Victrola, a company known for home music playback for more than 115 years, is out with a new turntable that features support of the Qualcomm® aptX Adaptive Bluetooth connectivity or wired with switchable preamp. Victrola’s Hi-Res Carbon (read the full review here) and Hi-Res Onyx are equipped with Qualcomm’s next-gen audio hardware and are optimized for a seamless yet wireless vinyl listening experience. The turntables support all Bluetooth connectivity including the latest Bluetooth 5.4 and aptX Adaptive audio technologies. For those seeking a more traditional analog listening experience, the Hi-Res models feature gold-plated RCA outputs for self-powered wired speakers or integration into component-based systems.
The combination of advanced technology and high-quality materials to recreate stunning audio clarity, while also preserving Victrola’s approachable set-up to vinyl, was paramount in the development of the company’s Hi-Res turntables. As wireless audio continues to become the preferred experience for the general consumer, as well as audio enthusiasts, Victrola’s Hi-Resturntables with aptX Adaptive support ensure users can preserve the audio quality they expect when placing the stylus on a record.
“As music lovers ourselves, we understand the importance of delivering the most authentic and immersive audio experience possible. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our new Hi-Res Carbon and Onyx turntables with aptX Adaptive Bluetooth technology, offering unparalleled audio quality for both wired and wireless listening,” said Scott Hagen, CEO of Victrola. “With so many higher-end audio brands creating incredible wireless headphones and powered speakers we felt it was time to introduce a turntable suitable for these products.”
The Victrola Hi-Res Carbon and Victrola Hi-Res Onyx feature the highest quality materials including a low-resonance veneered MDF plinth as well as premium metal turntable components and platter, which ensure high-quality performance. User-friendly features also include a switchable pre-amp with traditional analog RCA outputs, an auto-stop sensor to prevent stylus wear in addition to custom-designed, removable headshells.
Additional Victrola Hi-Res Carbon Turntable Features
- Two-toned black and silver body with a metal front plate for a class, premium style
- Vibration dampening, carbon-fiber tonearm that places minimal weight on the record
- Ortofon 2M Red moving magnetic cartridge for audiophile-level sound reproduction
Additional Hi-Res Onyx Audiophile Turntable Features
- All-black signature Onyx design reminiscent of its name
- An aluminum tonearm for a sturdy, yet light-weight component
- Audio-Technica AT-VM95E premium cartridge for balanced and distortion-free playback
Victrola Hi-Res Carbon (MSRP: $599) and Hi-Res Onyx (MSRP: $399) are now available for purchase at Victrola.com, as well as Best Buy, Crutchfield, World Wide Stereo, Snap One, B&H, Amazon, and other premium retailers. For more information on Victrola, please visit Victrola.com and stay updated by following Victrola on social media
The Audiophile Importance of Victrola Turntables
Victrola, a name synonymous with the legacy of phonographs and turntables, has long been a cornerstone in the world of vinyl records. Though the brand has evolved over the years, it continues to hold a unique place in the hearts of audiophiles, music lovers, and collectors alike. Initially regarded as a mass-market brand, Victrola has carved out a niche for itself in the audiophile community by blending modern design with classic sound quality and accessibility.
The Origins of Victrola and Its Legacy
Victrola, founded in 1906, traces its roots to the Victor Talking Machine Company. The company’s invention of the Victrola phonograph, which featured an integrated speaker, revolutionized how people experienced music in the early 20th century. This was one of the first devices to eliminate the need for external speakers, making the phonograph more accessible and compact. By the 1920s, Victrola was one of the leading brands in the phonograph market, contributing significantly to the popularization of recorded music.
The brand’s rise during the early days of recorded sound cemented its place in audio history. For decades, Victrola remained synonymous with quality phonographs, producing devices that were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. These phonographs were often crafted with high-quality materials, such as wood, giving them a timeless, elegant appearance that became a symbol of early 20th-century domestic audio.
