- Hi-Res audio support
Lets you enjoy high-quality audio playback via LAN, 3.5mm AUX, Optical, USB-A and HP. - Space Tune
Measures test tones played through a built-in mic to analyze the distance to walls and the effect of reflections, and automatically optimizes the sound field; precisely adjust the sound quality through 3 easy presets and the Technics Audio Center app. - On-screen GUI menu
Offers numerous set-up options and is user selectable via the included high quality handheld remote - 3 JENO Engines
Three JENO Engine full digital amplifier units faithfully reproduce rich sounds with the 2.1ch configuration; Space Tune optimizes the sound quality depending on the installation status - Multi-room capability with Chromecast built-in speakers
If you use Technics Audio Center app and have another app compatible Technics devices, you can also enjoy other music source in multi-room such as Bluetooth, AUX, Optical input, USB, Internet - Complete compatibility
Supports streaming music-Spotify, TIDAL, Amazon Music and Deezer, and Internet radio Also compatible with AirPlay 2, Bluetooth WiFi, network playback, USB memory playback and analog/optical inputs. Works with Chromecast (built-in) and Google Assistant - Output power
Front speaker: 30 W + 30 W @(1 kHz, T.H.D. 1.0 %, 6Ω, 20 kHz LPF) Subwoofer : 40 W (70Hz, T.H.D. 1.0 %, 4Ω, 20 kHz LPF)
-36%
Panasonic – Technics Premium Class Ottava Premium All-In-One Music System – Silver
$528.00 Save:$296.00(36%)
Available in stock
Description
Additional information
| Weight | 8 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 11 × 17.7 × 5.6 in |
| Bass Boost | Variable |
| Works With | Google Assistant |
| App Compatible | Yes |
| Product Depth | 11 inches |
| Color | Silver |
| Line-Level Inputs | Yes |
| Preamp Outputs | No |
| Manufacturer's Warranty - Labor | 3 Years Manufacturer |
| Continuous Watts x Channel @ Ohms | Front speaker: 30 W + 30 W (1 kHz, T.H.D. 1.0 %, 6Ω, 20 kHz LPF) Subwoofer : 40 W (70Hz, T.H.D. 1.0 %, 4Ω, 20 kHz LPF) |
| Input(s) | DNLA |
| Maximum Watts x Channel @ Ohms | Front speaker: 30 W + 30 W (1 kHz, T.H.D. 1.0 %, 6Ω, 20 kHz LPF) Subwoofer : 40 W (70Hz, T.H.D. 1.0 %, 4Ω, 20 kHz LPF) |
| Wireless Multi-Room Audio | Yes |
| Manufacturer's Warranty - Parts | 3 Years Manufacturer |
| Featured Streaming Services | Spotify |
| Bridgeable | No |
| Product Weight | 8 pounds |
| Model Number | SC-C70MK2 |
| Voice Assistant Built-in | Google Assistant |
| Product Height | 5.6 inches |
| Product Name | Technics Premium Class Ottava Premium All-In-One Music System |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Color Category | Silver |
| Product Width | 17.7 inches |
| UPC | 885170424210 |
Reviews (20)
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Closingracer –
I haven’t had a high end stero system in a while and I been wanting to try one again. This device is great and has plenty of features as well.
Inside the box you get:
The stero system
Power cable
And antenna for the FM radio
Features:
FM/AM radio
Wifi
Airplay compatible
Bluetooth
Spotify/Amazon music to name some
Cd player as well
I tried using this with the CD player, Spotify connected through WiFi, the FM radio and my Android phone connected by Bluetooth.
Setting this up was easy when you downloaded the technics app which you can download through the Google Play store or Apples App store. They include a QR code to find it easily.
While you won’t get the best possible sound from CD’s compared to say vinyl CDs are still better than say Spotify and streaming services. I am not an audiophile but I can appreciate the better sound quality from CD’s then Spotify. That being said I also think having Spotify feature and Bluetooth is nice to have so you don’t need an Bluetooth speaker or anything as well on top of this.
Also this is Google assistant compatible as well so you can use it with Google home as well.
bc3tech –
This unit was exactly what I wanted in my home – a compact unit with room-filling sound. Its output is more than enough to fill my large front room, even positioned in a corner. Auto-setup allows it to accurately detect its positioning, the size of the room, etc. and adjust its audio output accordingly.
I had some initial struggles getting the unit set up. This was the first time I’d ever done a device setup through Google Home but it eventually worked. Along the way, however, it complained that it couldn’t see the device on my network or that it couldn’t detect it. When I simply exited setup, there it was – perfectly fine. It’s also a bit cumbersome that I couldn’t get it wired up on my guest network but had to instead put it on my main one.
The app used to control the device is very rudimentary with a lacking UI and unintuitive controls. However, poke around long enough and you’ll eventually figure out that you can make quick work of changing from FM to Spotify to play whatever you want whenever you want.
