✘ *QOTD: Would you be willing to cut the cord and only listen to your records via bluetooth?* ✔︎ *If it’s in the video, it’s IN THE ⬆︎DESCRIPTION⬆︎* ✘ *COMMENT RULES:* - No outside URLs or RUclips links. - Please be respectful to one another. Harassment and threats will not be tolerated.
Andrew scuze, nu mă pot abține, dar ești cel mai mare bou dacă ai ajuns să faci reclamă la asemenea porcărie ... Pe bune, este cea mai cretină reclamă la cea mai stupidă invenție pe care am văzut-o în 2020. Am scris mesajul e in limba română din respect, ca să nu defăimez un canal care îmi plăcea odinioară dar care a ajuns jalnic. Poți însă să îl traduci tu prin ... Bluetooth .... după ce scoți aparatul din priză și te culci cu el în dormitor ..... foame mare prin America , ha ...?
If I want background music I will drop down to a Bluetooth connection on a lifestyle device. My turntable is for more critical listening and I feel I need a wire for that. Even tho LDAC does sound damm good. 😬
Maybe some have misunderstood the point: Bluetooth is an additional not the main feature! The TT can be connected via RCA cable like any other record player! So don't blame it for having an extra freedom of connectivity!!
I connected my AT-LP3 with upgraded belt and needle from LPGear to a Sonos Port. WAF on point with auto start-stop and whole home record listening. I got the records for sharing, letting friends pick out what to play, listen during dinner, etc.
I grew up with Vinyl and not going back, tried but no, won't go back. We all embraced the ease of digital in the mid 80's and there is no need for nostalgia or physical media for me. Still have my 1984 Technics, and will use it from time to time.
Simply put, yes. Honestly my out look and atitudes about music and sound repoduction are 20 to 30 years old and simply do not a line with current products that are available today. Your reviews are helping greatly in finding a direction to research. Unfortunately I simply don't have the resorces to buy most of the products you review. And where I live, nor do I have the ability to go and try them out without driving 2 to 3 hours. I certainly enjoy your reviews.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Santa Maria Ca. Santa Barbara is 90min (I drive 65) and don't drive the pass anymore because the traffic on a two lane twisty road has become too exciting for me. Ventura, Oxnard, and Thousand Oaks another hour plus south. The shop in San Luis Obispo (an hour north) I bought my Martin Logans (ML) from closed. . . To listen to the ML center channel I bought recently was a 5 hour trip including drive time and listening time. You have to plan for that LOL.
The Rega sourced arm is what makes the Alva sound so warm and refined. I would be willing to cut the cord. Besides listening to vinyl I stream a lot. Great review Andrew!
When I was young, my favorite band was Kiss. But when I heard Rush for the first time, I barely listened to Kiss ever again. I grew up on vinyl in my early years, since my Dad was an audio/video technician and I’ve always been surrounded by audio and video. But the first time I heard a CD, I pretty much stopped listening to vinyl THAT DAY. To me, there’s nothing I get from vinyl that I can’t get from a well-recorded digital CD. But that’s just me - your mileage may vary. 🙂
To your question, No The sole purpose for me of listening to vinyl is to listen to it through a analog connection and using Bluetooth connection defeats that purpose, using Bluetooth with turntabl would be no different then playing a CD in a CD player
Interesting, bluetooth, built-in phono stage, moving coil cartridge! Seems like a good value and expensive at the same time. Definitely something to keep in mind. Thanks for the review guys!!
Cambridge are doing some nice stuff, in fact there almost like Kenwood from the late 80s early 90s, by that I mean good quality gear packed with features and made extremely easy to use at a reasonable price. Designed for the everyman/woman. I think that's fantastic. The only thing this turntable is missing is a fully automatic maechanism, if it had that, I think it would be perfect.
I use BT with the turntable in my office. I simply hooked up an inexpensive BT aptX HD transmitter to the phono preamp which did just cost €35. Works/sounds like a charm and can be replaced as soon as something better comes my way. Only the little delay can be a tad annoying whenever I hear some direct cartridge resonance during playback just before it reaches the speakers. The different BT standards become outdated way too quickly that I don't consider it a wise move to buy a turntable with built-in BT. Usually, these parts cannot be upgraded or swapped by the owner, nor do most manufacturers even offer a later upgrade option to my knowledge.
Yes. Just bought (budget!) a Sony PS-LX310BT. Have Bluetooth to the kitchen to an Echo Show, I know!! It is hard wired to my Cyrus one phono stage when I need focus!
If I'm ever in the market for a turntable in this price range, I think it HAS to be a bluetooth one. The Alva TT also looks great, which makes me want it even more!
Alva arrived and I love it. I’ve paired it with my KEF Wireless II by way of blue Node 2i (to get apt-x). Perhaps there’s a better way, but it gets the job done. As someone who wants to keep things simple it just works and looks really good. Thank you for the review
Hi @Allen Hansen, may I know why you need the Bluesound Node 2i in between the Alva and the KEF? and can you let me know how you connect them together (via what port/cables)? Thank you.
Hi @@kylevuong you don’t need the Node 2i to connect the Alva with the KEF Wireless II. The reason for connecting the Alva via Bluetooth to the Node 2i and then to the KEF’s, was because the higher quality of apt-x in comparison to Bluetooth 4.2. In reality it didn’t really add much (if anything) in terms of audio quality. In my current setup I have connected the Alva to the KEF Wireless II via Bluetooth and it really makes for a hassle free and very room friendly set-up. Yes, you are probably offering up some audio quality, but I am very happy to ditch the cables from Turntable to speakers as it gives me a lot of freedom in terms of placement. All in all I am very happy with both the Alva and the Wireless II
I realize that the WiFi connectivity is the ‘thing’ at the moment, and could surpass the traditional turntable, but I can’t see me going that way for the moment. However, if I get to listen to one in our local brick and mortar store, then it’s possible that I might think of it as a second opinion in another room of the house with a different cartridge. Thanks for the video and comparisons !! I’m beginning to think you and Steve Guttenberg are two of my favorite channels at this time.
I've had this turntable for a few months now. I found it to great sounding. Bluetooth is better than I ever expected. Ive got my connected to my Leema Elements integrated amp. Speakers are Buchardt s400 signature speakers. Its awesome combo.
I agree, nice balance between modern and no frills sleek audiophile look I wish they made one without the Bluetooth and without phonostage That being said I will probably still choose this one over technics
if sound quality is not compromised as you stated, than Bluetooth absolutely!! I like the idea of moving the turntable to an area that does not get that rumble feedback from the bass at higher volumes. Thanks for the detailed reviews!
I've heard you mention that a few times, that what really attributes to the sound is the cartridge and phono preamp. I've heard so much about like carbon fiber tonearms or heavy acrylic platters, even accessories like cork slip mats and better vibration dampening feet improving the sound quality of a turntable. If you're looking for another video idea, I'd love to see one of the more "talking head" style videos where you go more into depth with this idea and maybe share your findings on some accessories like that.
Yes. Bluetooth, just like wireless units that we musicians use on stage, have come a long way and it's now far better than what it used to be 5 years ago.
I would definitely love to stream some of my records. I have a lot of records that are out of print that converting them to digital does them no justice. Thank you for reviewing this and putting another turntable on my radar.
