired with more demanding loudspeakers, though we’ve yet to try it out for ourselves at the time of writing.
Digital duties are handled by an ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC capable of supporting PCM audio up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512, and it also supports both locally stored music and streaming services.
On that note, streaming is powered by Cambridge Audio’s StreamMagic Gen 4 platform, with support for Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Deezer, Amazon Music, internet radio, UPnP, and Roon Ready playback. It also integrates with Apple AirPlay, Google Home, and wider multi-room setups.
Connectivity is equally comprehensive – alongside HDMI eARC for TV audio, you’ll find balanced XLR inputs, RCA connections, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX HD, and a built-in moving magnet phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts looking to connect a turntable without adding extra hardware.
On the design front, the Evo 300 keeps the interchangeable side panels that have become a hallmark of the Evo range, while gaining a larger 7.8in display – Cambridge Audio’s biggest yet – capable of showing album artwork, VU meters, and other playback information.
Under the aluminium chassis, Cambridge Audio has also incorporated a balanced pre-amplifier stage, dedicated analogue volume controls for each channel, and a switch-mode power supply designed to maintain consistent performance under heavy loads.
If your home setup is due for a mighty upgrade, the Cambridge Audio Evo 300 is available now, for $3999 / £3499 / €3999.
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