Victrola Stream Sapphire: The Ultimate Turntable for Sonos Enthusiasts
The Victrola Stream Sapphire has emerged as a game-changer in the world of high-fidelity audio, especially for those who are ardent fans of Sonos speakers. This new addition to the Victrola lineup is not just another turntable; it is a meticulously crafted piece of technology that promises to elevate your vinyl listening experience to unprecedented heights. Certified by Sonos, the Victrola Stream Sapphire is designed to seamlessly integrate with Sonos systems, offering an unparalleled combination of convenience and superior sound quality. For audiophiles and Sonos enthusiasts alike, this turntable represents the pinnacle of wireless vinyl streaming, eliminating the need for cumbersome cables and additional equipment.
What sets the Victrola Stream Sapphire apart from its predecessors and competitors is its ability to stream high-resolution audio wirelessly. Unlike most new speakers that require a line-in connection to a turntable with a built-in preamp, the Stream Sapphire leverages Wi-Fi to deliver higher-resolution audio streaming. This means you can enjoy your vinyl records in 24-bit/48kHz lossless FLAC audio, capturing every nuance and subtlety of the music. This feature alone makes it a standout choice for those who demand the highest quality in their audio setup. Moreover, the turntable supports advanced technologies like Roon and UPnP, making it compatible with premium wireless speakers from renowned brands such as KEF, Naim, Sonus Faber, and Devialet.
The build quality of the Victrola Stream Sapphire is another aspect that commands attention. Constructed with high-quality materials like low-resonance MDF and wrapped in a walnut veneer, the turntable exudes a sense of luxury and durability. It features a semi-automatic belt-driven design, which not only ensures smooth and accurate playback but also adds to the overall aesthetic appeal. The carbon-fiber tonearm and pre-installed Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge are designed to minimize distortion and provide stunning detail in playback. Additionally, the turntable is equipped with adjustable aluminum sound-dampening feet and a quiet, brushless motor, further enhancing its performance and reliability.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Victrola Stream Sapphire is its user-friendly interface. The front of the turntable features an illuminated control knob that allows for easy operation, even in low-light conditions. For those who prefer a more modern approach, the dedicated Victrola Stream app offers wireless connection and remote control capabilities. This app simplifies the setup process and provides a seamless way to manage your vinyl collection. However, it is worth noting that the initial setup for Sonos speaker owners is slightly more complex than that of a standard Sonos speaker, as it requires configuration through the Victrola app and can only be grouped with one Sonos speaker at a time.
The Victrola Stream Sapphire was first announced at CES 2021, generating significant buzz among audio enthusiasts. After much anticipation, it is now available for pre-order in the United States, with a retail price of $1,299. This makes it nearly twice as expensive as the Stream Carbon, but the added features and superior build quality justify the higher price point. The turntable is set to be released in the US in mid-August and will be available in the UK on October 1. Given its advanced features and premium construction, the Victrola Stream Sapphire is poised to become a must-have for serious vinyl collectors and Sonos users.
In addition to its impressive technical specifications, the Victrola Stream Sapphire offers a unique blend of modern convenience and classic vinyl charm. The turntable eliminates the need for extra equipment and messy cables, allowing you to enjoy your vinyl records without the usual hassle. Whether you are a vinyl purist or someone looking to integrate vinyl into a modern wireless audio setup, the Stream Sapphire caters to a wide range of preferences. CEO Scott Hagen has emphasized that the turntable will appeal to both vinyl purists and integrators, making it a versatile addition to any audio system.
The Victrola Stream Sapphire also stands out for its versatility in terms of connectivity. In addition to its wireless streaming capabilities, the turntable features gold-plated RCA outputs for wired connections. This ensures that you have multiple options for integrating the turntable into your existing audio setup. Whether you prefer a traditional wired connection or the convenience of wireless streaming, the Stream Sapphire has you covered. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for both seasoned audiophiles and newcomers to the world of vinyl.
Another noteworthy feature of the Victrola Stream Sapphire is its compatibility with a wide range of wireless speakers. While it is certified to work seamlessly with Sonos speakers, the turntable’s support for UPnP means it can also stream records to other Wi-Fi-enabled devices in a lossless format. This ensures that every detail of the music is captured, including subtle sounds and imperfections that are often lost in lower-quality audio formats. For those who value audio fidelity, this feature is a significant selling point.
The turntable’s design and build quality are also worth mentioning. The low-resonance MDF plinth wrapped in walnut veneer not only looks elegant but also contributes to the turntable’s excellent acoustic properties. The adjustable aluminum sound-dampening feet and quiet, brushless motor further enhance the listening experience by minimizing vibrations and noise. The carbon-fiber tonearm and Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge ensure that the turntable delivers stunning detail and minimal distortion, making it a joy to listen to.
For those who have had the opportunity to experience the Victrola Stream Sapphire firsthand, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers have praised the turntable for its smooth and refined sound, good stereo focus, and wide soundstage. The turntable handles the frequency range well, adding a slight warmth to the sound that many listeners find appealing. While some have noted a slight lack of drive and dynamism compared to other turntables, the overall performance is impressive, especially considering the convenience of wireless streaming.
The Victrola Stream Sapphire is not just about high-quality audio; it also offers a high level of convenience. The ability to stream vinyl records wirelessly to multiple speakers without compromising on sound quality is a game-changer for many users. Whether you are hosting a party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Stream Sapphire makes it easy to fill your space with the rich, warm sound of vinyl. This level of convenience, combined with the turntable’s superior build quality and audio performance, makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade their audio setup.
In conclusion, the Victrola Stream Sapphire is a remarkable turntable that offers a perfect blend of modern technology and classic vinyl charm. Its ability to stream high-resolution audio wirelessly, combined with its premium construction and user-friendly features, make it an excellent choice for both vinyl purists and Sonos enthusiasts. While it comes at a higher price point, the added features and superior build quality justify the investment. For those who demand the best in their audio setup, the Victrola Stream Sapphire is a worthy addition that promises to deliver an exceptional listening experience.