Alesis is a brand that specializes in audio equipment and musical instruments.

Alesis

The Alesis SA 150 is a power amplifier designed for professional audio applications. It is a solid-state amplifier that provides 75 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 100 watts per channel into 4 ohms. It features balanced XLR input connectors and binding post speaker outputs. The SA 150 also offers protection circuitry for safeguarding against short circuits, thermal overload, and DC offset. It is rack-mountable with a compact and durable design.

SA 150

In the ever-evolving world of high-fidelity audio, the Cambridge Audio CXN100 network player emerges as a beacon of innovation, setting new standards for audiophiles and music lovers alike. With its launch, Cambridge Audio not only continues its legacy of delivering cutting-edge audio technologies but also introduces a suite of features designed to enhance the music listening experience in unprecedented ways.

**DAC and Audio Performance**

At the heart of the CXN100's appeal lies the integration of the ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC, a choice that underscores the company's commitment to sonic purity and accuracy. This DAC is renowned for its ability to convert digital signals to analog with exceptional precision, ensuring that every nuance and detail of the music is captured with unmatched clarity.

**Streaming Capabilities**

The device's streaming capabilities are powered by the latest StreamMagic Gen4 module, offering full MQA compatibility and a wide range of streaming services including Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, and Deezer. This guarantees users access to high-quality content delivered through a user-friendly interface, making it easy and enjoyable to access a vast array of digital music.

**Connectivity**

Connectivity is another area where the CXN100 shines, offering a plethora of options to suit any configuration. Whether it's USB, coaxial, TOSLINK, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, or Bluetooth, the CXN100 ensures that your music, regardless of the source, will be seamlessly integrated into your listening system. Moreover, its compatibility with Google Home, Apple AirPlay, and Roon multi-room systems opens up a world of possibilities for distributing music throughout the home, making it a versatile hub for audio entertainment.

**User Experience**

The CXN100 is not just about technical prowess; it's also designed with the user experience in mind. Controlled via the intuitive StreamMagic app, it allows for easy navigation and control, making it possible to curate your listening experience with ease. The inclusion of a 4.76-inch front-panel display further enhances this experience, displaying album artwork and track information in vivid detail.

**Design and Build Quality**

Cambridge Audio's commitment to quality extends to the design and construction of the CXN100, with a build quality that reflects the company's British heritage of audio innovation. This commitment is evident in the device's elegant aesthetics and robust functionality, making it not only a powerful audio tool but also a stylish statement in any home audio system.

**Pricing and Value**

With a price tag of $1,099, the CXN100 represents a significant investment in sound quality, but for those who prioritize impeccable sound and seamless digital integration, it offers unparalleled value. As the latest offering from a company with a rich history in the audio industry, the CXN100 is poised to take its place as a new icon in the world of music streaming, promising to deliver an audio experience that is as rich and detailed as it is easily accessible.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, the Cambridge Audio CXN100 stands as a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to audio excellence. With its advanced DAC, extensive connectivity, and user-centric design, it not only meets the demands of modern audiophiles but also sets a new benchmark for what is possible in the realm of high-quality streaming.

**Technical Specifications**

-   DAC: ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Reference
-   Streaming Module: StreamMagic Gen4
-   Supported Streaming Services: Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth
-   Connectivity: USB, Coaxial, TOSLINK, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
-   Display: 4.76-inch Color Display
-   Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 85 x 305 mm
-   Weight: 5.6 kg

2_Standard Block_1560x1700_CXN100.jpg.webp

1_CXN_100_3.png.webp

5_CXN_100_0.png.webp

Why the CXN100 is Cambridge Audio's New Crown Jewel

Cambridge Audio is a brand that specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality audio equipment.

Cambridge Audio

Hear every nuance and detail in your music collection with the precision of Cambridge Audio CXN100's DAC


**Oslo, Norway**: In a significant move that's set to redefine the high-fidelity audio landscape, Hegel Music Systems has announced the launch of its latest creation - the Hegel H600 integrated amplifier. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Hegel is marking the occasion with what can only be described as an audio masterpiece.

#### Powerhouse Performance

The H600, dubbed as the company's reference integrated amplifier, is a tour de force in the world of high-end audio. Packing a formidable 303 watts per channel into 8 ohms and a remarkable damping factor of 4000, it's designed to drive any speaker with unparalleled confidence and ease. The dual mono design of the H600 mirrors the performance of two mono amps in a single box, a feat of engineering that delivers an unmatched soundstage with a broad dynamic range and deep, controlled bass.

