The Victrola Soundstage: A Compact Speaker Revolution for Turntable Enthusiasts

Let me be straight with you: turntables are having a moment. Vinyl sales have climbed steadily over the past decade, and more people than ever are spinning records in their homes. But here's the problem that's plagued vinyl lovers for years. You buy a beautiful turntable, and suddenly you're staring down the barrel of a full stereo setup conversation. Amplifiers, separate speakers, cables everywhere. It's expensive, space-consuming, and frankly, it kills the minimalist aesthetic most people want from their listening spaces.

Then Victrola unveiled the Soundstage at CES 2026, and it's a genuinely clever solution to this exact problem. This is a speaker that literally sits underneath your turntable, transforming the entire footprint into a unified audio system. No separate amplifier needed. No scattered cables. Just a sleek piece of hardware that handles the heavy lifting.

But here's what makes the Soundstage more interesting than other under-turntable speakers on the market. It's not just a one-trick pony designed exclusively for vinyl. The connection options are extensive. Bluetooth streaming, USB-C, traditional wired inputs. This means you're not locked into a turntable-only experience. Want to stream music from your phone? Done. Connect a laptop for background music while you work? Easy. The Soundstage is genuinely versatile, which separates it from more specialized turntable accessories.

The technology inside matters too. Victrola specifically engineered this with what they call a "vibration-isolated design," which is audio engineering speak for keeping unwanted vibrations from the turntable from interfering with the speaker's output. There's a dedicated woofer handling bass frequencies and balanced mode radiators managing stereo separation. These aren't cheap tricks. They're legitimate design choices meant to deliver cleaner, more separated audio than you'd get from a generic Bluetooth speaker sitting next to your turntable.

At $350, the Soundstage sits in a specific market segment. It's not the cheapest option for turntable audio, but it's way more affordable than building a proper stereo system. You'll have options in multiple finishes, including walnut and black, so it should integrate into most listening spaces without looking out of place.

This review digs into everything you need to know about the Soundstage. How it actually performs, whether it justifies the price, how it compares to alternatives, and whether it genuinely solves the problem of adding audio to your vinyl setup.

TL; DR

• Compact Design: Sits underneath turntables, eliminating the need for separate speakers and amplifiers
• Multiple Connectivity Options: Bluetooth, USB-C, and traditional wired connections give you flexibility beyond just vinyl
• Engineered Audio Quality: Vibration-isolated design with dedicated woofers and balanced radiators delivers better sound than basic speakers
• Auracast Integration: Multi-speaker setup capability for expanding audio throughout your space
• Price Point: $350 entry price with walnut and black finish options available summer 2026
• Bottom Line: The Soundstage solves a genuine problem for vinyl enthusiasts who want integrated audio without a full stereo setup

Estimated data suggests that user satisfaction and longevity of use for the Soundstage speaker decrease over time, with significant drops expected beyond five years.

Understanding the Turntable Audio Problem

Before diving into what makes the Soundstage special, you need to understand the problem it's solving. Turntables are experiencing a genuine resurgence, but they come with an audio complexity that digital sources don't.

When you buy a record player, you're not automatically getting speakers. Turntables output an analog signal that needs amplification before it can produce sound. Decades ago, this was obvious because everyone understood stereo systems. You had a turntable, an amplifier, and speakers. But modern consumers don't want complexity. They want to unbox something, plug it in, and listen to music.

That's where the audio problem emerges. Turntables sitting alone on shelves are just decorative. They need external amplification. You have several options, and each comes with trade-offs.

First, you could invest in a proper stereo receiver and bookshelf speakers. You're looking at

Second, you could go with an all-in-one turntable that has built-in speakers. These are convenient but generally terrible sounding. The speakers are tiny, the soundstage is compressed, and you're sacrificing audio quality for portability. Most audiophiles and serious listeners reject this approach immediately.

Third, you could connect a basic Bluetooth speaker next to your turntable. This works functionally, but now your turntable needs to connect to the speaker wirelessly, and you're dealing with lag, potential disconnection issues, and still have a separate speaker sitting next to your listening equipment.

The Soundstage occupies a fourth space. It's a speaker system specifically engineered for turntables, designed to sit physically underneath the turntable itself. This eliminates the separate speaker cabinet visual. It keeps the footprint minimal. And because it's engineered specifically for turntable integration, it handles the unique audio challenges of vinyl playback better than a generic Bluetooth speaker would.

The elegance of this approach shouldn't be understated. From a design perspective, it's brilliant. From a functionality perspective, it solves an actual problem that thousands of vinyl enthusiasts have been facing.

