Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Cambridge Audio AXR85 Stereo Receiver. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your receiver to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Please read these instructions carefully before use.
The AXR85 is an 85-watt per channel stereo receiver featuring a built-in FM/AM tuner with RDS, Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming, a dedicated phono stage for turntables, and multiple analog inputs for various audio sources. It is designed to deliver a precise and powerful audio experience.
Safety Information
Always follow these basic safety precautions when using your AXR85 receiver:
- Power Source: Connect the unit only to a power supply of the type described in the operating instructions or marked on the appliance.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block any ventilation openings. Do not install near heat sources.
- Water and Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
- Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Placement: Place the unit on a flat, stable surface. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near strong magnetic fields.
What's in the Box
Upon unpacking your Cambridge Audio AXR85, please ensure all the following items are present:
- AXR85 Stereo Receiver
- Power Cable
- Remote Control
- 2 x AAA Batteries (for remote control)
- FM Antenna
- AM Antenna
Product Overview
Front Panel
Image: Front view of the AXR85 receiver, highlighting key features such as Toroidal Transformer, 85 Watts per Channel, Analog Inputs, Aux Input, Tone/EQ Control, Moving Magnet Phono Stage, Subwoofer Output, and A+B Speaker Outputs.
The front panel of the AXR85 provides access to essential controls and indicators:
- Power Button: Turns the unit on or off.
- Display Screen: Shows selected input, radio frequency, and other operational information.
- Input Selectors (A1, A2, A3, Phono, FM/AM, Bluetooth): Buttons to choose your audio source.
- Volume Knob: Adjusts the master volume level.
- Aux Input (3.5mm): For connecting portable audio devices.
- Headphone Output (6.3mm): For private listening.
- Menu/Tone Controls: Accesses settings for bass, treble, balance, and tuner functions.
Rear Panel
Image: Rear view of the AXR85 receiver, showing various input and output terminals including speaker terminals, analog inputs, phono input, subwoofer output, and antenna connections.
The rear panel houses all the necessary connections for your audio system:
- Loudspeaker Terminals (A & B): Connect your passive speakers. Supports 4-8 ohms impedance.
- Analog Inputs (A1, A2, A3): RCA inputs for connecting external audio sources like CD players or media streamers.
- Phono Input (MM): Dedicated RCA input for connecting a turntable with a Moving Magnet cartridge. Includes a ground terminal.
- Rec Out: RCA output for connecting to a recording device.
- Sub Out: RCA output for connecting an active subwoofer.
- FM/AM Antenna Inputs: Connect the supplied FM and AM antennas.
- Service Port: USB port for service use only.
- Power Inlet: Connects the supplied power cable.
Setup
1. Speaker Connection
The AXR85 supports two pairs of speakers (A and B). Ensure your speakers have an impedance between 4 and 8 ohms.
- Turn off and unplug the AXR85 before making any connections.
- Connect the positive (+) terminal of your speaker to the red (+) terminal on the AXR85.
- Connect the negative (-) terminal of your speaker to the black (-) terminal on the AXR85.
- Repeat for all speakers. Ensure correct polarity for optimal sound.
Image: Detailed view of the rear panel showing the speaker terminals (A and B) and other input/output connections.
2. Audio Source Connection
Connect your audio sources to the appropriate inputs on the rear panel.
- CD Player/Streamer: Use RCA cables to connect to any of the Analog Inputs (A1, A2, A3).
- Turntable: Connect your turntable's RCA outputs to the "Phono" input. If your turntable has a ground wire, connect it to the "Ground" terminal next to the Phono input. The AXR85 has a built-in Moving Magnet (MM) phono stage.
- Subwoofer: Connect an active subwoofer to the "Sub Out" RCA terminal.
- Portable Device (Front): Use a 3.5mm stereo cable to connect to the "Aux In" on the front panel.
3. Antenna Connection
Connect the supplied FM and AM antennas to their respective terminals on the rear panel for radio reception.
- For FM, connect the supplied wire antenna to the "FM 75Ω" terminal. Extend the wire for better reception.
- For AM, connect the supplied loop antenna to the "AM 300Ω" terminals.