I nearly bought this, but there's one thing you should have mentioned. When the needle goes south in 1000 hours, you have to replace the whole cartridge.
I like the idea of Bluetooth giving flexibility of placement of the turntable. I have small humans living with me so being able to have the turntable in a more inconspicuous location, to small eyes and fingers, would give me piece of mind. From an acoustic perspective, you can place the turntable in a location that isn't heavy in bass loading. This would work to alleviate the chances of imparting unwanted sound energy into the stylus and distorting or coloring the sound, even if only so slightly. Me personally, If they had a version that was closer to the $500 price point with like an 2M Red maaaaybe a Blue (at the price not sure a red would fit into the BOM cost) that would be an easy buy.
I would love to give it a listen via AptX to my Bluesound Node 2i to Cambridge DAC Magic 100 setup to see how it compares. Although I believe you when I you say there is no discernible difference. I’m certainly intrigued.
That is a gorgeous turntable (I might be bias since it’s British!) but I would still prefer the Technics aesthetically and practically. As for Bluetooth listening to vinyl, I wouldn’t have a problem with it through my (ugly) Bose QC headphones because they are one of my favourite ways to listen to music most of the time. When I listen to vinyl in the evening however it’s usually with my husband in a more social setting so headphones wouldn’t be appropriate, and I also think a two way loudspeaker setup is just a more fitting way to listen to the sort of music I want to play from records. Call me old fashioned.
I don't think there is anything wrong with that argument at all. I wouldn't say I prefer headphones over speakers, like analog records over Bluetooth, it's just another way of going about listening to music.
I could see myself going to a solution like this. Sadly I haven't been listening to vinyl as much as I would like to, and I feel that part of the reason for that is my use of headphones more and more. A good deck with really good bluetooth might not be a terrible idea. Though I think I'm going to try buying a good headphone cable to use with my current set up first to see how well I like it. Thanks for the review as always.
A Bluetooth turntable is useful for starters that want to get into vinyl easily. But the 1700 pricetag of the Alpha TT isn't part of that convenience for starters.
The price could be a barrier for some but not every "starter" is as broke as a college kid. For many, this could be first and last turntable they ever need to buy in which case it would be a pretty decent value.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I think most consumers don't want to spend over 1k without having any idea if it's something they like - not just broke people. I mean, it's not like starting violin lessons and buying a decent 500 to 1.5k starterviolin, that can be sold for more or less the same price if music lessons don't work out.
To answer your question - No. Even through LDAC not to say APTX HD. As for the TT it looks interesting but a bit wrong product placement I would say. $1500 is way above a limit of an entry-level piece of gear where integrated phono and a Bluetooth make sense. Tonarm is RB-101 three point mount which is good but again a solution from a lower price league. Cartridge is Sumiko BP SE-3 which is good without a doubt.
Hmm.. the most interesting bit is obviously the cartridge. Something else than the usual choices for better cartridges (Ortofon, Audio Technica, Nagaoka, etc. all offer very good ones). But then it quickly falls apart - again. At least for me. With 24nit and 48 kHz digital transmission, little wonder that there should be an audible difference when using Bluetooth - or the receiving end is bad. But here's again what I don't get about turntables currently on offer. At least for me Bluetooth is not really an argument - I tend to have my turntable set up stationary where it is absolutely level, and not move it around when I don't have to. That said, and looking at tech specs - makes me go even more "hmm...". So - we have direct drive, wow and flutter below 0.1% (or 0.06% if you dig deeper on the website) - which is all fine and good. Nice tonearm. Good cartridge. But compared to the better part of turntables from say the mid to late 80s, that's quite standard. (my main turntable is a 1985 JVC midrange model, and should have slightly better specs. but I doubt that this makes an audible difference...) Which brings me to my main point... come on - it's 2020 and it is not even advertised as semi automatic, let alone capable of fully automatic operation? None of this was deemed to be rocket science like 30 years ago...
Personally I really excited for the future of wireless HiFi, I just bought the Master & Dynamic MW07 Plus and they sound great, way better than I though a true wireless earbud could
I've narrowed down a new turntable purchase to either the Technics SL-1500C and the Cambridge Alva TT. I'll be using a receiver (with bluetooth capability) so the Alva's built-in bluetooth capability is kinda moot. But it sounds like from this video you believe the Alva edges out the 1500C? Great videos by the way. Thanks!
I would definitely be willing to use Bluetooth for a turntable if like you mentioned it let me put it in a better spot. If it ended up in a spot where I could easily run cables anyways though, I'd likely do it just to avoid possible connectivity issues. Also I would have personally preferred if the Bluetooth module was a separate piece that plugged into the back so that future revisions of Bluetooth didn't leave a $1700 table essentially obsolete. A turntable is an investment that I'd like to make once.
@John Russell a good DAC with high quality files is technically better in terms of audio quality than any vinyl setup, that isn't what vinyl is about for me.
I’m seriously considering selling my Rega P8 with Ania and going for the Alva TT - there’s something about the simplicity of the Alva that’s alluring to me.
I love the idea of a turntable with Bluetooth capabilities but I would be the person to have issue after issue with the quality of sound and I think I would end up frustrated. I'm hesitant. But it is pretty cool to hear about an option that actually sounds great to a recovering audiophile. ❤❤Body Talk❤❤
Interesting review. I have the cx range of cxn, cxa80 and cxc and have found Cambridge to be a great mid tier option. I am still on the fence about the switch from cd so for me i am just enjoying watching the reviews :)
Great video as usual! 🙌🏽 Quick question 🙋🏽♂️ Since I removed my receiver and at the moment I’m only using Klipsch’s The Fives and my Fluance turntable I now have no way to connect my PM-50 headphones 🎧 or even the V-Moda Bluetooth headphones. What do you think it would be a good choice to use to bring those capabilities back??
Great video Andrew, as always! 1 - I'd listen to my records on Bluetooth if it was easy and available. Anyone who gets deeply scared of digitally converting their analog signal is probably unfamiliar with the mechanics of human hearing and the mathematics of digital waveforms (which is fair, those are both pretty complex topics). The last time I dug into it, the practical upshot was "If your digital sample rate is high enough, the difference to the waveform is indistinguishable to the human ear", which sounds like audiophile blasphemy but also seems to support your experience here. 2 - A minor note, but I could feel your gaze drifting off the camera quite a bit in this video. I'm guessing you were reading a script? Have you considered trying a teleprompter setup for your videos to maintain eye contact with the camera more consistently? I've seen some tutorials on doing it (Technology Connections had a good one), and it doesn't seem too difficult. That said, you're the one making the videos and not me, and I'm going to continue watching regardless. I love the human touch to your videos, and it's part of what keeps me coming back even though I'm never going to buy a $1000+ piece of audio equipment.
Hi Andrew: I’m intrigued by wireless/bluetooth connection - especially now that you say you couldn’t hear a difference. For my secondary listening room, I’m thinking about getting the Alva TT and pairing it with the Burchardt A500 speakers.
Yeah if my system would do it 😅.But I still would love to have a wired connection to amp. If this was on the market when I was looking for my turnable it would be on the short list.
