As a lover of music, I love exploring ways to source out the best way to listen to my favorite tunes. Aside from listening to my phone, turntables are my newest toys. However, getting your very first turntable could be stressful, particularly because there are a lot of options. While it is true that you can get an affordable record player that sounds amazing, if the device does not come with any type of adjustability, there is a risk that your expensive record collection could become damaged in the long run.
It is such a delight to know that there are a lot of options that are currently available on the market. There is no need to worry and think that these sound devices are no longer available these days. One specific model that I have recently come across is the Fluance RT81 Turntable. Is this turntable model a good match for your sound preferences and needs? Read through this review, and expect to make a good purchasing decision before actually buying.
Contents
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Weighty, solid construction
- Built-in phono stage
- Dynamically and rhythmically capable
- Well-engineered features
- Easy to use
Cons
- The inconsistent speed at times
- Lacks features of higher-end models
Unboxing the Fluance RT81
The moment that the box arrived, I checked all the items to see whether everything is received accordingly. The following items are inside the box:
- RT81 Turntable
- 45 Adapter
- Dust Cover
- Rubber Slip Mat
- 3-feet RCA Cable with Ground Wire
- Quick Start Guide
- 100V-240V AC Power Adapter (50/60Hz)
- Lifetime Customer Support
What is a Fluance RT81
The Fluance RT81 turntable is dependable sound equipment that happily sits between the entry-level and low-end audiophile turntables. It is designed to combine together amazing sound quality, easy setup, features, and headroom. With a reasonable price, it can easily become a good entry turntable for most audiophiles.
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Short Version
The Fluance RT81 is a good entry-level turntable that you can get for yourself. Its convenient features and gorgeous design can remove the stress and headaches out of setting up your turntable for the very first time. Even though audiophiles and sound fanatics will not be outrightly impressed, most will enjoy the combination of features of the RT81. The price and design of this turntable is also a plus.
Key Features of Fluance RT81 High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
Classic Design
The Fluance RT81 turntable is understated and classic. It features a plinth that is constructed out of MDF. The finish, on the other hand, is a gleaming high-gloss walnut attraction. Using walnut in this piece gives this turntable a retro and classic look while still giving a modern feel.
Even though this turntable uses a belt, there is no need to reposition it each time there is a need to change speeds. Rather, a metal knob is used, allowing you to flick to either 45 or 33 1/3 RPM. This is an amazing feature that makes the process of playing records ever more convenient.
Auto Start and Stop Feature
The auto-start and stop feature adds to the convenience offered by this turntable. When it is turned on, all you need to do is to move the tonearm from the resting position in order to start its platter. After the record is finished playing, you can return to the resting position, stopping the platter. This is amazing for changing records without the need to turn it off. It also stops the platter automatically after detecting the record end, though its tonearm does not return itself to its original resting position.
The tonearm is entirely made out of plastic, with bearings that are not silky smooth when compared with more expensive turntables. This only means that when it talking about tracking, this turntable is only average. The tonearm allows users to adjust the force of track, along with its anti-skate features, though there is no way of adjusting the vertical tracking angle.
Good Sound Quality
The Fluance RT81 sound quality is amazingly good. In fact, it offers good detail, while its plastic tonearm does well in terms of tracking records. It also features Audio Technica AT95E which does not blow you away, making it a good beginner model that comes with an affordable replaceable needle. Because it uses standard headshells, the cartridges can be swapped easily if you want to play with it.
Related: Fluance RT85 Review
FAQ
Fluance is a reliable name in the turntable game. They make sure that their models, including the RT81, include everything that audiophiles would ever need in order to set up and get started. The tonearm is pre-assembled at the factory, while the cartridge is also pre-installed on the turntable headshell when unpacking.
The Fluance RT81 turntable comes with a built-in phono stage, which is amazingly easy to use. It also features an auto start and stops feature, making it very convenient, especially if you want to control the music using the tonearm. There is no need to turn the machine off when there is a need to switch records.
In order to play records, the Fluance RT81 would need speakers and external amplifiers. They typically provide higher and better sound quality when compared with record players with built-in speakers. Still, it should be noted that turntables such as the RT81 will not be as cute, compact, and affordable as record players.
Verdict
With all of the factors and features mentioned above, the Fluance RT81 model offers
HI, John Andrew here. I’ve been an audiophile since I was a little kid. I’m an original member of myaudiolover . It emerged as a way for me to share my passion and knowledge for audio technology. If you’re looking for tips, techniques, and insights about audio-tech, that can enable your productions that professional edge, then MyAudioLover is the place for you!