#### Cutting-Edge Technology

A highlight of the H600 is its bit-perfect digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This state-of-the-art component ensures pure audio fidelity, free from any resampling or upsampling. With a large, dedicated power supply and robust shielding against interference, the DAC provides exceptional resolution and smoothness. The amplifier's chassis, crafted from aluminum, adds to its audio performance, offering enhanced stability and reduced vibrations.

#### Streamlined Streaming and Connectivity

Embracing the era of digital music, the H600 comes equipped with an array of streaming options, including UPnP, Airplay 2, Tidal Connect, and Roon Ready compatibility. This broad suite of features ensures that the amplifier is not just a powerhouse of performance but also a hub of convenience and accessibility. Additionally, the amplifier boasts a wide range of analog and digital connections, including True Balanced XLR inputs, USB 32/384 input, and optical inputs, making it a versatile centerpiece for any audio setup.

#### Award-Winning Design

The Hegel H600 isn't just about remarkable technical capabilities; it's also a winner in aesthetics and ease of use. Recently, it received the prestigious EISA award for Best High-End Streaming Amplifier, a testament to its outstanding quality and innovation. The EISA committee lauded the H600 for its upgraded digital stage, bespoke error-cancelling technology, and redesigned preamp stage, all contributing to its organic, compelling performance.

H600Front.jpg

H600Back.jpg

Discover the Hidden Power of Hegel H600's Dual Mono Design

Hegel's latest innovation, the H600 integrated amplifier, offers a groundbreaking audio experience with exceptional power and clarity.

## The Fundamentals of Sound Absorption

**The Phenomenon of Sound Absorption:** 
Sound absorption is a crucial aspect of acoustic engineering, which deals with the control of sound and reverberation in a given space. When sound waves encounter a material, part of the acoustic energy is absorbed by the material, transforming into heat, while the rest may be reflected or transmitted through. The level of absorption depends on the material’s properties and the frequency of the sound wave. By absorbing unwanted sound, these materials help in creating acoustically pleasant environments, crucial for settings like recording studios, theaters, and homes with high-fidelity audio setups.

**Acoustic Energy Transformation: From Sound to Heat:** 
The principle behind sound absorption lies in the conversion of acoustic energy into heat. When a sound wave hits a material, the material’s fibers or structure vibrates, causing internal friction which generates heat. This process dissipates the acoustic energy, thereby reducing the sound wave’s amplitude and mitigating the amount of sound reflected back into the room.

**Acoustic Impedance:** 
The Gateway to Effective Sound Absorption: Acoustic impedance is a measure of how much a material resists or permits the flow of acoustic energy. It is crucial for understanding a material’s sound absorbing capacity. Materials with an impedance matching that of air tend to absorb sound more effectively as they allow for better transmission of sound waves into the material where it can be dissipated as heat.

----------

## An In-depth Look at Sound-Absorbing Materials

**Material Properties Influencing Sound Absorption**
The sound absorption efficiency of a material is significantly influenced by its density, thickness, and surface texture. Dense materials with open structures, like foam or fiberglass, are excellent at trapping sound waves. Moreover, thicker materials tend to absorb lower frequency sounds better due to their ability to vibrate at lower frequencies.

**The Dynamic Trio: Fiberglass, Foam, and Rockwool** 
Among the most commonly used sound-absorbing materials are fiberglass, foam, and rockwool. Fiberglass is renowned for its excellent sound absorption capabilities across a broad frequency spectrum. Foam, particularly open-cell foam, is effective at absorbing higher frequency sounds. Rockwool, with its dense and fibrous structure, is adept at absorbing a wide range of frequencies, making it a popular choice for various acoustic treatment applications.

**Comparative Analysis of Sound Absorption Efficiency** 
Each of these materials has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For instance, while fiberglass and rockwool are effective across a broad spectrum of frequencies, foam tends to be less effective at lower frequencies. The choice between these materials depends on the specific acoustic needs of a space, and often, a combination of materials is employed to achieve desired acoustic properties.

