What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
06 JUL 2009
Cambridge Audio Azur 650A
There wasn't much wrong with the Cambridge Audio Azur 640A amp. Right until the end of its life it remained a fine performer for the money.
Its replacement, the 650A, is a carefully considered evolution, and is none the worse for that. Its wrap-around lid and thicker front panel make the amp look far smarter than its predecessor. Redesigned control knobs help too.
The internal circuitry builds on before, but with improved circuit layout and component quality. Highlights include a higher spec volume control and a revised output stage with refined protection circuitry.
Apart from a phono stage you get pretty much everything you would expect. There are plenty of line level inputs, a headphone output, switchable speakers and a healthy 75W per channel output.
And the amplifier certainly had no trouble driving price compatible speakers such as B&W's 685s to decent volumes.
System-match for best results
Once warmed up this amp has an open, clean sound packed with detail. Listen to 160 BPM from the Angels and Demons OST and the 650A delivers the dynamic swings with much enthusiasm.
It's hard to criticise composure, punch or solidity when taking price into account, and insight levels are impressive. Tonally, there's a hint of emphasis at high frequencies, but provided the rest of your system isn't too tilted in this direction it won't be a problem.
Importantly, compared to the 640A this new amp sounds clearer, more dynamic and more precise. It's a fine buy.
See our amplifier Best Buys