Controlling the device from Google Home is simply for Volume, but oftentimes that’s enough, and the Home app makes it quick to get to.
It’s worth noting that even though this device connects to Wifi, it doesn’t appear as though it streams – at least from Spotify – directly; but rather you cast the audio from your Phone to the device.
All-in-all, it’s a great device, but I wouldn’t want to give it to somebody without technical expertise if the plan is to use one’s phone to control it and/or stream audio. The included remote makes using it for FM/CD very easy.
Jeff W –
I really wanted to like this unit, but after using it for a while, I am left wondering who would want something like this.
To begin, the design is very sleek and modern. The unit also has a good deal of mass to it as well… The construction is very solid. One interesting design feature that befuddles me, though, is the inclusion of a CD player. Who uses CDs anymore? Everything is digital. Beyond that, even if you still use CDs, access is provided on the top of the unit with a quasi-flip/twist/rotate to open panel. That immediately removed some utility from the unit for me as that eliminates the ability to stack or place anything on top of the unit. I would have preferred no CD player and a completely flat top.
Next is the display, which is bright and easy to read, but also somewhat spartan and minimalist. Using the connected app provides better functionality. I was very disappointed in the accompanying manual, though, in that directions were not very clear, programming channels is not intuitive, and I still have yet to figure out what the difference is between some of the options (such as “Display 1” versus “Display 2”) and I have no idea what the “Remaster On” toggle does. A little more detail would be nice.
In order to set up the unit, it was also necessary to download Google Home and set up the unit through that application. I do not have a single Alexa or other Google device in my house (I have Apple devices that use HomeKit and Apple Home), so this was a quasi-annoyance. I was able to connect to other devices in my house using Bluetooth and AirPlay, however, so that is a positive.
The unit has a built-in tuner for both FM and AM channels and the auto-search function is fast. Aside from wi-fi, there is a port for a direct network connection via ethernet and a USB-A port to plug in a thumb drive directly. The unit can also play off a media/music server, if you have one, along with some streaming services (although, not Apple Music).
Lastly, the sound is decent, but I was a little disappointed in the options for fine tuning. The app provides options for adjusting the bass, mid, and treble. That’s it. Without some fine tuning, the music sounds flat. Increasing the treble, bass, and mid (to an extent) did help significantly, but I found myself wanting even more bass. Simply stated, there really is no “kick” with this unit. To clarify, the sound is decent and I suspect it would be just fine for an average user who wants something like this in a bedroom or kitchen. As a main audio component, however, I was underwhelmed.
So, to come full circle, I am still not sure who the target audience is for something like this. I have smart speakers throughout my house that, in my opinion, sound just as good and provide better flexibility and seamlessness with my existing home entertainment and communication ecosystem. (True, my smart speakers cannot tune in local radio channels, but with all the streaming services that are available now, including satellite radio, I never listen to the radio, especially when I am in my house and have so many other options.) This unit is not stackable (unless it as the top of the stack) and the inclusion of a CD player seems useless for most people in today’s on-demand streaming music environment. If you are looking for a compact, well-built, and attractive all-in-one unit that provides decent sound with some streaming options, this is not a bad choice. Personally, though, I cannot help but think there are better options out there and I am not sure just how frequent I will find myself using this unit in my home office when my computer gives me more flexibility with better sounding external speakers (with a subwoofer).
ShaunOrlando –
So this is a great sounding system for a compact system but at this price point it just doesn’t wow me with features that I was expecting in this range of systems. Out of the box and setup I had it connected to my Google Home ecosystem in about 5 minutes then once connected to my WiFi Network it performed a quick firmware update. I was streaming music to it from Amazon Music within 10 minutes of taking it out of the box.
For those that aren’t an Android or Google home this may be a bit of an annoyance since everything was tailored for the Google Home experience. I have read online it does work with the Apple devices or their version of a Home ecosystem but I’m sure it isn’t quite as seamless. Once streaming the demo of high quality audio was very clear and had bass that was noticeable but don’t be expecting to shake any walls. The bass was clean and present but you are not going to feel it in your chest.
One main reason I got this was for the CD Player functionality. I do not personally still buy Music CD’s but my oldest daughter does for a K-Pop band she loves listening to that releases albums on CD still. It had no problems playing any CD’s we put into it, including some old burned ones that my wife dug out from when we were in college. It plays them quickly and the sound quailty was great compared to previous shelf systems but back then I also wasn’t rocking $1K shelf systems.
I am sure that this will have no problem handling the new higher bit audio but there are other alternatives to get that for a lower price point. If you want something that looks very sleek and modern, will play a variety of Music CD’s, FM Radio, and stream from your favorite music streaming services this will get the job done but is expensive for what you get. They need a better way to really customize the audio if this is device is being tailored towards us high-end audiophiles, whether that be via a dedicated app or more intuitive user menu on screen.