Soundstage excels in vibration isolation and turntable compatibility, making it a specialized choice for turntable users. Estimated data based on product descriptions.

The Design Philosophy Behind Under-Turntable Speakers

Victrola didn't invent the under-turntable speaker category. But they're entering it with more thoughtfulness than some competitors have shown. Understanding the design philosophy helps you appreciate what they're trying to accomplish.

When you place a speaker directly underneath a turntable, you're creating an interesting acoustic challenge. The turntable itself vibrates. The motor rotates. The platter spins. If the speaker isn't isolated from these vibrations, you get unwanted noise floor interference. The speaker amplifies not just the music but the mechanical vibrations of the turntable itself. This creates a muddy, indistinct sound that defeats the purpose of having dedicated audio equipment.

Victrola's "vibration-isolated design" addresses this directly. The speaker uses isolation technology that decouples the turntable's mechanical noise from the speaker's audio output. This is the same principle you see in expensive turntable isolation platforms and professional studio monitor stands. They've implemented it at a $350 price point, which is actually impressive.

The internal speaker architecture matters just as much as the isolation. Victrola equipped the Soundstage with a specialized woofer for bass response and balanced mode radiators for stereo separation. The woofer handles low frequencies, delivering the punch and rumble that makes vinyl sound alive. The radiators disperse mid and high frequencies evenly, so the soundstage spreads rather than concentrating all the sound in one focal point.

This is important because under-turntable speakers face a unique placement challenge. They're literally underneath, which means sound travels upward through the turntable before reaching the listener. Without proper driver configuration, everything sounds compressed and location-specific. You'd hear all the high-end information from one point and bass from another, destroying the cohesion of the listening experience.

The overall form factor emphasizes minimal visual impact. It's a thin, low-profile design that doesn't call attention to itself. You could legitimately argue the speaker isn't there. You're aware of the audio quality, but the equipment becomes transparent. This is exactly what vinyl enthusiasts want. The turntable is the statement piece. The speaker should be invisible.

Bluetooth Connectivity: Why It Matters for Modern Turntables

The Soundstage's Bluetooth capability might seem like an afterthought, but it's actually central to understanding how Victrola positioned this product. They're not building a device purely for purists who only play vinyl. They're building an audio ecosystem.

Many newer Victrola turntables already have Bluetooth streaming capability. This means the turntable itself can transmit signal wirelessly to compatible speakers. Pairing the Soundstage with one of these turntables becomes seamless. You're not dealing with wired connections, preamp adjustments, or ground loop hum. It's consumer-friendly setup.

But Bluetooth goes beyond Victrola's own turntables. Your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or any Bluetooth-enabled device can connect. This transforms the Soundstage from a vinyl-specific device into a general-purpose speaker system. You're at your desk working, and you want background music? Stream it from your phone. Friends are over and want to take turns controlling the music? They can connect their devices and play whatever they want. The Soundstage becomes the audio hub for your space rather than a turntable accessory.

There's an important technical reality here. Wireless audio transmission isn't as high-fidelity as wired connections. Bluetooth compresses the signal, reducing the information density. Serious audiophiles argue (correctly) that Bluetooth is lossy. A wired connection preserves more of the original audio data.

But here's where practicality intersects with perfectionism. Most people listening to music through the Soundstage won't notice the difference between lossless and Bluetooth audio. And the convenience of wireless connectivity outweighs the theoretical fidelity loss for casual listening. You're not running a recording studio. You're listening to records at home.

The Soundstage supports modern Bluetooth standards, which means connection stability should be reliable. Older Bluetooth implementations were notorious for dropping connections or introducing lag. Modern versions have improved dramatically. You shouldn't encounter consistent dropouts or delay issues, which was a real problem with older wireless speakers.

The Soundstage scores high on design and connectivity, making it a worthwhile purchase for those seeking an integrated audio solution. Estimated data based on review analysis.

USB-C and Wired Connection Options

While Bluetooth handles wireless convenience, the Soundstage includes multiple wired connection options. This is actually crucial for turntable enthusiasts because it gives you flexibility based on your specific setup and audio preferences.

USB-C connectivity is the modern standard. This single connection type can handle both power delivery and audio signal transmission. If you're connecting your Soundstage to a computer or newer audio interface, USB-C provides a direct, high-quality audio connection. The signal doesn't get compressed like Bluetooth. It's clean, direct, and offers better fidelity for critical listening.

For turntables, traditional wired connections are more common. The Soundstage includes standard audio inputs, likely RCA connectors, which have been the turntable-to-amplifier standard for decades. If you have an older turntable without Bluetooth, or if you prefer the tactile reliability of a physical connection, these inputs are available.

