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.
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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.