Bryan –
This is a very unique product. I wasn’t aware of anything like it currently in the tech market. CDs are behind vinyl in gaining a lot of nostalgia, so when I saw this item on Best Buy’s site, I was intrigued to learn more. I was a massive fan of “boom boxes” as a kid, so I felt like this may be a modernized version of one (even though you can’t put this on your shoulder).
That’s what it is. If you remember the units from the 90s and early 2000s, you’d have the CD tray in the middle of built-in speakers on either side. Those were large and awkward but worked well for bedrooms or on shelves or counters in offices. This Technics Premium Class Ottava CD player is a fantastic device for those who still have CDs. But even without CDs, this streaming product sounds much better than expected.
This is a very stylish player. As soon as I unpacked it, I knew that it was quality. Technics have been in the game since 1965 and their stuff. They’ve designed some of the most admirable devices within the last few years. They have a very modern look but somehow look timeless in doing so. They don’t look “futuristic” or overly complicated. I love the look of these things.
As with most modern devices, this one comes with an accompanying app that will help dig into the settings of this device. You won’t need it for most of it because it comes with a remote, and you can dig into settings directly on the LED screen and touch buttons. However, you’ll want to download the app to set it up and use “Space Tune,” which “measures test tones played through a built-in mic to analyze the distance to walls and the effect of reflections, and automatically optimizes the sound field.” This works well if you’re placing it near a wall or on a shelf where it may be surrounded by other obstructions. I love that they added this software because it allows you to place it anywhere without worrying about the sound quality.
Speaking of the sound quality, this thing sounds excellent.
It will stream Spotify and Tidal “directly” but will play anything from your phone once paired with Bluetooth. It also has “high-quality audio playback via LAN, 3.5mm AUX, Optical, USB-A, and HP,” so you can connect this to many different sources. Google Assistant is on board, too, so you can use your voice for commands.
This unit is going in my son’s bedroom. He’s always wanted his own way of playing music and, up until now, has only had a Google Home Mini, which doesn’t exactly wow in the sound department. He has tablets and computers that can stream Spotify to this device, so he’ll use the streaming more than the CD player. However, the older he gets, the more he’ll get into my CD collection.
But with all of this good praise, why the FOUR STARS? If I were judging the device only, without price in mind, this would be a 5-star product. But for a little over $1,000, I can’t do that. The asking price is too much compared to other devices that can do the same thing (minus the CD player) and can be more usable daily.
But again, this product is quality, sleek, modern, and sounds very nice for its compactness. I just want it to be priced accordingly. That could be due to the uniqueness. If you’re one to consider this product before others, you’re probably using it as a CD player, in which case, this is a unique product that you won’t find anywhere else.
JamexRZ –
I love this all in one sound system. Starting on the build quality and looks its amazing. The aluminum look gives it a modern look, and the CD player on top also gives it a retro look at the same time. I think about it as a retro/modern look. I am amazed at the many features they were able to insert in this small package. It has amazing speakers and subs. The sound is great and bass is more than enough to fill a room. I would say its the perfect companion for a bedroom or living room.
It has tons of options, you can connect it to your WIFI (it also has an ethernet port) and to your phone. It supports Bluetooth, also Airplay. They have their own app you can download, which I highly recommend. The included remote is a huge brick, while functional, I prefer to use the app to control it. Setting it up was easy and you can auto tune it either using the all in ones own auto tuning/calibration system (it tunes itself depending of your setup, like if its close to a wall, on a corner etc) for better audio. If you download their app you can perform a this tuning/calibration using the app with your phone’s mics for your room’s acoustics. I also love the CD mechanism, its so nice and now I have to bring back my huge CD collection that was collecting dust in my storage!
It supports several streaming audio services, like FM radio, Internet radio, Tidal, etc. There is also an optical and analog input on the back if you want to plug devices to it, and also USB. This is truly a multifunctional all in one audio system you will enjoy!
masc360 –
Technics is legendary brand in the audio world, but it seems that for along time they fell out of the spotlight. The last several years I have started to see more and more of their products come back up, and this stereo system is one of them. Me personally I prefer a receiver and some tower speakers to listen to music to, but my wife always has issues using that so we were looking for something to have in bedroom to listen to music. When we got the package and opened it we were surprised at how good it looks. Even though it’s mostly plastic it looks and feel extremely premium and that was even before turning it on.
Once we got it set up and going I was very surprised this little thing has some big sound, it’s kind of amazing the sound you get from it. My only complaint is the bass can get a little muddy depending on the song you can adjust your eq a bit and it helps but it’s not a big deal overall.
This device is amazing with how easy it is to use and how good it sound I would highly recommend it for someone looking for a stereo system to listen to music.
dharr18 –
WOW!
