If your listening habits revolve primarily—or even exclusively—around streaming music, the new Cambridge Audio EVO 300 may well be the all-in-one solution you have been looking for.
That said, it is worth reading on even if your requirements extend beyond streaming and amplification. The Cambridge Audio EVO 300 streaming amplifier naturally includes a comprehensive selection of analogue and digital inputs. However, with an increasing number of listeners relying on streaming services and locally stored digital music files, the new EVO 300 can genuinely be considered a complete all-in-one system. Simply add a pair of speakers and you are ready to go.
The integrated power amplifier delivers up to 300 watts per channel and supports dual-speaker configurations. Amplification is based on Cambridge Audio’s implementation of the Hypex NCOREx Class D platform, configured as a dual-mono design for optimal channel separation. This philosophy extends throughout the entire unit, including a balanced preamplifier stage and a specially developed analogue volume control circuit for each channel.
Extensive Streaming Capabilities
At the heart of the streaming section is Cambridge Audio’s proprietary StreamMagic Gen 4 platform. This provides direct access to popular music services including Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect and Amazon Music.
Internet radio is also supported, while the EVO 300 is fully Roon Ready. UPnP compatibility allows music files to be streamed from devices such as NAS servers elsewhere on the home network. Network connectivity can be established via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Additional wireless technologies include AirPlay 2, Google Cast and Bluetooth with aptX HD support.
Wide Range of Inputs and Outputs
Digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by an ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC chip. The maximum supported PCM resolution is an impressive 32-bit / 768 kHz.
For external sources, the EVO 300 offers both RCA and balanced XLR inputs, as well as an MM phono stage for turntable enthusiasts. Digital connectivity includes optical and coaxial inputs, HDMI eARC, USB Audio and USB Media ports for music playback from USB drives or external SSDs.
The rear panel also includes a preamplifier output and an adjustable subwoofer output, making the EVO 300 suitable for a wide range of system configurations.
The Cambridge Audio EVO 300 is expected to become available later this month at a retail price of €3,999.