Latest news with #turntable
Forbes
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Andover Audio SpinBase MAX 2: Who Says Sequels Are Boring?
Andover Audio's SpinBase MAX 2 premium turntable speaker system Sequels often get a bad rap. In movies, they are frequently cited as being 'lazy' releases in an attempt to milk the cash cow of the original. However, there are exceptions where the sequel not only equals, but is truly better than the original movie. All of this is a lead up to the SpinBase MAX 2 from Andover Audio. This premium, under-turntable audio system is not just a sequel, but a sequel to a sequel (of sorts). And the SpinBase MAX 2 is one of those sequels that proves improving on the best features of the original can deliver impressive results. A Little SpinBase History Andover Audio made turntable owners very happy with the release of the SpinBase, which I reviewed in 2020. This unique audio system housed multiple drivers (two tweeters and two woofers) in an MDF enclosure just slightly larger than a turntable. The dimensions were no accident since the SpinBase was designed to sit beneath the turntable, saving space while still offering 270-degree sound. It also had a built-in PHONO stage, as well as Bluetooth wireless streaming. And to prevent speaker vibration from reaching the turntable perched above and causing feedback, the SpinBase employed Andover Audio's patented IsoGroove technology. Three years later, I reviewed the SpinBase MAX. This sequel grew an inch taller but featured improvements such as larger woofers (3.5-inches), a power boost to 60W and the ability to also stream to a Bluetooth device, not just from. SpinBase MAX 2 A slightly different top panel, but the SpinBase MAX 2 is instantly recognizable Now we have the SpinBase MAX 2, which I have had connected to a turntable in my test system for the past several months. This latest version looks almost identical to the original SpinBase MAX, but now packs six drivers in that enclosure, gaining an additional pair of 3.5-inch woofers. You'll see big differences compared to the original when you check the back panels. It also gets a significant power boost, with 100W now on tap. Low end frequency response has dropped down to 50Hz. The brick is gone with the power supply now built in to the enclosure. But despite the new capabilities, the SpinBase MAX 2 retains the core of what made the original(s) so popular: a minimalist white or black cloth-covered enclosure with a single knob on front, the perfect size to perch a turntable on, IsoGroove to prevent feedback, a PHONO input, a range of inputs and outputs, adjustable bass and treble and 270-degree audio. SpinBase MAX 2 Specs: Hands On With the SpinBase MAX 2 The SpinBase MAX was already a very good audio system for the price and as you might expect, adding another pair of woofers and more power only improves that situation. In addition, the new optical input makes this system an option for plugging in your TV. Losing the power brick for a built-in power supply is a welcome upgrade that makes this system even more convenient to set up. In terms of how well that 270-degree audio performs–a key factor in choosing a system like this instead of a pair of speakers–here's an anecdote from my experience with the SpinBase MAX 2. Typically, I would start with the basics on a new audio system. However, since I was already quite familiar with the product (having tested both the SpinBase and SpinBase MAX), I decided to kick things off with an advanced configuration utilizing a pair of powered bookshelf speakers connected to the system to extend the sound depth and leverage their larger woofers for a little more bass oomph. The results were what I was hoping for: a wide soundstage with convincing stereo separation and plenty of low end. I listened through three full records until I noticed that I had forgotten to power up the bookshelf speakers. I had been listening to the SpinBase MAX 2 solo the entire time. And that tells you everything you need to know about how well this system performs. SpinBase MAX 2 is designed to make the most of your turntable without requiring additional space Vinyl Fan Who is Short of Space And/Or Funds? Here's a Solution Records continue to be the hottest-selling physical media for music. However, making the most of a record's sound is an investment and also requires physical space. Sure, you can just plug a record player into the AUX of a portable speaker, but the result is going to be disappointing. However, buying the components needed for a stellar setup–an amplifier, a pair of speakers and possibly a PHONO preamp as well–can be a budgetary stretch as well as taking up a lot of space. And that's on top of the turntable, which is neither inexpensive nor compact. Andover Audio's SpinBase MAX2 is designed to address both of those issues. In terms of space savings, you get a multi-speaker system with 270-degree audio and an assortment of inputs and outputs in a single box that fits beneath the turntable. It takes up almost no additional space on a shelf, and Andover Audio's designers have made sure its minimalist design and white or black cloth cover will complement any decor. While the SpinBase MAX2 costs more than most portable Bluetooth speakers, its price is likely to save you money compared to a full component stereo setup as well. The Andover Audio SpinBase MAX2 is available now, with an MSRP of $549. Disclosure: Andover Audio provided a SpinBase MAX 2 for evaluation purposes but had no input into this article.
