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Cambridge Audio Azur 540R (Version 3) review
Cambridge Audio invests heavily in its ongoing research and development programme and as a result of this the Azur 540R has been updated to a version 3 model. The new 540R features 6.1 multi-channel output and 2 in 1 out HDMI pass through so that, for instance, your HDMI DVD player and Sky HD™ set-top box can be connected with just one cable to your screen. A high quality Crystal CS42518 multi DAC and redesigned discrete amplification stages also provides sparkling sound reproduction for music and movies and RS232 is included for custom install situations. The 540R V3 provides all this at an extremely attractive price. Azur 540R V3 is designed for excellent multi-channel surround-sound performance without compromising on music reproduction. To this end, five redesigned fully discrete audiophile grade amplifiers are kept as separate as possible from the processing and input stages and this produces even lower distortion for this highly musical AV receiver. A large power supply with low flux toroidal transformer and careful design of the audio stages ensure the 540R can reproduce the dynamics and scale required for modern movie soundtracks whilst also being able to reproduce a genuinely musical performance with either stereo or multi-channel music sources. Dolby 5.1, DTS 5.1, DD EX, DTS EX, Neo:6 and Pro Logic II are featured for surround-sound decoding as well as Stereo and Stereo + Sub modes and Advanced Bass Management allows separate crossovers and trims for all these formats. A Bass Augment function also allows the front speakers to remain ‘large’ whilst also sending from left and right bass to the subwoofer. All the 540R’s audio and video inputs are fully assignable for ease of use. Post processing of PLII or Neo:6 is also supported by the 540R which means it can create 6.1 output from 2.0/5.1 material. The 540R has an attractive On Screen Display (OSD) so that menus can be easily accessed for the simplest set-up imaginable. An on-board AM/FM tuner offers 30 station presets making tuning into the radio extremely simple. RS232 connections mean the 540R can not only receive software updates but also be controlled by RS232 and this link combines with IR emitter In to receive discrete IR codes and ensure the product is compatible with custom install applications. As with all Cambridge Audio products, the 540R benefits from a solid aluminum front panel and acoustically damped chassis and is available in either silver or black. An Azur navigator style control is also supplied.Specifications:
Power Output: 100 watts rms per channel @ 8 ohms, 2 channels driven; 80 watts rms per channel @ 8 ohms, all channels driven
Architecture: CS42518 multi DAC; CS493263 DSP
Audio Inputs: 6 line level + tuner + 6.1 direct
Audio Outputs: 6 amplified speaker outputs
6.1 pre amp
1 tape
Video Inputs: HDMI (2)
Composite (3)
S-Video (2)
Component video (2)
Video Outputs: HDMI (1)
Composite (1)
S-Video (1)
Component video (1)
Digital Inputs: Coaxial (4)
Optical (4)
Digital Outputs:
Coaxial (1)
Optical (1)
Decoding formats: DD-ES-EX/PLII/DTS/EX/ES/Neo6
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz +/- 1dB
Crosstalk: <-60dB
THD (unweighted): <0.006% @ 1kHz, <0.012% @ 20Hz – 20kHz
Max. Power Consumption: 850 Watts (Standby: 2 Watts)
Dimensions (W x D x H): 430 x 310 x 100mm
Weight: 9.5kg/20.9lbs
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