This multi-input approach gives you genuine flexibility. You could have your turntable connected via wired RCA inputs, your phone connected via Bluetooth, and your laptop connected via USB-C. The Soundstage handles all three input types simultaneously, allowing you to switch between sources with minimal friction.

For turntable owners specifically, the wired connection option matters. Vinyl requires careful signal handling. The output from a turntable cartridge is incredibly weak, requiring a preamp to boost the signal to usable levels. Many turntables have built-in preamps now, but if you have an older turntable without one, you need to know whether the Soundstage has a built-in preamp. Most integrated speaker systems do, but it's crucial to verify before purchasing if you're using vintage or high-end turntable equipment.

Auracast and Multi-Speaker Integration

Auracast is a technology most people haven't heard of, but it's going to become increasingly important in consumer audio. It's essentially a standard protocol for broadcasting audio to multiple devices simultaneously, kind of like Bluetooth but designed specifically for group listening scenarios.

The Soundstage's Auracast integration means you can pair multiple Soundstage speakers together or connect the Soundstage to other Auracast-compatible speakers. Imagine having a Soundstage in your living room and another in your bedroom. They stay synchronized, playing the same music at the same time. You move from room to room without interrupting playback.

This might seem irrelevant if you only have one speaker, but it's actually forward-thinking design. As Auracast adoption grows across the consumer audio market, your Soundstage becomes more adaptable. You're not locked into a single-room listening experience. You can expand your audio ecosystem without replacing what you already own.

The technology is particularly useful for households with multiple people. One person's Auracast speaker in their bedroom doesn't interfere with another's in the living room. You can have independent listening experiences happening simultaneously, which is genuinely difficult to achieve with traditional stereo systems.

For turntable enthusiasts, Auracast integration signals that Victrola is thinking beyond just vinyl. They're positioning the Soundstage as part of a larger audio ecosystem that works with modern wireless standards. This is smart long-term thinking. Turntables are analog, but they don't exist in isolation anymore. Modern listeners want to integrate vinyl with digital sources seamlessly.

The vibration-isolated design significantly enhances noise reduction, sound clarity, bass quality, and soundstage, providing a superior listening experience. (Estimated data)

Audio Performance: What "Vibration-Isolated Design" Actually Delivers

Now let's talk about what actually matters: how this thing sounds. Victrola's marketing emphasizes the vibration-isolated design, but what does that mean in practical listening experience?

Vibration isolation prevents mechanical noise from the turntable from coloring the audio output. When you place a speaker directly under a spinning turntable, you need isolation. Without it, motor hum, platter vibration, and mechanical noise bleed into the speaker's output. The speaker essentially amplifies the turntable's mechanical noise, creating an indistinct, muddy sound floor.

With proper isolation, these mechanical vibrations don't transfer to the speaker. The turntable and speaker operate as independent systems. The speaker receives a clean audio signal and converts it into sound without interference. This is why isolation technology matters for under-turntable speakers. It's not a luxury feature. It's a necessity for this form factor to work well.

The dedicated woofer handles the frequency range where vinyl really shines. Vinyl records have a naturally warm, rich bass character. A proper woofer preserves this without booming or distorting. The Soundstage's woofer is specialized, meaning it's tuned specifically for this frequency range rather than trying to be a jack-of-all-trades driver.

Balanced mode radiators are less familiar to most people. They're passive drivers that help disperse sound evenly throughout the listening area. Unlike traditional drivers that create sound waves moving in one direction, radiators move in multiple directions, spreading the sound field. This prevents the narrow, localized soundstage that plagues small speakers.

In practical terms, this architecture should deliver audio that sounds like it's coming from a larger system than physically exists. The soundstage spreads. Individual instruments occupy distinct positions in the stereo field. Bass doesn't boomy. Vocals sit comfortably in the mix. It won't replicate a

The form factor creates some inherent limitations. A thin speaker sitting under a turntable doesn't move as much air as a proper floor-standing speaker. Maximum volume capability is probably lower. Bass depth might not satisfy someone looking for room-shaking bass. But for turntable listening, which is generally done at moderate volumes in intimate spaces, these aren't real concerns.

Price-to-Performance Analysis

At $350, the Soundstage occupies a specific price segment. It's not the cheapest speaker option, but it's dramatically less expensive than building a proper stereo system. Understanding whether the price is justified requires understanding the value proposition.

You could buy a decent Bluetooth speaker for

You could invest in a vintage stereo amplifier and pair of bookshelf speakers for

You could go high-end with an integrated amplifier and quality speakers for

The Soundstage positions itself as premium-casual. It's not entry-level, but it's not audiophile-grade either. It's for people who take vinyl seriously enough to want good audio but practically enough to value simplicity and space efficiency.

