Cambridge Audio Azur 740A Amplifier
Representatives of two price groups surprisingly met in the amplifier Cambridge Audio Azur 740A. It has the same power supply and controls as in the older 840th model, and the power amplifier circuit is a modified version of the one being used in the amplifiers of 540/640 series. As a result, the device received not only a more solid appearance, but also a significant potential in power, which was revealed in the classical scheme due to the use of dual output transistors. Its power at 4-ohm load is 150 watts per channel, which allows you not to limit yourself in choosing loudspeakers. Another borrowing from the older model concerns already exclusively functional features and ergonomics of management. The first thing that immediately catches your eye is a digital display that shows the volume level and the list of inputs. The name for each of the six line inputs can be written to the amplifier's memory, so that the selected source will be indicated not by a number, but by its name: "CD" "DVD", "MP3", etc. Volume and balance controls are digital, which allowed to equip it with fully-featured electronic control unit, providing integration of the amplifier into the "smart house" system.
Appearance is, of course, not the key factor for evaluating the stereo amplifier, but the look of Cambridge Audio Azur 740A pleasantly pleases the eye. Typically high-end minimalism looks amazingly modern, technologically and at the same time very elegant. Simplicity of design allows you to easily put the device in almost any interior. The included universal remote control is not less cute and enjoyable in handling. However, all external beauty immediately takes a back seat, when you hear the amplifier in operation. From the very first notes the sound strikes with an ideal balance and expressiveness. The classics is reproduced accurately and scaly and immediately involve into the musical canvas, which unfolds in front of the listener, all instruments of the orchestra turn out to be exactly in their places and create clear emotional images. Jazz is performed no less stirringly and easy. Electronic compositions demonstrate their inherent synthetical character and elasticity. Heavy rock, especially such pushy and fast as Stratovarius, is not the easiest genre for any audio system, however, Azur 740A plays speedmetal as if it was specially designed for this music genre.
The lack of style preferences, a solid power reserve, exceptionally precise and live performance allow us to recommend this amplifier to literally all lovers of high-quality sound.
