Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 turntable

Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2: An In-Depth Look

The Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 is not the brand's first foray into analog audio; they introduced a turntable several years ago. However, this time, they have ventured into the high-end segment. The Alva TT V2 showcases Cambridge Audio's expertise in analog technology while addressing modern connectivity and usability demands.

CAMBRIDGE AUDIO ALVA TT V2: PLINTH

The Alva TT V2 features a traditional design that inspires confidence with its substantial weight and rigidity. The top of the plinth is adorned with a stunning 6 mm "lunar grey" aluminum plate, consistent with the facades of the Alva product range. An EVA damping layer is placed between the aluminum plate and the high-density MDF chassis, contributing to the turntable's nearly 12 kg weight.

CAMBRIDGE AUDIO ALVA TT V2: PLATTER AND DRIVE

The platter is crafted from heavy POM (Polyoxymethylene), weighing 2.2 kg, offering excellent density and sufficient mass to ensure perfect rotational inertia. The designers opted for a direct drive system, derived from professional turntables. The 8-pole, 3-phase brushless DC motor is quartz-controlled for precise speed accuracy. The Alva TT V2 boasts a wow and flutter rate of 0.06%, thanks to precise control and quiet operation. Speed selection is managed via two electronic buttons (33 and 45 RPM) on the aluminum top surface.

CAMBRIDGE AUDIO ALVA TT V2: TONEARM AND CARTRIDGE

The Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 is equipped with a new 9-inch tonearm. After extensive testing, Cambridge Audio engineers selected a high-mass, low-resonance tonearm that minimizes resonance frequencies, extracting maximum detail from records. The die-cast aluminum removable headshell is paired with a superb high-output MC cartridge, the Cambridge Audio Alva MC.

CAMBRIDGE AUDIO ALVA TT V2: INTEGRATED PREAMPLIFIER

The integrated phono preamplifier is custom-designed for the Alva, inspired by the Alva Solo and Duo Phono. It is compatible with both MM (moving magnet) and high-output MC cartridges but can be bypassed if you prefer to use an external phono preamp or one built into an amplifier. Additionally, it features an aptX HD Bluetooth converter, allowing music to be streamed in high definition (up to 24-bit/48 kHz) to any Bluetooth receiver.

CAMBRIDGE AUDIO ALVA TT V2: SETUP

Setting up this turntable is straightforward, though it requires precise adjustment of the phono cartridge and tonearm. Simply connect it to a phono, Aux, or Line input on your amplifier, or use Bluetooth if that's your preferred option. This turntable offers the highest quality Bluetooth solution available today.

CAMBRIDGE AUDIO ALVA TT V2: PERFORMANCE

The Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 is the "Rolls Royce" of Bluetooth turntables, delivering results that justify the investment. Wired connections, as always, provide superior performance across all ranges. The sound reproduction is full and purely analog, with minimal noise and stable rotation allowing for the full expression of nuances and subtleties. Articulation, timbre, and balance are excellent, making the Alva TT V2 a standout. This turntable showcases Cambridge Audio's expertise, offering a high-end, connected turnkey solution that is unrivaled.

Highly recommended!