I am sure I will not be the only one to do this, but here is my experience so far. While this has been fantastic as a CD player, radio, internet radio, etc., I decided to use the optical hookup to attach my TV.
Let’s set the stage, I have a weird living room that is in an openish floor pattern that is far from optimal for audio performance. Many angles and a odd floorplan. The room/rooms really muffles any and all sound coming from speakers or human beings. Soundbars I have used with the TV have always come up short. There were areas in the living room that just were hard to hear clearly from. It was muted or muffled. Honestly the TV internal speakers almost performed as well as the soundbars I have tried.
Since I played music over the system and could hear it clearly no matter where I went in the house, the TV became my target!
Very simple setup, I just plugged my optical cable in the jack at the back of the system and into my TV. Switched the system to optical input. Changed the TV to optical output. And boom. perfect sound. When watching a movie you feel like you are in a theater. I can only imagine how awesome this would be in a square room with walls. One minor drawback, the remote for my Google TV will not work to control the power on the system. Works perfect for changing volume though.
My uncle, who has always been an audiophile, has a 30 year old Technics audio system I helped him set up. When he hears the sound this little box creates, he will be in line to replace his old system.
This music system is so much more. It is a very aesthetically pleasing device to look at. The sounds is immersive and immense. My dogs hate the calibration. They run to the door and start barking.
The app is HIGHLY recommended, it is much easier to see the changes you make on your phone than on the device. The setup through Google Home was semi painless. It sat on please wait for 20 minutes before I power cycled and started again. The initial system update is either very large or just got tangled in the process.
One warning, if you HATE large remotes…this thing is a beast!
Overall, this music system is phenomenal.
Shae –
I thoroughly enjoy music and being able to fully immerse myself in the beauty of the sound, and this unit does that surprisingly well. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the Ottava but this thing is very pleasing to the ears and eyes.
Setup for the system was quite easy and quick. The app is simplistic and gives all the basic functionality options such as time control, illumination/dimmer control options, timer, etc. You also have the ability to adjust the space tune depending on where you place your stereo (wall, corner, free), re-mastering, and different “auto” modes for the dimmer and “off”. The app itself is intuitive and fast, however I noticed a lag or stuttering when adjusting the tone control levels. The levels seemed to hesitate regardless of tapping the + or – side. But once my preferences were dialed in and I turned the volume up to just 25 the Ottava started to spread its wings.
I’ve placed my unit roughly 1 foot from a side wall and about 8” from a rear wall in an open living room with tall ceilings, and the sound at only 25 fills the room with rich, deep sound. The treble is crisp along with the midrange, followed by a fairly conservative level of bass. Not too little, and definitely not too much. The bass response on this unit is surprisingly good, especially for a 3” woofer. I have yet to push it to the max volume or even close as the sound more than fulfills my needs and/or wants for this particular space.
Now onto the design functionality. The Ottava blends into my particular decor without being obtrusive or any sort of an eye sore. The lights aren’t overwhelming nor annoying, even with all other lights out in the room. It’s pretty simplistic. I especially like the faint glow that comes from the cd player window. It’s a crisp white light filtered by a tinted cover…perfect to set a relaxing mood in a dark or dimly lit room. Compared to some of my Bluetooth speakers, the Ottava has a much smaller footprint but with more functionality and options. It’s like I have my own entertainment and very very small personal party.
Now, I will have to say the remote control leaves a lot of room for improvement…not in functionality but in overall design. Immediately when my eyes locked onto the remote I had a flashback of the early 90’s. The sheer size of the remote with only a fraction of buttons to warrant the remote size is pretty ridiculous. But, it serves its purpose and has no issues with line of sight.
Overall, I give this unit a solid 5 out of 5 for a stereo with wireless connectivity, apple air play, Bluetooth, Google assistant, WiFi, usb, disc compatibility, headphone jack, aux, and more!
RacineTechie –
I really like this and I have used a lot of audio equipment through the years – this brings it all together for me.
The size and form factor was just right for my office and the color and design blend in well. The bass from the sub is quite good and the ability to quickly program the unit using the remote or app was great. I was out of package, connected to all of my sources and ready to go in about 15 minutes.
Speaker pairing was easy although it did take two attempts to pick up my phone for some reason – no big deal just another 30 seconds.
The one button ability to switch sources and connection types is awesome. I have purchased music and audiobooks in different formats and from different sources and the Ottava makes it seamless to bounce between them. Network to radio to CD to USB to AUX in a few button clicks makes my listening life so much easier. As someone who has a lot of CDs this unit has been awesome and I was even able to hook up my old cassette deck as an AUX so I am fully enabled now.