Forbes
11-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
AVID Reveals The Relveo Its First All-New Vinyl Turntable In A Dozen Years
The new AVID Relveo has been designed from the ground up and is the brainchild of AVID's ... More founder/owner, Conrad Mas. AVID Is there any other piece of audio equipment that's quite so intriguing and beautiful as a vinyl turntable? The combination of mechanics and electronics to extract every nuance from the grooves of a vinyl pressing is a wonder of engineering and enjoying a renaissance in the age of digital music. British Hi-Fi brand AVID agrees and has just launched the Relveo, its first new turntable in 12 years. The new turntable has been designed from the ground up and is the brainchild of AVID's founder/owner, Conrad Mas. Designed, engineered and hand-built in England, the new Relveo is a significant evolution for the company, bringing together AVID's engineering pedigree with a new suspension system, reimagined platter and an advanced external power supply. The Relveo has been launched to commemorate AVID's 30th anniversary and is inspired by three decades of analog innovation. Every component of the turntable, from the high-mass precision-machined platter to its separately housed DSP-controlled power supply, has been refined for speed, accuracy and enhanced musicality. The new Relveo from AVID includes the award-winning Altus V2 tonearm, a design that inherits ... More technology from AVID's reference tonearms. AVID The turntable has a newly developed conical suspension system that is resiliently coupled to both isolate and stabilize while also simplifying the setup process for a range of end-users. Conrad Mas, founder, owner and CEO of AVID says: 'The new Relveo embodies everything AVID stands for: engineering without compromise, enduring beauty, and a profound connection to music. It distils three decades of breakthrough technologies into a single, powerful statement piece for the modern music lover.' The Relveo is handmade and ships with AVID's award-winning Altus V2 tonearm. It's a design that inherits technology from the company's reference tonearms. The Altus V2 has micron-tolerance bearings and includes AVID's recently introduced dual-adjustable bias compensation system. For those who already own a suitable tonearm, the Relveo can be bought bare without the Altus V2. Pricing and Availability: The Relveo is available to order from AVID's global retailer network now. The price with Altus V2 tonearm (as supplied): $10,995 / £6,900 / €8,995. The Relveo is also available bare and priced at $8,995 / £5,500 / €7,495.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
What the Tech: Fathers Day gift ideas vinyl
Even the most tech-savvy dads agree, sometimes old-school is just cooler. And for dads who love music, nothing says nostalgia quite like spinning a vinyl record. This Father's Day, if you're looking for a meaningful and memorable gift, vinyl might be the perfect choice. From entry-level turntables to vintage sound systems and classic albums, here's a guide to help you hit the right note. If Dad doesn't already have one, a turntable is the place to start. You can find solid options for around $100 at stores like Walmart or Target. Many of today's turntables come with modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, so he can play records and wirelessly stream the sound to any speaker in the house. Want to step it up a notch? Mid-range models from brands like House of Marley or Audio-Technica offer better sound, sleek designs, and higher-quality components. If you're buying a turntable to connect to a modern stereo or powered speakers, look for one with a built-in preamp. That will save you from needing additional equipment. If Dad is a true audiophile or had a setup back in the day, vintage gear might be the ultimate gift. Refurbished turntables and stereo receivers from the 1970s, including models from Sansui, Pioneer, and Technics, are in high demand because they sound excellent. The only downside is the cost. A full setup with vintage components and speakers can run into the thousands. But for a music lover who appreciates the sound and design of classic equipment, it might be the perfect gift. If Dad already owns a turntable, that makes your job even easier. Vinyl records are widely available. Original pressings from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s can be found online and in record shops. Most new artists now release their albums on vinyl as well, so whether he is into classic rock, jazz, soul, or modern indie music, there are plenty of options. Check out the website Discogs for tens of thousands of new and used vinyl records. Thanks to the return of vinyl, independent record shops are thriving. Browsing through racks and flipping through bargain bins is part of the fun, and it is a great way to spend time while shopping for something special. If you cannot find what you're looking for locally, online sellers are a great option. The WhatNot app features live record auctions where you can discover hidden gems. A seller called Collect Co streams live every night on Facebook and YouTube and ships directly to your door. The store purchases record collections nationwide and sells them during live streams. Once Dad gets into vinyl again, you will have gift ideas for every occasion. Albums, accessories, storage crates, and cleaning kits all make great add-ons. And if he spends the rest of Father's Day spinning his favorite records and reliving the soundtrack of his youth, you will know you found the perfect gift. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Forbes
02-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Clearaudio Compass Launches Its Entry-Level Turntable At A Knock-Out Price
The Compass turntable is precision-made by German audio brand Clearaudio. It's an entry-level model. ... More If you've ever fancied owning and high-end turntable to play your vinyl on but found the price of the top-end models a little too salty, then news from the German manufacturer Clearaudio may be of interest. Clearaudio has announced the launch of its Compass turntable. This is a new and entry-level model that's designed to bring high-end audio quality within reach of many more people without compromising on quality. The new Compass is a ready-to-play turntable with a brand-new T1 tonearm, which is a smaller version of Clearaudio's Satisfy tonearm. The Compass turntable also includes a newly developed N1 moving magnet cartridge. Clearaudio's Compass turntable will ship with the newly developed N1 moving magnet cartridge mounted ... More on Clearaudio's T1 tonearm. The compact Compass is available in sleek black or silver finishes and comes with a detachable acrylic lid to keep dust off your records. Using precision-milled components made from premium materials, the Compass is the epitome of German engineering and is designed for long life and years of listening. Clearaudio CEO, Robert Suchy, says: 'Clearaudio has always stood for uncompromising quality, ultimate precision, and exceptional design. Now we are welcoming a wider audience for our high-end technology and performance with Compass: a ready-to-play turntable delivering a vinyl-listening experience that far exceeds expectations in this price range.' At the core of the Compass turntable is a precision bearing that works in combination with a specially manufactured platter and sub-platter. All three items have been manufactured with the same attention to detail that Clearaudio applies to all its products. The new T1 tonearm on the Compass turntable is a smaller version of Clearaudio's acclaimed Satisfy ... More tonearm. You can read up on the full technical specifications for the turntable, tonearm and cartridge below. The Clearaudio Compass is just entering production and will be available to buy worldwide by September 2025 and will carry a suggested retail price of €1,290. Pricing in other currencies will be confirmed closer to the launch date.
