Review Details
RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
Product Rating:
| Overall Performance |
Product Review (submitted on February 21, 2022):
I recently purchased a Fluance RT85W to match my vintage Sansui 9090DB stereo receiver and stacked Advent speakers, all original from the 1970’s. Back in the mid-80’s, I upgraded by Dual turntable for a direct drive linear tracking Technics. Then shortly thereafter, compact discs entered the scene and I slowly got away from vinyl.
Lately, I got back into vinyl. The Technics turntable plays LP’s okay but it just didn’t sound the way I remembered, so I started doing research on vintage turntables. During my research, Fluance kept popping up as a top contender even compared to more expensive units.
After careful consideration and reviews I decided to go with the Fluance RT85W. I love the vintage wood look. I took my time assembling it and setting it up. My only complaint is the numbers and hash marks on the balance weight are hard to read with my old eyes. I am 71 years old. But with the help of a magnifying glass, I got it set perfectly.
Then it was time to dust off Idlewild South by the Allman Brothers. I was blown away by the sound. The highs, the lows, the clarity are unbelievable. I don’t think I’ve ever heard this album sound like this before. Then I put on Court of the Crimson King by King Crimson, followed by Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd.
My mind is blown. Now I can’t stop playing albums. It’s like I’m 25 all over again. This Fluance turntable with the Ortofon 2M blue cartridge puts CD’s to shame. Sure, the CD’s play music but with the Fluance turntable it’s like the band is right there in the room with me. I am more than satisfied with my purchase and look forward to many years of enjoyment from it.