The Cambridge Audio L/R X is a new and ambitious pair of active stereo speakers, aimed at listeners who want a top-quality hi-fi system without the need for long speaker cables, chunky amplifiers, or external network streamers.
With the release of their new L/R series (The X/M & S models), Cambridge Audio has officially entered the active speaker market, bringing their signature British sound to a premium, all-in-one wireless system designed to take on the industry’s heavyweights. At £1,799 (at the time of publishing this review) the L/R X’s which we’re looking at today are certainly a premium option. However, they cost considerably less than some of their high-end competitors, without compromising on sound quality. The L/R X are up against heavyweights such as the KEF LS50 Wireless and Triangle Capella, and they certainly hold their own.
The speakers are a real head-turner and are guaranteed to become a conversation piece in any room. Each speaker is relatively compact, measuring roughly 20cm wide, 33cm high, and 26cm deep. Despite their compact size, each one weighs around 10kg.
The modern design and range of colour options mean they can fit into almost any room, regardless of your personal style. If you prefer something a little more traditional, there is also a Walnut finish available for only £100 more. This gives the speakers a warmer and more classic appearance.
The specifications are nothing short of impressive. Each speaker contains two 5-inch woofers, two passive radiators, and a 28mm custom tweeter. Amplification is rated at a whopping 400W per speaker. The combination of dual bass drivers, powerful amplification, and sophisticated DSP gives the L/R X plenty of potential for scale, detail, and dynamic contrast. From my experience listening to these speakers, they seriously excel when it comes to clarity and bass. They also deliver an impressive sense of soundstage.
Extend your music Xpectations, with the Cambridge Audio L/R X wireless system speakers.
I listened to “SPEYSIDE” by Bon Iver, and I was particularly impressed by the stereo imaging. The track gave me a really clear sense of the individual elements within the recording, especially the guitar. The left speaker plucks the strings, while the right delivers the high-end chord. This creates a wonderfully spacious and immersive presentation.
Instruments feel well separated, without the music becoming disjointed. Vocals also remain clear and focused in the centre of the soundstage. This level of separation makes the speakers enjoyable to listen to, especially with well-recorded music.
Cambridge Audio’s StreamMagic app controls the network streaming element, and it has come a long way since its original release in 2011. The app supports Qobuz, Tidal, Spotify Connect, Google Cast, and AirPlay 2, giving users plenty of options for accessing their favourite music.
It also provides full control over input selection, Network Libraries, and EQ settings. The interface is easy to use and navigate, making it simple to switch between different sources or adjust the sound to suit your room and preferences. The app is regularly being updated meaning that the software experience will continue to improve over time.
Physical connectivity is equally comprehensive. The L/R X feature HDMI eARC and Optical inputs for television use, analogue RCA connectivity, and a built-in moving-magnet phono stage for a turntable. There is also a dedicated subwoofer output, which is useful if you eventually want to increase the low-end performance. The bass from the speakers themselves is already prominent and powerful, but adding Cambridge Audio’s own MSX Sub 300 could take things even further. This would be ideal for listeners who want a more dramatic low-frequency experience.
One of the biggest advantages of these speakers is the built-in DSP and room-optimisation technology. These features can improve bass output and mid-range performance, helping the speakers adapt to their surroundings.
This is particularly useful for people who do not have a dedicated listening room. You may need to position your speakers around furniture or other room limitations, but the L/R X are designed to make getting great sound much easier. Rather than requiring hours of experimentation, the room-optimisation features help you achieve a balanced sound with less effort.
In conclusion, the L/R X speakers from Cambridge Audio are an impressive example of how modern active speakers can replace a traditional stackable analogue hi-fi system. With their combination of power, connectivity, streaming capabilities, and room-adjustment features, it is hard to find many faults.
On top of this, their minimal, contemporary design is enough to persuade even traditional hi-fi enthusiasts to consider going active. The price tag is certainly something to consider, but for listeners looking for a high-quality, all-in-one stereo system, the L/R X offer an exciting package.
Swing by one of our experience rooms at your local Richer Sounds to test them out for yourself, and I am sure you will be impressed.
Author: Ed, Chelsea Store