Most people who buy turntables in 2025 are doing so because vinyl is aesthetically appealing and offers a specific listening experience, not because they're pursuing perfect fidelity. The Soundstage aligns with this reality. It delivers audio quality substantially above cheap Bluetooth speakers but costs a fraction of a proper stereo system.

The $350 price point also factors in Victrola's brand recognition and ecosystem integration. If you already own a Victrola turntable with Bluetooth, the Soundstage integrates seamlessly. You're not mixing brands or dealing with compatibility questions. There's value in that simplicity and integration.

The Soundstage offers a balanced solution with good audio quality and convenience at a moderate cost, compared to other options. Estimated data.

Aesthetic Integration: Design Matters

Let's be honest: aesthetics drive a lot of turntable purchases. People want their listening space to look a certain way. A turntable is furniture. It's a design statement. The speaker needs to complement this, not fight against it.

The Soundstage's thin, low-profile form factor respects the turntable's role as the visual centerpiece. It doesn't distract. It doesn't fight for attention. It just sits there, practically invisible, while the turntable remains the focal point.

The finish options matter here. Walnut evokes vintage audio equipment, connecting the Soundstage to the aesthetic lineage of classic stereo systems. It looks like something that belonged in a 1970s listening room. Black offers modern minimalism, fitting seamlessly into contemporary decor. Having multiple finish options means the Soundstage can work with different interior design approaches.

This might seem superficial compared to audio performance, but for turntable owners, it's genuinely important. If the Soundstage looked cheap or bulky, it would damage the entire listening setup aesthetically, regardless of how it sounded. Victrola understood that. They designed something that enhances the turntable's visual appeal rather than detracting from it.

The under-turntable placement is actually genius from a design perspective. It unifies the system visually. The turntable sitting on top of the speaker creates a single, cohesive object. There's no "turntable plus speaker." There's just "my turntable setup." This holistic approach to product design separates the Soundstage from competitors who just put a speaker box next to a turntable.

Comparison with Existing Turntable Audio Solutions

The Soundstage doesn't exist in a vacuum. Several competing approaches address the same problem: adding good audio to a turntable setup. Understanding these alternatives clarifies what the Soundstage offers.

Built-in Turntable Speakers: Many modern turntables, including some Victrola models, come with integrated speakers. These are incredibly convenient. You unbox the turntable, plug it in, and play music. There's no separate speaker to set up. The cost is minimal.

But convenience comes with a cost: audio quality. Built-in speakers are tiny, producing compressed soundstage and limited bass. They're engineered for portability and simplicity, not fidelity. Most serious listeners dismiss them as compromises. The Soundstage trades some convenience for significantly better audio.

Powered Bookshelf Speakers: These are traditional speakers with built-in amplification. You connect your turntable to the speaker, and it handles amplification internally. They're flexible, work with any turntable, and deliver substantially better audio than anything built-in.

The drawback is form factor. You have a separate speaker cabinet sitting next to your turntable. Visually, it's obvious you have audio equipment. And depending on the speaker's size, it might be larger than your turntable. The Soundstage's under-turntable design is more compact and integrated.

Bluetooth Speakers Placed Nearby: Generic Bluetooth speakers—think anything from major consumer electronics brands—sit next to turntables. They're wireless, affordable, and work with any turntable that has Bluetooth capability.

Audio quality varies wildly. Some Bluetooth speakers sound decent. Others sound thin and tinny. None are specifically engineered for turntable audio. The Soundstage's vibration-isolated design and dedicated drivers are built specifically for this use case, offering better optimization.

Vintage Stereo Systems: Some enthusiasts hunt for vintage stereo receivers and speakers. These can sound incredible if they're in good condition. They evoke a specific aesthetic. They're often cheaper than equivalent new equipment.

The downsides are significant: unpredictable condition, potential repair costs, lack of Bluetooth or modern connectivity, and often requiring significantly more space. The Soundstage is modern, reliable, and compact in comparison.

The Soundstage's Positioning: It occupies the space between convenience and quality. It's more expensive than cheap Bluetooth speakers but dramatically less expensive than proper audio equipment. It's more integrated than bookshelf speakers but more flexible than built-in turntable speakers. For most people, this positioning makes sense.

Estimated data for Victrola Soundstage suggest a frequency response of 40 Hz to 20 kHz, power output between 30-50 watts, and Bluetooth 5.0/5.1. These specs align with typical consumer speaker expectations.

Practical Setup and Integration

Let's talk about the actual user experience: how you set this thing up and integrate it into your listening space.

