Cambridge Audio L/R S: Compact active speakers deliver powerful sound for music, gaming and movies

Philipp Briel
Philipp Briel · 4 min. read

With the new Cambridge Audio L/R S, the British manufacturer, known for the Melomania P100 among other things, is expanding its speaker series with particularly compact active speakers for modern living and gaming setups. Despite the small housing, the stereo system promises powerful sound, precise bass and versatile connection options. Thanks to Bluetooth, USB-C and optical input, the speakers should be able to replace classic hi-fi systems in many areas of application. The combination of minimalist design, flexible placement and a comparatively attractive price is particularly interesting.

  • Compact active speakers with a total output of 100 watts RMS
  • Bluetooth with aptX HD as well as USB-C, Toslink and RCA connection
  • Customizable sound profiles and placement modes for desk or shelf
  • Available from May 2026 from 499 euros

Cambridge Audio L/R S focus on versatile sound in a compact format

The new Cambridge Audio L/R S have been specially developed for users who do not want to do without high-quality stereo sound in a limited space. With their minimalist cabinet design and compact dimensions, the speakers are suitable for the desk as well as the living room or smaller gaming setups.

Technically, Cambridge Audio relies on an active speaker concept with integrated amplifiers. The specially tuned Class D power amplifiers deliver a combined 100 watts of RMS power and drive each chassis separately. This should result in a particularly balanced sound with clear highs, detailed mids and surprisingly powerful bass.

A bass reflex system with a specially shaped reflex slot is used for the bass range. This is designed to provide controlled and boom-free bass even when placed close to a wall or on a shelf. The system is complemented by a specially developed tweeter module with an adapted waveguide which, according to the manufacturer, is designed to create a wider and more spacious sound stage.

The flexible positioning of the speakers is practical in everyday life. The position of the master speaker can be adjusted using a switch on the rear so that the electronics can be positioned either on the left or right. In addition, various acoustic settings can be configured for the location. Three sound presets on the supplied remote control also allow quick adjustment to music, gaming or movie sound.

Modern connections make the Cambridge Audio L/R S an all-in-one solution

The Cambridge Audio L/R S are particularly strong when it comes to connectivity. The speakers support wireless audio streaming via Bluetooth including aptX HD codec, allowing high-resolution music data to be transmitted with less compression. This offers an audible advantage over simple Bluetooth audio, especially for streaming services and wireless playback.

Several wired connections are also available. In addition to a classic analog RCA input, there is USB-C for modern computers and mobile devices as well as an optical Toslink connection for televisions or consoles. This allows the speakers to be used flexibly as a desktop sound system, TV audio solution or compact hi-fi system.

Gamers also benefit from the versatile features. The combination of a small footprint, direct signal processing and various sound profiles makes the L/R S interesting for immersive game soundtracks and clear voice reproduction. If you need more bass, you can also connect an external subwoofer via the integrated output.

Cambridge Audio offers a total of six visual variants. In addition to the white, black, midnight blue, racing green and orange finishes, a version with a real wood veneer in walnut will also be available. This gives the speakers a much higher quality appearance than many typical PC speakers or inexpensive Bluetooth speakers.

Conclusion

The Cambridge Audio L/R S combine compact dimensions with modern features and versatile application options. Thanks to Bluetooth, USB-C, Toslink and a powerful Class D amplifier, the active speakers are equally suitable for music, gaming and movie sound. The balanced ratio of design, sound quality and price is particularly interesting. The speakers will be released as a stereo set in May 2026 and cost 499 euros for the lacquered versions and 549 euros for the walnut version.