Cote d'Azur

摘要

With its Azur range, it seems that Cambridge has set out to leapfrog the competition in technology and technical performance. And so we have this truly sophisticated 840E preamp, and a muscular power amp, at a total price of ￡2000. Is it all too good to be true? Despite its complexity, the 840E is easy to use. Features and setup options are accessed via the menu system, either from the remote or the front panel buttons. A no-compromise volume control uses precision resistor ladders switched by relays and accessible by remote control. So volume adjustment is accompanied by an audible clicking of relays, the level shown in the display. Optional tone controls are brought up by pressing the 'Mode' button. Settings can be stored for each input, using the volume control. But you can use the 840E as a 'minimalist' preamp, keeping tone controls switched out for any input via 'Direct'. Mode also sets system configuration. The preamp has eight sets of standard unbalanced inputs (including Tape) plus balanced for Inputs 1 and 2. There's also a Sub output, with switchable 200Hz low-pass filter. Other connections include an RS232C port, IR input, 5-12V Trigger and control bus for custom install, as well as A-Bus/lncognito Ready outputs for Cambridge's own Incognito multi-room system. The sturdy casework is well ventilated for its 'Class XD' amplification. As well as unbalanced inputs and doubled- up speaker binding posts, the back panel carries balanced inputs - these are selected by toggle switches.