Cambridge Audio announced today that it is introducing VU meters to its Evo models. A once ubiquitous feature of audio amps and recorders for decades – and an accouterment near and dear to this former recording musician and record producer’s heart – the company says VU meters are a “much-requested feature” that will now be available for the company’s award-winning all-in-one players.
See more Cambridge Audio adding VU meters to Evo
I don’t know about you, but I think VU, or volume unit, meters are totally retro-cool. I have spent many untold hours staring at them, mesmerized, during many hours-long recording sessions, years ago in my career. Cambridge Audio’s announcement calls them “iconic” for their “retro ticking needles” that were quite prevalent in our formerly all-analog audio industry.
The company says that the VU meters are added to existing Evo models by way of an over-the-air (OTA) software update. The update will be available starting in May 2024. All existing Evo 75 and Evo 150 models will be upgraded “with the option to display VU meters on their large 6.8″ LCD panel.”
The company says that after the OTA update, users will have the option to choose between the VU meter display onscreen or to view the current album artwork for the music playing. Both are great options, but I know which one I’d most want to VU…er, view.
The news of this update is happening simultaneously with the company’s announcement of a new Evo 150 DeLorean Edition – which, by the way, takes advantage of the VU meter update as well.
This update shows our ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in the Evo range – those out there with listeners, as well as those Evo products yet to come. Watch out for further exciting developments coming to Evo!
James Johnson-Flint, Cambridge Audio Owner
Based on the Evo 150 combination integrated amplifier and network player, this new DeLorean Edition adds a little something extra, the company says. That little extra is a unique industrial design that is said to be stripped “down to bare metal with meticulously crafted, brushed bodywork and sumptuous silver detailing.” The design is meant to “pay homage” to the look of the iconic DeLorean DMC-12.
The OTA update will be available in May for all Evo models. The new Evo 150 DeLorean Edition is priced at $3,199 and is available now in North America and Asia, and starting in April across Europe. It is also available at cambridgeaudio.com and select retailers.
I have been suggesting the addition of VU meters to amps and other gear for many years. My reasoning and requests all fell on deaf ears. Hopefully this is the start of a new trend. Retro is in and animating an inanimate object provides a stronger relationship between user and product. Well done, Cambridge.
Interesting perspective Dave!
Audiolab has had VU meters in their Omnia All-In-One for a few years now, which carries into their 9000 series. Retro is no doubt back.
Awesome. As far as I’m concerned, the more the merrier!
I’m holding out for meters on speaker cable.
It’s bound to happen!