Cambridge Audio unveils two new Alva Bluetooth streaming turntables
At CES 2019, Cambridge Audio announced the Alva TT, which at the time was the world's first aptX HD Bluetooth turntable. It offered turntable enthusiasts the convenience of high-quality wireless streaming.
Three years later, the UK hi-fi company is back with two new efforts in the Alva TT V2 (£ 1 / $ 600) and the Alva ST (£ 1 / $ 999).
As vinyl continues to gain popularity - 4,8 million vinyl records were sold in the UK in 2020, while US revenue grew 94% in 2021 - new Alva turntables look to profit increased interest by offering more convenience and a cheaper entry. series price.
The Alva TT V2 is a direct drive turntable with integrated switchable phone stage and Bluetooth aptX HD (like the stock model). The aluminum top plate and polyoxymethylene (POM) tray are retained, as is the Alva MC cartridge.
New is the upgraded tonearm, with a removable shell that gives listeners an easy upgrade path. Additionally, there's a switchable phono stage and the means to turn off Bluetooth, two features introduced in response to feedback received from the original model.
The switchable phono stage offers the possibility of using the Alva TT V2 with the phono stage in its stereo amplifier and leaves the door open for future upgrades.
If you find the Alva TT V2 overpriced or are just looking to switch from a cheap deck, the Alva ST aims to be that tremplin. It retains a number of features of the Alva TT V2 with the switchable phono stage, aptX HD streaming and the new tonearm, but replaces the cartridge with an Audio-Technica AT-VM95e moving magnet (which can be replaced by another if desired) and opt for a belt drive motor. The 1mm aluminum top plate with an EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) layer absorbs any vibration that could spoil performance.
With the Alva TT V2 priced at £ 1 / € 600 / $ 1 and the Alva ST available for £ 999 / € 1 / $ 999, both are expected to go on sale in spring 750.