This is a great video, recognizing the trade-off between ease and sound. why must there be such a trade-off? I just wish DD turntables had 78 rpm. Seems to me it may be more useful to many than 45 rpm. I'd also like to see some sort of speed control on these TTs. Many 78s were actually recorded and 76, and sound more normal at this speed. Today's TTs often have speed accuracy problems that make speed control helpful. thanks again for the video.
I'll stick with my early 80s Denon DP-37f. Wow/flutter .07% fully automatic, great looking and only $400 total with upgrade cartridge and stylist. I can't understand why new turntables cost so much and are full manual, they don't even stop when the LP is done. This player does look darn sexy. I had a U-Turn and liked it and it sounded great but full manual i couldn't live with it. I can't always sit there waiting for it to end and return the arm. Plus mine has repeat and thats a nice thing when you doing stuff and just want it to play.
I agree with many comments already posted - analogue through Bluetooth - I cannot be convinced that this is truly transparent or that it can compare with quality interconnects. And I find the video presentation too smooth, too anodyne - I tend to question whether this is a review - or marketing (?!)
Really not sure about the Bluetooth. Seems a bit of an unnecessary addition to an analogue turntable. I get the convenience argument but it just feels a step too far. Maybe I'm being rather too conventional?
If I'm not listening critically, I am all for Bluetooth options. That said, there have been a few places I've gone where the audio equipment was exceptional and was played over the din of a bar crowd. That made a difference in my night. So even if it's being used in a dinner party setting, I still want the best fidelity I can get. Even there, BT is fine but it really depends on the codec and the fidelity compatibility of the transmitting/receiving devices. Not all bluetooth codecs are the same and some can match 900+KBPS which is not bad. So, YES but with that caveat.
Andrew Robinson Levitating is definitely a bop. Madonna just sounds so young on it. I love how Dua was done after the first verse and choruses and everyone else just jumped on and took over LOL.
Andrew sure appreciate your show! I discovered my turntable I haven't used in 22 years is toast. I really want to get a Turntable that will handle what I ordered spring of 2020 Klipsch RP8000F's and RP600's & cover future upgrades. I'm sure the Alva or the RT85 maybe with the Ortofon Black will handle what I have fine, but 45 years ago I heard a pair of K-Horns and the sound still hasn't left my head, (don't know if you could relate). Would either of these work well for this upgrade or to Cornwalls or a different upgraded Brand without spending Crazy money on a turntable. Thanks Ted
Is it known if this is actually manufactured by Cambridge or is it a super OEM deck? Either way, this table has a lot going for it. Direct drive, (what looks like) a Rega arm, MC cartridge, the added convenience of Bluetooth should one wish to use it, good clean looks, and all from a bona fide hi-fi company. Personally I think the new Technics tables (1500C or 1200GR in my sort of budget range) would edge it for me though, due to their incredible speed accuracy, almost non existent wow and flutter and removable headshell. This being said I do prefer the simpler styling of the Cambridge.
Right - second go at this comment, seeing as how I managed to wipe the first try. Would I cut the cord for listening to vinyl? Yes, probably. It would go really against the grain in my head, but logically there's nothing wrong with it. Think of a DAB broadcast, but much more local, and MUCH higher quality. I have a very inexpensive BluDento HD bluetooth receiver, which has Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD capability. Honestly, when I feed it from Tidal, there's very little difference between it and either a CD or pumping the signal from my Mac straight into my Quad 99 CDP-2. I'm not saying they're not different, especially when you sit in front of the speakers for a bona fida listening session, which is probably more about the gear than the music. (And that's where the electrostatics make incredibly apparent any "nasties" in the sound. Which even with this little grey £50 bluetooth box are fewer than you might first imagine) If I want to play a record, and enjoy it, so long as the sound is good I don't really mind what path the sound takes from the groove to my ears. Sure it could be better, but so could my bank balance! Great review anyway. I'd be interested to one day compare some newer decks vs my old Technics SL-10 with MC310 cartridge. One day...
Hmmm...not sure Bluetooth equals the “future of vinyl”. Additionally, there is a lot of tough competition in the $1,500-$2,500 price point that are of equal or would best this Cambridge. Even with the MC stylus. Micro, SOTA, Music Hall, Rega, Thorens, Marantz, Technics, just to name a few. Are you suggesting portability is the future of vinyl? Maybe we will just equate it to a attention driven catchy title??
Actually, I think the implementation of features like bluetooth will be the future of vinyl or at least a big part of getting more people (read new people) into the hobby. Younger generations have grown up in entirely different ways and I'm sure had you grown up in an age of convenience, you might expect things like bluetooth in a record player. As far as comparisons, I offered several in the video. Lastly, I think most people put way too much thought into what is in a youtube title. We have about 8 seconds to grab your attention, ask yourself, would you have clicked on "Cambridge Audio Alva TT Turntable Review"? The truth is you wouldn't even have SEEN it. Too many words. Too long a title. So while we'd love to not have to put any thought into our titles, the truth is we're vying for your attention and attention spans are short.
Andrew Robinson True...while I agree new followers are making the venture into vinyl, the AT, U-Turn, Pro-ject or Fluance is probably the purchase. Will most turntables come with bluetooth standard some day? Maybe. It’s not an expensive option for sure. As wireless options become more and more accessible, manufacturers feel the need to make their line of products with wireless features, even if the product they are best known for is a stationary item that works beautifully with a simple RCA connect. I am kinda on the same boat with wireless speakers. I’m not suggesting I don’t have wireless electronics. However, something about this huge influx of RF in your home in such a small amount of space seems like a topic we are going to want to address in more detail. “Things parents worry about” 😬😂
Thank you for the very good rewiew. I have had the turntable for 8 months and I am very happy with it. I would be interested to know if the cardridge can only be exchanged for the originals and if it has to be MC? Could it be also MM like the Ortofon 2M black?
Since the original cartridge ist a high output MC it should be possible to use any other MM or MI cartridge. Only low output MC's won't fit. But to be honest, I would not swap the original one (Sumiko?) for the Ortofon. I don't think it's so much better If better at all that would justify the investment.
Hi Andrew, thanks for a grelt Chanel. Have you Trier to pair the Alba TT direct to Active speakers? E.g. Bypass normal hi-fi an blooth direct to Bowers & Wilkins formation duo. If that is poesibog and With great Sound. One could save usd 500 by not having to buy b&w formation Audio. WHAT is your thought on that. Have a great weekend
i have an ATLP60bt that i found at a Goodwill and it sounds pretty but it doesn't even TOUCH my Technics SL-Q2 with a 2M Black when it come to sounds quality, so if i had to choose the AT-LP60 BT would get tossed in the bin lol, but it is convenient t o have around. Since it has bluetooth as well 3.5mm audio jack i can plug into any 2.1 Computer speakers or headphones and it is good to go AND the audio jack is truly Analog so you can get both carefree digital wireless or simplified wired Analog sound. it is quite useful but by no means does it replace any of my Wired turntables
Mr. Robinson you said that the 1200 with the 2M black sounded awesome, did by any chance did you use the 2M black on the 1500C? Just curious how that 1500C would sound with a much better cartridge then the stock 2M Red. I want a better turntable then my current Project Debut Carbon.
