The full review
Cambridge Audio SX-60 Bookshelf Speakers Review
Overview
Before I dive into this extensive review of the Cambridge Audio SX-60 speakers, I want to clarify my intent. This is not a conventional endorsement, nor am I exceptionally enthusiastic about the product. I aim to provide an authentic, unbiased customer review that incorporates multiple perspectives on the product. Throughout my Cambridge Audio SX-60 speakers review, you'll find a curated collection of pros and cons nicely summed up from the reviews I have read.
Sound Quality
The cornerstone of any good speaker lies in its sound quality. To put it in simple terms, the SX-60 has an impressively rich sound output. They don't seem to favor a particular sou instead simply play the music. Whether it's classical jazz, musicals, EDM, or rock, they handle all equally. Perhaps what contributes to this versatility the most is their unnecessary but genuinely impressive bass. The bass isn’t overwhelming, it’s just right; weighty enough to make you think there’s a subwoofer involved.
Importantly, these speakers excel in retaining the integrity of the sound even at high volumes. Where other speakers might distort, the sound quality of these remains consistent. But if you're a purist searching for those elusive mid-frequency tones, you might feel a slight lack of satisfaction. The speakers have their strengths in the highs and lows, and while they certainly do cover the mid-range, they may not do it as prominently as some might hope.
Physical Appearance
Speaking of the design, the speakers have a clean, simple finish that bodes well in most living environments. Their grille-free appearance infuses elegance in the room. However, if you have a discerning eye for detail, you might be slightly let down by their synthetic wood finish, especially around the edges. That being said, overall they're a decent-looking pair of speakers, not overly luxurious but certainly not lackluster. They're not built to steal the show; they're built to enhance it with their more subtle visual presence.
Functionality and Compatibility
The ease of pairing these speakers with a wide array of receivers, be it a Denon M39 or a NAD D3020 amplifier, only adds to their adaptability. Why, you might ask? Because it provides a flexible, convenient, and customizable listening experience. They're easy to set up in diverse living spaces, from a minimalistic condo apartment to an RV.
Price Point
Being a vital consideration for many, the price point of these speakers is quite reasonable. Especially when compared to other larger speakers from KEF, Dali, Canton, or Monitor Audio, the SX-60s offer quality sound and decent build at an affordable cost.
Noteworthy Feedback
However, no product review is comprehensive without factoring in some constructive feedback. In the case of the SX-60s, a small, though by no means the deal-breaking issue is noticeable when playing tracks with heavy bass at high volumes. There's a slight port chuff or rattle that can be heard. Luckily, using foam plugs (which, unfortunately, Ely, are not included with the speakers) can alleviate this issue without affecting the sound quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
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- Rich, varied sound quality with impressive bass.
- Compatible with various amplifiers for a flexible listening experience.
- Affordable price for the quality and build.
- Clean and sleek design.
Cons:
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- Slight port rattle when played at high volumes.
- Lack of strong mid-frequency tones.
- Fake wood finish might not appeal to some.
Final Thoughts
Despite these minor setbacks, I believe Cambridgeidge Audio SX-60 speakers offer great value for their cost. They gave me an auditory enhancement I hadn't realized I was missing in my music and entertainment. Excellent for a wide range of music genres, they provide great sound quality that's hard to beat for the price. In my opinion, these speakers deliver without compromising the sound, even at a quarter capacity. If you find the right setup, they work perfectly and for the price, I feel these speakers more than pay their due.