Looking for a vinyl turntable to spin your treasured records on? You’ve come to the right place. We’re at your service with an in-depth review of the Fluance RT81, a gem among record players. Within this article, we explore its design, setup process, sound quality, and more.
The Fluance RT81 is a top-of-the-range turntable with meticulous design and sophisticated audio technology. Its sleek construction contributes not only to its aesthetic appeal but also its unrivaled performance. Moreover, the combination of outstanding audio output and extended connectivity options makes it exceptional in terms of holistic music appreciation.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Drive System | Belt Drive |
| Motor | DC Motor |
| Speeds | 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM |
| Platter | Aluminum |
| Diameter of Platter | 12″ (30 cm) |
| Weight of Platter | 1.22 lbs (553 g) |
| Turntable Mat | Rubber |
| Tonearm Type | Static Balanced, S-Type |
| Cartridge | Dual Moving Magnet (MM) |
| Cartridge Model | Audio Technica: AT95E |
| Stylus | 0.4 x 0.7mil Bonded Elliptical (Diamond) |
| Frequency Response | 20 – 20,000 Hz |
| Channel Separation | 20 dB at 1 kHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Weighted) | 67dB or higher (A-weighted, 20kHz LPF) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Unweighted) | 60dB or higher (unweighted, 20kHz LPF) |
| Preamp | Yes, switchable PHONO/LINE |
| Output Voltage (Phono) | 3.5 mV (+/–3 dB) |
| Line Output | 140 mV (–17 dBV) |
| Dimensions | 5.75 x 16.5 x 14.25 inches (14.6 x 41.9 x 36.2 cm) (HxWxD) |
| Weight | 14.1 lb (6.4 kg) |
| Wireless Playback | No |
| Warranty | 2 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty |
Fluance RT81 Elite: A Quick Overview
The Fluance RT81 Elite turntable stands out with its belt drive system and precision DC motor, providing users with consistent playback speeds of 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM. Its robust construction features a 12″ aluminum platter accompanied by a rubber mat to minimize resonance and vibrations during play. With dimensions of 5.75 x 16.5 x 14.25 inches and a weight of around 14 pounds, the turntable strikes a balance between portability and stability.
Equipped with an Audio Technica AT95E cartridge using a bonded elliptical stylus, this turntable offers detailed sound reproduction across a wide frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz. The unit also incorporates a switchable preamp for flexible PHONO/LINE output options, ensuring compatibility with various audio setups. Users can expect high signal-to-noise ratios, enhancing the overall listening experience by reducing background noise for clearer audio quality. The Fluance RT81 is covered by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty, adding an extra layer of confidence for buyers.
Also Read: Yamaha P-125 Review: Is It the Best Budget Piano
Sleek Design and Build Quality
When you see the Fluance RT81 for the first time, you’ll notice how its smooth design captures your attention. The attractive body of this turntable has an inviting natural walnut finish that perfectly matches with any stylish home setting. The overall footprint is fairly compact, measuring 16.5 inches wide, 14.25 inches deep, and 5.75 inches tall. Its medium size means it won’t take up too much space on your table or board.
In terms of weight, the Fluance RT81 comes in at around 14.1 lbs (6.4 kg), which is just right for a turntable with its features and capabilities; it’s not too light to be flimsy nor too heavy to be inconvenient to handle or move around.
The build quality of the Fluance RT81 is also impressive! It possesses a strong and durable body that can withstand long hours of usage without any drop in performance quality. Hence, this device offers both wonderful aesthetics and muscular durability – a tough combination to beat indeed!
A unique element worth mentioning here: The Platter – This important component comes fabricated from high-quality aluminum contributing significantly towards maintaining stability during playing your favorite records! Don’t forget about the rubber mat set on the platter; it’s there to reduce excess vibration further enhancing sound quality.
Setting Up
Having a beautiful and robust record player like the Fluance RT81 is a joy, but for some, setting it up can feel overwhelming. However, with our simple guide below, even the least tech-savvy person will find it effortless to set up this vinyl turntable.
Firstly, here’s what open-boxing the Fluance RT81 brings to your hands: a turntable deck with already attached cables and cartridge in place; an aluminum platter; a sturdy dust cover; a rubber mat; 45 adaptor; power supply and an instructional booklet on setup as well as operation.
Step-by-step Guide on setting up your Fluance RT81:
- Location: Select a sturdy surface and ensure that it is level (balanced correctly). The placement should be away from speakers to avoid vibrations.
- Deck: Assemble the turntable deck by placing the aluminum platter upon it (avoid touch delicate parts). Next, place the rubber mat atop this platter which helps shield against vibration during use.
- Tonearm Counterweight: This component is for balancing your tonearm properly to avoid damage over time or during operation. It screws onto the back of the arm using weight markings as guidelines from the user manual.
- Anti-skate Adjustment: Tiny but crucial – coming in royal shape with numerical incrementations for better tracking across records while they play without wobbling off-track or causing unneeded wear-and-tear on them over time.