I feel rather than expanding to a larger audience to be more inclusive, this turntable fits a very specific niche of people that know good audio and want to listen to their music through a great turntable, but also have a requirement to listen to their vinyls in lesser quality on some other system due to distance/wiring constraints.
I'd also be interested in this, especially with the recent launch of the EVO revision. Could be an interesting comparison with the Fluance RT85 that was already reviewed to see what you get by spending the same $500 on two tables where one prioritizes spending on a higher end cartridge and the other prioritizes a better constructed table with a higher end tonearm. It seems maybe more beneficial to get a better table with a worse cartridge since a cartridge can be swapped more easily than an entire table.
We've asked but I'm not so sure we'll get one. If you would like to see either of these turntables on the channel, reach out to Pro-Ject and let them know.
I get that it has a nice cartridge, phono stage & bluetooth, but still pricey & lots of other good options for under a grand. Plus I like a removable headshell, so this is not for me, but thanks for doing this video.
From what I see, the headshell is not removable but the cartridge is. So, yes more complicated to find a compatible cartridge but not undo-able. And they sell the cartridge separately (not cheap though, $500) But the phono pre-amp doesn't seem to be able to be deactivated. Also, I wonder how it compares to CA own ALVA phono pre-amp and what happens if you put a MM cartridge instead of a MC.
Question for Andrew / the group .. . My current household speakers consists of several Alexa bluetooth speakers and a Roku Streambar with my living room tv. I have no misconceptions that these are high end speakers, however, they have been very functional for me. I am now seeking to improve the sound quality and ad vinyl but would like to keep the functionality. So, I am seriously looking at the Fluance Fi70 to pair with the Audio Technica AT-LP120XBT. Both the speaker and turntable use the AptX codec. Not looking to use this as a home theater system, just music via steaming and vinyl. Will this combination do the job or is there something else under $900 budget that would be better?
For the experience of a turntable, I don't think I would use Bluetooth. Now, I don't have any speakers or headphones that use Bluetooth as an input. Maybe if I had some Kef LS50 wireless?
The only reason I would consider cutting the cable is because the rca cable included with my Rega planar 2 is too short (very annoying!) Does this Cambridge turntable have the option to use an external MC phono preamp?
Would appreciate a comparison to the Marantz TT-15S1, considered to be a real sleeper value with it's Clear Audio Satisfy tone arm ($1200) and Virtuoso cartridge ($900)
Aww, no return of Bluetooth-hating-football-jersey guy? 😁 I'd be fine listening through Bluetooth, especially with records I'd listened to many times before, but would probably use a wired connection with albums new to my collection.
I was tempted - until the cost of the replacement stylus was revealed. Yikes!!! I don't suppose there is a cheaper cartridge/style combination that will still give you excellent audio quality?
If you research moving coil cartridges, you'll discover that the replacement sold by Cambridge is actually affordable. Others started at around $900 for comparable quality. If you're willing to give that quality up, you can get replacements for 300-400 from Ortofon like this one bit.ly/AAOMCR .
The cartridge is made to match everything else in this turntable. There are plenty of other cartridges out there that can be used, but you would be experimenting with with buying other expensive cartridges, unless you already had them
Why do you have a large glass surface between the speakers? I know the answer, but it is not high end if you like soundstage and good acoustics. So what is going to happen with the next review? 50 % of the sound-quality can be decided by the room...
At the end of the day what does it matter, some of us are in this for the sole enjoyment of music ,not how wide or deep we can make a soundstage.I have a lot of things in between my speakers I love the sound of it
@@Audiorevue That's ok. But I am just into sound-quality I guess. Just have two records with audiofile quality which I am testing against my equipment for soundstage and such......
And what you think I don't care about SQ ? I just don't let my hifi dictate my living room ensemble. I don't know I simply get things where they sound decent and call it a day
Great Review! Watched this in late Mar 2021. Do you know where I can purchase this turntable now? It seems to be unavailable from various sources. Thanks.
Andrew, The Alva TT is now unavailable (discontinued?) would you still pick it up or have you found a better option/replacement? I have a chance to pick one up, but it’s a refurb and the discontinued notices around the net have me hesitant to grab it blindly.
We still have and use ours. I think as long as it comes with some type of warranty, yes, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend you picking one up. Alternatively, you may see an update in the new year but no guarantees.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews thank you again for time, experience, and expertise. I’m going to have to make decision soon on that Alva TT offer or go AT-LP140XP with a 2m Black cartridge. Ahh.
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✘ *QOTD: Would you be willing to cut the cord and only listen to your records via bluetooth?*
✔︎ *If it’s in the video, it’s IN THE ⬆︎DESCRIPTION⬆︎*
✘ *COMMENT RULES:*
- No outside URLs or RUclips links.
- Please be respectful to one another. Harassment and threats will not be tolerated.
Andrew scuze, nu mă pot abține, dar ești cel mai mare bou dacă ai ajuns să faci reclamă la asemenea porcărie ... Pe bune, este cea mai cretină reclamă la cea mai stupidă invenție pe care am văzut-o în 2020. Am scris mesajul e in limba română din respect, ca să nu defăimez un canal care îmi plăcea odinioară dar care a ajuns jalnic. Poți însă să îl traduci tu prin ... Bluetooth .... după ce scoți aparatul din priză și te culci cu el în dormitor ..... foame mare prin America , ha ...?
If I want background music I will drop down to a Bluetooth connection on a lifestyle device. My turntable is for more critical listening and I feel I need a wire for that. Even tho LDAC does sound damm good. 😬
I would in my 2nd casual system in the living room
No, that defeats my purpose for listening to records.
Sure, if the sound quality is favorable.
Maybe some have misunderstood the point: Bluetooth is an additional not the main feature! The TT can be connected via RCA cable like any other record player! So don't blame it for having an extra freedom of connectivity!!
Thank you!
I connected my AT-LP3 with upgraded belt and needle from LPGear to a Sonos Port. WAF on point with auto start-stop and whole home record listening. I got the records for sharing, letting friends pick out what to play, listen during dinner, etc.
The AT products are GREAT for that type of implementation! Love it!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Well suited to the fun side of listening... Ultimately, it is one of the reasons why we do these things, to share music.
I grew up with Vinyl and not going back, tried but no, won't go back. We all embraced the ease of digital in the mid 80's and there is no need for nostalgia or physical media for me. Still have my 1984 Technics, and will use it from time to time.
Simply put, yes.
Honestly my out look and atitudes about music and sound repoduction are 20 to 30 years old and simply do not a line with current products that are available today.
Your reviews are helping greatly in finding a direction to research. Unfortunately I simply don't have the resorces to buy most of the products you review. And where I live, nor do I have the ability to go and try them out without driving 2 to 3 hours.
I certainly enjoy your reviews.
Always appreciate you watching and joining in the discussion, Jack. What part of the world do you reside?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Santa Maria Ca.
Santa Barbara is 90min (I drive 65) and don't drive the pass anymore because the traffic on a two lane twisty road has become too exciting for me. Ventura, Oxnard, and Thousand Oaks another hour plus south. The shop in San Luis Obispo (an hour north) I bought my Martin Logans (ML) from closed. . .
To listen to the ML center channel I bought recently was a 5 hour trip including drive time and listening time. You have to plan for that LOL.