----------

## Beyond the Basics: Unveiling Additional Sound-Absorbing Materials

**The Role of Bass Traps in Low-Frequency Sound Absorption**
Low-frequency sounds are often the most challenging to control. Bass traps are designed to tackle these lower frequency sounds, providing control over boomy and muddy acoustics often encountered in untreated rooms.

**Perforated Wood Panels: Blending Aesthetics with Acoustics**
Perforated wood panels not only offer sound absorption qualities but also add an aesthetic appeal to a room. They are particularly effective in treating mid to high-frequency sounds, making them a suitable choice for spaces that require a visually pleasing acoustic treatment solution.

**Unconventional Materials: Exploring the Unknown**
The field of acoustic engineering constantly evolves with the discovery and development of new materials. Unconventional materials like recycled rubber, cork, and even certain types of plastics are being explored for their sound absorbing properties. These materials open up new avenues for effective sound control while often providing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional acoustic materials.

----------

## Health and Safety Concerns in Acoustic Material Selection

**The Specter of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)**
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate at room temperature, and some of them are harmful when inhaled. Many traditional sound-absorbing materials, like certain adhesives or foams, may emit VOCs, which can lead to poor indoor air quality. It's essential to select materials that have low VOC emissions to ensure a healthy indoor environment.

**Fire Safety Ratings and Acoustic Materials**
Fire safety is a paramount consideration when selecting acoustic materials. Materials should have appropriate fire safety ratings to ensure they won't easily ignite or contribute to the spread of fire. It's prudent to check the fire safety ratings and certifications of acoustic materials, and opt for those that are tested and certified as fire-resistant or fire-retardant.

**Navigating Health Regulations in Acoustic Engineering**
Complying with health and safety regulations is crucial in acoustic material selection. Ensuring that materials meet the standards set by local and international health agencies will not only promote safety but also demonstrate a commitment to adhering to best practices in acoustic engineering.

----------

## Effective Room Treatment Strategies

**The Art and Science of Material Placement** 
Effective room treatment goes beyond merely selecting the right materials; it extends to the strategic placement of these materials within a space. By understanding the flow of sound within a room and identifying areas where sound reflection is problematic, one can place sound-absorbing materials strategically to reduce echo and reverberation.

**Case Studies: Before and After Room Treatment** 
Examining real-world examples of room treatment can provide invaluable insights into the impact of sound-absorbing materials on a space's acoustic quality. Through a series of case studies, this section will explore various room treatment strategies and their outcomes, providing a practical understanding of how sound absorption can transform a sonic environment.

**Measuring the Impact: Tools and Techniques for Assessing Acoustic Performance** 
Utilizing tools like sound level meters and acoustic analysis software, individuals can measure the impact of room treatment on a space's acoustic performance. These tools provide data that can guide further adjustments, ensuring that the room treatment strategy achieves the desired acoustic results.

----------

## Future Trends in Sound Absorption Technology

**Emerging Materials on the Horizon** 
The acoustic engineering field is on the brink of exploring new materials with enhanced sound absorption properties. Innovations in material science are paving the way for the introduction of materials with superior acoustic performance, such as metamaterials which exhibit properties not found in naturally occurring materials.

**The Potential of Nanotechnology in Acoustic Engineering**
Nanotechnology holds promise in revolutionizing acoustic material design. By manipulating materials at a nanoscale, engineers can create structures with enhanced sound absorption properties, potentially leading to new categories of acoustic materials with exceptional performance.

**Sustainable Practices in Sound Absorption Material Production** 
With a growing emphasis on sustainability, the trend towards the utilization of recycled and eco-friendly materials in acoustic engineering is gaining momentum. Sustainable practices in material production not only contribute to environmental conservation but also resonate with a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers, making it a win-win scenario for both the industry and the planet.

a porous absorption material.png

The Science of Sound Absorption

Explore the profound science of sound absorption and its impact on room acoustics. Delve into the characteristics of various sound-absorbing materials like fiberglass, foam, and rockwool, and understand their application in creating sonically pleasant spaces. Uncover essential health and safety considerations alongside emerging trends in acoustic engineering for a well-rounded grasp on enhancing audio experiences.

SA 150

by Alesis

Interesting articles

Why the CXN100 is Cambridge Audio's New Crown Jewel

Discover the Hidden Power of Hegel H600's Dual Mono Design

The Science of Sound Absorption