Cambridge Audio Evo One Review: A Gaming Soundbar with 14 Speakers—Is It Too Much?

# Cambridge Audio Evo One Review: A Gaming Soundbar with Serious Punch

The Cambridge Audio Evo One is an intriguing all-in-one music system that caught my attention, especially with its potential for gaming. Priced at around £999 or $1499, this system leans more towards classic hi-fi than a typical gaming soundbar, but with 14 speakers packed inside and compatibility with top-tier gaming TVs, it’s a formidable option worth considering.

Visually, the Evo One channels a modern take on vintage hi-fi cabinets from the 1970s. It features a large 6.8-inch IPS display on the front, complemented by a removable black fabric grille and a stylish walnut finish. This design strikes a perfect balance between retro and contemporary, making it a versatile addition to any space.

Weighing in at 14.5kg and measuring 67.5cm wide, you’ll need a sturdy surface to support this high-quality unit. I’ve placed mine on a dining room sideboard, and it fits comfortably under my 32-inch monitor for gaming. The speaker is elevated slightly on a recessed stand, adding a nice touch to its overall aesthetic.

The large display is a handy feature, providing at-a-glance information about your music, including VU meters and album artwork, and it can even function as a clock. The buttons beneath the screen handle basic functions like volume control and track navigation, though they feel a bit less premium compared to the sleek dial and touchscreen found on competitors.

Connectivity options are abundant, featuring HDMI eARC for connecting to your TV or gaming monitor, a USB port for direct file playback, an Ethernet port for wired networking, and standard aux-in and optical inputs. The Evo One even includes a moving magnet phono stage, allowing you to connect a turntable for vinyl playback. You can stream music directly from your phone or through the dedicated app, with support for services like Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Deezer, and Qobuz. Additionally, it supports AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Bluetooth 5.1, and is Roon Ready for subscribers. I’ve been streaming from my network server via UPnP, which has worked seamlessly.

One standout feature is the Google Cast integration, which allows for multi-room audio setups. You can create speaker groups in the Google Home app, enabling you to enjoy synchronized audio across different rooms without needing matching speakers. For instance, I have a Naim Mu-So Qb 2 in the living room paired with the Evo One in the dining room, and it works flawlessly.

The Streammagic app enhances the experience by allowing remote control of the Evo One, offering the same functionality as the display along with additional settings for room compensation and a seven-band EQ for fine-tuning audio. The app also simplifies initial setup with on-screen instructions for connecting to Wi-Fi and running firmware updates.

With 14 drivers and over 700W of amplification, the Evo One boasts an impressive array of sound capabilities. It includes four 25mm silk dome tweeters, four 57mm aluminum cone mid-range units, and six 70mm woofers designed to deliver powerful sound that can fill large spaces.

During my testing, I was struck by the expansive audio quality. Tracks like “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire and “2112” by Rush showcased the system’s ability to create a wide soundstage, allowing for precise separation of instruments and vocals. The clarity of distant elements, such as bongos in “September” or the flowing water in “2112,” was particularly impressive.

The Evo One’s bass is deep and controlled, though it can occasionally overshadow the mid-range. However, the EQ settings allow for adjustments to suit your preferences. For example, “The Invisible Man” by Marillion features a powerful bassline that complements the atmospheric vocals, while Steven Wilson’s “Meanwhile” contrasts gritty bass with lighter acoustic guitar work, demonstrating the system’s versatility.

While the low-end can be prominent, it doesn’t detract from the overall clarity of the audio. Tracks like “September Grass” by James Taylor and “Tape Deck” by Jack Johnson highlight the Evo One’s ability to deliver rich detail and separation in the mix.

The treble is bright and precise without being harsh, allowing for a balanced listening experience. The system handles complex tracks, such as Steely Dan’s “Do It Again,” with ease, maintaining clarity even amidst busy arrangements.

When it comes to gaming, the Evo One excels in delivering an immersive experience. While it may not be the go-to choice for competitive eSports where pinpoint accuracy is crucial, it shines in cinematic titles that benefit from a powerful low-end and expansive soundstage. Games like “Cyberpunk 2077” and “Forza Horizon 5” come alive with deep engine rumbles and distant crowd noises, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

In summary, the Cambridge Audio Evo One is a stunning all-in-one system that performs exceptionally well for both gaming and music. Its build quality is impressive, and the versatile connectivity options, large display, and user-friendly app support make it a standout choice. The audio is expansive, detailed, and clean, with tight bass, rich mids, and bright treble. While some may prefer a less bass-heavy sound, the Evo One remains a remarkable technical achievement and is highly recommended for anyone seeking a top-tier audio solution that fits seamlessly into their gaming setup.