CAMBRIDGE Alva TT v2 - User Manual

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Alva TT v2 and Alva ST Turntables
Manual Generated: 22/04/2022 - 11:00

Summary

Introduction

Top view

Rear view

Setting up the Alva ST

Setting up the Alva TT v2

Getting connected

Analogue audio connections

Details on connecting the turntable using analogue audio outputs.

Phono connection

Instructions for connecting to an external phono stage.

Bluetooth connection

Guidance on establishing a wireless Bluetooth connection.

Bluetooth pairing

Procedure for pairing the turntable with Bluetooth devices.

Operating instructions

Playing Records

Steps for placing and playing a record on the turntable.

Ending Play

Procedure for safely lifting and storing the tonearm after playback.

Auto Power Down (APD)

Information on the automatic standby mode and how to disable/enable it.

Alva TT v2 Technical Specifications

Alva TT v2 Turntable Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Alva TT v2 model.

Tonearm Specifications

Technical details regarding the turntable's tonearm.

Internal Phono Stage Specifications

Specifications for the built-in phono preamplifier.

Output and General Specifications

Specifications related to audio outputs, power, dimensions, and cartridge.

Alva ST Technical Specifications

Alva ST Turntable Specifications

Technical details for the Alva ST turntable, including type, speeds, and platter.

Alva ST Tonearm Specifications

Specifications related to the tonearm of the Alva ST turntable.

Alva ST Internal Phono Stage Specifications

Details of the internal phono stage for the Alva ST turntable.

Alva ST Output, General & Cartridge Specifications

Specifications for Alva ST outputs, general features, and cartridge details.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting No Sound

Solutions for issues related to no audio output from the turntable.

Troubleshooting Distorted Sound

Diagnosing and fixing audio distortion or inconsistency issues.

Troubleshooting Stylus Skipping

Addressing problems where the stylus fails to track the record groove.

Troubleshooting Bluetooth Connectivity

Resolving issues when the turntable fails to connect to Bluetooth devices.

Troubleshooting Bluetooth Audio Quality

Fixing inconsistent audio playback when using Bluetooth.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Alva TT v2 Turntable
4. Alva ST Turntable
5. Usage Features
6. Maintenance Features

The Cambridge Audio Alva TT v2 and Alva ST Turntables are designed for high-fidelity vinyl playback, offering both traditional wired and modern wireless connectivity options. These turntables are built with a focus on sound quality, ease of use, and robust construction.

Function Description:

Both the Alva TT v2 and Alva ST are turntables that play vinyl records. They feature a tonearm, platter, and a cartridge to read the grooves of a record. A key distinction is that the Alva TT v2 comes with a pre-fitted Cambridge Audio MC (Moving Coil) cartridge, while the Alva ST is equipped with a Moving Magnetic Cartridge. Both models include an integrated phono stage, which allows them to be connected directly to an amplifier's line-level input without the need for a separate phono pre-amplifier. This internal phono stage can be bypassed if an external phono stage is preferred, offering flexibility for audiophiles.

A significant feature of both turntables is their Bluetooth connectivity, supporting SBC, aptX, and aptX HD codecs. This enables wireless streaming of vinyl audio to compatible Bluetooth headphones or speakers, providing a convenient way to enjoy records without extensive cabling. The Bluetooth pairing process is straightforward, with a dedicated button and LED indicators for status (fast flashing for pairing, slow flashing for searching, solid for paired, and long solid intervals for aptX/aptX HD codec).

The turntables support two standard record speeds: 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM, selectable via dedicated buttons on the top panel. They also include an Auto Power Down (APD) feature, which automatically switches the unit to standby mode after 20 minutes of inactivity, conserving energy. This feature can be disabled or re-enabled as needed.

Important Technical Specifications:

Alva TT v2 Turntable:

