1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Cambridge Audio AXA35 Integrated Stereo Amplifier. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your amplifier to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The AXA35 is designed to deliver a precise and powerful audio experience with 35 watts per channel, featuring a built-in phono stage for turntables and multiple analog inputs for various audio sources.
2. Safety Information
Please read all safety instructions carefully before using the product. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Power Source: Connect the unit only to a power supply of the type described in this manual or on the unit.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings. Maintain a minimum distance of 10cm (4 inches) around the unit for proper airflow.
- Water and Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, dripping, or splashing. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the unit.
- Heat: Do not place the unit near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Cables: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the unit.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the packaging:
- Cambridge Audio AXA35 Integrated Stereo Amplifier
- Remote Control
- Power Cable
- Quick Start Guide (not included in this digital manual)
- Safety Guide (not included in this digital manual)
4. Product Overview
4.1 Front Panel
The front panel provides access to essential controls and connections for daily use.
Image 4.1.1: Front view of the Cambridge Audio AXA35 amplifier, showcasing its minimalist design with a central display, input selection buttons, volume knob, and front-panel auxiliary inputs.
Image 4.1.2: Detailed view of the AXA35 front panel highlighting key features: 35 Watts per channel, Front-Panel Aux-Input, White Display Screen, and Headphone Out (6.3mm).
- Power Button: Turns the amplifier on or off.
- Headphone Jack (6.3mm): For private listening. Connect headphones here.
- Aux In (3.5mm): Front-panel auxiliary input for connecting portable devices like smartphones or MP3 players.
- Input Selectors (A1/AUX, A2, A3, Phono): Buttons to choose the desired audio source.
- Display Screen: Shows the currently selected input.
- Menu Button: Accesses tone controls (Bass/Treble).
- Volume Knob: Adjusts the overall output volume.
4.2 Rear Panel
The rear panel houses all the primary input and output connections.
Image 4.2.1: Rear view of the Cambridge Audio AXA35 amplifier, showing all input and output terminals, including speaker outputs, analog inputs, phono input, and USB power port.
Image 4.2.2: Detailed view of the AXA35 rear panel highlighting key features: Built-in Phono-Stage, Remote Control (functionality), and 5V 500mA USB Port.
- Analog Inputs (A1, A2, A3): RCA inputs for connecting line-level audio sources such as CD players, streamers, or TV audio outputs.
- Phono Input (MM): RCA input specifically for connecting a turntable with a Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge. Includes a ground terminal.
- Rec Out: RCA output for connecting to a recording device.
- USB Power (5V 500mA): USB port for powering external devices like a Bluetooth receiver or a smart audio streaming device. This port does not transfer audio data.
- Speaker Terminals: Connect your passive speakers here. Supports banana plugs or bare wire.
- AC Power Inlet: Connect the supplied power cable here.
5. Setup
5.1 Placement
Place the AXA35 on a flat, stable surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive moisture. Ensure there is adequate space around the unit for ventilation, especially above the top panel.
5.2 Connecting Speakers
The AXA35 is a 2-channel stereo amplifier. Connect your passive speakers to the speaker terminals on the rear panel.
- Ensure the amplifier is turned off and unplugged from the power outlet.
- Connect the positive (+) terminal (red) of your left speaker to the left positive (+) terminal on the amplifier.
- Connect the negative (-) terminal (black) of your left speaker to the left negative (-) terminal on the amplifier.
- Repeat for the right speaker, connecting to the right speaker terminals on the amplifier.
- Ensure all connections are secure to prevent short circuits.
5.3 Connecting Audio Sources
The AXA35 offers multiple options for connecting your audio devices.
Image 5.3.1: The Cambridge Audio AXA35 amplifier stacked with a Cambridge Audio AXC35 CD player, connected to a white bookshelf speaker, illustrating a typical home audio setup.
- CD Player/Streamer/TV: Use RCA cables to connect the audio output of your device to any of the Analog Inputs (A1, A2, or A3) on the rear panel.
- Turntable: Connect your turntable's RCA output to the Phono Input (MM) on the rear panel. If your turntable has a ground wire, connect it to the ground terminal next to the Phono input. The AXA35 has a built-in Moving Magnet (MM) phono stage.