The sound does drop off when you are offline from the face of the unit so it doesn’t ‘fill the room’ but that is to be expected and it is a volume drop off – not a sound quality reduction. The CD player is audio only, I couldn’t get it to pick up from an MP# CD, however with a USB-A connection on the back, this point was moot – I just transferred the mp3s to drive and issue resolved.
Not much else to say other than if you are looking for an easy way to access all of your various audio sources in one go – this will do the trick.
RAK9008 –
I have never had a Technics product. Didn’t know Panasonic dabbled in Audio. I am a bit of an audio snot – Sonos for the living room sound, Alpine for my Jeep, Sony for my head (ear buds and on the ear) I now have a home office and had really nothing for audio while I work and this sound system crossed my path so I took a chance.
And I am impressed. The sound is fairly full, the forward speakers handle high and mid range sound and then surprise, the subwoofer built in handles the lows. And it handles them very well. Note this isn’t something you want to turn up full blast, and for me that’s okay. It’s in my office and I don’t need full blast.
Set up was easy, plug it in, use the remote to set up most of the basic functions. Wifi needs to be set up through the google home app, which I partially use G-Home so I was able to get it set up and the firmware updates. Once that is all done, make sure you find the audio settings and change the “orientation” I have mine in a corner on a shelf so I used the corner audio setting which adjusts the sound appropriately.
This system is really sleek looking and sits nicely on my shelf in the office, the front grille definitely is an attention grabber as I have had several people ask me what it is. The price point might be a pain for some, but if you want a great system that produces great sound, sometimes you gotta splurge.
Njmomof3 –
This is a SOLID piece of equipment. From the secure packaging and styrofoam wrapping, this sound system just feels as good as it sounds.
PROs
– CD player has a cool roll away over
– Hooks up to bluetooth perfectly
– Connects directly to Google Home app and controlled there
-Sound is deep, bold, and crisp; it filled my entire downstairs open concept home; all rooms
– Touch sensitive mode buttons
– HUGE size, full remote control (less likely to get lost)
– Ethernet port available for hardwired connection
– Gave my Sunday night football watch parties the sound quality of a theater!
CONs
-TAC app works well…..MOST of the time
– Price point is pretty steep (though it lives up to it)
Yeah there is a reason this rig’s con list is pretty minimal compared to the Pros….there are just so many. This can fill an entire home, connect to your television, connect to your device’s bluetooth, or even the corresponding apps available to produce top quality sound. Then of course if you still use CDs, the CD player is simply excellent. All in all, this will pay for itsef over time.
Orion –
The Panasonic Technics Ottava all-in-one music system is hands-down, the absolute best compact stereo system I’ve ever experienced. This high-end compact stereo really does deliver the ultimate musical experience by combining a CD player with radio tuning and Bluetooth connectivity, while boasting smart functionality, connecting to Google Home and a Technics app for advanced features. With this I’m able to open that massive CD album that I’ve had in the closet for far too long and take a walk down memory lane by listening to my favorite songs and bands from years ago.
Getting everything set up was easy with the aid of a quick start guide, included in the box. Also included is a full size Basic Owner’s Manual that helps you to understand the basic operation of the stereo including network settings, getting the radio set up and the AM and FM antennas connected, working the remote control, navigating the various menu options for the stereo, and more. During set up the unit displayed a message saying that it was not made for my country and may not work properly. I don’t know if this is because I receive an early release model or not, but I haven’t noticed any issues at all.
Once you’ve had a chance to review the Owner’s Manual and get set up, operating the stereo is pretty straightforward. Just select your input and then use the remote, stereo buttons or your smart device to control the stereo. The remote control works really well from a distance and doesn’t need to be perfectly pointed at the stereo to work. The buttons on the unit are touch sensitive for most functions with the power and volume operated by tactile buttons that need to be pressed. This is a great idea, to keep the power button tactile, so that you or a pet doesn’t turn it on by mistake. The app works really well and only took a few minutes to get set up and connected to the stereo. Within the app are options to play content from a large variety of sources including streaming apps such as Spotify and Amazon Music, device connections like Bluetooth, USB, CD or Radio and Home Network files from a music service or your device.
The Ottava produces a rich full sound that fills the room and immerses you into the music or content that you are enjoying. The app offers some limited sound control options and some other advanced features and options. Not only does this all-in-one music system produce high-end, clear and immersive sound, it can do so at a volume level that you will never need to use. In other words, this stereo can get loud, very loud, without sacrificing sound clarity and quality. Listening to my old CD collection again not only brings back great memories, but also gives me a selection of 100’s of CD’s that I hadn’t had access to in many years.
The build quality is obvious at every angle, indicating that this stereo is built to last for many years and will likely be turning CD’s for decades. I recommend this to anyone who wants to enjoy the sound quality of a high-end stereo system without needing to take up the space that a full system requires. Anyone who likes to listen to the radio in the morning and spin CD’s in the evening. Anyone with a big family who owns a range of devices to connect and play music from a variety of sources. Pretty much anyone who enjoys rich, clear, immersive sound!