Physically, installation is straightforward. You place the Soundstage on a stable surface, then put your turntable on top of it. That's it. No mounting hardware required, no complicated assembly. This simplicity is intentional and appreciated.

Connectivity setup depends on your turntable. If you have a newer Victrola turntable with Bluetooth, you pair the two devices like you would any Bluetooth speaker. Open the turntable's Bluetooth menu, select the Soundstage, and they're connected. It takes seconds.

If you're using a turntable without Bluetooth, you use the wired RCA inputs. You run a cable from your turntable's audio outputs to the Soundstage's inputs. Again, straightforward. You're not dealing with complex configurations.

Once everything's connected, operation is minimal. You're not managing the Soundstage actively. It sits there, receiving audio from your turntable and converting it to sound. You adjust volume at the turntable or via Bluetooth if available. That's the entire user experience.

Power requirements are important to note. The Soundstage needs to be plugged in. It's not battery-powered like portable Bluetooth speakers. This means you need a nearby electrical outlet, and the speaker is tethered to that location. For a turntable setup, this is usually fine. Turntables aren't portable devices anyway. You're putting them in a specific listening spot, and that spot likely has power available.

Troubleshooting potential issues: if you experience dropouts with Bluetooth, move the speaker closer to the source device. If audio quality seems degraded, ensure you're not placing the speaker in a confined space where reflections muddy the sound. If bass seems weak, confirm the speaker is on a level surface. These are all minor tweaks most users make intuitively.

Who Should Buy the Soundstage?

The Soundstage isn't for everyone. Understanding who it's actually for helps determine if it's the right choice for your situation.

Perfect fit: You own a modern Victrola turntable with Bluetooth capability, you want an integrated audio solution that doesn't require separate equipment, and you value simplicity and aesthetics. The Soundstage was designed with you in mind. It'll work seamlessly and look great.

Good fit: You own any turntable, you listen to vinyl regularly, and you want better audio than Bluetooth speakers provide without investing in a full stereo system. The price-to-performance ratio works for you. You like the aesthetic of an integrated turntable setup.

Questionable fit: You're an audiophile pursuing perfect fidelity. You compare detailed frequency response charts and debate codecs. You want absolute maximum audio quality. The Soundstage is a compromise. A proper audio system will outperform it.

Bad fit: You have limited space and can't accommodate a speaker near your turntable. Your turntable is portable and moves frequently. You need maximum volume capability. You want battery-powered operation. The Soundstage isn't designed for any of these scenarios.

Consider alternatives if: You already own quality speakers and just need connectivity between turntable and speaker. A simple amplifier might be all you need. If you want wireless connectivity, a Bluetooth receiver is cheaper. If you want the smallest possible footprint, a built-in turntable speaker is more compact.

Most people fall into the "good fit" category. They have a turntable or are considering buying one, they appreciate vinyl's aesthetic appeal, and they want audio that's better than the cheapest options without breaking the bank.

Future Considerations and Long-Term Value

When evaluating a $350 speaker system, it's worth thinking about long-term viability and whether the investment will hold value as technology evolves.

Victrola's history suggests decent longevity. The brand has been around for over a century, though they've changed ownership and focus multiple times. Current Victrola products seem built to last a few years minimum, though they're not positioned as forever devices the way high-end audio equipment is.

The Soundstage's technology choices suggest reasonable future-proofing. Bluetooth is a stable standard that's not going away. USB-C is becoming universal. Auracast is new enough that it'll be relevant for years. The speaker isn't dependent on proprietary technology that might become obsolete.

Software or firmware updates could improve functionality. If Victrola adds features through software updates, the Soundstage could become more capable over time. This is increasingly common with consumer electronics.

The bigger question is whether you'll still be satisfied with the audio quality in five years. Speakers don't degrade sonically if they're cared for. A Soundstage working well today should work the same way in five years. But your expectations might change. If you upgrade to more expensive audio equipment, the Soundstage might feel insufficient by comparison.

For most users, the Soundstage is a 3- to 5-year device. After that period, either you'll want to upgrade to something more capable, or you'll be satisfied enough to keep using it. The resale market for speaker equipment isn't great, but you might find value if you eventually move on.

The price point is reasonable enough that replacing it wouldn't be financially devastating. You're not investing thousands of dollars in a device that might become obsolete. $350 is a meaningful purchase but not a life-changing one.

Technical Specifications and What They Mean

Victrola likely will release detailed specifications once the Soundstage launches. Until then, we can infer from the described features what performance ranges are probably realistic.

Frequency Response: Likely somewhere in the 40 Hz to 20 k Hz range. This covers most of the human hearing spectrum and is typical for quality consumer speakers. Frequencies below 40 Hz are low bass that most casual listeners don't miss.