- Stylus Cover Removal and Tonearm Lift Lever: Remove gently before engaging the lift lever that releases the tonearm safely from its rest position allowing you to position the needle properly atop the starting groove of the record placed securely on the turntable for playback purposes.
Once setup properly, the Fluance RT81 is sure to provide hours of listening pleasure with its stunning sound quality and reliable performance. The beautiful wood finish vinyl turntable does not only offer mesmerizing looks but also delivers sound that can be personalized to your liking. So, whether it’s classic rock or the chillest lo-fi beats, you can enjoy every minor detail in all your favorite records with the Fluance RT81 turntable.
Superior Sound Quality
The Fluance RT81 separates itself from the crowd with its impeccable audio quality. Part of what makes it special is its wide frequency response, which goes from 20 to 20,000 Hz. That’s quite the range! No small feat by any means and one that’s sure to please even the most discerning ears.
One significant feature that aids in delivering superior sound quality is the Dual Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge model. This Audio Technica: AT95E gem works like magic to breathe life into your vinyl records. The sounds it produces are clear and precise, just as the artists intended them to be heard.
This table turner employs a high-quality stylus, a little device that reads your records. The 0.4 x 0.7mil Bonded Elliptical (Diamond) type used here ensures you get stable tracking for consistently perfect sounds every time.
And then we got signal-to-noise ratio figures — both written and unweighted — standing at 67dB and 60dB or higher respectively. Without getting too technical, these figures tell us your music will be loud and clear even when played at high volumes with minimal distortion noise in the background.
In simpler terms, all these technical details combine to give you an unmatched listening experience where every note hits just right! Whether you’re spinning Jazz classics or rocking out to EDM; trust that your Fluance RT81 can deliver excellent audio quality each time you hit play.
Also Read: Audient iD4 Mk2 Review: An In-Depth Look at Performance
Extended Connectivity Options
When tested against other turntables, one standout feature of the Fluance RT81 is its amplitude of connection and compatibility options. It offers a seamless experience connecting it to your audio system or speakers, making it user-friendly. The range of connectivity options greatly increases its adaptability, making it possible to pair with diverse sound systems.
The Fluance RT81 comes equipped with a built-in preamp. What does this mean? Let me break it down into simple words. A “preamp” is like a mediator between your turntable and speakers. This feature assists in enhancing the sound that comes out of your speakers, providing crystal clear music every time you switch on your turntable.
What makes this better is that the preamp here is switchable. This means that you can easily switch between ‘PHONO’ and ‘LINE’. So depending on what kind of speakers you have at home or what kind of audio system setup you’ve got going, you can easily adjust as necessary.
Performance
The Fluance RT81 is designed to deliver high-quality sound. Its performance has been thoroughly praised in various user feedback and expert analysis received. Now, let’s take a closer look at its impressive features and see why it stands out:
- Smooth Operation: One thing that constantly pops up from user reviews is the ease of use. The Fluance RT81 works like a dream for every vinyl music lover due to its automated tonearm system. Once you place your record on the turntable, gently moving the arm over will automatically start playing your LP.
- Sound Output: The audio quality of this turntable sets it apart from others. Many users were thrilled with how clearly each note was captured, thanks to the Audio Technica: AT95E cartridge model built into this player. It delivers a rich and detailed audio profile which makes listening to music on this turntable an enjoyable experience.
- Sturdy Construction: Besides sound output, users were particularly impressed by its build quality as well. Made with solid components like an aluminum platter and diamond stylus, it’s evident that durability has not been compromised in the design of the Fluance RT81.
- Speed Settings: Users have pointed out that they appreciate having two-speed settings (33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM). This ensures compatibility with different vinyl records, making it very versatile regardless of your music taste or collection size.
- Vibration Control: A notable mention from experts is on its ability to control vibrations effectively during playback – thanks to its rubber turntable mat feature – ensuring clearer sound quality without any unwanted noise disturbance.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality and robust build. | Compared to other turntables, it’s slightly heavier. |
| Excellent sound quality with fine audio details. | Can be complex for beginners due to its extensive functionality. |
| Wide frequency response and stereo image. | The lack of an automatic stop/start feature can be inconvenient for some users. |
| User-friendly with easy setup experience. | Pricier than some other models in this category, reflecting its premium |
Also Read: Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro: A Comprehensive Review
Conclusion
In summary, the Fluance RT81 doesn’t just promise quality and performance, it delivers. The piece unites aesthetically pleasing design with excellent build quality, making it stand out amongst its competitors. Its easy setup process assures that you will have this turntable spinning your favorite vinyl in no time.
With superior sound quality and an array of connectivity options, users are bound to experience music like never before. Acknowledging few drawbacks, its advantages considerably outweigh its downsides making it worth every penny spent. Whether you’re a new vinyl enthusiast or a seasoned audiophile looking for an upgrade, the Fluance RT81 is a choice you won’t regret.
Experience next-level audio with Fluance RT81! Discover unparalleled sound quality and sleek design in our insightful review.
Leave a Comment