Welcome to the “First Look” of the Cambridge Audio Evo 300. On paper, this is Cambridge Audio’s most powerful streaming amplifier to date, and the press images show a component built to replace an entire stereo rack with a single, elegant box.
Kind of product?
The Cambridge Audio Evo 300 is a premium streaming amplifier: an all-in-one system that combines a network streamer, DAC, phono stage and 300-watt-per-channel power amplifier in one chassis. It’s designed to sit at the center of a two-channel system, with just speakers left to add.
Brand?
Cambridge Audio, the UK hi-fi brand behind the Evo family, the CX and AXA series and, most recently, the L/R Series active speakers. The Evo 300 sits at the top of the Evo streaming amplifier lineup, above the existing Evo 150 SE.
Current price?
The Cambridge Audio Evo 300 is priced at $3,999 / €3,999 / £3,499.
What’s in the box?
- Cambridge Audio Evo 300 All-in-One Player
- Remote control + 2x AAA batteries
- Mains lead
- 2x customisable side panels
- Quick start guide and safety guide
Features?
- Amplification: 300W per channel (8Ω) via Hypex NCOREx Class D, dual-mono architecture
- DAC: ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M, up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512
- Streaming: StreamMagic Gen 4 with Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready and AirPlay 2
- Analogue: Built-in moving-magnet phono stage for direct turntable connection
- Video: HDMI eARC for one-cable TV sound
- Design: Interchangeable real wood or tech-style side panels, 7.8-inch front display
Key Specifications
- Power output: 2x 300W @ 8Ω, 2x 550W @ 4Ω
- Analogue inputs: 2x RCA, 1x balanced XLR, 1x MM phono
- Digital inputs: TOSLINK optical, S/PDIF coaxial, HDMI ARC, USB-B, Bluetooth 5.4
- Outputs: Speakers A+B, 6.35mm headphone, preamp out, subwoofer out
- Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz +0/-3dB
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 387 x 89 x 352mm; Weight: 7.2kg
Closer look?
The Cambridge Audio Evo 300 goes further than most streaming amplifiers in its class. Where rivals like the NAD C 700 V2 or Naim Uniti Atom focus mainly on streaming and amplification, the Evo 300 adds a proper MM phono stage and dual speaker zones, positioning it as a genuine one-box replacement for a separates system rather than just a streaming add-on. The dual-mono amplifier architecture and balanced pre-amp stage are details normally reserved for separate components, not an all-in-one unit at this price point.
For whom is this product?
The Cambridge Audio Evo 300 looks aimed at listeners upgrading from a soundbar or all-in-one system who want proper stereo separation and power, as well as downsizing audiophiles who want to shed a rack of separates without giving up a phono stage, HDMI eARC or serious amplification headroom for demanding speakers.
Conclusion?
The Cambridge Audio Evo 300 looks like one of the most complete streaming amplifiers on the market: 300 watts of Hypex NCOREx power, an ESS Sabre DAC, MM phono stage and HDMI eARC in one elegant, customisable chassis. It’s a compelling alternative to building a system from separates. Full specifications are available on the official Cambridge Audio product page.
