Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 and Alva ST: turntables with Bluetooth connectivity

Vinyl fans take note, as the British sound professionals at Cambridge Audio have unveiled two exciting new turntables. The Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 marks the successor of the company’s successful turntable. It is simultaneously joined by a more affordable sister model, the Alva ST. Both devices feature contemporary Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in phono preamp, which can now also be switched off to allow the use of high-quality external preamps.

Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 and Alva ST in detail

Cambridge Audio’s two new turntables, the Alva TT V2 and Alva ST, feature Bluetooth wireless connectivity in addition to incorruptible sound quality. The successors to the Alva TT also finally offer the option to turn off the internal phono preamps. While the Alva TT V2 features direct drive as before, the Alva ST’s belt drive allows for uncompromising British sound at an unbeatable price.

Cambridge Audio has recognized this trend towards the de haptically and sonically unique vinyl experience. Just in time for CES 2022 Las Vegas, they present the Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2, the successor to the successful turntable, and also provide it with a smaller sister model.

The less expensive Alva ST comes with a somewhat simpler case finish and relies on a belt drive. However, in comparison to the Alva TT V2, no compromises should have to be accepted in the sound components.

Strong sound for vinyl fans

Both the Alva TT V2 and Alva ST turntables have been optimized in every minute detail for best sound and easy handling. The TT V2’s solid polyoxymethylene (POM) platter ensures smooth synchronization, while the ST features a die-cast aluminum platter that is absolutely flat and perfectly balanced thanks to CNC manufacturing.

Despite a low effective mass of only eleven grams, the high-quality tonearm is characterized by high stability, and the tonearm bearing has been further improved compared to the Alva TT. What has remained the same, however, is the moving coil cartridge system in the Alva TT V2, which was developed in-house by Cambridge Audio and is highly regarded by the international trade press.

It is perfectly matched to the tonearm and ready to use in all operating modes right out of the box, with no adjustment required.  The integrated phono preamplifier, which realizes the RIAA equalization with a deviation of only 0.3 decibels and, with an impedance of over 90 decibels, does not have to hide even from high-quality external phono preamps, is also matched to the rest of the components.

Audio Technica AT-VM95e cartridge in a budget model

The Alva ST with moving magnet system comes with an Audio Technica AT-VM95e cartridge and thus also allows for an uncomplicated change to a cartridge of choice. In addition, Cambridge Audio also relies on many components of the premium Alva TT V2 turntable with belt drive.

Among them, a switchable integrated phono preamplifier, wireless High-Res streaming with aptX HD and the new tonearm are identical. As a result, both Cambridge Audio turntables deliver high-quality analog vinyl sound and are instantly compatible with all standard hi-fi components.

Innovative wireless functionality

With Alva TT V2 and Alva ST, Cambridge Audio proves that vinyl enjoyment and wireless connectivity need not be a contradiction. Both turntables are equipped with a high-quality Bluetooth aptX transmitting unit that enables authentic vinyl sound without the hassle of cables.

This realizes a resolution of 48 kHz and 24 bits to compatible HiFi components. This allows records to be enjoyed undisturbed without having to get out of bed.

Stuart George, Managing Director of Cambridge Audio, is excited about the record player evolution: “The original Alva TT was the world’s first aptX HD Bluetooth turntable – and the response to it exceeded all our expectations. The new Alva TT V2 continues to combine the convenience of modern streaming with the rich listening experience of vinyl, taking into account feedback from listeners of the first turntable. The all-new Alva ST brings this experience to even more audio enthusiasts with its affordable price.”

Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2: consistent evolution

Already the first Alva TT from Cambridge Audio could convince with its innovative Bluetooth connectivity and also thrilled sonically. Accordingly, only details have been improved in the successor.

As before, the powerful and reliable direct drive as well as tonearm and system meet the highest standards. The elegant top plate is made of brushed aluminum and has an engraved manufacturer logo.

Compared to the previous model, the integrated phono preamplifier can now be switched off, which also allows the use of external high-end components. In addition, the tonearm bearing has been further improved for even more accurate and interference-free sampling of even the smallest musical details.

Cambridge Audio Alva ST: Sound enjoyment for vinyl lovers

The Alva ST was developed to make the fascination of music enjoyment on vinyl possible even for a narrower budget. Thus, many sound-defining components such as phono preamplifier and tonearm were taken directly from the larger model. Also the Bluetooth unit corresponds exactly to the Alva TT V2.

The main differences between the two models lie in the drive principle and the moving magnet cartridge: The motor of the Alva ST transmits its power to the platter via a belt, which allows for a more economical production without having to fear significant losses in synchronization. In addition, the aluminum cover plate has been replaced with a high-quality paint finish in the classic silver Cambridge Audio design, and the company logo is screen-printed.

Prices and availability

Both Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 and Alva ST turntables will be available in spring 2022 from select retailers and from the manufacturer’s online shop. The recommended retail prices including VAT are 999.00 euros for the Alva ST and 1,999.00 euros for the Alva TT V2.