Cambridge Audio launches its new Evo 150 SE streaming amplifier

If you’re looking to assemble a home HiFi setup, you might have come across Cambridge Audio when searching for amplifiers that can drive your speakers. Most of the time, amplifiers do one thing and one thing only, which is to drive speakers. But if you want to get more out of it, the new Cambridge Audio Evo 150 SE streaming amplifier could be for you.

Meet the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 SE

Under the hood of the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 SE lies the ESS SABRE ES9018k2m DAC. According to the company, it promises “emotive sound with exceptional clarity, resolution, and musicality.” This Class-D streaming amp is capable of delivering 150 watts per channel into 8 ohms, thanks to a new Hypex NCOREx module. This means that it should be more than capable of driving most speakers, even some that are more demanding.

Now, what makes the amp different from other amps is that it is a streaming amplifier. What does this mean? It’s pretty much as its name implies. Not only can it drive your speakers, but it can also stream from music streaming services. The amp supports services such as Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, and Qobuz. It also supports wireless connectivity such as aptX HD Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and Google Cast.

There is also support for Roon Ready and uPnP, which is helpful if you want to stream files stored on your local network.

But if you have your own music source, like a turntable, a CD player, or a computer, you can connect to it via various options. This includes an RCA line input, balanced XLR inputs, two optical, coaxial, and USB. There’s also an HDMI ARC connection if you want to connect the amp to a TV, and a moving-magnet phono stage for turntables. Lastly, there’s a subwoofer-out if you want to add a sub for that extra oomph.

Pricing & availability

So, if you think that the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 SE is for you, then prepare your wallets because it does not come cheap. According to the company, the streaming amplifier is priced at £1999/€2399/$3299. This is by no means a small amount, and it is also probably boosted by the fact that it can act as a streaming source.

But if you value the convenience and the features it offers, Cambridge Audio says the amp is available for sale this coming July from its website and authorized retailers.