Power Output: Probably 30 to 50 watts total. This is sufficient for a living room at reasonable listening levels. It's not stadium sound, but it's enough for intimate listening spaces. Exact wattage will matter less than whether the power is clean and undistorted.

Impedance: Likely 4 ohms or 8 ohms, which is standard for consumer speakers. This tells you how efficiently the speaker converts electrical power to sound, though the difference between these values is imperceptible to most listeners.

Bluetooth Version: Probably Bluetooth 5.0 or 5.1, which provide range and stability improvements over older versions. Range should be 30 feet minimum.

Input Options: RCA inputs for analog audio, USB-C for digital connections, Bluetooth for wireless. Likely also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack on the speaker itself for private listening, though this isn't confirmed.

Dimensions: Slim enough to sit under a turntable, which typically means less than 3 inches tall, probably 15 to 20 inches wide, and 8 to 10 inches deep. Exact dimensions vary by turntable size.

Weight: Probably 5 to 8 pounds, light enough to move but heavy enough to feel substantial and stable.

When the full specifications release, pay attention to frequency response, power output, and input options. These three factors most directly affect real-world performance and usability.

Common Questions and Concerns

As with any niche product, potential buyers have specific questions about viability and functionality. Let's address the most common ones.

"Won't the turntable vibrate the speaker constantly?"

This is exactly why the vibration-isolated design matters. Yes, the turntable vibrates. The isolation technology decouples these vibrations from affecting the speaker's audio output. The speaker's drivers move based on the audio signal, not the turntable's mechanical vibrations. This is similar to how professional studio monitors use isolation stands. It works.

"Can I use this with any turntable?"

Technically, yes. If your turntable has RCA outputs (which virtually all do), you can connect it to the Soundstage. The Bluetooth integration is specific to compatible Victrola turntables, but wired connection works universally. The vibration-isolated design works regardless of brand.

"Is $350 reasonable compared to just buying powered speakers?"

It depends on the comparison. Generic powered speakers at similar price points probably don't have the vibration isolation and turntable-specific engineering. Higher-quality powered speakers might cost more but offer better overall audio. The Soundstage is optimized specifically for turntables, which influences the price.

"What if my turntable is really heavy?"

The Soundstage will support turntable weight up to a certain point. Typical turntables weigh 10 to 20 pounds. The Soundstage should handle this. Extremely heavy vintage turntables might be a concern. Check specifications once available.

"Can I use multiple Soundstages with one turntable?"

Not really. You could physically place a turntable near multiple speakers, but only one would be wired as the primary speaker. The Auracast multi-speaker capability is for playing the same audio through multiple speakers in different rooms, not amplifying one turntable's signal.

"Will the bass be strong enough for electronic music or hip-hop?"

The dedicated woofer should provide adequate bass for most music. But electronic music and hip-hop push bass frequencies hard. A thin speaker under a turntable has physical limitations. If bass-heavy music is your primary listening material, a larger speaker system might be better suited.

"Is this compatible with high-end/expensive turntables?"

Yes, physically. Sonically, you might consider the Soundstage a bottleneck. If you have a

Installation Tips and Best Practices

While the Soundstage is straightforward to set up, a few practices optimize performance and longevity.

Surface Placement: Put the Soundstage on a solid, level surface. Avoid placing it on carpet or soft materials that can compromise vibration isolation. A wooden shelf, table, or concrete floor is ideal. If you must use carpet, place a solid platform (wood board or speaker stands) under the Soundstage first.

Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow around the speaker, particularly near any vents. Speakers generate heat, especially during extended listening. Poor ventilation can damage components over time. Give it at least 2-3 inches of clearance on all sides if possible.

Cable Management: Keep audio cables away from power cables. This prevents electromagnetic interference that can introduce noise. Route cables along the back of furniture rather than across open areas where people might trip on them.

Turntable Placement: Make sure the turntable sits evenly on the Soundstage. Tilting or uneven weight distribution stresses both devices. Adjust the turntable's position until it sits level and stable.

Power Considerations: Use a dedicated wall outlet rather than daisy-chaining through power strips if possible. This provides cleaner power and reduces hum. Don't place the speaker in direct sunlight, which can warp components over time.

Regular Cleaning: Dust accumulates on speakers and reduces audio quality over time. Use a soft cloth to gently clean the speaker's exterior monthly. Avoid getting moisture inside the speaker.

Volume Management: Don't run the speaker at maximum volume constantly. Sustained maximum volume stresses drivers and reduces lifespan. Moderate listening levels are better for both longevity and audio quality.

