Fluance is a high-end audio brand based in Canada that manufactures high-fidelity turntables, music systems, and home audio. The brand is highly committed to creating products that provide excellent audio quality while also providing an exceptional customer experience with Fluance rt80 vs rt81vs rt82 vs rt83.
All Fluance elite high fidelity vinyl turntable models including Fluance rt80 vs rt81vs rt82 vs rt83, and the successor models achieve all-new levels of sound efficiency and technical design innovation by combining high-performance drive systems, innovative enclosure designs, finely tuned crossovers, and engineered wood cabinets.
Clean, undistorted bass, smooth midrange response, excellent high frequency, and accurate sound reproduction are the eventual outcome. Moreover, there are few significant differences between these various versions, below are a few of the key differences that were noticed on the first impression, they are as follows.
Fluance rt80 vs rt81vs rt82 vs rt83 – At a Glance:
The Fluance rt80 vs rt81vs rt82 vs rt83: Overview and the what and whys that you should look out for:
A little about the Fluance rt80: An Overview.
The Fluance RT80 provides a superior entry-level experience without the need for technological knowledge. The platter and belt must be installed first, followed by the cartridge and counterweight, then the tonearm must be balanced and the anti-skate force must be set.
The RT80 High Fidelity Turntable from Fluance reproduces conventional LP and EP vinyl records with stunning accuracy and the purest sound possible. Whether you’re playing a record from your father’s vintage collection or a newly preselected record, premium components enable this belt-driven turntable to produce a pure uncompressed listening experience that recreates the performance the way the artist intended – whether you’re playing a record from your father’s vintage collection or a freshly preselected record.
Pros
- The design of the Fluance turntable rt80 looks aesthetically pleasing. IIts stylish design seemed to go well in any environment of the house.
- At the end of a log, the RT80 will automatically stop. As a result, this is a useful function for preventing unnecessary stylus wear that you won’t find in any turntable.
- Regardless of the age of the album being played, the tones are fine. Furthermore, when played on this rig, LPs that tend to stake or skip on other machines will not appear.
Cons
- There might be significant wear and tear in the sound after being used several times.
- When using this unit, it sometimes made a loud electrical pop. Moreover, the Fluance turntable rt80 speakers are not a built-in system, which might sometimes cause latency and there are no presence of headphone jacks either.
Features of Fluance rt80: Ones that stand out the most.
- This high-fidelity belt-driven turntable produces a pure analog listening experience that faithfully recreates the output as intended by the artist.
- Audio Technica‘s high-performance cartridge provides exceptional clarity. For high-definition audio, the diamond-tipped stylus is designed to track your record grooves with precision and accuracy.
- The playback is flawless. The balanced aluminum S-Type tonearm keeps the stylus firmly planted in the groove of your album, ensuring that any audio detail is indistinguishable from the original recording.
- Each turntable is expertly made from thick, engineered wood and features isolation feet and an aluminum platter for superior isolation from unwanted vibrations.
- A high-quality Texas Instruments preamp, ground terminal, and gold-plated RCA line outputs ensure captivating signal clarity and warm, true sound.
Things you should know about Fluance turntable rt81: An Overview.
Fluance rt81 elite high fidelity vinyl turntable record player has been a success in changing the way people listen to music at home. The Fluance Record Players are a testimony to the performance that can be accomplished when a passion for music takes center stage, using only superior components and expert audio engineering. The ideal addition to any audiophile’s lifestyle.
Fluance rt81 elite high fidelity turntable plays classic LP and EP vinyl records in stunning condition, achieving the most accurate sound reproduction. The fluance rt81 preamp can be used with either the phone or the line output. A dedicated signal path connects the phono signal directly to the RCA output in the fluance 81 internal preamp bypass feature.
Pros
- The rt81 elite high fidelity vinyl turntable tonearm is stable, and the anti-skate system is efficient.
- Rt82 fluency with all of its knobs and switches, it’s simple to use, and the Auto-Stop button makes it easier to control.
- The Fluance rt81 elite has a cueing lever that is both precise and gentle.
- The fluance rt81 manual makes it even easier to navigate through the setup, rather than being lost on how to assemble.
Cons
- Rt81 high fidelity vinyl turntable has a proclivity for being overly sensitive to physical shock, making it unstable at times.