Holy shit. Excellent review, my man! I've been researching the ALVA TT for quite some time now, and you made my decision so much easier. Sub'd.
The Rega sourced arm is what makes the Alva sound so warm and refined. I would be willing to cut the cord. Besides listening to vinyl I stream a lot.
Great review Andrew!
When I was young, my favorite band was Kiss. But when I heard Rush for the first time, I barely listened to Kiss ever again.
I grew up on vinyl in my early years, since my Dad was an audio/video technician and I’ve always been surrounded by audio and video. But the first time I heard a CD, I pretty much stopped listening to vinyl THAT DAY. To me, there’s nothing I get from vinyl that I can’t get from a well-recorded digital CD.
But that’s just me - your mileage may vary. 🙂
People act like they can actually tell the difference between wired and Bluetooth. Most people can't. It's all in your head.
Shhh, you're going to anger the mob ;).
Most people does not mean all people. Music it is in your head.
To your question, No The sole purpose for me of listening to vinyl is to listen to it through a analog connection and using Bluetooth connection defeats that purpose, using Bluetooth with turntabl would be no different then playing a CD in a CD player
Interesting, bluetooth, built-in phono stage, moving coil cartridge! Seems like a good value and expensive at the same time. Definitely something to keep in mind. Thanks for the review guys!!
Cambridge are doing some nice stuff, in fact there almost like Kenwood from the late 80s early 90s, by that I mean good quality gear packed with features and made extremely easy to use at a reasonable price. Designed for the everyman/woman. I think that's fantastic. The only thing this turntable is missing is a fully automatic maechanism, if it had that, I think it would be perfect.
I use BT with the turntable in my office. I simply hooked up an inexpensive BT aptX HD transmitter to the phono preamp which did just cost €35. Works/sounds like a charm and can be replaced as soon as something better comes my way. Only the little delay can be a tad annoying whenever I hear some direct cartridge resonance during playback just before it reaches the speakers.
The different BT standards become outdated way too quickly that I don't consider it a wise move to buy a turntable with built-in BT. Usually, these parts cannot be upgraded or swapped by the owner, nor do most manufacturers even offer a later upgrade option to my knowledge.
Yes. Just bought (budget!) a Sony PS-LX310BT. Have Bluetooth to the kitchen to an Echo Show, I know!! It is hard wired to my Cyrus one phono stage when I need focus!
If I'm ever in the market for a turntable in this price range, I think it HAS to be a bluetooth one. The Alva TT also looks great, which makes me want it even more!
It's a beauty in more ways than one.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews No doubt! I hope you'll be doing more bluetooth turntable reviews in the future :-)
Alva arrived and I love it. I’ve paired it with my KEF Wireless II by way of blue Node 2i (to get apt-x). Perhaps there’s a better way, but it gets the job done. As someone who wants to keep things simple it just works and looks really good. Thank you for the review
That’s awesome! We just got ours back and love it. We haven’t heard the wireless IIs yet but I imagine they sound great! Enjoy.
Hi @Allen Hansen, may I know why you need the Bluesound Node 2i in between the Alva and the KEF? and can you let me know how you connect them together (via what port/cables)? Thank you.
Hi @@kylevuong you don’t need the Node 2i to connect the Alva with the KEF Wireless II. The reason for connecting the Alva via Bluetooth to the Node 2i and then to the KEF’s, was because the higher quality of apt-x in comparison to Bluetooth 4.2. In reality it didn’t really add much (if anything) in terms of audio quality. In my current setup I have connected the Alva to the KEF Wireless II via Bluetooth and it really makes for a hassle free and very room friendly set-up. Yes, you are probably offering up some audio quality, but I am very happy to ditch the cables from Turntable to speakers as it gives me a lot of freedom in terms of placement. All in all I am very happy with both the Alva and the Wireless II
I realize that the WiFi connectivity is the ‘thing’ at the moment, and could surpass the traditional turntable, but I can’t see me going that way for the moment. However, if I get to listen to one in our local brick and mortar store, then it’s possible that I might think of it as a second opinion in another room of the house with a different cartridge. Thanks for the video and comparisons !! I’m beginning to think you and Steve Guttenberg are two of my favorite channels at this time.
I've had this turntable for a few months now. I found it to great sounding. Bluetooth is better than I ever expected. Ive got my connected to my Leema Elements integrated amp. Speakers are Buchardt s400 signature speakers. Its awesome combo.
That's great to hear another person's user experience! Thanks for sharing.
I think I like the looks of this one even more than the Technics 1500C. Great review!
I prefer it looks-wise to the Technics as well .
I agree, nice balance between modern and no frills sleek audiophile look
I wish they made one without the Bluetooth and without phonostage
That being said I will probably still choose this one over technics
if sound quality is not compromised as you stated, than Bluetooth absolutely!! I like the idea of moving the turntable to an area that does not get that rumble feedback from the bass at higher volumes. Thanks for the detailed reviews!
Thank you for watching!
I've heard you mention that a few times, that what really attributes to the sound is the cartridge and phono preamp. I've heard so much about like carbon fiber tonearms or heavy acrylic platters, even accessories like cork slip mats and better vibration dampening feet improving the sound quality of a turntable. If you're looking for another video idea, I'd love to see one of the more "talking head" style videos where you go more into depth with this idea and maybe share your findings on some accessories like that.
The bluetooth question is a great question. I don't know. I have never gotten along with bluetooth sound.
I didn't even know Cambridge Audio had a turntable! It looks really cool, and the choice of giving you a MC cartridge is interesting!
Great Video and might I say great information
Thank you for watching!
Yes. Bluetooth, just like wireless units that we musicians use on stage, have come a long way and it's now far better than what it used to be 5 years ago.
Yes it is! Appreciate you keeping it in perspective.
I would definitely love to stream some of my records. I have a lot of records that are out of print that converting them to digital does them no justice. Thank you for reviewing this and putting another turntable on my radar.
We appreciate you watching!
I nearly bought this, but there's one thing you should have mentioned. When the needle goes south in 1000 hours, you have to replace the whole cartridge.
I actually did end up getting it. It sounds amazing
I'm not comfortable with the price but thanks for the excellent review.
Never even thought about it before, but I’d use this with my Aiwa Bluetooth headphones. Would be great for when I’m cooking
I like the idea of Bluetooth giving flexibility of placement of the turntable. I have small humans living with me so being able to have the turntable in a more inconspicuous location, to small eyes and fingers, would give me piece of mind. From an acoustic perspective, you can place the turntable in a location that isn't heavy in bass loading. This would work to alleviate the chances of imparting unwanted sound energy into the stylus and distorting or coloring the sound, even if only so slightly.
Me personally, If they had a version that was closer to the $500 price point with like an 2M Red maaaaybe a Blue (at the price not sure a red would fit into the BOM cost) that would be an easy buy.
the future of vynils... the dac i present to you
I would love to give it a listen via AptX to my Bluesound Node 2i to Cambridge DAC Magic 100 setup to see how it compares. Although I believe you when I you say there is no discernible difference. I’m certainly intrigued.
That is a gorgeous turntable (I might be bias since it’s British!) but I would still prefer the Technics aesthetically and practically.