While Victrola’s prominence as a brand diminished somewhat over the years due to the advent of more modern, electric-powered record players, it never completely disappeared. The Victrola name underwent several changes in ownership and direction, but the essence of the brand remained rooted in providing quality audio experiences, albeit for a more general audience. By the time vinyl records saw their resurgence in the 2000s, Victrola was poised to evolve once again and reclaim its place in the market.
Victrola’s Return to Audiophile Relevance
Victrola’s modern iteration has made significant strides in rekindling its connection to audiophile culture. In the years following vinyl’s resurgence, the company began to shift its focus from inexpensive, all-in-one turntables aimed at casual listeners to products designed with higher fidelity in mind. Today, Victrola offers a range of turntables that cater to a more discerning audience, seeking both quality and style.
Victrola’s current product lineup, including its higher-end turntables, brings sophisticated features to an accessible price point, making it a gateway brand for budding audiophiles. A major aspect of its appeal is that it combines modern technology with vintage appeal, allowing people to enjoy the warm sound of vinyl while remaining within a reasonable budget. As vinyl has gained popularity in recent years, many listeners have gravitated toward Victrola for its balance of value and performance.
Design and Build Quality
One of the key factors that set Victrola turntables apart from other brands in the audiophile space is the emphasis on design. While many high-end turntables on the market focus almost exclusively on performance, Victrola’s designs often incorporate elements of vintage and retro aesthetics. Its turntables are not only built for high-quality sound reproduction but also designed to be a statement piece in any living space.
Victrola’s design philosophy blends the old with the new, creating turntables that feature a modern twist on classic designs. For instance, models such as the Victrola Stream Carbon, introduced as a part of their premium line, incorporate a minimalist design with sleek, modern materials such as carbon fiber platters and high-end tonearms. This model, along with others in their high-fidelity collection, is engineered to provide a precise and authentic vinyl experience, complete with robust build quality and carefully considered components.
Moreover, Victrola’s commitment to aesthetics and craftsmanship is evident in their use of wood finishes, giving their turntables a high-end, vintage look that appeals to both audiophiles and design enthusiasts. For those with an eye for style, a Victrola turntable brings both functionality and beauty into the home, embodying a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a forward-thinking approach to modern audio technology.
Sound Quality and Performance
While design is important, audiophiles ultimately care most about sound quality. Victrola’s higher-end turntables are built with sound reproduction in mind. Models such as the Victrola Stream Carbon, with its carbon-fiber tonearm and advanced stylus options, represent a considerable leap in terms of performance when compared to entry-level models. These turntables focus on minimizing distortion and maximizing clarity, ensuring that users can enjoy the full range of vinyl’s rich sound profile.
The presence of audiophile-grade features, such as high-fidelity cartridges, adjustable tonearms, and vibration-damping construction, means that Victrola’s premium turntables are competitive with other high-quality players in the market. These design choices are crucial in ensuring that the turntables provide an accurate and full sound, one that truly conveys the warmth and depth associated with vinyl playback. Victrola has come a long way in this regard, moving from its initial emphasis on accessibility to a focus on refining the audio performance of its products.
Victrola’s offerings also integrate Bluetooth and wireless connectivity, allowing users to stream audio through their speakers or headphones. This combination of modern functionality with vintage-style sound makes Victrola turntables versatile, appealing to both traditional audiophiles who prefer the tactile experience of vinyl and younger generations seeking the convenience of wireless audio.
Victrola as an Accessible Gateway to Vinyl
One of the most significant contributions that Victrola has made to the audiophile community is its role in making high-fidelity audio accessible to a broader audience. While brands like Rega, Pro-Ject, and Technics dominate the high-end turntable market, Victrola provides a more accessible entry point for newcomers to the world of vinyl. Their more affordable models, while not typically regarded as true audiophile-grade equipment, serve as an introduction to the medium for those looking to experience vinyl without a hefty investment.
For many music lovers, Victrola’s affordable entry-level models provide a no-frills way to get started with vinyl. The simplicity and ease of use of these turntables make them an ideal choice for those who want to dip their toes into the world of vinyl before committing to more expensive setups. These models often come with built-in speakers and preamps, making them a convenient all-in-one solution for casual listeners and newcomers alike.
