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 40 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.
Cambridge Audio Azur 540R (Version 3) 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: Caoaxial (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
Cambridge Audio has been at the forefront of British hi-fi for more than thirty five years. Since its inception in 1968, Cambridge Audio has brought some of the most innovative and technologically advanced products to market.
During the ‘70s, the P40, P50 and P110 amplifiers established the international reputation of the Cambridge Audio brand. The ‘80s saw Cambridge Audio launch the world’s first two-box CD player. In the ‘90s, the DacMagic was the first product in the company’s history to win an esteemed What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision Best Buy award. The new Millennium saw Cambridge Audio continue to innovate with its award winning DAB digital tuners and of course the highly-acclaimed Azur range.
Cambridge Audio has a philosophy of using only the finest quality components, all models are developed using state-of-the-art test and measurement equipment and feature the latest technology. This commitment to engineering excellence, combined with state of the art manufacturing facilities, means every Cambridge Audio product offers the best possible performance. Prior to launch, all designs undergo rigorous evaluation involving meticulous listening and fine tuning.
But the main reason for Cambridge Audio's success... our people. We employ nearly 80 colleagues, the majority at our London headquarters, including over 20 engineers in a dedicated research and development facility. Every member of our team shares the same passion for hi-fi and home cinema as you – our customers. That’s why we always go the extra mile to make sure we only produce products we're proud enough to take home – and trust us we do!
Cambridge Audio products are distributed in over 45 countries and the company turns over in excess of $40 million.