Wraith –
If you have been tracking the latest and greatest from Technics recently, and read reviews on here, you will know I have loved Technics for quite some time but I left some pretty harsh criticism of their latest headphone offering. THIS system though is EXACTLY what I look to Technics to build.
As a reformed audiophile (on the headphone side of things), I know what I like and what that sounds like. The Ottava All-in-One delivers on all counts. Sound? Breathtaking. Looks? Gorgeous. Control? Unlimited.
The Technics Ottava harkens back to those days decades ago where stereo equipment filled a rack and weighed as much as the massive console TVs that were in the living room. As soon as I picked up the box of the Ottava, I knew it was going to be special. No corners were cut on this system and it screams quality and style. Granted, it can be a polarizing style (my wife is not a fan), but it HAS style which is a lot more than what many similar systems can say.
After a quick set-up using the Google Home app, I fired up my test playlist and sat back to listen. My playlist consists of several hours of songs that I know like the back of my hand and test everything from left/right separation, to frequency response, to sibilance (that annoying shrillness that some systems give to the ‘S’ sound), and soundstage.
To tell you the truth, I was a bit disappointed with my early listening on the system. I put it where my previous Bluetooth speaker had been thinking I would get similar results with the Ottava, but it is a much different beast and I was being lazy. I was listening to the Ottava on factory default and hadn’t run the built-in environmental analyzer yet. BTW, when it says that the tones emitted are going to be loud, it will be loud and sharp. My cat STILL hasn’t forgiven me for scaring the bejeezus out of him.
After the test was run, the Ottava sounded different but not necessarily better. Bass response wasn’t where I expected it to be and it got remarkably shrill at the drop of a (hi-)hat. It was THEN that I realized just how different of a beast the Ottava is versus other systems. You REALLY need to consider positioning and composition of surfaces under and around the system. As it was, I had put the system in the corner of a wet bar area in my living room and where the surface is 1.5 inch thick granite. The Ottava has downward facing sub-woofer and the granite was dampening the response. I also found that the system has (to my ears) a small but definite downward focus for the front speakers as well, meaning it should be at your ear level or higher for the best sound.
With all that figured out, I moved the Ottava to a set of wood shelves that have an open back and are a nice solid natural wood. THAT was the difference. Even my wife, (who thinks that the headphones they give you for free on airplanes are great), went ‘WOOAH!’ I also learned that you need to be careful with what is also on the other shelves because one particularly hard hitting bass-line from ‘Heracles’ by WYR GEMI, almost caused a set of heirloom plates to come crashing down out of their normally secure display stands. That’s when my wife noped out on the system and said it had to go elsewhere. And THAT my friends is how I got a world-class sound system on some very sturdy shelves (that hold nothing fragile), at perfect ear level when I’m in my easy chair in my man-cave.
I only have one gripe about the whole system, and that is the remote. I love the retro styling of the device itself but can we get a modern remote that isn’t like 10” of plastic, half of which is dead space? Not a huge issue because I mostly control it via my phone.
Needless to say, I am supremely happy with the Technics Ottava and I can’t imagine anyone who wouldn’t be. If you are willing to spend the money on quality sound, this system is worth the price. I owned headphones that cost more than this and didn’t deliver as much aural enjoyment as the Ottava. Do yourself a favor and quit reading this review and just go get it!
jonnyd2885 –
The Technics Premium Class Ottava Premium All-In-One Music System (SC-C70MK2) is an amazing sounding and beautifully designed music system that allows you to play your CDs as well as several music streaming platforms. That said there are no audio outputs on this device and the only way to expand the amount of speakers you can have with this device is to use Chromecast speakers. I would like to see the ability to add this to an amplifier and to add it to my existing audio system.
The built in speakers and subwoofer on this unit sound amazing in most rooms and as long as you put it in a room where the Spacetune Auto optimization can configure the sound for the room it will make it sound amazing in almost all instances. Obviously there are some rooms or situations where the sound quality will not be the greatest, but I did not have these issues in my apartment living room and it sounded amazing.
This seems like a very niche product, if this is something you are looking for I think you will be more than pleased, this is an amazing product with great sound and a beautiful design that fits well with most decor. That said, I do not see the use in this device, it is a stereo speaker system with a CD player and streaming options, it cannot be extended with additional speakers as there are no audio outputs on this device, and I don’t count being able to add Chromecast speakers or devices as a good option for expansion. I still think this is a great product for those who are looking for something like this, but for me this is hard to justify.
KenE –
As an avid audiophile and music enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Technics Premium Class Ottava Premium All-In-One Music System, and let me tell you, it left me thoroughly impressed on multiple fronts. This system is exactly what I was looking for, and it did not disappoint.
