Is Cambridge Audio's $699 Alva ST The AUDIOPHILE TURNTABLE Worth Saving For?

In this video, I dive deep into the Cambridge Audio Alva ST—a belt-drive turntable that promises audiophile-grade performance, plug-and-play convenience, and modern features like aptX HD Bluetooth and a built-in phono stage. At $699, is it worth saving up for instead of settling for a cheaper starter table? ▶️ I’ll cover:     •    Why audiophiles might want to skip the $300 “toy” turntables     •    How the Alva ST performs with its stock AT-VM95E cartridge     •    The benefits (and drawbacks) of its built-in phono stage and wireless output     •    Who this turntable is really for     •    My honest thoughts after living with it for several weeks Whether you’re new to vinyl or looking for your next upgrade, this video gives you everything you need to know about the Alva ST before buying. LINKS! Cambridge Audio: https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/hi-fi/alva/alva-st Get The ALVA ST: https://amzn.to/4l6YTvi Cambridge Audio Store: https://amzn.to/43Jqe0R VISIT my friends at ALL ELITE AUDIO: https://alleliteaudio.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqPEKCAI1eJAezU2rJZLg_DDy5iKwD_989Stuv_GEvH_irU6dTo ⸻ 📦 Cambridge Audio Alva ST – Key Specs:     •    Drive Type: Belt-drive     •    Cartridge: Pre-installed Audio-Technica AT-VM95E (Moving Magnet)     •    Tonearm: Custom aluminum tonearm with anti-skating     •    Phono Stage: Built-in, switchable (based on Cambridge Alva Duo circuitry)     •    Bluetooth: Yes, aptX HD (24-bit/48kHz streaming)     •    Platter: Die-cast aluminum     •    Speeds: 33 ⅓ and 45 RPM (electronic speed change)     •    Plinth: Low-resonance MDF with aluminum top plate     •    Feet: Vibration-damped     •    Outputs: RCA (line/phono), Bluetooth     •    Dimensions: 435 x 139 x 367mm     •    Weight: 9.2 kg (approx. 20 lbs) ⸻ 🔄 Upgrade Tips: 🎯 Want more detail and separation? Consider upgrading to the VM95ML or VM95EN stylus, or bypassing the internal phono stage and using a dedicated external preamp. ⸻ 🎵 TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 – Intro 01:20 – Why this price point matters 03:00 – Features overview 05:30 – Sound impressions 07:10 – Cartridge & upgrade path 08:45 – Built-in phono stage & Bluetooth 10:20 – Pros & Cons 12:00 – Final thoughts ⸻ 📢 Subscribe for More Audiophile Content! If you love gear reviews, honest takes, and vinyl talk—hit that Like and Subscribe for more videos from United States of Analog.