Review Details
RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
Product Rating:
| Overall Performance |
Product Review (submitted on March 12, 2021):
I ordered my piano black RT85 to replace my 45 year old Technics 1300 with Shure M97xe cartridge. I don't see the point of running vinyl thru digital devices so my system is tube based. Ear834 phono stage, allnic L-1500 preamp, Michaelson Austin TVA-1 power amp. all thru custom designed speakers with Aurum ribbon tweeters. Setup was straight forward however I used a scale to set the RT85 tracking weight. For $15 i recommend buying one ..just to be sure on tracking weight. Don't want to dig trenches in your vinyl. I used blank vinyl to calibrate my anti skate. My impression so far has been good. I am definitely seeing extended range with more defined bass. But it is a Ortofon Blue cartridge. I liked that the cartridge was already mounted in shell saving time spent aligning cartridge. A little getting used to RT85's manual operation as my old turntable was automatic. not a big deal. I do like the auto shutoff at end of record. No issues across multiple albums having always sensed end so far. No issue with the turntable ground. I have virtually no hum on my system. If you have tubes you know what I mean. I have seen grumps about the cue lever being cheaply made but I have no issue. It lowers the arm at a slow and gentle rate where I want it. I leave the cover on although the manual suggested taking cover off while in use. Perhaps the thought is the cover can induce some rumble. However I have not detected any but then my system and turntable are 20 ft away from speakers and sub in an equipment closet. All in all I am pleased with the purchase. A solidly built turntable with a premium cartridge. I do like the acrylic platter. It is supposed to isolate the vinyl from unwanted vibration. OK I can buy that. After the break in period I am hoping the performance is even better. I am not a crazed audiophile but my equipment is definitely quality with the RT85 fitting right in. With that said I am pleased with the purchase.