Cambridge Audio CXN100 SE Network Audio Player

A streaming DAC and digital preamp with ESS ES9028Q2M chip, HDMI eARC, USB audio, AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, and Roon Ready certification

The Cambridge Audio CXN100 SE is a network player designed to bring streaming, digital inputs, and TV audio into a two-channel system without making the setup complicated. It adds HDMI eARC to the CXN100 platform, giving the unit a more useful role in systems that handle both music and television sound.

Digital conversion is handled by an ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 DAC, with support for high-resolution PCM and DSD playback through USB audio and local USB media. Streaming options include Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, internet radio, Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, and Roon Ready playback, making the CXN100 SE flexible enough for most modern listening habits.

The CXN100 SE can also operate in preamp mode through the StreamMagic app, allowing it to feed a power amplifier or powered speakers directly. A large color display, front-panel control dial, app control, and multiroom compatibility through Google Home, Apple AirPlay, and Roon help keep daily operation straightforward.

Digital Streaming and Conversion

The ESS ES9028Q2M DAC supports high-resolution digital playback while the StreamMagic platform handles app control, source selection, playlist browsing, and over-the-air updates. The CXN100 SE supports PCM playback up to 32 bit/768 kHz and DSD up to x512 via USB, with broad format support including ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD, WMA, MP3, AAC, HE AAC, AAC+, and OGG Vorbis.

HDMI eARC and System Flexibility

HDMI eARC allows the CXN100 SE to take audio from a compatible TV, making it easier to improve television sound through a two-channel system. Additional digital inputs include USB audio, USB drive, S/PDIF coaxial, TOSLINK optical, and Bluetooth 5.1. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analogue inputs are also included, along with coaxial and optical digital outputs.

Black Edition Finish

The CXN100 SE Black Edition has a matte black anodized aluminium fascia with gloss black detailing. The casework is built from aluminium and steel, with a restrained look that matches the rest of the CX Black Edition range.

What's in the Box?

• CXN100 SE
• Mains lead
• Control bus cable
• Two antennas
• Quick start guide
• Safety sheet
• Registration card

Specifications

DAC: ESS ES9028Q2M

USB Audio Input: USB Type B, USB Audio 2.0

Digital Audio Inputs: HDMI eARC, USB drive, Bluetooth 5.1, S/PDIF coaxial, TOSLINK optical

Analogue Audio Inputs: Balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA

Digital Audio Outputs: S/PDIF coaxial, TOSLINK optical

Compatibility: TOSLINK optical: 16/24 bit, 32–96 kHz PCM, DoP64; S/PDIF coaxial: 16/24 bit, 32–192 kHz PCM, DoP64; UPnP: up to 32 bit/768 kHz; local USB media: PCM up to 32 bit/768 kHz, DSD up to x512; USB audio: PCM up to 32 bit/768 kHz, DSD up to x512; Bluetooth: SBC, AAC; AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, internet radio, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, MQA, Qobuz, Deezer, Roon Ready

Audio Formats: ALAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD x512, WMA, MP3, AAC, HE AAC, AAC+, OGG Vorbis

Ethernet: 10/100 Mbit

Wi-Fi: IEEE 802.11 ac, 2.4 GHz/5 GHz

Max Power Consumption: 30 W

Standby Power Consumption: <0.5 W eco, <2 W network standby

Dimensions (WHD): 16.9" x 3.4" x 12.2" (430 x 85 x 305 mm)

Weight: 7.83 lb. (3.55 kg)