- Fluance rt81 speakers cannot maintain consistent speed after long record playing. Therefore, this is causing fluance rt81 speed issues at a common rate.
- The fluance rt81 dimensions are the same as the other fluance brands, therefore consumers might not find it interesting with the same form of design and shape.
Features of Fluance rt81: Ones that stand out the most.
- Premium components allow this high-fidelity belt-driven turntable to faithfully reproduce the output as intended by the artist.
- The fluance rt81 cartridge featuring a diamond elliptical tipped stylus is crafted to track the record grooves more precisely and accurately for high-definition audio.
- The elegant piano black finished cabinet is made of solid engineered (MDF) wood and features isolation feet, an aluminum platter, and a rubber slip mat for superior vibration isolation.
- With a high-quality built-in Texas Instruments preamp, a ground terminal, and gold-plated RCA line outputs, you can expect warm, true sound.
Fluance turntable rt82 in a nutshell: An Overview.
Rt82 reference high fidelity vinyl turntable is actually one of many “Fluance offers a range of turntables aimed at high-fidelity enthusiasts called “Reference Tables.” The RT83, RT84, and RT85 are model numbers in addition to the RT82. Fluance rt82 reference high fidelity vinyl turntable record player with Ortofon om10 cartridge might be found to be a little more expensive.
Fluance turntable rt82 features the Stylus 10 by Ortofon, a well-known mechanical behemoth And, since the cartridge picks up the source of the sound, it creates a significant difference in sound quality.
Pros
- Fluance turntable rt82 has an impressive sound quality. It features a great cartridge, especially for an “entry-level” device.
- Rt82 fluance has top-quality materials, the wooden plinth, and aluminum tonearm, for example.
- Fluance turntable rt82 belt-driven systems have a higher level of isolation.
Cons
- Fluance rt82 preamp is not a built-in feature. Users would need to purchase a record player separately, particularly if this is their first.
- Fluance 82 has an auto stop system that is a little complicated because it has a 30-second delay.
Features of Fluance rt82: Ones that stand out the most.
- The ultimate vinyl record listening experience for a beautifully warm and natural music that immerses you in the performance.
- The independent motor eliminates excessive vibrations and noise, while the speed control mechanism keeps platter speeds constant. (0.07% Wow/Flutter)
- Fluance 82 Enjoy has a beautiful solid wood cabinet, which features an extremely precise metal platter and adjustable resonance damping feet for better insulation from unwanted micro-vibrations.
A brief description of the Fluance rt83: An Overview.
According to Fluance’s RT83 turntable review, the fluance rt83 turntable is priced at the budget end of the market. Despite a few flaws, I enjoyed the overall design. It has a place in the market, and I know that many people who use the deck enjoy it. Fluance has been extremely busy. It has made a concerted effort to target the budget turntable sector. This Canadian company offers six different turntables, including the RT81.
The RT83 fluance is a belt-driven turntable with two speeds operated by a dual power/speed control knob on the near left side of the plinth. The plinth is made of wood with a Walnut veneer and supports an included dust cover.
Pros
- Fluance’s RT83 turntable’s platter and plinth are well-made and impressive for the price.
- The Fluance rt83 uses the Ortofon 2M Blue phono cartridge, which is an upgraded version of the Ortofon 2M Red.
- The rt 83 Fluance, for greater portability, the motor is belt-driven and semi-automatic.
Cons
- The Fluance rt83 does not have the phono pre-amp built-in just like the rt80 and rt81.
- When played at a high pace for an extended period of time, finer aspects of the sound can be affected.
Features of Fluance rt83: Ones that stand out the most.
- The RT83 also has an auto-off feature, making it almost semi-automatic. The tonearm is not returned to its cradle at the end of the track.
- The independent motor eliminates excessive vibrations and noise, while the speed control mechanism keeps the platter velocity constant. (0.07% Wow/Flutter)
- The Fluance rt23 comes with a solid wood cabinet, which features an extremely precise metal platter and adjustable resonance damping feet for better insulation from unwanted micro-vibrations.
Comparison between the Fluance rt80 vs rt81vs rt82 vs rt83?