- Portable Device (Front Aux): For temporary connection of a smartphone or MP3 player, use a 3.5mm stereo cable to connect to the Aux In jack on the front panel.
- Bluetooth Receiver/Streaming Device: If you wish to add Bluetooth or smart streaming capabilities, connect a compatible Bluetooth receiver or streaming device (e.g., Google Chromecast Audio) to one of the Analog Inputs (A1, A2, or A3). You can power this device using the 5V 500mA USB Power port on the rear panel.
5.4 Power Connection
Once all audio connections are made, connect the supplied power cable to the AC Power Inlet on the rear panel of the AXA35 and then to a suitable wall outlet.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Powering On/Off
Press the Power button on the front panel to turn the amplifier on or off. The display will illuminate when the unit is powered on.
6.2 Input Selection
Press the corresponding input selector buttons (A1/AUX, A2, A3, Phono) on the front panel to choose your desired audio source. The selected input will be shown on the display screen.
6.3 Volume Control
Rotate the large Volume knob on the front panel clockwise to increase the volume and counter-clockwise to decrease it. You can also adjust the volume using the supplied remote control.
6.4 Tone Controls (Bass/Treble)
The AXA35 features Bass and Treble controls to fine-tune the sound to your preference.
- Press the Menu button on the front panel. The display will show 'Bass'.
- Rotate the Volume knob to adjust the Bass level (ultimate boost/cut +/- 10dB @ 100Hz).
- Press the Menu button again. The display will show 'Treble'.
- Rotate the Volume knob to adjust the Treble level (ultimate boost/cut +/- 10dB @ 10kHz).
- Press the Menu button a third time to exit the tone control menu.
6.5 Headphone Use
Connect your headphones to the 6.3mm headphone jack on the front panel. When headphones are connected, the speaker outputs will be muted automatically.
6.6 Remote Control
The supplied remote control allows for convenient operation of the AXA35 from a distance. It typically includes buttons for power, input selection, volume up/down, and mute.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the amplifier's surfaces. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
- Ventilation: Periodically check that the ventilation openings are clear of dust and debris.
- Connections: Ensure all cable connections remain secure. Loose connections can affect sound quality.
8. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your AXA35, consult the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Power: Ensure the power cable is securely connected to both the amplifier and the wall outlet. Check if the wall outlet is functioning.
- No Sound:
- Verify that the correct input source is selected.
- Check speaker connections for proper polarity and secure fit.
- Ensure the volume is not set to minimum or muted.
- If headphones are connected, disconnect them to enable speaker output.
- Check the audio cables from your source device to the amplifier.
- Distorted Sound:
- Reduce the volume.
- Check speaker impedance compatibility (AXA35 is designed for 8 Ohm speakers).
- Ensure source device output levels are not too high, causing clipping.
- Hum or Buzz:
- Ensure all cables are properly shielded and connected.
- If using a turntable, ensure the ground wire is connected to the amplifier's ground terminal.
- Try moving the amplifier or source components away from other electronic devices that might cause interference.
- Remote Control Not Working:
- Check and replace the batteries (2 AAA batteries required).
- Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the amplifier's IR sensor.
If the problem persists after trying these steps, please contact Cambridge Audio customer support or your dealer.
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 35 Watts (into 8 Ohms) |
| Frequency Response (-3dB) | 5Hz - 50kHz |
| S/N Ratio (Ref 1W) | >82dB (unweighted) |
| Input Impedances | 47k ohms |
| Max. Power Consumption | 260W |
| Bass/Treble Controls | Shelving, ultimate boost/cut +/- 10dB @ 100Hz and 10kHz |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Item Dimensions (L x W x H) | 13.2 x 16.9 x 3.3 inches (33.5 x 42.9 x 8.4 cm) |
| Item Weight | 15.43 pounds (7 kg) |
| Voltage | 5 Volts (for USB power output) |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | C11083 |
| UPC | 813371029460 |
| Batteries for Remote | 2 AAA batteries required |
| Date First Available | June 3, 2019 |
10. Warranty and Support
Cambridge Audio products are designed and engineered in the UK. For warranty information, product registration, and technical support, please visit the official Cambridge Audio website or contact your local dealer.
You can find more information and support on the official Cambridge Audio store page: Cambridge Audio Store
