Group test
Bluetooth turntables
Stream your vinyl wirelessly
Group test
Reviewed by HOLLIN JONES
ON TEST…
> 1ByOne H009
> Audio-Technica AT-LP3XBT
> JBL Spinner BT
> Pro-Ject T1 Evo BT
Record players have undergone a true renaissance in recent years, with listeners appreciating the analogue warmth and depth of the sound produced by vinyl, especially in this era where almost everything seems to be digital. It’s far from being a fad – vinyl absolutely has its own character that’s quite unlike any other medium. While serious audiophiles might opt for a large and expensive separates system, a Bluetooth turntable provides a more affordable and flexible way to enjoy the sound of vinyl.
Since a turntable connects directly to your Bluetooth speaker, it gets around Apple’s lack of support for higher bitrate codecs and so transmits much more data. Remember that these are turntables first and foremost, with Bluetooth bolted on – the engineering all goes into the physical design and the quality of the cartridge and stylus. They all also have RCA connectors for hooking up to separates or other audio hardware, should you wish. The Bluetooth element provides extra flexibility or even a way to use them without any other hi-fi.