Forbes
25-05-2025
- Forbes
QlearSoul SoulBox S1 Vinyl Record Player With Stereo Speakers
The Qlearsoul SoulBox S1. That slip mat looks more than a little like Canada's CBC logo... If you're looking for an affordable way to listen to your record collection, there's a new option in the SoulBox S1 from QlearSoul. The system includes a turntable, Bluetooth streaming support and bookshelf speakers, all wrapped in a warm wood finish and typically retails in the $250 range. Listening to records with true stereo sound is the ideal setup. However, many people make compromises early on and end up with a system that lacks this capability. A 'suitcase-style' portable record player, or a turntable plugged into a portable speaker delivering mono sound, for example. There are many reasons why someone might find themselves in this position. A component system with a receiver or amplifier, PHONO pre-amp, turntable and speakers can be an expensive proposition and then there's the challenge of matching components that are going to look good and, more importantly, sound good together. Space is often an issue. And then there's the complexity of setting up a component system and a turntable. For someone who's not comfortable with working with audio equipment, this prospect can be daunting. The turntable arrives largely assembled. With the SoulBox S1, QlearSoul aimed at eliminating these barriers. Both the PHONO pre-amp and the system amplifier are built into the turntable. That means stereo sound with only one power supply (the bookshelf speakers are not powered) and all that's needed is to connect the speakers to the turntable with the included cables. The turntable itself is shipped largely assembled, including having the cartridge pre-mounted on the tonearm. You'll need to attach the counterweight, balance the tonearm and set the anti-skate dial, attach the belt and platter, then slip the plastic cover on the pre-installed hinges. Clear instructions are included, no tools are required and this should be a five or 10 minute exercise that only needs to be done once. A built-in, switchable PHONO pre-amp, plus a built-in stereo amplifier to drive the bookshelf ... More speakers. Many entry level record players and turntables keep costs down by using a generic cartridge and/or stylus. Doing so does help to keep the price down, but at the cost of sound quality. A cheap stylus that tracks too heavily can also physically damage a record, which is the last thing you want to do. QlearSoul went with the Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge, plus an adjustable counterweight and antiskate. The AT-3600L is a popular, budget-friendly offering from a leading audio brand. It's known for providing an entertaining listen while helping to minimize skips from used records. With millions of these sold, it's easy to find a replacement stylus. Equipped with the workhorse Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge The speakers included with this system are each equipped with a 2-inch silk dome tweeter for crisp high notes with 4.5-inch fiberglass cones covering the mid-range and bass. Included bookshelf speakers QlearSoul describes the SoulBox S1 as 'an entry-level audiophile system designed for ultimate versatility.' To that end, the SoulBox S1 fills the role of a turntable connected to a pair of bookshelf speakers allowing users to listen to their records in true stereo sound. Its Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge has a reputation as a solid all-round performer and its stylus can be upgraded should you want to take the sound of records up a notch. For that matter, if you happen to buy a component stereo system later on, you can use this as a pure turntable that feeds into that system, thanks to its switchable pre-amp and RCA output jacks. Option to use this as a standalone turntable. With the SoulBox S1's built-in Bluetooth connectivity, you can go digital and wirelessly stream music from your favorite platform from your phone, tablet, or PC–enjoying the tracks in stereo. The bottom line is the QlearSoul SoulBox S1 provides a budget-friendly entry to records, with true stereo sound and support for Bluetooth wireless music streaming. All in a package that's compact, easy to set up and wrapped in a warm, wood-look finish. Disclosure: QlearSoul provided a SoulBox S1 for evaluation purposes but had no input into this article.
