Cambridge Audio Just Reimagined Its Beloved Affordable Speaker System

The revered British hi-fi manufacturer’s new-look speaker system starts at just $99.

Close-up of a black and white speaker base with the word "CAMBRIDGE" on the front panel.Cambridge Audio

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Cambridge Audio is best known for its beautiful and modern hi-fi equipment, such as integrated amplifiers, streaming amplifiers and stereo receivers.

But the British hi-fi manufacturer has been making big moves in the speaker department so far this year. It has already introduced its first active stereo speaker system in the L/R Series, featuring three different-sized models.

And now it’s reimagining one of its most popular, affordable speaker ranges.

Cambridge Audio MSX Series

Set of five white square speakers with rounded corners and fabric covers, varying in size and arranged in a row.
The two satellite speakers and two compact subwoofers make up Cambridge Audio’s MSX Series.
Cambridge Audio

Ultra-small, modular system

Cambridge Audio’s MSX Series is a reimagining (or rebirth) of the company’s popular Minx speaker range, introduced in 2011.

It’s the same modular speaker system, comprising four models: two small satellite speakers in the MSX10 and MSX20, and two small subwoofers in the MSX Sub 200 and  MSX Sub 300.

Home office desk setup with a large monitor displaying a music playlist, beige chair, green cutting mat, white speaker, and colorful books on a blue drawer unit.
The smaller MSX10 speaker and the smaller MSX Sub 200. Both in matte white.
Cambridge Audio
Black cube speaker with fabric front and silver stand on a wooden desk near a computer monitor and beige lamp.
The MSX10 in matte black.
Cambridge Audio

The difference between the old Minx range and the new MSX Series is mostly aesthetics. Each speaker has a more refined contemporary design. And they’re now available in two new finishes: matte white and matte black.

But the idea behind Cambridge Audio’s old and new modular systems remains the same. They’re ultra-small, affordable, and scalable speakers that can be configured in a range of both stereo and surround sound setups.

Basically, they deliver good sound without taking up much space.

Hand holding a small white cube speaker on a silver stand on an orange bookshelf with books and a small plant.
The MSX range is designed for people who want a hi-fi or surround sound system, but don’t want large (or expensive) speakers.
Cambridge Audio
Pair of black rectangular speakers with fabric fronts on a curved silver metal stand on an orange surface.
The MSX20 can be situated vertically or horizontally (as shown).
Cambridge Audio

Up to 7.1.2 channels

Despite maybe looking the part, it’s worth noting that these aren’t wireless speakers. They’re passive speakers that need to be connected to an amplifier or AV receiver. Each model has speaker terminals located on the back.

And, naturally, the system can grow with you. Each of the two speakers can be used as center channel, stereo, and rear satellite speakers. And they can be configured into a 7.1.2 surround sound system.

Black rectangular speaker with fabric front mounted on a flexible black stand against a beige wall.
Each satellite can be wall-mounted or placed on furniture. Optional pivoting wall mounts and table stands are available.
Cambridge Audio
White fabric-covered subwoofer on wooden floor next to a red bookshelf with a small white speaker and books on top.
The larger speaker, the MSX20, and the larger subwoofer, the MSX Sub 300.
Cambridge Audio

The inner workings of each MSX speaker and subwoofer are pretty much the same as their Minx counterparts. In fact, the specs of each is exactly the same.

But Cambridge Audio did update each speaker with its latest-generation drivers that feature its Balanced Mode Radiator (BMR) technology. This promises to help these tiny speakers sound way bigger than they should.

Black rectangular speaker with fabric cover on an orange bookshelf with books and a vase of dried flowers.
The MSX20 in matte black.
Cambridge Audio
Black cube-shaped speaker with fabric front and side driver on a woven surface next to books and a blue cabinet.
The MSX Sub 300 in matte black.
Cambridge Audio

The two speakers, the MSX10 and the larger MSX20, are mostly the same. The pack the same 4th-generation BMR driver, but the MSX20 adds a custom-designed dedicated woofer, making it a better fit for larger spaces.

The difference between the two subwoofers is power and bass. The MSX Sub 200 combines a 200-watt amplifier with a 6.5-inch active woofer, while the MSX Sub 300 steps things up with a 300-watt amplifier, an 8-inch active woofer and a slightly larger cabinet.

Red modular shelving unit with books, plants, candles, and a black dome lamp under a framed blurry photo on a white wall.
With the MSX Series, you can create up to a 7.1.2 surround sound system.
Cambridge Audio

Availability and pricing

Aside from their compact design and scalability, the other real benefit of Cambridge Audio’s MSX Series is its affordability.

The MSX10 and MSX20 cost $99/each and $129/each, respectively. So you’re not exactly breaking the bank.

Naturally, adding a subwoofer to create a 2.1-channel system ups the ante. The MSX Sub 200 costs $399, while the MSX Sub 300 costs $499.

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