Review Details

RT85W Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable - Left Main

Average Customer Rating:

Rating:
98 % of 100

RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable

Product Rating:

Product Rating
Overall Performance
100%

Product Review (submitted on February 4, 2022):

If you are a person who likes to upgrade then save your money and buy the this RT-85. I originally purchased the very capable and great sounding Elite RT-81. I purchased the Schiit Mani phono stage to go with it. Great combination that plays well together. Later I added a cork Matt and the Nagaoka Cartridge which improved the sound and was easy to setup. You cannot upgrade the platter. Yep getting costly.If you are a person who who is new and plan to just do casual listening or really has a basic HIFi system and plan to use the built in phono stage, this is good value money and sound wise.But upgrading pushes you into the prices of the RT-82/83/84/85. The upgrades will not ultimately get you to the RT-85 sound level and will cost you more. The RT-85 has all the upgrades and the sound quality is well above the RT-81.The sound stage, quiet background, details and clarity all really put it ahead of the RT-81. I have it paired with the IFI Zen phono stage. That is a great combination. I listened to the RT-85 with the Schiit Mani but prefer the Zen as it plays well in my system providing a more natural sound when it comes to horns, drums and acoustic guitar. Sound stage instrument and vocals seem to be placed naturally in my system. Instead of making upgrades just wait and buy the RT-85. Ultimately you will have much better sound quality and will save money.

© 2024 Shoptronics All Rights Reserved.