Fluance RT81 Review 2025

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Fluance RT81 Overview

The Fluance RT81 is a solid choice for anyone stepping into vinyl. It comes equipped with an Audio Technica cartridge that delivers a nice sound quality. Setting it up was straightforward, making it user-friendly for beginners.

We found the build quality impressive for an entry-level turntable. The wood finish gives it a classic touch. While it performs well, there are some limitations to consider, especially if you’re looking for advanced features.

Design and Build Quality

The Fluance RT81 boasts a sleek, modern design that looks great in any space. The solid wood plinth gives it a sturdy feel, which is a significant plus for turntables in this price range.

Its minimalist aesthetic is complemented by a glossy finish, which not only adds to the visual appeal but also helps in reducing vibrations during playback. We found that the build quality feels robust, making it a reliable choice for vinyl enthusiasts.

Additionally, the adjustable feet help in stabilizing the turntable on various surfaces, ensuring a smoother listening experience. It's a thoughtfully designed piece that seamlessly blends into your home decor.

Audio Technica Cartridge

The RT81 comes equipped with an Audio Technica AT95E cartridge, which is a fantastic choice for this turntable. This cartridge is known for producing rich and detailed sound, making your vinyl records come to life.

It handles high frequencies well, giving clarity to vocals and instruments without sounding harsh. During our testing, we noticed how well it captured the nuances in our favorite albums, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Replacing the cartridge is also straightforward if you ever want to upgrade, thanks to its standard mount. This feature opens up a world of possibilities for audiophiles looking to fine-tune their setup.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the Fluance RT81 is its user-friendly setup. Out of the box, it’s nearly ready to go, which is a big win for beginners.

The straightforward controls make it easy to start playing records without a steep learning curve. We appreciated how the cueing lever made lifting and lowering the tonearm a breeze, minimizing the risk of damaging your vinyl.

Additionally, the included instruction manual is clear and helpful, guiding you through any setup concerns. It’s all about making the experience enjoyable right from the start.

Performance and Sound Quality

The performance of the RT81 truly shines when it comes to sound quality. It delivers a warm, balanced audio profile that many listeners crave.

During our tests, we played a variety of genres, and the turntable handled each one with ease. The bass was punchy without overpowering the mids and highs, creating a pleasant sonic landscape.

We also noticed minimal background noise, allowing us to fully appreciate the nuances in our records. It’s a satisfying experience that brings the joy of vinyl back to life.

Versatility and Features

The Fluance RT81 is not just a pretty face; it’s packed with versatile features. It has a built-in preamp, which allows you to connect it directly to powered speakers or an audio receiver without needing an external preamp.

This feature simplifies the connection process, especially for those new to vinyl. We found this particularly handy in our testing, as it made switching between systems effortless.

Additionally, the RT81 supports both 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records, making it versatile for your vinyl collection. It's a thoughtful inclusion that caters to both casual listeners and serious collectors alike.

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