Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, and with that comes the need for a high-quality turntable to fully enjoy the warm, crackly sound that vinyl is known for.
One brand that has been making waves in the turntable market is Fluance. With their solid MDF plinths, upgraded components, and higher-end cartridges, Fluance turntables offer incredible value for the price.
But is Fluance a good turntable brand?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Fluance turntables stand out from the competition and whether they are worth considering for your vinyl setup.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of Fluance turntables.
Is Fluance A Good Turntable
When it comes to turntables, there are a lot of options out there. But what sets Fluance apart from the rest?
First and foremost, Fluance turntables are known for their exceptional value. They offer high-quality components and features that are typically found on more expensive turntables, but at a much more affordable price point.
For example, the Fluance RT85 is a reference high fidelity turntable that comes equipped with an acrylic platter and an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, which is often sold separately for $250. Despite these premium features, the RT85 is priced at just $499.99.
But it’s not just about the price. Fluance turntables are also known for their solid build quality and anti-resonant design. This means that they are less likely to pick up unwanted vibrations or interference, resulting in a cleaner and more accurate sound.
Additionally, Fluance turntables offer a range of features to suit different needs and preferences. For example, the RT81 is a great starter turntable that comes with a built-in preamp and easy setup, while the RT85N offers a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge for even better sound quality.
Of course, no turntable is perfect. Some users may find that Fluance turntables lack certain features like Bluetooth or USB connectivity. And while they offer great value for the price, they may not be suitable for true audiophiles who demand the absolute best in sound quality.
The History Of Fluance Turntables
Fluance may be a relatively new player in the turntable market, but the company has quickly made a name for itself with its high-quality and affordable offerings. Founded in 1999, Fluance initially focused on producing hi-fi speakers and home theater systems.
It wasn’t until 2016 that the company decided to enter the turntable market. The decision was driven by the fact that many members of the Fluance team were avid vinyl enthusiasts themselves, and they saw an opportunity to offer turntables that combined high-quality components with a retro-inspired aesthetic at an affordable price point.
The first Fluance turntable, the RT80, was released in 2016. It was followed by the RT81, which added a built-in preamp and other convenient features. In 2019, Fluance released its flagship model, the RT85, which offered premium features like an acrylic platter and an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge at a remarkably low price.
Since then, Fluance has continued to expand its lineup with new models like the RT85N, which features a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge for even better sound quality.
The Design And Build Quality Of Fluance Turntables
One of the standout features of Fluance turntables is their design and build quality. The company uses solid MDF plinths and anti-resonant construction to ensure that their turntables are sturdy and reliable. This means that they are less likely to pick up unwanted vibrations or interference, resulting in a cleaner and more accurate sound.
The Fluance RT85N, for example, is a heavy-hitting, high-value option that delivers stable, accurate, low-noise playback. Its glossy finish may be prone to fingerprints, but its solid, anti-resonant build quality ensures that it will last for years before you even think about upgrading.
Fluance turntables also feature premium components like acrylic platters and high-end cartridges. The RT85N comes equipped with a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge, which is known for its outstanding sound quality. This cartridge alone can cost upwards of $200, but it comes standard on the RT85N.
The Sound Quality Of Fluance Turntables
When it comes to sound quality, Fluance turntables are known for their accurate, low-noise playback and exceptional clarity. The RT85, for example, delivers stable, precise sound that allows listeners to fully appreciate the analog artistry of their vinyl records.
One reason for this is the anti-resonant design of Fluance turntables. The heavy weight and solid build of the RT85 and RT85N help to eliminate unwanted vibrations and interference, resulting in a cleaner and more accurate sound.
In addition, Fluance turntables come equipped with high-quality components like the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge and the Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge (in the case of the RT85N), which are known for their exceptional tracking ability and detail retrieval. The aluminum S-shaped tonearm also helps to reduce distortion and improve overall sound quality.
The Features And Accessories Of Fluance Turntables
Fluance turntables come with a range of features and accessories to enhance your listening experience. For example, the RT85 and RT85N both come with an acrylic platter that provides better speed consistency and helps reduce vibrations. The RT85N also features a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge, which is known for its outstanding sound quality.
Additionally, many Fluance turntables come with a built-in preamp, making it easy to connect directly to powered speakers or an amplifier without needing any additional components. The RT80, for example, features an Audio Technica ATN91 conical diamond tipped cartridge and a felt platter mat.
Fluance turntables also offer easy speed control. The RT85 and RT85N feature a fuss-free RPM speed control dial that allows you to adjust the speed with precision. And when you’re done listening, many Fluance turntables have an automatic stop feature that helps protect your records from unnecessary wear and tear.
While some Fluance turntables lack certain features like Bluetooth or USB connectivity, they make up for it with their solid build quality and anti-resonant design. And if you’re looking to upgrade your setup down the road, many Fluance turntables allow for the use of higher-end cartridges and preamps.
Comparison With Other Turntable Brands
When compared to other turntable brands, Fluance stands out for its exceptional value and solid build quality. For example, the Fluance RT85 offers premium features like an acrylic platter and an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge at a price point that is much more affordable than other turntables with similar features.
In terms of sound quality, Fluance turntables perform well, with anti-resonant designs that minimize unwanted vibrations and interference. However, some users may find that other turntable brands offer more advanced features like Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
When it comes to price, Fluance is often more affordable than other high-end turntable brands. This makes them a great choice for vinyl enthusiasts who are looking for a good balance of quality and affordability.
Customer Reviews And Feedback On Fluance Turntables
When it comes to customer reviews and feedback on Fluance turntables, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Many users praise the exceptional value that Fluance turntables offer, noting that they provide high-quality components and features at a much more affordable price point than other brands.
One user who reviewed the Fluance RT85 on a popular audio forum wrote, “I’m blown away by the sound quality of this turntable. The Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge is a game-changer, and the acrylic platter really makes a difference. And at this price point? It’s a steal.”
Others have praised the build quality and anti-resonant design of Fluance turntables. One user on Amazon wrote, “The RT81 is built like a tank. I love the solid MDF plinth and the heavy aluminum platter. It feels like a much more expensive turntable.”
Some users have noted that Fluance turntables lack certain features like Bluetooth or USB connectivity, but many feel that these are not essential for a high-quality listening experience.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a new turntable and are looking for exceptional value without sacrificing quality, Fluance is definitely worth considering.