First and foremost, the sound quality of this system is nothing short of exceptional. It takes the music to a whole new level of richness and clarity. I played tracks that I know inside out, and the Ottava Premium truly brought them to life. The bass was deep and punchy, the mids were warm and inviting, and the highs were crystal clear. It’s a fully immersive experience that makes you feel like you’re right there in the studio with the artist. I’ve waited a long time for an experience that leaves me planted in my seat, wanting to play track after track with no end in sight.
One standout feature that caught my attention was the app functionality. The dedicated app provides a seamless and intuitive way to control the system. It allowed me to fine-tune the sound to my exact preferences and easily switch between different input options with ease. The whole experience is well-polished, and the time invested in its development shows that no corners were cut; every single aspect works as it should. Speaking of input options, the Ottava Premium offers an impressive array, including DNLA, Optical Digital Audio, 3.5mm audio, and USB Type A. This versatility ensures that I can connect virtually any audio source to the system, making it incredibly convenient for all my music needs.
The build quality of the Ottava Premium is also worth noting. It exudes a sense of craftsmanship and durability that you’d expect from a premium audio product. The brushed metal finish and attention to detail make it a standout piece of tech that not only sounds great but looks fantastic in any room. It has all the makings of being the centerpiece of your room.
The Technics Premium Class Ottava Premium All-In-One Music System is a true gem for audiophiles like myself. Its superb sound quality, user-friendly app, versatile input options, and top-notch build quality make it a standout choice in the world of all-in-one music systems. If you’re looking to elevate your music listening experience and bring your favorite tracks to life, the Ottava Premium is a fantastic choice that I wholeheartedly recommend.
jhancock –
The Panasonic – Technics Premium Class Ottava Premium All-In-One Music System – Silver has –
A CD player that is able to play virtually all types of CDs, including standard audio CDs, CD-R, and CD-RW discs. I still have hundreds of CDs so this is nice. It does not support the playback of copy-protected music files or VBR (Variable Bit Rate) playback. However it is able to play MP3 and WMA files from CDs.
A built-in AM/FM radio tuner. With preset capability for your favorite stations along with the ability to scan for new stations.
Built-in speakers that provide clean sound quality and have the ability to connect to external speakers for an even more robust and fuller sound. It also has built in amplification to power these well designed speakers.
A remote control that allows you to control all of the functions from a distance or you can use an app for that.
Bluetooth connectivity so that you can stream music from your computer, smartphone, tablet or etc..
An auxiliary input so that you can hard wire connect to other devices, such as an MP3 player.
A display that shows song information, radio frequency, and other settings.
An 8-cm woofer unit that offers significantly enhanced audio characteristics as a result of various improvements, such as the reduced weight voice coil, enhanced airflow and increased rigidity of the diaphragm. The woofer also provides superb response and sound clarity to reproduce mid- and high-frequency sound comfortable and pleasing to the ear. The high-res-ready 2-cm dome tweeter unit features a light silk diaphragm that provides beautiful clean sound. The acoustic lens is optimized for the tweeter enhancing the expansiveness of the emitted sound.
A Space Tune function you can use to adjust the sound quality automatically based on the installation location.
IBEWSuper –
The following is my personal review of the new Technics Ottava SCC70MK2 All-In-One. I can’t say that I was specifically in the market for a “All-In-One” music system but decided to give this unit a try after an old fondness of the brand from back in my youth. I had lofty expectations for this and it easily lived up to them. The design is highlighted by a brushed aluminum top with a smoke grey CD cover and a display on the front center with overall minimalistic buttons, it is a very clean & refined look. Build quality and construction feel excellent. The receiver has Bluetooth, ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity. I opted to use Wi-Fi to connect to my home network, but the initial app and network setup proved to be a bit annoying at first. The Technics app which can be easily downloaded offers much more essential control and sound customization. This receiver sounds excellent both playing a CD and streaming. It has quality loudness, tight crisp bass, clear highs and impactful mids, producing a quality & balanced sound profile. I have hundreds of CDs that I’ve collected over the years and this receiver made me realize how much I missed playing CDs. Receiver supports a variety of inputs other than just Bluetooth & internet streaming through your favorite apps, It has an AM/FM radio, optical & AUX inputs and USB as well as the integrated CD player. Overall, the Technics SC-C70MK2 is a beast of a receiver with plenty of options in a small form factor. If your wallet can afford this unit I doubt you will be dissapointed.
Bootleg89 –
I can honestly say that I can never have enough high end audio equipment. I was skeptical as to how much I would use the Ottava system, but given the features I could not resist picking it up. I am glad I did.
My first impression with this music system is that it is extremely high quality. It is an all in one system that takes almost no time setting up. The hardest part for me was finding my surge protector behind my media cabinet to plug in the unit. I then inserted the included batteries into the remote and I was ready to listen to music in my basement family room.
