Cambridge Audio Azur 851n Network Streamer/Pre Amp - Pre Loved

The Cambridge Audio Azur 851N is a high-end network streamer and digital preamplifier designed for serious hi-fi systems. It sits at the top of Cambridge Audio’s Azur range and is built to act as a central hub for digital music playback from virtually any source.

At its core, the 851N uses dual Analog Devices 24-bit DACs, paired with Cambridge’s ATF2 upsampling engine, allowing it to process audio up to 24-bit/384 kHz for detailed, high-resolution playback. It supports a wide range of formats including FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, and even DSD, making it compatible with both modern streaming libraries and audiophile-grade files.

Connectivity is one of its strongest points. The unit supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB audio, digital coaxial, optical, and AES/EBU inputs, along with balanced XLR and RCA outputs. It also integrates major streaming services such as Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, AirPlay, and internet radio, and can stream from local NAS or UPnP servers.

Sound-wise, the 851N is known for a clean, neutral, and highly detailed presentation, with strong separation, tight timing, and a wide soundstage. It is often praised for sounding refined and controlled, making it a popular choice in audiophile systems where transparency and flexibility matter more than coloration.

This unit does NOT have any original packaging.

If you require shipping please contact us before ordering to obtain a packing and shipping quote. We do NOT offer free shipping on pre loved goods.

Physically, it has a solid brushed-metal chassis, a large front display, and a design that matches Cambridge Audio’s higher-end separates, reinforcing its role as a premium “digital front end” rather than just a simple streamer.

In short, the Cambridge Audio 851N is a versatile, reference-grade streaming DAC/preamp built for integrating modern streaming convenience with high-resolution hi-fi performance.