Arcam and Cambridge Audio are two renowned and well respected brands in the audio industry that produce high quality speakers, headphones, soundbars, and subwoofers. Arcam also makes amplifiers and subwoofers.
In this article, we will cover a general overview of both brands, looking specifically at sound quality, durability, price and so on. Of course, each brand has different devices at different price points, however, we will compare them as closely as we can.
Arcam is known for its high-quality home theater systems and audio equipment, while Cambridge Audio is a well-regarded brand in the audio industry known for its high-quality home theater systems and audio equipment.
Arcam vs Cambridge Comparison Table
| Criteria | Arcam | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Reputation | Arcam is known for high-end audio and home theater equipment, with a focus on audiophile-grade components. | Cambridge Audio is recognized for producing quality audio products, especially amplifiers and audio systems. |
| Sound Quality | Arcam amplifiers and audio equipment are praised for delivering exceptional sound quality with a focus on accuracy. | Cambridge Audio emphasizes clear and detailed sound reproduction, often offering a warm and musical listening experience. |
| Build Quality/Design | Arcam products feature premium build quality, sturdy construction, and a sleek, minimalist design aesthetic. | Cambridge Audio products are known for their solid build quality, elegant designs, and user-friendly interfaces. |
| Product Range | Arcam offers a range of audio and home theater components, including amplifiers, AV receivers, and CD players. | Cambridge Audio provides a diverse product range, covering amplifiers, speakers, headphones, and audio streaming solutions. |
| Pricing | Arcam products are often positioned in the higher price range, reflecting their premium quality and performance. | Cambridge Audio products cover various price points, offering options for different budgets while maintaining quality. |
| Features | Arcam products often incorporate advanced technologies, such as Class G amplification and Dirac Live room correction. | Cambridge Audio products may include features like high-resolution audio support, proprietary amplification technologies, and wireless connectivity options. |
Before we continue, you can check out similar comparisons in the series:
- Arcam Vs Denon
- Arcam Vs Marantz
- Arcam Vs Rotel
- Arcam Vs Cambridge Audio
- Rotel Vs Cambridge Audio
- Cambridge Audio vs Naim – Which Brand Is Better?
Pros and Cons of Arcam:
- Pros: Known for producing high-quality audio components, including amplifiers, receivers, and CD players. Many of their products are well-regarded for their sound quality and build quality.
- Cons: Some of their products can be expensive, and some users have reported issues with durability.
Pros and Cons of Cambridge:
- Pros: Known for producing a wide range of audio products, including speakers, amplifiers, and CD players. Many of their products are well-regarded for their sound quality and value for money.
- Cons: Some users have reported issues with durability and reliability of some of their products.
Quick History
Arcam Quick History
A&R Cambridge LTD (Arcam) is a company based in Cambridge Innovation Park, Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire, England. They are well known for their hi-fi equipment manufacturing. The company was created by students of the science and engineering department of Cambridge University in 1976.
The company products include, Amplifiers, AV receivers, Streamers, Speakers etc
Cambridge Audio Quick History
Cambridge Audio is a British company that manufactures high-end audio equipment. It was formed in the early ’60s by a group of young technology graduates in Cambridge, England and started out as a division of Cambridge Consultants.
Their line of devices includes earphones, amplifiers, CD players, speakers, and many others.
Sound Quality
Arcam Sound Quality
One of the reasons for the creation of Arcam audios is to give the best sound possible to people, this allows the company to produce products with top notch sound quality.
When using the Arcam SA30 in a cinema hall, you’ll experience all the Sonic smoothness you really want in an audio system. The high,mid and low levels are clear and precise.
Cambridge Audio Sound Quality
As expected of a high-end brand, the sound quality is very excellent. The expert layering and detail of the sound ensure that all tonal ranges can play simultaneously without being muddled.
The deep bass stays in the background without overpowering the clear midtones and sparkling treble. All these are masterfully compounded to deliver sound with exceptional accuracy and vivid musicality, no matter what you’re listening to.
Features
Arcam Features
Arcam product has many beneficial features which make them surpass or compete with other renowned brands. These features include:
- Ethernet support
- Airplay- for streaming of music on iOS devices
- Google Chromecast- for music streaming on Android devices
- Wi-Fi
- USB port
- Several input ports such as- Coaxial, optical, MC & MM phono and RCAs
Cambridge Audio Features
Cambridge Audio devices have several features incorporated for maximum enjoyment. Some of the features are shown below:
Personalized EQ settings – set up with the Melomania App
Unique High-Performance Audio Mode – for hi-fi quality sound
Up to 350W per channel in the amplifiers
Passive noise cancellation with Transparency mode – to interact with your environment.