• Type: Static Balanced tonearm with Detachable Headshell.
• Turntable Speeds: 33 1/3, 45 rpm.
• Motor Torque: 1.6 kg/cm.
• Wow & Flutter: <0.1%.
• Turntable Platter: POM (Polyoxymethylene), 305 mm diameter.
• Tonearm Type: One-piece aluminium casting.
• Effective Length: 221.5 mm.
• Overhang: 19 mm.
• Effective Mass: 19.6 g.
• Internal Phono Stage Gain @ 1kHz: 42dB.
• Nominal Output (with CA Cartridge): 250mVrms.
• Equivalent Input Noise (A-Weighted): 0.1uVrms.
• RIAA Curve Accuracy: +/-0.3dB 30Hz-20kHz.
• Signal/Noise Ratio (Ref 1V Out, 20-20K BW): >90dB.
• THD+N 1kHz: 0.0025%.
• Input Impedance: 47kΩ.
• Input Capacitance: 100pF.
• Audio Output: RCA phono/line level (switchable).
• Bluetooth: SBC/aptX/aptX HD.
• Power Supply: AC 100-240V, 60/50Hz.
• Power Consumption: 5.5W Approx., 20W max, <0.25W (Standby).
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 435 x 139 x 368 mm.
• Weight: 10.9 kg.
• Cartridge Type: High Output Moving Coil.
• Cartridge Frequency Response: +/- 1dB 30Hz-20kHz.
• Stylus: Elliptical.
• Cantilever: Aluminium.
• Output Level: 2mV @ 1kHz.
• Tracking Force: 2 g.
• Recommended Load: 47kΩ.

Alva ST Turntable:

• Type: Belt Drive.
• Turntable Speeds: 33 1/3, 45 rpm.
• Motor Torque: Belt Drive without Motor torque.
• Wow & Flutter: <0.12%.
• Turntable Platter: Aluminium Die-casting, 305 mm diameter.
• Tonearm Type: Static Balanced tonearm with Detachable Headshell.
• Effective Length: 221.5 mm.
• Overhang: 19 mm.
• Effective Mass: 19.8 g.
• Internal Phono Stage Gain @ 1kHz: 42dB.
• Nominal Output (with CA Cartridge): 250mVrms.
• Equivalent Input Noise (A-Weighted): 0.1uVrms.
• RIAA Curve Accuracy: +/-0.3dB 30Hz-20kHz.
• Signal/Noise Ratio (Ref 1V Out, 20-20K BW): >90dB.
• THD+N 1kHz: 0.0025%.
• Input Impedance: 47kΩ.
• Input Capacitance: 100pF.
• Audio Output: RCA phono/line level (switchable).
• Bluetooth: SBC/aptX/aptX HD.
• Power Supply: AC 100-240V, 60/50Hz.
• Power Consumption: 6W Approx., 20W max, <0.3W (Standby).
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 435 x 139 x 366.7 mm.
• Weight: 9 kg.
• Cartridge Type: Moving Magnetic Cartridge.
• Cartridge Frequency Response: +/- 0.5dB 30Hz-20kHz.
• Stylus: Elliptical.
• Cantilever: Alloy Tube.
• Output Level: 1.8~3.6mV @ 1kHz.
• Tracking Force: 2 g.
• Recommended Load: 47kΩ.

Usage Features:

• Setup: The setup process involves placing the platter, installing the belt drive (for Alva ST), attaching the counterweight and headshell, and then carefully setting the tracking force and anti-skating. The tonearm counterweight is crucial for adjusting the stylus pressure, preventing distortion and record wear. The anti-skating dial should be set to match the cartridge's tracking force (factory-fitted cartridges have a tracking force of '2').
• Connectivity: Users can choose between connecting via the internal phono stage (Line output) or an external phono stage (Phono output). For Line output, the turntable connects directly to an amplifier's line-level input. For Phono output, an external phono stage is required, and the turntable should not be connected to an amplifier's line input.
• Bluetooth Pairing: To pair a Bluetooth device, the user presses and holds the Pairing button for 2 seconds. The turntable automatically attempts to connect to the last paired device. To clear connections and turn off Bluetooth, the Pairing button is held for 10 seconds.
• Playing Records: The process involves placing the record, selecting the desired speed (33 or 45 RPM), raising the tonearm with the lift lever, positioning it over the record, and then lowering it.
• Ending Play: To end play, the tonearm is lifted, moved back to its rest, secured with the clamp, and the platter speed button is pressed to stop rotation. The power button can then be pressed to enter standby.
• Lid: Both models come with a lid that connects via hinges to protect the turntable from dust.

Maintenance Features:

• Stylus Care: Users are advised to handle the cartridge with care and gently lower it onto the platter to avoid damage. The stylus guard should be removed before playing.
• Troubleshooting: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for common issues such as no sound, distorted sound, stylus skipping, and Bluetooth connectivity problems. This includes checks for amplifier status, connections, RPM settings, tracking force, anti-skating, and turntable level.
• Cleaning: While not explicitly detailed in the provided text, general turntable maintenance typically involves keeping the platter, stylus, and record clean to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

CAMBRIDGE Alva TT v2 Specifications

General

Brand	CAMBRIDGE
Model	Alva TT v2
Category	Turntable
Language	English