Cambridge Audio turns out new Bluetooth record players at CES 2022

    
    Cambridge Audio Alva V2
    Cambridge Audio
    

    This story is part of CES, where CNET covers the latest news on the most incredible tech coming soon.
    

    British hi-fi manufacturer Cambridge Audio has announced two new Bluetooth tables at CES 2022 — the Alva TT V2 and Alva ST — with prices starting at $1,000.
    The turntables follow on from the 2019 Alva, which included aptX HD Bluetooth streaming (to a pair of headphones or speaker). Both of the new turntables offer a switchable phono stage, aptX HD and a redesigned tonearm with a removable headshell.?
    While the original Alva was a riff on the Rega Planar 2 (especially in the tonearm), the V2 is its own beast that keeps the Rega-like Alva MC cartridge (a $499 value). The Alva V2 also features a direct-drive motor which powers a polyoxymethylene (Delrin) platter — a material that is prized by audiophiles as it closely resembles the vinyl that records are stamped on.
    
    Cambridge Audio Alva ST
    Cambridge Audio
    Meanwhile, the Alva ST is a cut down version with less damping inside the plinth, and it uses a belt drive motor with a die-cast aluminum platter. It also features an entry-level cartridge in the Audio Technica AT-VM95e. Of the two the Alva ST is the most compelling as it offers an all-in-one solution for the same price as the Pro-ject Debut Pro or Planar 3?– both of which require a separate preamp.
    The Alva TT V2 ($1,999 ￡1,700) and Alva ST ($999/￡850) turntables will be available in spring 2022. Australian pricing is yet to be announced but expect around AU$3,000 and AU$1,500, respectively.