The first thing I did was grab the first pile of CDs that I had tucked away in the corner of my storage side of my basement. CDs that I have not listened to in years. I placed Smashing Pumpkins “Melancholy” into the music system and began to listen. I felt like I was listening to it for the first time. The sound was crystal clear and I could hear every note. I then changed out 3 other CDs and just sat back and listened to the beautiful sound.
I then decided to actually look at the owner’s manual and complete a few of the tasks that will enhance the music system. I did the auto calibration so I could optimize the sound in my space. It did that in less than two minutes and I feel that it made the sound even better after. I then connected it to my home network. You do this via the Google Home app and it is actually easier than most of the other “smart” devices that I have connected to my network recently. In another two minutes I had the music system connected to my home network.
I then opened my Spotify app on my phone and “cast” the music to the Ottava. This music also played crystal clear with zero issues with sound or connectivity. I was in music heaven as I love when things just “work”.
I now find myself casting music to the device every time I am in my basement. I have even rediscovered my entire catalog of old music CDs, and for this I am greatful. I cannot say enough good things about the Ottava music system, other than it is a must buy!
phoenixfta –
I was extremely intrigued and excited having an opportunity to try out the Technics OTTAVA All-in-One Music System. Several years ago, as digital alternatives to physical media were just entering the mainstream, I had a cutting edge device I loved very much. Alas, a few factors sent it to the technology graveyard: 1. My living situation changed and I couldn’t spare the space for an amplifier and nice speakers and 2. The CD player was the type that sucked in your disc…and one day it didn’t give it back.
So, like the rest of you, I’ve gotten by with playing music via my laptop, my phone to a Bluetooth speaker, or via my TV soundbar. Thanks to the relatively good quality of digital media, it was mildly satisfying. However, once an audiophile, always and audiophile. I had to get back to higher quality sources and playback hardware.
The OTTAVA, let’s start with this, is an elegant physicals piece of equipment. Markedly simple, but well-detailed. It has lovely front grille comprised of horizontal fins framing perforated metal. There’s a small black window that is a blue-glowing LED screen displaying critical data. I wish this had been a true screen with graphics..and ideally touch. A mini-headphone input is the sole physical input on the front. The top of the case is a lovely, thick piece of stainless, with three mechanical buttons and 6 contact controls. The duality is baffling at first, but I ultimately grew to love the eccentricity. A simple rotating smoked cover for the CD player contrasts nicely with the metal case. I like that it’s a drop-and-press type mechanism for CDs. Second only to a platter for stability in my experience.
The back of the case is for all your other connections. Power, analog, optical, USB-A and LAN inputs, along with FM and AM antenna inputs OTA radio? Hey, we’re equal opportunity for you musical enjoyment) because of course you can connect any Bluetooth source, AirPlay, and via Wifi: Spotify Connect, TIDAL, and internet radio. DNLA streaming supports all the expected file formats including FLAC, AIFF and ALAC up to 384/24, and AAC. Happy audiophile here.
The remote is one of the largest I’ve seen in a decade. I don’t really understand why. There’s source selection, volume, dimmer, standard play controls and numerical keys. But to be honest, just get the app. It’s far superior and makes Ottava a joy with which to listen. EQ controls, and the SpaceTune feature is best used that way.
What is this SpaceTune of which you speak? It’s a sophisticated feature that, with just a few user inputs, auto-adjusts the sound field for optimal (or at least improved) resolution. Why does this matter? Well, since this is an integrated system – amplifiers and speakers built-in you don’t have all the flexibility of speaker placement…and you’re probably going to put this beauty somewhere to be seen. A cool feature I haven’t tried is this can be paired with Chromecast built-in speakers to build a multi-room experience.
Wait that’s not all! While that’s true, go ahead at look up all the other features- ok one more, Google Assistant built-in. This is a music playback device after all. So let’s talk music. I’m deeply mixed about my relationship with Ottava. Some music is really lovely. Diana Krall’s CD- Live from Paris is beautiful. Diana and John Clayton are clear, rich and vibrant. The more digitally oriented Anomalie Metropole Part II (AAC/44.1 kHz) played via Bluetooth from my phone also fills your space and ears with delight. Sting’s masterful Soul Cages (AAC/44.1 via Bluetooth/Amazon Music) is as moody as ever.
On the other end of the spectrum, I’ve been disappointed with rock and alternative whether CD, Bluetooth or streamed via WiFi. Things get too muddy at times. Suddenly Ottava is just OK. I’m going to give it more time to tweak, but those should be the easy listens.
Overall, if you want to have a bold, lovely piece of equipment out in the open. Go for it. If you want to have a multitude of audio sources, I don’t know how you beat this. And if you’re limited on space, same. For me, with a very picky ear, you really need beautifully recorded music for Ottava to shine.