Cambridge Audio SX-60 Review (2025): Big Sound, Small Price, Classic Cambridge Magic
I’ve tested numerous Cambridge Audio amplifiers over the years and have always been a fan. But believe it or not, this is actually my first time trying out a pair of their speakers. They’ve been busy lately making those cool portable speakers, which are great, but the Cambridge Audio SX-60 feels like a return to what they do best. It’s all about pure, solid sound that fills the room without any unnecessary flashiness.
These speakers are part of their more affordable lineup. They’re not going to win a beauty contest, and that’s totally fine because Cambridge Audio’s whole thing is “sound first.” The real magic is in how they perform, and honestly, that’s the most important part.
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to looks, Cambridge Audio has always kept things simple and practical, and the SX-60 speakers are no different. They have a very straightforward, sturdy look with a finish that’s either a dark wood or black. You might call the design basic, but I see it as smart—every single part is there to make the sound better, not just to look fancy.
Holding them, they feel really solid and well put together. I like that the fabric grilles are magnetic, so they pop on and off easily, and you don’t have to use them if you don’t want to. They even include little foam feet to stick on the bottom, which keeps them from vibrating on your desk or shelves. Inside, they’ve got a solid set of components, including this handy bass port on the front. That’s a great feature because it means you don’t have to worry about shoving them right up against a wall.
That said, they still sound best if you give them a little space to breathe. From my testing, pulling them at least a foot away from the wall made the bass much tighter and the overall soundscape clearer.
Performance and Sound Quality
Right away, the first thing that hit me about these SX-60 speakers is how confident and alive they sound. I didn’t even have to break them in; they just started with this energetic, open sound that makes you want to keep listening. To test them, I threw on “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd, and the room was instantly filled with this huge, clear soundscape. The synths had this amazing shimmer, and the punch of the kick drum felt really solid and present.
The overall sound is just really balanced and fun. The high notes are crisp but never sharp or annoying, the vocals are full and clear, and the bass has a real punch to it; it’s not just a muddy rumble. These speakers aren’t super warm, but they’re not cold and clinical either. They land in this perfect middle ground where the music just sounds… right.
What really impressed me was how the tweeter and the main driver work together. There’s no gap; everything blends perfectly. This makes things like an acoustic guitar or a vocalist sound incredibly real and natural. They don’t really have a “favorite” genre, either. I switched to “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish, and the weird, deep bass drops were handled perfectly. You could feel the weight without it being messy. Then I put on a classic like “Hotel California” by The Eagles, and those iconic guitar strings sounded so crisp and lifelike.
You can really tell Cambridge Audio designed these with “sound first” in mind. They have a great sense of rhythm that makes you tap your foot. And if you ever feel the bass is a bit too much for your room, they even include little foam plugs you can stick in the ports on the front to calm it down. It’s a really thoughtful touch.
Comparison and System Matching
If you’re comparing the Cambridge Audio SX-60 vs SX-50, the SX-60’s larger cabinet and front port design give it more bass extension and room-filling presence. It’s the more complete option for medium-sized rooms or small home theater setups.
When matched with a capable integrated amplifier, such as the Cambridge Audio AXA35 or Marantz PM6007, the SX-60 truly opens up. The efficient drivers make it easy to drive, and the speaker doesn’t demand a powerhouse amp to shine. Just remember to use high-quality cables and match the polarity correctly for the cleanest connection.
Against its competitors, like the Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 or Monitor Audio Silver 100 6g, the SX-60 holds its ground surprisingly well. It might not have the last word in refinement or dynamic range, but it wins points for its energy, punch, and straightforward honesty.
Pricing and Value
Price: At around $329 (US), the Cambridge Audio SX-60 represents exceptional value. It’s an affordable entry into true hi-fi sound, offering musicality and precision that outclass many similarly priced competitors. Yes, you’ll need an amplifier or receiver to power them, but once set up correctly, these speakers deliver an audiophile-grade experience that justifies every dollar.
Conclusion:
So, after all this testing, the Cambridge Audio SX-60 really proves a simple point: you don’t need a bunch of flashy tricks to make a great speaker. By just focusing on the music itself, Cambridge Audio has made something seriously impressive.
Honestly, these speakers are just a joy to listen to. They’re energetic and clear, making it easy to get lost in your music for hours, whether you’re spinning old records or streaming something new. They keep everything sounding real and engaging.
Sure, there are more expensive speakers out there that might do a little more, but what you get here is something really special: an honest, authentic sound. In a world full of speakers that over-promise, that’s a win in my book.
Cambridge Audio SX-60 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| More Details | Here |
| Enclosure Type | 2-way bass reflex |
| Cabinet Material | MDF with vinyl wrap |
| Tweeter | 25mm silk dome |
| Woofer | 165mm mid/bass driver |
| Frequency Response | 41Hz – 22kHz |
| Sensitivity | 89 dB |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Recommended Amplifier Power | 20 – 100 watts |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 340 x 200 x 272 mm |
| Weight | 6.9 kg (each) |
| Available Finishes | Black or Dark Walnut |
Final Thoughts
So, if you’re looking for a speaker that just gets what good music is all about, without costing a fortune, you’ve got to consider the Cambridge Audio SX-60. This isn’t a speaker for showing off. It’s a speaker for someone who genuinely loves listening. It’s built for the pure, simple joy of hearing a song sound the way it was meant to.
For me, it feels like Cambridge Audio is confidently getting back to what they do best. And these speakers prove that sometimes, the best statement you can make is to just keep it simple and do it right.