Fluance rt80 vs Fluance rt81
Both turntables support 33 1/3 and 45 RPM LPs and EPs, but they have more in common than variations. The AT95E Audio-Technica needle is used in the RT81, while the AT91 needle is used in the RT80. When listening to music, both allow for the least amount of distortion and clarity. Both turntables have a more traditional aesthetic, with MDF wood as the primary material. The isolation feet, which minimize reverberation and make for a cleaner experience, are located on the bottom. Each has an aluminum S-Type tonearm that drills deep into the grooves of the vinyl without damaging them, capturing every nuance of the music.
Aside from the needle, the two turntables have a few other minor variations. The RT80, for example, has a hollow wood body, while the RT81 has a solid wood body. The RT80 and RT81 use different slipmats, with the RT80 using a felt mat and the RT81 using a rubber mat. The prices are the only significant distinction between the two.
Fluance rt81 vs Fluance rt82
The Ortofon OM 10 cartridge, speed control motor, motor isolation, aluminum platter, and rubber mat are included with the Fluance rt82 turntable. Natural walnut and piano black are the two colors available for the Fluance rt82 turntable, and I choose the former. The Fluance rt81 turntable, on the other hand, comes with ATN95e.
The newer RT82 has an optical sensor speed-driven servo motor, which has significantly less wow, flutter, and speed variation than the older RT81, which does not have a speed sensor. The RT82 doesn’t need manual speed changes and doesn’t have any in the first place because the sensor monitors the speed 500 times per second. If you encounter a speed drift, you can need to manually change the RT81’s speed with a small screwdriver from underneath.
Furthermore, in some cases, the rt81 may be superior. The phono preamp on the rt82 turntable is not built-in. They also have a three-foot design, as opposed to the four-foot design on the RT80 and RT81, which reduces surface contact and minimizes distortion. Finally, their motor has been relocated to the outside of the platter, away from the cartridge, in order to minimize noise.
Fluance rt82 vs rt83
The RT83 turntable fluance is exactly the same as the RT82, but it comes with a better cartridge. It comes with the well-known Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, which is known for its flat frequency response and lack of coloration. The Ortofon OM 10 cartridge comes standard with the Fluance RT82 turntable. The RT83 is a belt-driven twin-speed turntable with a dual power/speed control knob on the near left of the plinth that controls the speed. The plinth is made of wood with a Walnut veneer and supports an included dust cover.
The RT83 is also ideal for customizing and updating. Damping the platter, upgrading the platter mat, upgrading the headshell, and upgrading the phono cables can all improve the sound. The Fluance RT83 is a well-made, easy-to-use lifestyle turntable with excellent sound quality to boot. As a result, a $50 price difference between these two would not make much of a difference. When compared to the fluance rt81 or fluance rt80, however, it can make a significant difference.
The Fluance rt83 vs rt84
Metal platters are found on the RT82 and RT83, while acrylic platters are found on the RT84 and RT85. Ortofon moving-magnet phono cartridges come standard on all versions. The Ortofon 2M Red on the RT84 is sold separately and is not included with the product. Furthermore, the rt83 had a non-removable headshell, making cartridge replacement more difficult. The RT84’s tonearm, on the other hand, has a reusable headshell, which makes replacing cartridges a little easier in the future.
The fluance rt83 turntable’s ability to reduce LP surface noise is one indicator of its sound quality. While no LP pressing is completely quiet, the better turntables hold the noise to a minimum and drive it into the background. Even with LPs I found on the street or purchased in thrift shops for under a dollar, the RT84 came out on top. They sounded decent, not flawless, but pleasant to listen to.
Fluance rt81 vs rt82 vs rt83
Fluance turntables are divided into two “series.” The RT80 is part of the Classic Series Turntable, while the RT81 is part of the Elite Series Turntable, and the RT82 and RT 83 are part of the Reference Series Turntable. Fluance’s flagship Hifi Turntable, the RT81, has been around for a long time. The AT95 elliptical diamond-tipped cartridge, rubber platter mat, and solid wood body construction are all included. It comes in a gorgeous glossy walnut finish with a retro-modern vibe.
The Fluance Reference Series Turntables differ from the Classic and Elite turntables in a number of ways. Some of the variations are more difficult to notice visually. The key “platform” of both the rt82 and rt83 turntables is the same, with two major updates between the RT82 and RT83. The aluminum platter on the RT82 and RT83 is replaced by an acrylic platter on the RT85. The included cartridge is the other big difference in the collection. RT82 – Ortofon OM 10 Elliptical Diamond Tipped Cartridge and RT83 – Ortofon 2M Red Elliptical Diamond Tipped Cartridge are used on the Reference Turntables.