4. Power Connection
Once all audio and speaker connections are made, connect the supplied power cable to the AXR85's power inlet and then to a suitable wall outlet.
Operating Instructions
1. Power On/Off
Press the power button on the front panel or the remote control to turn the AXR85 on or off. The unit will enter standby mode when turned off.
2. Source Selection
Press the corresponding input selector buttons (A1, A2, A3, Phono, FM/AM, Bluetooth) on the front panel or remote control to choose your desired audio source. The selected input will be displayed on the front screen.
3. Volume Control
Rotate the large volume knob on the front panel clockwise to increase volume and counter-clockwise to decrease. Alternatively, use the volume up/down buttons on the remote control.
4. Bluetooth Pairing
Image: Front view of the AXR85 receiver with the Bluetooth logo, indicating its wireless streaming capability.
To stream audio wirelessly from a Bluetooth-enabled device:
- Select "Bluetooth" as the input source on the AXR85. The display will show "Pairing".
- On your smartphone, tablet, or PC, enable Bluetooth and search for available devices.
- Select "Cambridge Audio AXR85" from the list.
- Once paired, the display will show "Connected", and you can begin streaming audio.
Note: Bluetooth range is typically up to 10 meters (33 feet), but can be affected by obstacles and other wireless devices.
5. FM/AM Tuner Operation
After connecting the antennas, you can tune into radio stations.
- Select FM/AM: Press the "FM/AM" button to switch between radio bands.
- Tuning: Use the "Tune" buttons on the remote or the menu controls on the front panel to scan for stations.
- Presets: The AXR85 allows you to save up to 30 radio station presets. Tune to a desired station, then press and hold a preset number button (1-10) on the remote or front panel until the display confirms saving.
- RDS (Radio Data System): When available, RDS will display station information such as station name or program type on the screen.
6. Headphone Use
Plug your headphones into the 6.3mm jack on the front panel for private listening. Connecting headphones will mute the main speaker outputs.
7. Remote Control
Image: A graphic icon representing a remote control with a wireless signal, indicating remote operation.
The supplied remote control allows convenient operation of all primary functions from a distance. Insert the two AAA batteries as indicated in the battery compartment. Point the remote control towards the front panel of the receiver.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents, waxes, or solvents.
- Ventilation: Periodically check that the ventilation openings are clear of dust and debris to prevent overheating.
- Connections: Ensure all cables are securely connected. Loose connections can affect sound quality.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cable not connected; unit in standby. | Ensure power cable is securely plugged in. Press the power button. |
| No sound from speakers | Incorrect input selected; speaker cables loose; headphones connected; volume too low. | Select correct input. Check speaker connections. Disconnect headphones. Increase volume. |
| Poor radio reception | Antenna not connected or poorly positioned. | Connect antennas securely. Adjust antenna position for better signal. |
| Bluetooth not connecting | AXR85 not in pairing mode; device too far; interference. | Ensure AXR85 is on Bluetooth input and "Pairing" is displayed. Move device closer. Reduce interference. |
| Humming sound from turntable | Turntable ground wire not connected. | Connect the turntable's ground wire to the AXR85's ground terminal. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 85 watts per channel (into 8 ohms) |
| Frequency Response (-1dB) | 5Hz - 50kHz |
| Subwoofer Output | 200Hz 2nd order L+R, level follows volume setting |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 A2DP/AVRCP supporting SBC |
| Phono Stage | Built-in Moving Magnet (MM) |
| FM/AM Tuner | Yes, with RDS and 30 presets |
| Analog Inputs | 4 (RCA) + 1 (3.5mm Aux on front) |
| Headphone Output | 6.3mm |
| Speaker Outputs | A+B (supports 4-8 ohms) |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 4.3 x 16.9 x 13.4 inches (109 x 430 x 340 mm) |
| Weight | Approximately 17.8 lbs (8.1 kg) |
Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Warranty and Support
Cambridge Audio products are designed and manufactured to the highest standards. For detailed warranty information specific to your region, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Cambridge Audio website.
For technical support, service, or further assistance, please contact your authorized Cambridge Audio dealer or visit the support section of the Cambridge Audio website: www.cambridgeaudio.com/support
