Getting into vinyl may seem like a depressing prospect for novice record lovers, but Victrola's latest turntable could make it simpler than ever.
The new Victrola Premiere V1 is an all-in-one music system that can spin your records, stream your vinyl wirelessly to an external Bluetooth speaker, and even amplify the sound from your TV.
It combines a turntable with built-in stereo speakers and a wireless subwoofer, eliminating the need for many annoying cables running around the room from the turntable to the amplifier to the speakers.
Combining the looks of old and new audio technology, the music system has an illuminated dial that lets you choose between a plurality of inputs and, thanks to an optical input, you can connect it to either your stereo or your TV.
You can also monitor the volume of the system via a lighted button (although a remote control is also included), with the Premiere V1 delivering rich bass and clear highs without drift or needle jumps, according to Victrola. And if you don't want to use the system's built-in speakers, you can stream audio from your discs to an external Bluetooth speaker using the company's VinylStream technology.
Built-in speakers can cause vibrations that distort the sound of your vinyl, but Victrola claims its patent-pending anti-vibration belt drive means it won't be a problem. Meanwhile, a metal tray with a non-slip silicone mat should ensure that your records are not damaged.
While the emphasis is heavily on convenience with Premiere V1, you still have to have fun playing a traditional turntable; For example, you can adjust the counterweight on the tone arm as much as your heart desires.
Vinyl for the masses
All of this is going to cost you € four hundred ninety nine / € three hundred ninety nine, which amounts to about AU € seven hundred, although the Australian costs have yet to be confirmed. It may sound expensive, but a decent turntable with an external amplifier and stereo speakers would generally cost at least that, if not more, not to mention the included subwoofer.
The only thing missing is the ability to stream music from your phone to the music system's built-in speakers, which would truly make Premiere V1 a one-stop shop for your audio needs.
It also remains to be seen how forceful the stereo separation is going to be. After all, the speakers are housed in a small circuit and there may not be enough space between them to give a real idea of the left and right channels of your music.
Even in this way, it does not seem that the Premiere V1 is especially aimed at audiophiles who would prefer the sound of a traditional setup. This is a turntable setup for those who don't want to dominate their living space with cables, or do a lot of research to find the right amp to pair with their turntable.
Vinyl continues to experience a renaissance in popularity, which means there is a new generation of potential turntable enthusiasts. the hot, crackling sound of a spinning record.