As for Bluetooth listening to vinyl, I wouldn’t have a problem with it through my (ugly) Bose QC headphones because they are one of my favourite ways to listen to music most of the time. When I listen to vinyl in the evening however it’s usually with my husband in a more social setting so headphones wouldn’t be appropriate, and I also think a two way loudspeaker setup is just a more fitting way to listen to the sort of music I want to play from records. Call me old fashioned.
I don't think there is anything wrong with that argument at all. I wouldn't say I prefer headphones over speakers, like analog records over Bluetooth, it's just another way of going about listening to music.
Whoa, a Bluetooth turntable from a bonafide audiophile brand?
Indeed!
I could see myself going to a solution like this. Sadly I haven't been listening to vinyl as much as I would like to, and I feel that part of the reason for that is my use of headphones more and more. A good deck with really good bluetooth might not be a terrible idea. Though I think I'm going to try buying a good headphone cable to use with my current set up first to see how well I like it. Thanks for the review as always.
A Bluetooth turntable is useful for starters that want to get into vinyl easily.
But the 1700 pricetag of the Alpha TT isn't part of that convenience for starters.
The price could be a barrier for some but not every "starter" is as broke as a college kid. For many, this could be first and last turntable they ever need to buy in which case it would be a pretty decent value.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I think most consumers don't want to spend over 1k without having any idea if it's something they like - not just broke people.
I mean, it's not like starting violin lessons and buying a decent 500 to 1.5k starterviolin, that can be sold for more or less the same price if music lessons don't work out.
To answer your question - No. Even through LDAC not to say APTX HD.
As for the TT it looks interesting but a bit wrong product placement I would say. $1500 is way above a limit of an entry-level piece of gear where integrated phono and a Bluetooth make sense.
Tonarm is RB-101 three point mount which is good but again a solution from a lower price league.
Cartridge is Sumiko BP SE-3 which is good without a doubt.
Hmm.. the most interesting bit is obviously the cartridge. Something else than the usual choices for better cartridges (Ortofon, Audio Technica, Nagaoka, etc. all offer very good ones).
But then it quickly falls apart - again. At least for me. With 24nit and 48 kHz digital transmission, little wonder that there should be an audible difference when using Bluetooth - or the receiving end is bad.
But here's again what I don't get about turntables currently on offer. At least for me Bluetooth is not really an argument - I tend to have my turntable set up stationary where it is absolutely level, and not move it around when I don't have to. That said, and looking at tech specs - makes me go even more "hmm...".
So - we have direct drive, wow and flutter below 0.1% (or 0.06% if you dig deeper on the website) - which is all fine and good. Nice tonearm. Good cartridge. But compared to the better part of turntables from say the mid to late 80s, that's quite standard. (my main turntable is a 1985 JVC midrange model, and should have slightly better specs. but I doubt that this makes an audible difference...)
Which brings me to my main point... come on - it's 2020 and it is not even advertised as semi automatic, let alone capable of fully automatic operation? None of this was deemed to be rocket science like 30 years ago...
Personally I really excited for the future of wireless HiFi, I just bought the Master & Dynamic MW07 Plus and they sound great, way better than I though a true wireless earbud could
Very nice review i liked the way you compared the turntables by price and quality big up. oooh and by the way i,d do wireless coz it,s less wires.
Very thorough and nice review again!
I've narrowed down a new turntable purchase to either the Technics SL-1500C and the Cambridge Alva TT. I'll be using a receiver (with bluetooth capability) so the Alva's built-in bluetooth capability is kinda moot. But it sounds like from this video you believe the Alva edges out the 1500C? Great videos by the way. Thanks!
I would definitely be willing to use Bluetooth for a turntable if like you mentioned it let me put it in a better spot. If it ended up in a spot where I could easily run cables anyways though, I'd likely do it just to avoid possible connectivity issues. Also I would have personally preferred if the Bluetooth module was a separate piece that plugged into the back so that future revisions of Bluetooth didn't leave a $1700 table essentially obsolete. A turntable is an investment that I'd like to make once.
@John Russell a good DAC with high quality files is technically better in terms of audio quality than any vinyl setup, that isn't what vinyl is about for me.
I’m seriously considering selling my Rega P8 with Ania and going for the Alva TT - there’s something about the simplicity of the Alva that’s alluring to me.
Agree 100%
@@andrewrobinsonreviews that P8 sold fast. Cambridge Alva tt ordered - next up Kef Wireless 2 - I feel like an audiophile rebel
Can you please review the Victrola T-1 turntable? I always watch your honest review 😊.
We have no plans to review any turntables in the near future.
I love the idea of a turntable with Bluetooth capabilities but I would be the person to have issue after issue with the quality of sound and I think I would end up frustrated. I'm hesitant. But it is pretty cool to hear about an option that actually sounds great to a recovering audiophile.
❤❤Body Talk❤❤
Interesting review. I have the cx range of cxn, cxa80 and cxc and have found Cambridge to be a great mid tier option. I am still on the fence about the switch from cd so for me i am just enjoying watching the reviews :)
I use Bluetooth to my Rurak MRXs. I am looking forward to the Cambridge Audio Edge reviews
Tune in tomorrow!
That Alva sounds like it would be a really nice match with my Klipsch The Sixes.
Agreed!
Great video as usual! 🙌🏽 Quick question 🙋🏽♂️ Since I removed my receiver and at the moment I’m only using Klipsch’s The Fives and my Fluance turntable I now have no way to connect my PM-50 headphones 🎧 or even the V-Moda Bluetooth headphones. What do you think it would be a good choice to use to bring those capabilities back??
Great video Andrew, as always!
1 - I'd listen to my records on Bluetooth if it was easy and available. Anyone who gets deeply scared of digitally converting their analog signal is probably unfamiliar with the mechanics of human hearing and the mathematics of digital waveforms (which is fair, those are both pretty complex topics). The last time I dug into it, the practical upshot was "If your digital sample rate is high enough, the difference to the waveform is indistinguishable to the human ear", which sounds like audiophile blasphemy but also seems to support your experience here.
2 - A minor note, but I could feel your gaze drifting off the camera quite a bit in this video. I'm guessing you were reading a script? Have you considered trying a teleprompter setup for your videos to maintain eye contact with the camera more consistently? I've seen some tutorials on doing it (Technology Connections had a good one), and it doesn't seem too difficult. That said, you're the one making the videos and not me, and I'm going to continue watching regardless. I love the human touch to your videos, and it's part of what keeps me coming back even though I'm never going to buy a $1000+ piece of audio equipment.
I Love Your Vids. The edge Systems NEED BURN IN TIME!!😎
We've had ours for months now, I consider them "broken in."
Hi Andrew: I’m intrigued by wireless/bluetooth connection - especially now that you say you couldn’t hear a difference. For my secondary listening room, I’m thinking about getting the Alva TT and pairing it with the Burchardt A500 speakers.
Part of my collection never had a cord as it is 78's played on a Victrola that is a family heirloom. As for the rest, yes it would be no problem.
Can’t wait for Edge series review, I have the Edge A integrated
Tune in tomorrow!
Andrew Robinson thank you Sir, really enjoy your videos
Yeah if my system would do it 😅.But I still would love to have a wired connection to amp.
If this was on the market when I was looking for my turnable it would be on the short list.
