Crosley CR8017A-BK Voyager Vintage Portable Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This crosley cr8017a bk voyager vintage portable review covers a suitcase-style turntable designed for easy mobility. It features a belt-drive mechanism and three-speed playback for 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records. The unit includes built-in dynamic full-range stereo speakers and Bluetooth connectivity. You can also use the RCA output for external systems or the headphone jack for private listening. The design weighs 5.5 pounds and measures 14 by 10.5 by 4.63 inches. It offers a cueing lever and adjustable pitch control for precise operation.
What stands out
- Three-speed belt-drive system for 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records
- Built-in dynamic full-range stereo speakers with Bluetooth streaming
- Portable suitcase design with a carry handle
- Adjustable pitch control and cueing lever for fine-tuning
- Aux input and RCA output for flexible connectivity
Who it fits
Good fit for
This turntable suits casual listeners who value portability and simplicity. The built-in speakers and Bluetooth feature make it ideal for dorm rooms or small apartments where external audio gear is limited. You will appreciate the three-speed capability if you have a varied vinyl collection including older 78 RPM records. The lightweight 5.5-pound frame and carry handle ensure you can move it easily between spaces without needing a dedicated hi-fi setup.
Who should skip it
Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound should look elsewhere. The built-in speakers are designed for casual listening rather than critical analysis. If you require precise speed stability, note that this unit uses a belt-drive system with adjustable pitch control rather than a direct drive motor. Those who prefer a static, high-end stereo setup will likely find the portable suitcase form factor and integrated electronics insufficient for their specific listening needs.
Verdict: This portable turntable offers a convenient, all-in-one solution for casual vinyl playback. Its built-in speakers and Bluetooth connectivity make it a practical choice for mobile or space-constrained listening environments.
Key specs explained for this turntable
Speeds: 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM
This listing supports three playback speeds, allowing you to play standard LPs, singles, and older 78 RPM records. You do not need to buy separate adapters for different formats. This versatility suits collectors who own a mixed library of vinyl. When comparing turntables, check if your preferred records require specific speeds that this unit covers.
Drive Type: Belt-drive
The motor is separated from the platter by a rubber belt, which reduces vibration transfer from the motor to the record. This design typically offers cleaner sound than direct-drive units for casual listening. You benefit from reduced rumble during playback. This is a common choice for entry-level and portable turntables in this price range.
Speakers: Built-in dynamic full-range stereo
You get stereo sound without needing external amplifiers or speakers. This makes setup immediate and ideal for portable use. The sound quality is suitable for casual background music rather than critical audiophile listening. When shopping, compare this to models requiring separate receivers if you plan to integrate this unit into a larger hi-fi system.
Connectivity: Bluetooth
This feature allows you to stream audio from your phone or tablet to the turntable's built-in speakers. You can listen to digital music libraries wirelessly. This adds convenience for modern usage. Note that this is for output only, not for connecting wireless headphones to the turntable. Check other models if you need Bluetooth input for your speakers instead.
Design and build quality
The Crosley Voyager uses a suitcase-style enclosure that prioritizes mobility. According to the listing, the unit measures 14 inches in length, 10.5 inches in width, and 4.63 inches in height. It weighs 5.5 pounds. These dimensions and the weight make it easy to carry from room to room or transport on trips. The carry handle supports this portable intent. The finish is black, which aligns with the vintage aesthetic described in the product details. This design blends classic looks with modern utility, allowing you to keep the unit in a living space or take it outdoors without drawing too much attention.
The layout centers around a belt-drive mechanism that supports three speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM. You use a cueing lever to lower the needle, which simplifies operation compared to manual tonearms. An adjustable pitch control is included, letting you fine-tune playback speed. This feature is useful for matching records to your desired tempo or correcting speed variations. The built-in dynamic full-range stereo speakers are integrated into the case, eliminating the need for external audio equipment for casual listening. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stream music to the turntable’s speakers, adding flexibility for digital sources. The design focuses on convenience, making setup quick and straightforward for users who value ease of use over complex audiophile configurations.
Setup and everyday use
The listing states that setup is easy, allowing you to start playing records in minutes. The portable suitcase design includes a carry handle, which supports moving the unit between rooms or taking it to different locations. You place the turntable on a flat surface to ensure stable playback. The belt-drive mechanism requires no complex alignment, as the tonearm features a cueing lever. You use this lever to lower the needle onto the record, which helps prevent accidental scratches to the vinyl or the stylus. The unit supports three speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM. You select the desired speed based on the record format before playing. An adjustable pitch control is included, letting you fine-tune the playback speed to match the original recording. For audio output, the turntable has built-in dynamic full-range stereo speakers. You can stream music from your phone or tablet via Bluetooth to these speakers. Alternatively, you can use the headphone jack for private listening without disturbing others. If you prefer external audio, the RCA output allows connection to a stereo system or amplifier. The aux input lets you play audio from other sources through the built-in speakers. This mix of connectivity options gives you flexibility in how you listen. The design blends vintage aesthetics with modern features, making it suitable for casual listeners who value convenience and portability in their vinyl setup.