The Vinyl Revival Context

Understanding why the Soundstage exists requires understanding why vinyl has resurged in the first place. It's not just nostalgia. There are real reasons vinyl appeals to modern listeners.

First, the physical format encourages focused listening. You have to actively engage with the music. You pull out a record, put it on the turntable, and listen for 40 minutes. You're not passively streaming while scrolling through your phone. The ritual of vinyl listening creates a different relationship with music.

Second, vinyl's warmth and character appeal to people fatigued by digital perfection. Vinyl has inherent distortion and noise that make it sound "live." This isn't a bug. Many listeners prefer it to the clinical perfection of lossless digital files. The Soundstage's audio quality preserves this character rather than overpolishing it.

Third, owning vinyl appeals to people who value tangible media. Streaming is convenient but ephemeral. You don't own anything. You're leasing access. Vinyl is permanent. You own those records. If you stop paying a subscription, you still have your records. This appeals to collectors and people skeptical of always-online services.

Fourth, turntables and vinyl are aesthetically appealing. A beautiful turntable sitting on a shelf is furniture. It's a design statement. Streaming through invisible Wi Fi doesn't have the same visual presence.

The Soundstage exists within this context. Victrola recognized that modern vinyl listeners want their turntables to look good and sound decent without sacrificing simplicity. They designed a product that respects vinyl culture while integrating with modern expectations about convenience and wireless connectivity.

This positioning makes the Soundstage relevant for the 2020s vinyl listener: someone who appreciates vinyl's qualities but doesn't want to pretend we're living in 1975. They want Bluetooth connectivity alongside RCA inputs. They want integration with their smartphone alongside their turntable. The Soundstage delivers both.

Final Verdict: Is the Soundstage Worth It?

After examining every aspect of the Soundstage, the real question comes down to whether it justifies the $350 price tag and delivers on its promise.

For most people considering this product, the answer is yes. The Soundstage solves a specific problem elegantly. You want good audio for your turntable without investing thousands in a stereo system. You want a setup that looks clean and integrated. You want flexibility for other audio sources beyond just vinyl. The Soundstage delivers all three.

The vibration-isolated design addresses the real acoustic challenges of placing a speaker under a turntable. The multiple connectivity options make it genuinely versatile. The thoughtful industrial design respects the turntable's role as the visual centerpiece. The price is reasonable for what you're getting.

The limitations are honest and understandable. This isn't a reference-quality audio system. It won't satisfy serious audiophiles. The form factor constrains maximum volume and bass depth. Bluetooth isn't lossless. These aren't failures. They're acknowledged trade-offs for a product that prioritizes simplicity and integration over ultimate performance.

If you're passionate about vinyl, appreciate quality sound, have space for a turntable setup, and want an integrated audio solution, the Soundstage is worth serious consideration. It might not be the cheapest option, but it's probably the smartest choice for your specific situation.

The fact that it launches this summer means you have time to research more deeply, listen to comparisons, and make an informed decision. Don't rush into it, but also don't dismiss it as just another speaker product. Victrola put genuine thought into the Soundstage, and it shows.

FAQ

What is the Victrola Soundstage?

The Victrola Soundstage is a compact speaker system designed specifically to sit underneath turntables. It integrates seamlessly with record players while providing multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth, USB-C, and traditional wired RCA inputs. It's engineered with vibration-isolated design technology and dedicated woofers to deliver clean audio quality for vinyl playback.

How does the Soundstage connect to a turntable?

The Soundstage offers multiple connection methods depending on your turntable model and preferences. If you have a newer Victrola turntable with Bluetooth capability, you can pair the devices wirelessly for completely cable-free operation. For turntables without Bluetooth, you use traditional RCA audio cables that connect from the turntable's output to the Soundstage's input ports. This flexibility means the Soundstage works with virtually any turntable regardless of age or brand.

What does "vibration-isolated design" mean?

Vibration isolation technology prevents the turntable's mechanical vibrations—from the motor, platter rotation, and playback mechanisms—from transferring to the speaker and interfering with audio output. Without isolation, the speaker would amplify not just the music but the turntable's operational noise, creating muddy, indistinct sound. The Soundstage's isolation system decouples these mechanical vibrations, resulting in cleaner, clearer audio that sounds like it's coming from the turntable rather than from vibrations around it.

Can I use the Soundstage with sources other than turntables?

Absolutely. While the Soundstage is optimized for turntables, its multiple connectivity options make it a versatile speaker system for various audio sources. You can stream music wirelessly via Bluetooth from smartphones, tablets, or laptops. You can connect computers or audio devices via USB-C for high-quality digital audio. This flexibility means you can use the Soundstage as a general-purpose speaker system in your listening space while maintaining your turntable as the primary component.

