Fluance has always focused on value with all of its turntables and powered loudspeakers and it is a model that has worked rather well for the Canadian manufacturer. It certainly doesn’t hurt that their products have proven to be strong performers at their respective price points and that the company has not deviated from its core business. When you know your customer base — don’t punch them in the eye and pretend to be something that you are not.
The new Fluance RT81+ is also a recognition that the market is softening for some in the turntable category.
Why do I say that? The $299 USD asking price makes it super affordable at a time when consumers might not be as willing to spend as much on their first turntable.
The RT81+ is the next evolution of its Elite vinyl record player series, designed as an upgrade to the popular RT81, now with even more advanced features.
The new turntable includes the Audio Technica VM95E cartridge, an upgraded dampened aluminum anti-resonant platter, and a built-in preamp, delivering an unparalleled listening experience for vinyl enthusiasts.
“This turntable is designed to stand out and last for decades to come. It incorporates a number of unique features that reflect Fluance’s commitment to superior sound quality, upgradeability, and customer accessibility,” said Justin Koetsier, Product Manager at Fluance. “In essence, the RT81+ aims to deliver an accessible, yet sophisticated and upgradeable, high-fidelity audio experience, embodying our vision of inclusivity. Even as products become more expensive, we remain focused on enabling customers to start with a base model and build it up into a high-end model over time, as they desire and as their resources allow. This is more than a product; it’s an enduring commitment to our customers’ evolving audio lifestyle.”
Enhanced Sound
The RT81+ differentiates itself from other turntables on the market by prioritizing the potential for future upgradability as users grow in their vinyl listening journey. It comes equipped with the Audio Technica VM95E cartridge, featuring a diamond elliptical stylus that provides improved frequency response.
The cartridge is conveniently mounted on a removable headshell with an adjustable counterweight, allowing for stylus swapping with any of the compatible AT-VMN95 upgraded styli. The next-generation VM95E delivers powerful 4.0mV output, elevating the overall tonal quality of the acoustic experience.
Improved Platter
The addition of a 3mm acrylic mat and the upgraded dampened aluminum anti-resonant platter are somewhat unusual at the price point. Additionally, the newly introduced height-adjustable rubber conical isolation feet, crafted with three points of minimal contact, are design to minimize the impact of vibration on the table.
High Build Quality
The 3-pound cabinet is crafted from high mass MDF wood, which reduces vibrations to ensure the stylus provides the purest signal.
“Crafted from high mass engineered wood, the RT81+ is not only an exceptional turntable but also a striking piece of decor that elevates any living space. Every detail, from the Texas Instruments phono preamp to the gold-plated RCA connections, works to deliver a warm, true sound,” Koetsier said.
Built-in Preamp
The RT81+ turntable also includes a built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp and gold-plated RCA connections, allowing for increased flexibility and convenience. Users can connect their turntable directly to powered speakers, receivers, or other audio devices. The built-in preamp ensures optimal signal strength and clarity, eliminating the need for additional external components and simplifying the setup process.
Specifications
| CABINET | |
| CABINET MATERIAL | MDF |
| FINISH | High Gloss Walnut Real Wood Veneer |
| DUST COVER | Yes – Tinted |
| TURNTABLE | |
| DRIVE SYSTEM | Belt Drive |
| MOTOR | DC Motor |
| MOTOR ISOLATION | Three Point Rubber Isolation |
| SPEED | 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM (78 RPM – No) |
| SPEED VARIATION | +/-1.00% – Speed Adjustment Guide |
| WOW AND FLUTTER | 0.2% |
| SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO (WEIGHTED) | 67dB or higher (A-weighted, 20kHz LPF) |
| SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO (UNWEIGHTED) | 60dB or higher (unweighted, 20kHz LPF) |
| PLATTER | Dampened Aluminum |
| DIAMETER OF PLATTER | 12″, 30 cm |
| WEIGHT OF PLATTER | 1.25 lbs (566 g) |
| HEIGHT OF PLATTER | 0.62 inches (16 mm) |
| AUTO-STOP | Yes |
| TURNTABLE MAT | Acrylic |
| TONEARM | |
| TONEARM TYPE | Static Balanced, S-Type |
| SUPPORTED CARTRIDGE WEIGHT | 0.12 to 0.23 oz (3.5 to 6.5 g) |
| COUNTERWEIGHT | Yes – 3.53 oz (100 g) – Adjustable |
| ANTI-SKATING ADJUSTMENT | Yes |
| PIVOT BEARING | Yes |
| CUEING LEVER | Yes |
| TONEARM MATERIAL | Aluminum |
Pricing and Availability
The RT81+ turntable is available now in Matte White, Matte Black, Piano White, Piano Black, and Natural Walnut for $299.99 at Amazon and Fluance.com.
Related reading: Step up to the Fluance RT85N Turntable for $499.
ORT
July 29, 2023 at 3:12 am
Fluance makes very beautiful turntables. And they do so for a LOT less than a certain company that makes turnmystomachtables…
If I coulda I woulda put that in the comments of the AVIDHIFI article but for some reason unbeknownst to mineself, I have failed twice to make known my *AHEM* dislike for those baked bean can supports and otherwise grotesque design. Verily, that this too, too solid metal would melt, turn to bamboo and acrylic and become worthy of ownership by those with more heart than means.
The common man (and yes, the common WOMAN!) deserve quality and Fluance delivers. How, I hear you postulate, do I know this when I do not (yet!) own a Fluance table of turning? A friend owns one. It works just fine and looks even better. But as is my wont, I digress…
I especially like the R85 in, I believe, bamboo with the acrylic platter. It it has a classic look that could be featured in the late ’60s TV show from Great Britain, “The Saint”. Fluance tables have class and deserve to be feted by press and public. If I were not such Be-atles enthusiast I would have the aforementioned R85 in my home. I may one day do so because I think turntables (NOT “turnmystomachtables”) are worthy of inclusion in hearth and home because they can be gorgeous and believe me, Fluance ‘tables are just that.
Yes…How do I do it? I am olde and retired and was raised on the classics. DC Comics, Perry Como, Frank Sinatra, Ella and more like “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. Fear not dear reader for apparently I am mortal.
Andrew wORThal or is that Andy mORTal?