Gear article

Crosley C65 Bluetooth Turntable and Speakers

The Crosley C65 is a complete vinyl playback system featuring a walnut-finished turntable and a pair of 40-watt stereo speakers. It integrates traditional analogue hardware, such as an Audio-Technica cartridge and a steel platter, with modern Bluetooth connectivity for streaming digital audio.

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Overview

The Crosley C65 is designed as an all-in-one solution for listeners who require a balance between classic aesthetics and contemporary functionality. The system is defined by its walnut-effect chassis and matching speakers, providing a cohesive look for home environments. Unlike entry-level portable players, the C65 utilizes higher-grade components such as a solid steel platter and vibration control feet to ensure stable playback and reduced mechanical interference.

Key Features and Operation

The turntable features a manual tonearm with adjustable counterweight and anti-skate settings, allowing users to fine-tune the tracking force to protect their vinyl collection and ensure accurate reproduction.

Signal processing is handled by a built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier. This allows the user to either output a line-level signal directly to the included 40-watt speakers or bypass the internal preamp to connect the turntable to a dedicated external hi-fi system. Connectivity is further expanded by a Bluetooth receiver, enabling the speakers to act as a destination for digital playlists streamed from smartphones or tablets.

Sound Character

Equipped with an Audio-Technica cartridge, the C65 focuses on clear and accurate sound reproduction. The combination of the heavy steel platter and vibration-dampening feet helps to isolate the stylus from external noise, resulting in a cleaner signal. The included pair of speakers provides 80 watts of total power, designed to deliver balanced audio that can sufficiently fill a standard living space.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the market, the Crosley C65 competes with other integrated systems like the Kanto OBI3 bundle or the Lenco LBTA-165WD. While the Lenco offers fully automatic operation, the C65 appeals to those preferring manual control and adjustable tonearm components. Compared to professional DJ units like the Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP or Pioneer DJ PLX-1000, the C65 is geared toward home listening rather than high-torque performance or heavy-duty mixing. It provides a more complete 'out of the box' experience than standalone turntables that require separate purchases for amplification and speakers.

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Frequently asked questions

What cartridge comes pre-installed on the Crosley C65?
The turntable comes equipped with a reliable Audio-Technica cartridge. This component is known for providing clear, accurate tracking and is a standard choice for high-quality entry-level hi-fi systems.
Can I connect the Crosley C65 to my own external speakers?
Yes, the C65 features a switchable built-in preamp. You can use the RCA outputs to connect the turntable to existing stereo gear or powered monitors if you choose not to use the included 40-watt speakers.
Does the turntable support Bluetooth output to wireless headphones?
The manufacturer description specifies Bluetooth for streaming playlists from your phone to the system's speakers. It functions primarily as a Bluetooth receiver for digital audio rather than a transmitter for wireless headphones.
What is the purpose of the anti-skate setting?
The anti-skate adjustment applies a small amount of outward force to the tonearm. This counteracts the natural tendency of the needle to pull toward the centre of the record, ensuring the stylus sits centrally in the groove for balanced stereo sound.
Is the tonearm adjustable on this model?
Yes, the Crosley C65 includes adjustable tonearm settings, including a counterweight. This allows the user to set the specific tracking force required for the cartridge, which helps in maintaining the health of the vinyl records.
What material is the turntable platter made from?
The C65 uses a solid steel platter. The weight of the steel provides better rotational stability and helps to reduce speed variations compared to lighter plastic platters.
How does the system handle vibrations?
The turntable is equipped with vibration control feet. These are designed to decouple the record player from the surface it sits on, reducing the likelihood of footfalls or speaker resonance causing the needle to skip.
What is the wattage of the included speakers?
The system comes with two 40-watt speakers. This provides a total of 80 watts of output, which is designed to deliver balanced audio across a room.
Does the Crosley C65 include a dust cover?
Yes, it features a clear dust cover. This helps protect the platter, tonearm, and your records from dust and debris when the system is not in use.
What finish is available for this system?
This specific model features a warm walnut design. The wood-style finish is applied to both the turntable base and the matching speaker cabinets for a consistent aesthetic.
How does this compare to the Lenco LBTA-165WD?
While both offer wood finishes and Bluetooth, the Lenco LBTA-165WD is fully automatic. The Crosley C65 is geared more toward users who want manual control with adjustable tonearm settings for fine-tuning playback.
Is the preamp built-in or external?
The preamp is built-in but switchable. This gives you the flexibility to use the internal electronics for a simple setup or bypass them to use a higher-end external phono stage.