Victrola Stream Sonos turntables receive an unexpected Bluetooth enhancement.
Derek Malcolm / Digital Trends
Victrola’s Stream turntables are set to receive an automatic, over-the-air software update that will enable users to stream music through Bluetooth, Universal Plug’n’Play (UPnP), and utilize their turntables as sources for Roon-based multiroom audio systems. This update is anticipated to start rolling out today and will encompass Victrola’s initial three Stream models: Stream Carbon, Stream Onyx, and Stream Pearl.
When Victrola first introduced its Stream turntables, their standout feature was their integrated Sonos compatibility, allowing vinyl to be streamed directly to Sonos speakers via Wi-Fi without needing an intermediary device like a Sonos Port or Sonos Amp.
However, at that time, if you sought a turntable capable of streaming through Bluetooth, you would have had to explore other options. It appears that Victrola had the Bluetooth streaming capability already built into its Stream models but had chosen not to activate it at launch.
Bluetooth functionality will allow the Stream turntables to connect with and stream to any Bluetooth audio device, such as wireless headphones, earbuds, or Bluetooth speakers. This upgrade is also beneficial for users with Wi-Fi-based multiroom audio systems not based on Sonos hardware. With UPnP support, a Stream turntable can use Wi-Fi to stream to a compatible UPnP network music streamer, endpoint, or integrated amp like the Wiim Amp Pro.
In August 2024, Victrola released its flagship Stream Sapphire model, priced at $1,300, which includes Sonos, AirPlay, Google Cast, Roon, and UPnP support; however, similar to the original Stream models, it lacked Bluetooth connectivity. This update will also include the Stream Sapphire, granting it the Bluetooth capability it previously did not have.
Editor’s note: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that the Stream Sapphire was not part of the update.
Simon Cohen is a contributing editor for Digital Trends' Audio/Video section, where he focuses on the latest wireless technologies.
What are Bluetooth codecs, and do they really matter? A comprehensive guide to wireless audio technology
With the increasing popularity of wireless headphones and earbuds, a host of technical terms have emerged. From wireless charging and Bluetooth multipoint to wear sensors, ANC, transparency, IPX ratings, and spatial audio, it can all become quite overwhelming.
While most terms are fairly straightforward, one that often confuses people is Bluetooth codecs. So what exactly are they, and why should they be important to you? We’ll clarify this topic in simple terms, so the next time you read a headphone review mentioning aptX, AAC, or LDAC support, you’ll understand what it refers to and how it could influence your listening experience.
The best alternatives to Sonos
We have recommended Sonos wireless speakers and components for many years and still believe the company produces excellent products. However, the issues caused by the Sonos app redesign on May 7 have significantly affected almost every aspect of the Sonos experience, and we are still awaiting promised fixes.
If you own Sonos products, we empathize with your frustration. If you have made a considerable investment in the company's ecosystem, it may be best to wait this period out. Eventually, things will return to normal, and ideally, the Sonos experience will improve.
Enhance your next garden party with Victrola’s solar-powered speakers
While Victrola is primarily known for its turntables, the company is now venturing into outdoor audio with its Rock Speaker Connect, a Bluetooth landscape speaker designed for gardens, backyards, or patios. What distinguishes this speaker is its solar-powered design, eliminating the need for wires or plugs for power.
This speaker is designed to seamlessly integrate into various garden settings with its Stone, Sand, or Granite finishes and realistic rock appearance. It is also IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, meaning it can withstand light water pressure from sprinklers, rain, and splashes.
Other articles
The M4 MacBook Air from Apple merges performance and portability, priced at $999.
Apple has recently refreshed the well-liked MacBook Air laptop, equipping it with its proprietary M4 chip, which indicates that the entire MacBook lineup now operates on Apple’s newest silicon.
3 sci-fi films on Peacock that you should check out in March 2025.
In March 2025, you should check out three sci-fi movies on Peacock that feature a woman with enhanced abilities, an alien, and an invisible man as central characters.
Another spacecraft is set to land on the moon tomorrow — here's how you can catch the event.
It’s an exciting week for the moon: this past weekend featured the , and there's another lunar landing set to occur very soon as well. Intuitive Machines is scheduled to land its Nova-C lander tomorrow, March 6, and NASA will be streaming the event live so you can watch from home. Here’s what to anticipate from the […]
Apple has released new MacBook Air with M4 processor
Apple has unveiled updated MacBook Air models that now run on the new M4 processor. The company promises that laptops have become faster and more powerful, as well as received a number of useful improvements.
My initial impression of the super slim tri-fold Tecno Phantom Ultimate 2 is quite positive.
Mobile World Congress: Check out our full coverage of the event, updated less than 6 minutes ago. Tri-fold smartphone designs were a key highlight, with Tecno’s Phantom Ultimate 2 emerging as a significant contender. The device was displayed within a glass case. Although I did not have the opportunity to engage with […]
Assassin's Creed Shadows preload instructions: release date, file size, and additional details.
After several months of delays, Assassin's Creed Shadows is almost upon us. We've waited long enough, so be sure to find out how to preload the game ahead of its release.
Victrola Stream Sonos turntables receive an unexpected Bluetooth enhancement.
Victrola's Stream turntables were initially introduced as Sonos-compatible devices, but they now offer a wider range of features.