Cambridge Audio AXA35: Classic integrated amplifier

The Cambridge Audio AXA35 integrated amplifier is a classic model in the AX class and can become the basis of an inexpensive and high-quality stereo system. The amplifier develops an output power of 2 x 35 W when operating into an 8-ohm load and is capable of confidently driving compact floor-standing speakers with medium sensitivity.

Inside the Cambridge Audio AXA35 is a truly powerful design that will make you love your music collection even more. Five inputs will allow you to connect all your signal sources to the amplifier – CD player, TV, media player, MP3 player (including iPod), etc., and the built-in phono stage will give you the joy of listening to vinyl records. For your convenience, Cambridge Audio engineers have equipped the AXA35 with a convenient and functional display that gives you comprehensive information about the signal source and sound volume.

The Cambridge Audio AXA35 delivers on the company’s Sound First concept, so it has a simple design with the necessary features, but select components in all areas of the circuit that matter to sound quality. The power supply contains a toroidal excess power transformer, which has a reduced level of electromagnetic interference and the ability to quickly transfer significant peak current to the load. The device’s power supply uses a rectifier based on high-speed diodes and filter capacitors of significant total capacity.

The Cambridge Audio AXA35 amplifier is equipped with a built-in phono stage for MM-type pickups, as well as MC-heads, developing a signal from 2 to 6 mV and designed for a load impedance from 30 to 50 kOhm. Also on the rear panel of the device there are inputs for four line level signal sources and an output for connecting a recording device. For speaker connections, there are two pairs of convenient screw terminals compatible with banana plugs. There is also a five-volt USB connector on the rear panel.

On the front panel of the Cambridge Audio AXA35 there is another input for connecting portable audio players, made in the form of a 3.5 jack, as well as an output for connecting stereo phones. The device has electronic control, with indication of the set operating modes on a fluorescent display. It is possible to adjust the tone in the high and low frequencies, as well as stereo balance. In addition, the display shows the set audio volume level and the selected input.

The device is well made and comes with a remote control. If you are looking for a stereo amplifier that will not cause any discomfort to your hearing, then the Cambridge Audio AXA35 is what you need. The combination of the AXC35 CD player and the AXA35 integrated amplifier from Cambridge Audio provides a reasonable combination of price and quality for that part of the listener’s journey when music lovers have not yet developed into audiophilia. These components, albeit with varying degrees of success, will cope with most genres and, I think, will appeal to users who simply enjoy listening to music and are not yet inclined to delve into the nuances of the sound of DACs and the features of amplifiers.

Characteristics Cambridge Audio AXA35

Output power 2 x 35 W (8 ohms)
Frequency response 5 Hz – 50000 Hz (-3 dB)
Signal-to-noise ratio over 82 dB
Harmonic distortion less than 0.01% (1 kHz)
Damping factor more than 50
Tone control +/- 10 dB (100 Hz, 10 kHz)
Phono inputs, 4 linear RCA, USB 5V, linear mini-jack (on the front panel)
Headphone outputs, recording
Input impedance 47 kOhm
Speaker connectors 2 pairs of screw terminals
Power consumption power 260 W
Dimensions (WxHxD) 430 x 76 x 340 mm
Weight 5.6 kg