Before You Buy This Portable Turntable
This portable unit is designed for casual listening rather than audiophile-grade reproduction. You should verify that your external Bluetooth devices, such as smartphones or tablets, support standard A2DP profiles to ensure stable streaming to the built-in speakers. While the aux input allows connection to powered speakers, the RCA output lets you link it to a dedicated receiver or amplifier if you prefer external sound systems. This flexibility means it can fit into a broader Hi-Fi setup, though its belt-drive mechanism and cueing lever require gentle handling to maintain accuracy. Regular cleaning of the stylus and platter is essential to prevent dust accumulation, which can affect playback quality over time. Consider whether you need a separate phono preamp if you connect to high-end gear, as the built-in electronics are optimized for the included speakers. This model suits those who value mobility and simplicity over high-fidelity precision.
Check before you buy
- Check your Bluetooth device compatibility for streaming audio.
- Verify if you need an external phono preamp for high-end receivers.
- Confirm your space can accommodate the 14-inch suitcase footprint.
- Ensure you have RCA cables for external speaker connections.
The product at a glance
Crosley Voyager Portable Suitcase Turntable
Best for: casual listeners wanting portable vinyl playback
- Drive Type
- Belt-drive
- Speeds
- 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM
- Speakers
- Built-in dynamic full-range stereo
- Tonearm
- Cueing lever
- Features
- Adjustable pitch control
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
View on Amazon: Crosley Voyager Portable Suitcase Turntable Affiliate link
The Crosley Voyager is a belt-drive turntable with a suitcase design. It plays 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records. You can stream music to its built-in stereo speakers via Bluetooth. The unit includes an aux input, RCA output, and headphone jack. It weighs 5.5 pounds and features a cueing lever and adjustable pitch control. This portable player suits listeners who want vintage style with modern wireless connectivity.
Pros
- Plays 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records
- Built-in dynamic full-range stereo speakers
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming
- Adjustable pitch control for fine-tuning playback
Cons
- Belt-drive mechanism may require more maintenance than direct-drive models
- No external subwoofer output for enhanced bass
- Built-in speakers lack the fidelity of dedicated external audio systems
Good fit if
- You want a portable turntable with built-in speakers
- You need Bluetooth streaming to wireless headphones or speakers
- You prefer a vintage suitcase design for display
Skip if
- You require high-fidelity audio from external amplifiers
- You need a direct-drive motor for DJ scratching
- You prefer a compact desktop unit over a suitcase style
Verdict: The Crosley Voyager Vintage Portable Turntable offers a blend of retro aesthetics and basic wireless functionality. It fits casual listeners who value portability and convenience over audi-grade sound quality.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Crosley Voyager Portable Suitcase Turntable |
|---|---|
| Drive Type | Belt-drive |
| Speeds | 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM |
| Speakers | Built-in dynamic full-range stereo |
| Tonearm | Cueing lever |
| Features | Adjustable pitch control |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Color | Black |
| Use | Portable |
| Dimensions | 14 × 10.5 × 4.63 inches |
| Weight | 5.5 pounds |
| Model | CR8017A-BK |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Crosley CR8017A-BK Voyager have built-in speakers?
Yes, this turntable includes built-in dynamic full-range stereo speakers. You do not need to connect external audio equipment to hear music. This feature supports its design as a portable unit for casual listening. The speakers allow you to play records immediately after setup without additional hardware.
Can I connect Bluetooth headphones to this turntable?
No, the Bluetooth connectivity on this model is for output only. You can stream audio from the turntable to external Bluetooth speakers or headphones. You cannot use Bluetooth to connect a phone to play music through the turntable's built-in speakers. The listing confirms Bluetooth is an output feature.
What are the exact dimensions of the Voyager turntable?
The unit measures 14 inches in length, 10.5 inches in width, and 4.63 inches in height. These compact dimensions make it suitable for placement on small desks or shelves. The suitcase-style design allows for easy storage when not in use. The size fits the portable use case described.
How much does the Crosley Voyager portable turntable weigh?
The turntable weighs 5.5 pounds. This weight makes it light enough to carry between rooms or take to different locations. The suitcase design includes a handle to assist with transport. It is not designed for permanent installation due to its mobility-focused build.
Is this turntable suitable for collecting 78 RPM records?
Yes, the device supports three playback speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM. This allows you to play older 78 RPM records in addition to standard LPs and singles. You do not need separate adapters for different formats. The three-speed capability covers a wide range of vinyl formats.
What color is the Crosley CR8017A-BK Voyager?
The model is available in Black. The black finish contributes to its vintage suitcase aesthetic. This color option matches the retro style of the enclosure. The listing specifies the color as Black for this specific model number.
Does this model require a separate amplifier?
No, you do not need a separate amplifier for basic use. The built-in speakers handle audio playback directly. However, you can connect the turntable to external powered speakers via the aux input if you prefer better sound quality. The internal system is self-contained for casual listening.