How does the audio quality compare to dedicated speaker systems?

The Soundstage delivers substantially better audio than basic Bluetooth speakers but won't match the performance of a comprehensive audio system costing $800 or more. The engineering specific to turntable use—vibration isolation, specialized woofers, and balanced radiators—optimizes the listening experience for vinyl. For casual to moderate vinyl listening, the audio quality is excellent. For critical listening or bass-heavy music genres, higher-end dedicated speakers might provide more performance, though they lose the integrated design elegance of the Soundstage.

What is Auracast and how does it benefit me?

Auracast is a Bluetooth-based wireless protocol that allows multiple speakers to receive and play the same audio simultaneously while staying synchronized. The Soundstage's Auracast integration means you can connect it with other Auracast-compatible speakers throughout your home for whole-house audio. This lets you stream the same music to a Soundstage in your living room and another speaker in your bedroom without interruption when moving between spaces. It's useful for households with multiple listening areas or for future expansion of your audio system.

Will the Soundstage work with my vintage turntable?

Yes, the Soundstage should work with virtually any turntable that has audio outputs, regardless of age. However, older turntables often require a preamp to boost their weak cartridge signal to usable levels. The Soundstage likely includes a built-in preamp for newer turntables with pre-amplified outputs, but confirm this specification before purchasing if you're using vintage equipment without a built-in preamp.

What's the ideal room size for the Soundstage?

The Soundstage is designed for intimate listening spaces—bedrooms, small living rooms, or dedicated listening areas. A room roughly 10 by 12 feet to 15 by 15 feet represents the optimal range. Larger rooms might benefit from more powerful speakers, while the Soundstage excels in smaller, more acoustically controlled spaces where sound reflections don't muddy the audio. The speaker's volume capability and bass response work best when not fighting to fill enormous open areas.

How much does the Soundstage cost and when is it available?

The Soundstage will retail for $350 and launches in summer 2026. It will be available in multiple finishes including walnut and black, allowing you to match your decor preferences and aesthetic vision for your listening space. This price point positions it between budget Bluetooth speakers and investment-level audio equipment.

Do I need any additional equipment to use the Soundstage?

For most modern turntables with Bluetooth capability, you need nothing beyond the Soundstage itself. Just place the speaker under your turntable, plug it in, pair via Bluetooth, and you're ready to listen. For turntables without Bluetooth, you'll need RCA audio cables, which are inexpensive and widely available. No amplifier, preamp, or additional receivers are necessary if your turntable has a built-in preamp, which most modern turntables do.

Conclusion

The Victrola Soundstage represents a thoughtful answer to a genuine problem that modern turntable enthusiasts face. It's not revolutionary technology. It's not breaking new ground in audio engineering. But it's a smart, well-designed product that solves the everyday challenge of adding good audio to a turntable setup without sacrificing simplicity or aesthetics.

In a market flooded with generic Bluetooth speakers and expensive stereo equipment, the Soundstage occupies a unique middle ground. It's accessible in price while respecting the vinyl listening experience. It's integrated in form while offering connectivity flexibility. It's engineered specifically for turntables while remaining useful for other audio sources.

The vinyl resurgence isn't slowing down. More people are buying turntables every year, and they need audio solutions. Most won't go the high-end route. Most want something that works well, looks good, and doesn't require mastering audio engineering to operate. The Soundstage is exactly what they're looking for.

At $350, it's a meaningful but not devastating investment. It's the kind of purchase that makes sense if vinyl is a genuine part of your listening life, not just a nostalgic novelty. It's the right choice if you appreciate the Soundstage's design philosophy and value simplicity. It's probably not the right choice if you're a serious audiophile or only occasionally spin records.

When the Soundstage launches this summer, it will find a receptive audience. Victrola clearly understands their market and designed accordingly. That's the real story here. Not that the Soundstage is the best speaker ever made, but that it's perfectly calibrated for who it's designed to serve.

If you've been considering how to add audio to your turntable setup, the Soundstage deserves to be on your evaluation list. It might be exactly what you've been looking for.

Key Takeaways

• The Soundstage solves the turntable audio problem by sitting underneath record players, eliminating separate speaker cabinets and cables
• Vibration-isolated design with dedicated woofers and balanced radiators delivers quality audio optimized specifically for vinyl playback
• Multiple connectivity options (Bluetooth, USB-C, RCA) make it versatile beyond just turntables, supporting phones, computers, and other devices
• Auracast integration enables multi-speaker setup and whole-home audio expansion without replacing the core system
• At $350 with walnut and black finishes, the Soundstage bridges affordability and design elegance for vinyl enthusiasts

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