Unleash Timeless Sound with the Victrola Stream Sapphire: A Premium Dual-Digital Streaming Turntable Review
Victrola Stream Sapphire: Unboxing and First Impressions
The Victrola Stream Sapphire is a latest addition to Victrola’s ‘Stream’ series of turntables, packing a punch with its all-new Sonos compatibility. This wireless wonder boasts state-of-the-art UPnP audio streaming, allowing it to seamlessly connect to devices around your home. For a hefty price tag, does it deliver on performance and convenience? Let’s dive in and find out.
Design and Construction
The Stream Sapphire may not be the most beautifully designed turntable, with a rather boxy physique and a sharp front plate. However, its quality construction and sturdy build ensures it will withstand the gentle handling of a vinyl fanatic. The platter lifts and tonearm are secure, and the dust cover fits snugly.
Sound Quality
The moment you drop the needle (or rather, the electronic stylus), you can sense the Stream Sapphire has got it right. An Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, well-supported by a carbon fibre tonearm, produces smooth, detailed sound with low tracking errors. The record player’s wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) is undoubtedly impressive, though an Ethernet connection or a super-fast Wi-Fi plan will undoubtedly be necessary for uninterrupted sound.
Convenience
The Stream Sapphire’s user-friendliness is in its DNA. With WiFi connectivity, you can link it to your Sonos speaker system, and – voilà! Instant wireless vinyl streaming. Connect it to your home setup, and you’ll easily access your favourite tunes directly from the turntable without the need for additional conversion. It’s a technological marvel, no doubt – but at what cost? The price tag of a cool $1,299.99 / £1,499.99 / approx. AU$2890 may be a pill to swallow for some serious audiophiles.
Specifications
Here’s the lowdown on the essential specs:
- Dimensions: 430 x 111 x 345mm (W x H x D)
- Motor: Belt drive
- Platter: Aluminium
- Phon Preamp: Yes, built-in
- Connectivity: RCA, Sonos, UPnP
- Speeds: 33, 45 rpm
How I Tested It
I spent three blissful weeks with the Victrola Stream Sapphire in my living room hi-fi setup, using it with my trusty Cambridge AV amplifier and Celestion speakers. I tested primarily through RCA outputs, before wirelessly connecting it to Joe Lynch’s Sonos One system. I evaluated its performance using personal favorites, getting a feel for its character both wired and wirelessly.
Specifications Comparison
Here’s the Stream Sapphire alongside its equally impressive peers:
| Characteristic | Victrola Stream Sapphire | Victrola Stream Carbon | Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 430 x 111 x 345mm | 430 x 111 x 345mm | 435 x 139 x 368mm |
| Motor | Belt drive | Belt drive | Direct drive |
| Platter | Aluminium | Aluminium | POM (Polyoxymethylene) |
| Stylus | Ortofon 2M Blue | Ortofon 2M Red | Cambridge Audio High Output Moving Coil |
| Extras | Dust cover, 45 RPM adapter, rubber slip mat | Dust cover, 45 RPM adapter, rubber slip mat | Dust cover, Ortofon stylus gauge, RCA cable and ground lead |
Despite its impressive features, we can’t help but nitpick the Stream Sapphire for its slightly higher price than its peers. Still, for those willing to dig deep, this turntable offers unparalleled convenience and great sound quality.