This is a great video, recognizing the trade-off between ease and sound. why must there be such a trade-off? I just wish DD turntables had 78 rpm. Seems to me it may be more useful to many than 45 rpm. I'd also like to see some sort of speed control on these TTs. Many 78s were actually recorded and 76, and sound more normal at this speed. Today's TTs often have speed accuracy problems that make speed control helpful. thanks again for the video.
More and more TT are missing 78 support. The Technics 1210GAE had 78 support, but it's far more expensive than the Alva here.
I'll stick with my early 80s Denon DP-37f. Wow/flutter .07% fully automatic, great looking and only $400 total with upgrade cartridge and stylist. I can't understand why new turntables cost so much and are full manual, they don't even stop when the LP is done. This player does look darn sexy. I had a U-Turn and liked it and it sounded great but full manual i couldn't live with it. I can't always sit there waiting for it to end and return the arm. Plus mine has repeat and thats a nice thing when you doing stuff and just want it to play.
I agree with many comments already posted - analogue through Bluetooth - I cannot be convinced that this is truly transparent or that it can compare with quality interconnects. And I find the video presentation too smooth, too anodyne - I tend to question whether this is a review - or marketing (?!)
Very interesting review. Thanks for this.
Glad you liked it!
Really not sure about the Bluetooth. Seems a bit of an unnecessary addition to an analogue turntable. I get the convenience argument but it just feels a step too far. Maybe I'm being rather too conventional?
It's just a replacement for the RCA cable...Bluetooth has more bandwidth than an LP anyway so if properly implemented it won't degrade audio quality.
If I'm not listening critically, I am all for Bluetooth options. That said, there have been a few places I've gone where the audio equipment was exceptional and was played over the din of a bar crowd. That made a difference in my night. So even if it's being used in a dinner party setting, I still want the best fidelity I can get. Even there, BT is fine but it really depends on the codec and the fidelity compatibility of the transmitting/receiving devices. Not all bluetooth codecs are the same and some can match 900+KBPS which is not bad. So, YES but with that caveat.
Are you able to output from both the wired connection and Bluetooth at the same time?
AMAZING REVIEW!
Easy to use i would agree. Easier still is my cd player armed with its remote.
Fair enough :)
Oh you 2 I’m currently dancing around to ‘cry about it later’ by Katy Perry. What a serious bop.
HELLO!! We've missed you. Good to see your face around here. Kristi can't stop playing Dua Lipa's Levitating Remix. Will check out the KP song.
Andrew Robinson Levitating is definitely a bop. Madonna just sounds so young on it. I love how Dua was done after the first verse and choruses and everyone else just jumped on and took over LOL.
Andrew sure appreciate your show! I discovered my turntable I haven't used in 22 years is toast. I really want to get a Turntable that will handle what I ordered spring of 2020 Klipsch RP8000F's and RP600's & cover future upgrades. I'm sure the Alva or the RT85 maybe with the Ortofon Black will handle what I have fine, but 45 years ago I heard a pair of K-Horns and the sound still hasn't left my head, (don't know if you could relate). Would either of these work well for this upgrade or to Cornwalls or a different upgraded Brand without spending Crazy money on a turntable. Thanks Ted
Is it known if this is actually manufactured by Cambridge or is it a super OEM deck?
Either way, this table has a lot going for it. Direct drive, (what looks like) a Rega arm, MC cartridge, the added convenience of Bluetooth should one wish to use it, good clean looks, and all from a bona fide hi-fi company.
Personally I think the new Technics tables (1500C or 1200GR in my sort of budget range) would edge it for me though, due to their incredible speed accuracy, almost non existent wow and flutter and removable headshell. This being said I do prefer the simpler styling of the Cambridge.
Right - second go at this comment, seeing as how I managed to wipe the first try.
Would I cut the cord for listening to vinyl? Yes, probably. It would go really against the grain in my head, but logically there's nothing wrong with it. Think of a DAB broadcast, but much more local, and MUCH higher quality. I have a very inexpensive BluDento HD bluetooth receiver, which has Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD capability. Honestly, when I feed it from Tidal, there's very little difference between it and either a CD or pumping the signal from my Mac straight into my Quad 99 CDP-2. I'm not saying they're not different, especially when you sit in front of the speakers for a bona fida listening session, which is probably more about the gear than the music. (And that's where the electrostatics make incredibly apparent any "nasties" in the sound. Which even with this little grey £50 bluetooth box are fewer than you might first imagine)
If I want to play a record, and enjoy it, so long as the sound is good I don't really mind what path the sound takes from the groove to my ears. Sure it could be better, but so could my bank balance!
Great review anyway. I'd be interested to one day compare some newer decks vs my old Technics SL-10 with MC310 cartridge. One day...
Hmmm...not sure Bluetooth equals the “future of vinyl”. Additionally, there is a lot of tough competition in the $1,500-$2,500 price point that are of equal or would best this Cambridge. Even with the MC stylus. Micro, SOTA, Music Hall, Rega, Thorens, Marantz, Technics, just to name a few. Are you suggesting portability is the future of vinyl? Maybe we will just equate it to a attention driven catchy title??
Actually, I think the implementation of features like bluetooth will be the future of vinyl or at least a big part of getting more people (read new people) into the hobby. Younger generations have grown up in entirely different ways and I'm sure had you grown up in an age of convenience, you might expect things like bluetooth in a record player. As far as comparisons, I offered several in the video. Lastly, I think most people put way too much thought into what is in a youtube title. We have about 8 seconds to grab your attention, ask yourself, would you have clicked on "Cambridge Audio Alva TT Turntable Review"? The truth is you wouldn't even have SEEN it. Too many words. Too long a title. So while we'd love to not have to put any thought into our titles, the truth is we're vying for your attention and attention spans are short.
Andrew Robinson
True...while I agree new followers are making the venture into vinyl, the AT, U-Turn, Pro-ject or Fluance is probably the purchase. Will most turntables come with bluetooth standard some day? Maybe. It’s not an expensive option for sure. As wireless options become more and more accessible, manufacturers feel the need to make their line of products with wireless features, even if the product they are best known for is a stationary item that works beautifully with a simple RCA connect. I am kinda on the same boat with wireless speakers. I’m not suggesting I don’t have wireless electronics. However, something about this huge influx of RF in your home in such a small amount of space seems like a topic we are going to want to address in more detail. “Things parents worry about” 😬😂
Thank you for the very good rewiew. I have had the turntable for 8 months and I am very happy with it. I would be interested to know if the cardridge can only be exchanged for the originals and if it has to be MC? Could it be also MM like the Ortofon 2M black?
Since the original cartridge ist a high output MC it should be possible to use any other MM or MI cartridge. Only low output MC's won't fit. But to be honest, I would not swap the original one (Sumiko?) for the Ortofon. I don't think it's so much better If better at all that would justify the investment.
Who is the manufacturer of the MC cartridge?
@@mcdull9663 Looks Like a Sumiko.
Hi Andrew, thanks for a grelt Chanel. Have you Trier to pair the Alba TT direct to Active speakers? E.g. Bypass normal hi-fi an blooth direct to Bowers & Wilkins formation duo. If that is poesibog and With great Sound. One could save usd 500 by not having to buy b&w formation Audio. WHAT is your thought on that.
