I have heard both the CA EVO 150 and the Naim Unity Atom back to back on KEF's R5 Meta recently. While I was seriously impressed with the Cambridge, the Naim took the Metas to another level. It was that moment when I felt like I understood why people get into Hifi in the first place. It was incredibly lively and more dramatic/dynamic than the CA. Both are great pieces for sure and the CA feels more cutting edge in its design.
Great review Mike i enjoy your friendly manner, apparently there is now a matching CD player coming to the party, that's your domain as a champ of the CD.
I tried this one out, bought me a pair of 804s and needed a new amp to run them with. I really really wanted to like this due to all the things included in it and for what it is. But it did not have the power to wake the 804s. Ended up getting a hegel 360, and that is a beast! And i still feel there is a difference class D to A/B:s. Dont know what it is but there is something. D:s seem to usually be stable only to 4 ohms so maybe thats what. Nevertheless, its a fine piece of equipment.
Hi Mark, Have you had the chance to pair the Evo150 with W. Linton's? If so, please share you're opinion. I'm trying to chose between Evo, Yamaha AS-1200+Node 2i, Lyngdorf 1120 or Audiolab 8300A+Node 2i. Thanks 🙏!
Just came across your channel. Very good video! I currently have a Cambridge Audio CXA81 with a Bluesound Vault2i. Was thinking of selling the CXA81 and getting the EVO 150.
I nearly went for the EVO 150 to replace an ageing hi-fi system, indeed it packs quite a punch. However, being attracted towards Cambridge I ended up buying the CXA81 amp with the CXN streamer and CXC CD transport. (I’m rediscovering my CD collection…SO glad now I didn’t sell them!) I do think the EVO is probably nicer to use, but I can live with that, and if you’re using the Streamagic app they’re very similar anyway. In a past life as a serving soldier I’d have probably gone for the EVO, it’s compact size and big sound are a world away from the bloated tower systems we tended to have in the 80s!
This is a very big question for me because I have CXA81 + CXN V2 and I got used to the volume and sound character of class AB. Is this really an upgrade? What is the result for you?
Hi Mark, I love English products for their ‘warmer’ sound. Currently I have a Arcam SA20 integrated (class G) and a Bluesound Node2 paired with Wharfedales. The EVO looks awesome and has all the things i’m looking for though, so thinking about upgrading. How do you think the EVO compares to A/B/G class english products, like my Arcam. As i don’t want that class D ‘clinical’ sound. Though I do like my music with a lot of transparency and clarity.
I wonder if they could drive KLH Model 5 or 7. Unfortunately I don't know much about amplification. KLH talks about 6 Ohms impedence. The specs for the cambridge speak of 8 Ohms. I have no idea how that translates :D
That is a tough one. Feature wise I think the Cambridge is a bit superior. However the room correction on the Lyngdorf is incredible. Hard call to make. If you are looking for more music streaming go with the Cambridge.
