Review Details

RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable

Product Rating:

Product Review (submitted on March 6, 2020):

I have been a serious listener for over 50 years and have moved through vinyl, reel to reel, cassette, cd and even download formats. All have some advantages. About 5 years ago, I bought a higher level audio techics tt (my old tt was irretrievable) and started returning to vinyl for the sound and vinyl experience. Although I was immediately hooked on vinyl sound quality, I was never happy with the tt.

I did a LOT of research before deciding to try Fluance. The ortofon cartridges and auto stop functionality (note, record stops after 15-30 seconds) convinced me to try a RT83 (Red ortofon) and I fell in love with fluance. Note: fluance tt's do NOT have preamps. Any older amplifier with phono jack will work. Some modern amplifiers will require additional phono amplifier. They are cheap and easy to install. Fluance manufacturing quality is incredible. Set up easy with clear instructions. Couple years later, I ordered a RT84 for friend. Once I heard the ortofon blue cartridge on his system, there was no turning back. I held out for a couple months before I purchased the RT85 for my main music system. I was even happier than I expected. Worth every penny. Low background noise, tremendous frequency response, and what I can only describe as typical fluance quality. I hear sounds that I forgot were there! I had some issues with the ground on my old hafler amplifier. When I called fluance customer support, they were as courteous, skilled and effective. I thought the days of this type of service were long gone. I was wrong.

In summary, you will not find a better tt than the RT85, at least for under $1,000. The sound and manufacturing quality exceeds older top tier tt's and certainly anything else I've heard on today's market. I am not sure the acrylic platter is worth the extra cost (difference between RT84 & RT85) although I'm glad I bought it. If money is a concern, you may want to go for the RT84. The RT83 is also impressive, but the ortofon blue cartridge is well worth the additional cost. Ordering direct from fluance is a fantastic experience. I have nothing but positive things to say about Fluance. If you are considering a tt, don't hesitate. You won't be sorry!