Cambridge Audio’s Evo One: A Streaming System That Sounds as Good as It Looks
Cambridge Audio, known for its understated yet high-performing hi-fi separates, surprised the market in 2021 with its Evo range of streaming systems. Taking a bold step towards aesthetic appeal, the Evo line aimed to entice audiophiles seeking the perfect blend of sound quality, streaming convenience, and eye-catching design – a niche that, until then, had largely been dominated by Sonos and premium brands like Naim, Sonus Faber, and Bang & Olufsen.
The Evo One, in particular, is a compact powerhouse. Packing 14 drivers – four 1-inch silk dome tweeters, four 2.25-inch aluminium cone midrange, and six 2.75-inch long-throw woofers – into its sleek aluminum and walnut casing, the Evo One boasts a mighty 700 watts of Class D amplification. This impressive power translates into a system capable of filling a room with sound without sacrificing detail or clarity, even at party-rocking volumes.
A Setup That’s Effortlessly Seamless
My Evo One experience revealed two key strengths: ease of setup and reliability. The StreamMagic app (Beta version) proved incredibly user-friendly, guiding me through the setup process with minimal fuss. More importantly, the Evo One always remained connected, regardless of the streaming platform I used, a remarkable feat in the often unreliable world of wireless home audio.
While many streaming devices promise flawless performance, they often fall short. The Evo One’s consistency in seamlessly connecting to various streaming platforms is a testament to Cambridge Audio’s dedication to reliable performance. This dedication was further proven by its swift and accurate response to my requests, making the Evo One the instant favorite among my family members. Even with occasional dips in streaming resolution, the Evo One delivered a consistently positive user experience. The only minor frustration I encountered was with volume control within Spotify, where a single press often resulted in three to four large volume jumps. This minor annoyance is a software issue that can likely be resolved with updates, but it’s a small drawback nonetheless.
A Compact Design with Premium Aesthetics
The Evo One fits seamlessly into any room, slotting into corners without compromising sound quality. Despite its relatively large physical dimensions (26.6 x 5.1 x 11.4 inches), the Evo One’s sleek design, a blend of aluminium, FSC-certified walnut, and 50 percent recycled plastic, contributes to its premium look. The casing is exceptionally rigid, a testament to its distortion-free performance, but the real star is the stunning wood veneer. Each Evo One boasts a unique, genuine wood finish, adding a touch of individuality to the design. While the Evo One’s design is certainly striking, some may feel its boxy shape lacks softness or curves. Personally, I appreciate the clean lines, but I understand why others might prefer a more rounded aesthetic.
The 6.8-inch display, which is not a touchscreen, may also be a point of contention for some. However, its brightness, responsive buttons, and the option to enjoy photorealistic VU meters (a charming throwback to bygone audio systems) make it a functional and visually engaging element. While the usual album artwork and track details are readily available, the captivating dance of the VU meters adds a touch of nostalgia and fun to the listening experience.
Comprehensive Features at Your Fingertips
Equipped with an impressive array of features, the Evo One caters to the discerning audiophile. With support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, internet radio, TV eARC, Roon, UPnP, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Deezer, Qobuz, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast (all with support for up to 32-bit/192-kHz hi-res audio), the Evo One caters to every streaming preference. Control is conveniently managed via the intuitive StreamMagic app and module, a robust platform boasting a commendable pedigree that extends beyond the Evo line to encompass other Cambridge Audio systems.
The Evo One also boasts a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including external digital and analog inputs, with the added bonus of a built-in phono stage. This valuable addition allows for effortless turntable integration, eliminating the need for extra equipment. The Evo One also offers a Stereo RCA, digital optical, USB-A, and Ethernet for a rock-solid online connection.
A Notable Omission: Out-of-the-Box Voice Control
Despite its array of features, the lack of out-of-the-box voice control via Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant feels like a missed opportunity. While this might be a significant omission in 2024, it’s easily remedied through integration with the Apple Home or Google Home app, enabling voice control with compatible devices, such as a Nest Mini or equivalent. For Alexa devotees, an Echo Dot can be easily connected to either the BT or AUX input.
Audiophile-Grade Sound with Versatility to Spare
The Evo One delivers an audiophile-grade performance that transcends expectations. While my usual hi-fi review routine involves a detailed exploration of various genres, ranging from rock and acoustic performances to classical recordings and even obscure demo tracks, the Evo One compels me to deviate from the norm.
The sheer versatility of the Evo One allows for seamless exploration of nearly any genre. From the intricate nuance of classical compositions to the energetic rhythms of rock music, the Evo One delivers a consistently stunning performance. The rich and detailed soundstage accurately renders every subtle detail of each musical piece, revealing intricate textures and emotive inflections with clarity and nuance. The Evo One effortlessly handles high-volume listening sessions without sacrificing clarity or succumbing to distortion. Its potent combination of power and precision ensures a truly immersive listening experience.
Conclusion: A Worthy Contender in the Premium Streaming Landscape
The Cambridge Audio Evo One is a powerful contender in the growing world of premium streaming systems. Its compelling combination of remarkable sound quality, robust features, and elegant design positions it as a worthy alternative to the established players in the market. While its lack of out-of-the-box voice control is a minor oversight, the ease of integration with existing smart home ecosystems remedies this oversight.
If you’re seeking a streaming system that delivers both exceptional sound and visual appeal, the Evo One is a compelling choice. Its commitment to reliable performance, sophisticated design, and a feature set that caters to any audiophile’s desires makes the Evo One more than just a good-looking streaming system. It’s a testament to Cambridge Audio’s commitment to delivering exceptional audio experiences that perfectly complement the modern lifestyle.