Comparison between the Fluance rt and other existing dominant competitors.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB
The LP120XBT-USB is made to provide a high-quality listening experience right out of the box. With a built-in preamp, the LP120XBT-USB can be plugged directly into your existing speakers or connected wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.0 to any Bluetooth-compatible speaker, supported home assistant, or wireless headphones with the flip of a switch. No external amplifiers, clutter, or mess; all incredible sound and dependable features built by Japanese audio innovators for over half a century.
Pros:
- With a bypass switch, if you already have a favorite phono preamp, you can connect to a wide variety of equipment using the built-in preamp. The majority of turntables need a phono preamplifier to raise the signal to a level that a standard amplifier can handle. The AT-LP120-USB has one built in, so it’s practically plug-and-play.
- Compatible with records that spin at 33, 45, and 78 rpm. This turntable can play both 33-1/3 and 45 rpm records without the use of any additional equipment. The dots on the platter’s outer edge indicate how quickly it’s spinning.
- Any machine can digitize vinyl thanks to the USB port (no driver needed). The Audio-Technica AT-LP120 USB turntable has an onboard phono preamp, or you can use an external preamp by flipping a switch. Its USB port can send a digital stream that a Mac or Windows PC can catch.
Cons:
The AT-LP120-USB is a direct-drive turntable. The typical disadvantage of direct-drive turntables is that vibrations from the motor can be transmitted to the platter and records. To avoid this issue, many audiophiles prefer belt-driven turntables with the motor decoupled from the platter.
The AT-LP120-USB is a fully manual operation. Therefore, this might be recommended to users seeking friendly easy usage or moderation. Moreover, there might also be few possible malfunctions in the near future, so it has to be manually handled and might cause disintegration.
Denon DP-300F
For reduced vibration and improved performance, the DP-300F has a heavier base construction. The new tonearm features a detachable headshell that makes cartridge replacement a breeze. The automatic startup feature allows the turntable to start playing at the touch of a button, and once play is over, the tonearm is gently returned to the armrest to avoid damaging or scratching the stylus or record. The turntable is made of rigid diecast aluminum for consistent rotation and flutter-free operation. A manual lifter mechanism allows you to position the needle anywhere on the album, allowing you to skip to a different song in the middle of a slide.
Pros:
- The Denon DP-300F is very uncomplicated to assemble. It is a very plain and simple design that is not ostentatious in any way. The build quality is good, and the glossy look finish is quite attractive. The only matter of concern would be the balancing of the tonearm, which we mentioned, but there are instructions included
- The sound of the Denon-300F is rated as one of the tops in the market. The mid-range is very full, and it has a rolled-off treble. The bass, though, is a little disappointing and uninspiring. It is though at its price point, a good sound and one that has a certain warmth to it.
Cons:
- The Denon DP-300F might have some flaws of its own as the turntable is not widely known for its cartridge, as it is considered not feasible compared to others. Therefore an upgrade to the cartridges will produce vastly improved sound quality.
- Moreover, the Denon DP-300F does not have a USB port, unlike the Fluance RT84 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT. Therefore making it inconvenient for users trying to plug the turntable directly into the USB speakers.
Rega Planar 1
Every single aspect of the Planar 1 has been meticulously designed to improve performance. The Planar 1 uses a bespoke 24 V, low noise, synchronous motor to reduce vibration combined with our hand-made RB110 tonearm fitted with our unique Rega-designed ultra-low friction bearings. We have added our latest drive belt technology the EBLT belt which delivers greater accuracy and improved speed performance. If you are looking to get back into vinyl and want serious performance that will last you a lifetime, then look no further.
Pros:
- Most turntables on the market are more difficult to set up than the Rega Planar 1. Both models are planned to be unboxed and can be playable in under 30 seconds, according to Rega. With a built-in phono stage, the Planar 1 Plus is even more turnkey, allowing for easy plug-and-play operation with nearly any stereo or powered speaker system.
- The speed quality of all Rega turntables is excellent, and this one is no exception, resulting in a completely pure tone. The highs and mids are well-balanced, and the bass end is punchy, tight, and rich. For the price, the playability of this table is excellent, and it will not irritate your ears—a quality that every audiophile desires in their equipment.