Have a great weekend
i have an ATLP60bt that i found at a Goodwill and it sounds pretty but it doesn't even TOUCH my Technics SL-Q2 with a 2M Black when it come to sounds quality, so if i had to choose the AT-LP60 BT would get tossed in the bin lol, but it is convenient t o have around. Since it has bluetooth as well 3.5mm audio jack i can plug into any 2.1 Computer speakers or headphones and it is good to go AND the audio jack is truly Analog so you can get both carefree digital wireless or simplified wired Analog sound. it is quite useful but by no means does it replace any of my Wired turntables
With AptxHD, i guess I will
How does this turntable compare to the Fluance RT85?
Mr. Robinson you said that the 1200 with the 2M black sounded awesome, did by any chance did you use the 2M black on the 1500C? Just curious how that 1500C would sound with a much better cartridge then the stock 2M Red. I want a better turntable then my current Project Debut Carbon.
I prefer a traditional system, myself. It allows me more control.
I wanted to ask, Andrew, what speaker cable do you use?
90% of the time, I use Transparent speaker cable which I've had for nearly 20 years. The other 10% it's generic OFC copper cables I make myself.
I feel rather than expanding to a larger audience to be more inclusive, this turntable fits a very specific niche of people that know good audio and want to listen to their music through a great turntable, but also have a requirement to listen to their vinyls in lesser quality on some other system due to distance/wiring constraints.
Any plan to review the V2 once it becomes available in spring? I'm looking to get a new TT this summer and I'm thinking this might be on the shortlist
We hope to.
Would you be willing to review, or have you reviewed the project carbon debut?
I'd also be interested in this, especially with the recent launch of the EVO revision. Could be an interesting comparison with the Fluance RT85 that was already reviewed to see what you get by spending the same $500 on two tables where one prioritizes spending on a higher end cartridge and the other prioritizes a better constructed table with a higher end tonearm. It seems maybe more beneficial to get a better table with a worse cartridge since a cartridge can be swapped more easily than an entire table.
We've asked but I'm not so sure we'll get one. If you would like to see either of these turntables on the channel, reach out to Pro-Ject and let them know.
That tv is so nice I keep thinking it's a picture on the wall
We love it!
I get that it has a nice cartridge, phono stage & bluetooth, but still pricey & lots of other good options for under a grand. Plus I like a removable headshell, so this is not for me, but thanks for doing this video.
From what I see, the headshell is not removable but the cartridge is. So, yes more complicated to find a compatible cartridge but not undo-able. And they sell the cartridge separately (not cheap though, $500)
But the phono pre-amp doesn't seem to be able to be deactivated. Also, I wonder how it compares to CA own ALVA phono pre-amp and what happens if you put a MM cartridge instead of a MC.
that alva mc cartridge looks similar to the Sumiko blue-point special evo3... Hmm maybe it is.
Question for Andrew / the group .. . My current household speakers consists of several Alexa bluetooth speakers and a Roku Streambar with my living room tv.
I have no misconceptions that these are high end speakers, however, they have been very functional for me. I am now seeking to improve the sound quality and ad vinyl but would like to keep the functionality. So, I am seriously looking at the Fluance Fi70 to pair with the Audio Technica AT-LP120XBT. Both the speaker and turntable use the AptX codec. Not looking to use this as a home theater system, just music via steaming and vinyl.
Will this combination do the job or is there something else under $900 budget that would be better?
Any AirPlay 2 support?
I definitely would cut the cord provided the bluetooth connection is high enough quality
@andrew....did I hear you right, if one is not looking to upgrade this, would you pick this over a technics??
Yep.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews crazy q for you
What about the pioneer plx 1000 for audiophile playback ...at only $699? Intriguing??
Never heard it.
For the experience of a turntable, I don't think I would use Bluetooth. Now, I don't have any speakers or headphones that use Bluetooth as an input. Maybe if I had some Kef LS50 wireless?
The KEF LS50 would probably be a great match.
The only reason I would consider cutting the cable is because the rca cable included with my Rega planar 2 is too short (very annoying!)
Does this Cambridge turntable have the option to use an external MC phono preamp?
No, you cannot defeat the internal preamp. So this must be plugged into a line level or "standard" input, same as you would a CD player.
Would appreciate a comparison to the Marantz TT-15S1, considered to be a real sleeper value with it's Clear Audio Satisfy tone arm ($1200) and Virtuoso cartridge ($900)
Aww, no return of Bluetooth-hating-football-jersey guy? 😁
I'd be fine listening through Bluetooth, especially with records I'd listened to many times before, but would probably use a wired connection with albums new to my collection.
No. I can’t say that I would spend $1600 for a Bluetooth turntable
Tell Cambridge Audio, they should start preparing your sales commission, you just made a sell! I am purchasing this one. Thanks and BR from Austria
I was tempted - until the cost of the replacement stylus was revealed. Yikes!!! I don't suppose there is a cheaper cartridge/style combination that will still give you excellent audio quality?
If you research moving coil cartridges, you'll discover that the replacement sold by Cambridge is actually affordable. Others started at around $900 for comparable quality. If you're willing to give that quality up, you can get replacements for 300-400 from Ortofon like this one bit.ly/AAOMCR .
The cartridge is made to match everything else in this turntable. There are plenty of other cartridges out there that can be used, but you would be experimenting with with buying other expensive cartridges, unless you already had them
Why do you have a large glass surface between the speakers? I know the answer, but it is not high end if you like soundstage and good acoustics. So what is going to happen with the next review? 50 % of the sound-quality can be decided by the room...
At the end of the day what does it matter, some of us are in this for the sole enjoyment of music ,not how wide or deep we can make a soundstage.I have a lot of things in between my speakers I love the sound of it
@@Audiorevue That's ok. But I am just into sound-quality I guess. Just have two records with audiofile quality which I am testing against my equipment for soundstage and such......
And what you think I don't care about SQ ? I just don't let my hifi dictate my living room ensemble. I don't know I simply get things where they sound decent and call it a day
Sir, can I ask the name of the artist + painting in your living room? It's just magnificent.
You'll find all the links & info in the description box just below the video's title. The art is at the bottom.
Great Review! Watched this in late Mar 2021. Do you know where I can purchase this turntable now? It seems to be unavailable from various sources. Thanks.
Thank you! You’ll find links in the description. Try those?
Already did. Unavailable at Amazon. Discontinued at Audio Advice.
I found one here - bhpho.to/39krjzC
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Excellent! Thanks.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews discontinued in July 2021.
Andrew,
The Alva TT is now unavailable (discontinued?) would you still pick it up or have you found a better option/replacement? I have a chance to pick one up, but it’s a refurb and the discontinued notices around the net have me hesitant to grab it blindly.
We still have and use ours. I think as long as it comes with some type of warranty, yes, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend you picking one up. Alternatively, you may see an update in the new year but no guarantees.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews thank you again for time, experience, and expertise. I’m going to have to make decision soon on that Alva TT offer or go AT-LP140XP with a 2m Black cartridge. Ahh.
Good
I would LOVE you to review Victrola T-1 turntable they been around for over 100 years because I just got it! It's time to collect vinyl collection 👌