Qualcomm cVc™ (clear voice capture)
Voice control feature for Siri (iOS) and Google Assistant (Android)
aptX™, AAC, SBC Bluetooth codecs support
Build Quality
Arcam Build Quality
Arcam devices are said to be in the middle of the road with their build quality (not bad but not fantastic) i.e they don’t always have a 5 star rating.
Arcam devices are built with a full metal jacket (FMJ). They are built using both steel and aluminium. The aluminium covers the front panel while the steel covers the chassis. This makes some of the devices looks like tank which some customers don’t find attractive but it makes the devices durable
Cambridge Audio Build Quality
Cambridge Audio devices are fabricated from the best materials for maximum comfort and exceptional durability. Some of the materials used include comfortable silicone earbud tips, all enclosed in a solid steel, aluminum, or plastic chassis.
In addition to the sturdy structure, some devices are water resistant, like the Melomania Touch wireless earphones which have an IPX4 rating
Ease of Use
Arcam Ease Of Use
Arcam devices are easy to use for people with or without smartphones, the mobile app is compatible for both iOS and Android device users to control the sounds from the comfort of your phones.
People without smartphones can control Arcam devices with the use of remote control. Arcam devices also have a well labelled and soft button at the front for easy access and control.
Cambridge Audio Ease Of Use
Wireless remote and app control are some of the features that make Cambridge Audio devices user-friendly. Clearly labeled controls and an integrated voice assistant also allow for effortless use.
Cost
Arcam Cost
Arcam devices seems kind of expensive but affordable.
Below are price ranges of Arcam devices
- Amplifier- $500-$2500
- AV Receiver- $2000-$7000
- Streamer- $500-$1500
- Speaker- $300-$1500
Cambridge Audio Cost
The quality of Cambridge Audio devices lives up to its high-end name, but so does the price. They are quite expensive, though some of their devices can be very cheap. The price ranges for some device categories are given below:
- Speakers: $100 – $1000
- Amplifiers: $300 – $6500
- Earphones: from $80
- Players (CD/network): $400 – $5500
- Subwoofers: from $300
Space Requirements
Arcam Space Requirement
Arcam devices are very portable and handy. They consume less space.
FMJ A18 has a dimension of w×d×h (432×275×85) and has a weight of 7.2kg
Cambridge Audio Space Requirements
Cambridge Audio devices vary in size from tiny earphones to large amplifiers. The CXA81 Stereo Amplifier measures 148 x 430 x 365mm (HWD) and weighs 19.1kg, while the smaller ES30 outdoor speaker measures 330 x 202 x 198mm (HWD) and weighs in at 3.4kg.
This means that you will probably find a good device that fits your space requirements.
Remote Controls
Arcam Remote Control
Arcam devices have a remote control that works for more than 1 device. You’ll be able to control both devices eg (sound bar+Tv. They work in a range of 15 metre.
Cambridge Audio Remote Controls
Cambridge Audio devices can be remotely controlled via the mobile app, wireless remote, and voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. These options can be used for basic and advanced functions such as audio tuning or pause/play.
Connectivity Options
Arcam Connectivity Option
Arcam devices have several connectivity options. They can be connected both with wired connectors and wirelessly.
WiFi and Ethernet are available for wireless connection while USB, coaxial and RCA are available for wired connection.
Cambridge Audio Connectivity Options
The wide range of connectivity options found in Cambridge Audio devices allows connection to other speakers and various other devices.
These options include digital optical, coaxial and USB Audio, hi-res Bluetooth, XLR sockets, stereo RCA inputs and several other options.
Power Range
Arcam Power Range
The device’s performance and capacity determine the rate at which Arcam devices consume power. Nevertheless, Arcam devices consume less power than some brands. They have a power consumption in the range of 300 watts to 400 watts. An example is the FMJ A18 with a power consumption range of 350 watts.
Cambridge Audio Power Range
Powerful delivery is one of the easily noticeable features of Cambridge Audio devices. The Azur 851W Power Amplifier delivers a massive 800W at up to 350W per channel. The power range of Cambridge Audio devices ranges from 300W to 1200W.
Frequency Response
Arcam Frequency Response
The frequency response of Arcam devices also varies from device to device depending on the capacity of the devices but on average, Arcam devices have a frequency response range of 0.3hz to 20khz. An example is the FMJ CD17.
Cambridge Audio Frequency Response
Cambridge Audio devices have excellent frequency response ranges, which range from as low as 5Hz all the way up to 80KHz.
The Melomania Touch has a frequency range of 20Hz – 20kHz. The ES30 outdoor speaker frequency response ranges from 55Hz – 20kHz.
Conclusion
On a final note, Arcam devices might be expensive but the functions and other qualities are worth it. Arcam devices are the best option for anyone who wants devices that consume less power but not for those who want cheap devices.
Cambridge Audio is a brand for serious audiophiles, delivering excellent value and performance. The brand gives great value for money.