Cambridge Audio CXA81 vs NAD CI-980
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Choosing between the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and NAD CI-980? Both compete in the Amplifier segment. Here’s how they compare across the specs that matter most for your home theater.
Pricing for both models is currently unavailable. Check the retailer links below for current deals.
Looking at overall performance dimensions: The Cambridge Audio CXA81 scores higher in value, room fit. The NAD CI-980 leads in form factor.
These two Amplifier options trade wins across different dimensions. The right choice depends on which specs matter most for your room and listening preferences — review the detailed table below to decide.
For most home theaters, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 is the stronger choice — it leads in 2 of 3 scored dimensions. The NAD CI-980 makes more sense if you prioritize the 1 dimension where it leads.
Performance Overview
Scores based on specs and category benchmarks (0–100 scale)
Cambridge Audio CXA81
NAD CI-980
Detailed Specifications
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
| Price | N/A | N/A |
| Watts/Ch (8Ω) | 80W | 50W |
| Watts/Ch (4Ω) | 120W | — |
| Channels | 2 | 8 |
| THD | — | 0.03% |
| Damping Factor | — | 150 |
| Bridgeable | Yes | Yes |
| Balanced XLR | Yes | No |
| Gain Control | No | No |
| Class | Class AB | Class AB |
Key Differences
- Channels: Cambridge Audio CXA81 at 2 vs NAD CI-980 at 8. More channels enable immersive Atmos layouts. A 9-channel receiver can drive a 5.1.4 layout (5 ear-level, 1 sub, 4 height speakers) for overhead sound effects.
- Watts/Ch (8Ω): Cambridge Audio CXA81 at 80W vs NAD CI-980 at 50W. Real-world power matters for dynamic headroom. Look for all-channels-driven ratings — two-channel ratings inflate the number since receivers share a common power supply.
- Watts/Ch (4Ω): Cambridge Audio CXA81 at 120W vs NAD CI-980 at —
- THD: Cambridge Audio CXA81 at — vs NAD CI-980 at 0.03%
- Damping Factor: Cambridge Audio CXA81 at — vs NAD CI-980 at 150
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Cambridge Audio CXA81 if you want:
- + better watts/ch (8ω) — real-world power matters for dynamic headroom
Choose NAD CI-980 if you want:
- + 8 channel layout for more immersive Atmos configurations
See Where These Rank
Check our editorial rankings to see how Cambridge Audio CXA81 and NAD CI-980 compare to the rest of the field.
Best Amplifier RankingsSpecifications sourced from manufacturer datasheets and verified against retailer listings. Prices updated hourly from authorized retailers. Scoring uses our open methodology — products are never ranked, promoted, or suppressed based on affiliate commission rates.
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