Senior Member
Location: Isle of Skye
Posts: 191
I'm Martin.
Any views on Cambridge Audio Akva Turntable?
Source: Wadia 170 iTransport
Apple iPod 120MB/160MB, Apple iMac/Airport Express, Musical Fidelity X-RAY CD player,
Beresford Caiman SEG with Dorado power supply
Amplification: ATC SCA2 Pre
Speaker: ATC SCM 50 ASL Classic
Other cables, power supplies: Chord Signature, Mike Homar, Mark Grant G1000HD, RFC Reference Mercury, 20000mAH Ankaka battery
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Senior Member
Location: Essex-Herts border
Posts: 141
I'm Matt.
Proof of the pudding etc etc,
But without having heard it, a few thoughts,
Even aptx bluetooth isn't consistently brilliant, so I'd have thought that's a limiting factor.
Looks a bit like a Rega arm, so maybe thats a clue as to which factory makes it?
Its a bit unusual to bundle in an MC cart, especially as its an unbranded one.
At this price (if you take out the cost of the BT transmitter, the cart & phono stage), I'd probably prefer a belt drive over DD. I think to get DD right takes a bit of decent engineering which costs.
Anyone looking to spend this sort of money should be auditioning a few alternatives as well.
Drunken Moderator
Location: Staffordshire, England
Posts: 37,872
I'm Martin.
Unless you want the Bluetooth thing I'd spend the same on one of the new Technics.
This must have a built in phono stage too I guess. Convenience over sound quality. At least it's a direct drive.
Current Lash Up:
TEAC VRDS 701T > Sony TAE1000ESD > Krell KSA50S > JM Labs Focal Electra 926.
Trade: Radlett Audio
Location: Near Saffron Walden, Essex
Posts: 7,090
I'm Dave.
It's most likely a Rega OEM arm but they don't make DD turntables.Originally Posted by Manicatel
This turntable looks a bit of a dog's dinner. If you want DD, then the new Technics should be on your list. If you want belt-drive, then take a look at Rega, Michell and Notts.
Senior Member
Location: Essex-Herts border
Posts: 141
I'm Matt.
Ah yes, very true.
It may be worth adding Project into that list for belt drive alternatives?
Trade: Magazine Journalist
Location: Hampshire, UK
Posts: 3,663
I'm Adam.
Well, I think it looks very interesting and I’m gagging to get my hands on one and have a play with it! From what I’ve read, the motor is Cambridge Audio’s own design which is a very impressive step.
To describe it as a “dog’s dinner” is, I think, grossly unfair. Regardless of whether the result is superb or not as good as hoped, at least CA haven’t just taken the predictable and safe route of just slapping their logo on yet another Rega or Pro-Ject deck. I think they are to be applauded for giving it a go.
Engineers: fixing problems you didn't know you had in ways you don't understand.
Senior Member
Location: Glastonbury, Somerset
Posts: 611
I'm Jason.
I agree totally - anything that gets people into vinyl is good in my book, and though there may be better alternates out there in terms of 'Sound per Pound' the sheer convenience of being able to drop this into a system with no concern for phono stages, leads and even amps (I'm thinking people with active/lifestyle systems like Sonos etc) will make it a potential winner. Looks nice too.
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Before you criticise a man, walk a mile in his shoes. Then, when you do - you'll be a mile away. And have his shoes.
Wavy grooves go thru a RigB 540ML on an SL1500C. Digits stream from a cheapie CDP and a Sonos, into a Yamaha 803D driving Kralk Audio little 'uns. I used to have a Linn but I'm better now.
Trade: Ammonite Acoustics
Location: Norwich
Posts: 2,814
I'm Hugo.
I do like the name - I have friends staying in Alva, which is in a very nice part of the country.
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