Victrola’s latest innovation, the Wave turntable, has stolen the spotlight at CES 2025, and earned the Best of CES Award from HomeTheaterReview. Paired with the Tempo Bookshelf Speakers, the Victrola Wave has caught the attention of vinyl enthusiasts for its unique blend of retro appeal and cutting-edge technology. Our writer, Jonathan Takiff, was on site to see it in action and shared his thoughts on why this turntable is making such an impression.

So, what’s the big deal? The Victrola Wave is the first mainstream consumer turntable to include Auracast broadcast audio, a feature of its Bluetooth 5.4 capability. This lets you share your vinyl audio wirelessly with multiple Auracast-compatible devices—speakers, earbuds, or headphones—within a 30-meter to 100-meter range - the latter possible in wide open spaces.

The Tempos actually offer both Auracast input and output capability so can be used to retransmit incoming Auracast (and conventional Bluetooth) signals to other Auracast-adept speakers and headphones in a Mesh network fashion, further extending a signal’s reach. Think of it as group listening, reimagined. Whether it’s a dorm room hangout, a backyard party, or even a “silent rave,” this feature could bring vinyl fans together in new and exciting ways.

As Takiff explains, the Victrola Wave uses the energy-efficient LE Audio Bluetooth standard, which includes a Public Broadcast Profile for Auracast functionality. For those who want the highest-quality audio, the turntable also supports aptX Adaptive and aptX HD for high-resolution wireless output—though that works only with one compatible device at a time.

But this isn’t just about wireless convenience. Victrola has designed the Wave with the quality and versatility vinyl fans expect. It comes with an Audio-Technica AT-VM95E cartridge, a durable aluminum platter, and a precision-engineered aluminum tonearm with a removable headshell and adjustable counterweights. If you prefer the reliability of a wired setup, the Wave includes gold-plated RCA outputs and a switchable pre-amp.

Victrola isn’t stopping with the Wave. They’re launching an entire ecosystem of Auracast-ready devices. The Tempo Bookshelf Speakers ($199.99 per pair) are color-matched to the Wave and designed for seamless integration. For outdoor listening, the Victrola Zen Outdoor Speakers ($199.99 each) offer solar-powered, weather-resistant durability. These products are tailored to give users a complete, flexible audio setup.

And it’s not just Victrola getting in on Auracast. The tech is already supported by various earbuds, portable speakers, and Samsung Galaxy smartphones, making the Wave part of a growing ecosystem. This compatibility could make Auracast a go-to feature for future audio products.

The Victrola Wave will be available in three colors—white, blue, and green—and is set to launch in spring 2025 with a price tag of $399.99. While an exact release date hasn’t been confirmed yet, Victrola’s focus on versatility and user-friendly design makes this an exciting addition to its lineup.

Takiff sees the Wave as a potential game-changer for group listening, especially in social settings like college dorms or summer barbecues. Its innovative wireless features paired with a solid, traditional turntable design make it a compelling choice for both seasoned vinyl fans and newcomers alike.

As always, HomeTheaterReview will be on top of all the exciting tech from CES 2025. Stay tuned for more updates.