Cons:
The Rega Planar 1 only offers a limited upgrade option, which makes it difficult for the users to switch the parts to upgrade for better quality sound. Moreover, the Rega planar 1 only comes in one model of color, black and white. Therefore, users looking for a uniquely elegant look, might not favor the turntable.
FAQs of Fluance rt80 vs rt81vs rt82 vs rt83
This section of the article is going to answer some of the most asked questions all over the internet. Let’s jump right into this section to understand more about.
Which one to buy?
All of Fluance’s turntables look similar. They have engineered MDF wood plinths that are available in either a piano black or walnut (except RT80, which only has the black finish). With each model, from the RT80 through to the RT85, there are iterative fashion and performance improvements. Each turntable is fitted with a different cartridge from Audio Technica or Ortofon. Moving up the series each of those cartridges is able to provide better audio performance with increased channel separation, clarity, and sound accuracy. Therefore, in taking everything into account, the Fluance rt85 would be a premium choice for both quality and attribute.
The RT85 is Fluance’s best-performing turntable right now. The Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge is the same as on the RT84, but it has a heavier acrylic platter. The platter allows for a more consistent pace and removes the need for a platter pad.
Is the USB feature worth having?
The Audio Technica AT-LP120-USB has more functionality, such as USB recording, but it is more difficult to set up and lacks auto start/stop. The Denon DP-300F is a decent alternative to the Fluance and has push-button start/stop, but the RT81 sounds better. However, the users owning turntables are more inclined with the quality of sounds rather than how it is being played. Surely other brands have a niche advantage on having the USB playing system, but Fluance without one provides the best quality sound with output than any other in the market.
Which has the most features?
The Fluance RT81 is a fantastic value and the ideal record player for vinyl newcomers. It sounds fantastic, looks great, and has useful features that will keep you listening to records rather than fiddling with the controls. The RT81 is also a great option for seasoned listeners because it allows them to upgrade to a better cartridge and phono preamp in the future. As a result, the rt85 stands out among the fluance rt brands for having the most features and higher sound quality. Fluance is also praised for its detailed, well-written instruction manual. The arm has the same defensible auto-start/end-of-record-stop mechanism as the much more expensive Direct Drive Thorens TD 402.
Is the higher price worth it?
In the turntable market, Fluance is becoming a force to be reckoned with. The Canadian audio company first made a name for itself by selling affordable headphones, but a few years ago it chose to jump on the vinyl bandwagon by releasing a pair of turntables. RThe Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable, which retails for $499.99, has received such positive feedback that the company has released four new versions, including a new flagship. The Fluance rt85 puts it over the top are the premium components that are typically optional upgrades for other turntables: an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge and an acrylic plater. Instead of spending another $350-$400 to make it sound even better at a later date.
Product Differentiators
There surely are some attractive winners out there in the market, once compared with the Fluance rt series. The Denon DP-400, for example, has a very clear and detailed sound, was the most accurate in terms of speed of any turntable we tested and played with very little distortion. It has an integrated phono preamp, so it doesn’t need any additional hardware to get started, unlike many higher-end turntables. When a record is finished playing, the DP-400 has convenient features like a speed control dial and automatic platter stopping with tonearm lift. With the standard cartridge, the turntable performs admirably, but with an upgraded cartridge, such as a premounted Ortofon Red or Blue, you’ll have a system that’s so good that you’ll never feel the need to upgrade further.
However, should users have a greater preference for better quality sound and an attractive-looking turntable, the Fluance rt 80 series are the best way to go?
Verdict
The RT83 would make an excellent first turntable, as well as a good improvement over a cheap or hand-me-down turntable from your parents or relatives. You’ll notice a significant difference in the quietness and clarity of all of your LPs and singles. Even better, your music sounds better when it isn’t competing with clicks, pops, and other disturbances. The RT83 liberates the music from the grooves of the LP, allowing you to hear more of your music.
If the Fluance RT83’s price puts it out of reach, don’t worry: the RT81, at $249, is still an excellent turntable and a fantastic way to get started with analog audio. Try it, you’ll enjoy it.
Author’s Pick: Fluance RT83
Engineer and Tech Journalist.Read More