Fluance RT85N Turntable Review High Fidelity Sound with Ai81 Speakers and PA10 Preamp

Description

Stunning Design and Attention to Detail

The Fluance RT85N Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable paired with the PA10 Phono Preamp and Ai81 Powered Floorstanding Speakers is an absolute visual treat. The natural walnut finish gives it a retro yet modern aesthetic that fits seamlessly into almost any home decor. I was particularly drawn to the acrylic platter, which not only enhances the sound but adds a touch of sophistication. The design isn’t just about looks, though; the high mass MDF wood plinth combined with the 3-point vibration isolation feet minimizes unwanted vibrations, ensuring the smoothest playback possible. Every detail, from the S-type precision tonearm to the included dust cover, speaks to the thoughtfulness behind this product’s build.

Performance That Speaks for Itself

Using this turntable is an auditory experience like no other. The Nagaoka MP-110 Cartridge delivers an incredibly warm and detailed sound, with a noticeable improvement in midrange clarity compared to other cartridges I’ve used. Paired with the Ai81 powered floorstanding speakers, you feel every note. The 150-watt Class D amplifier ensures room-filling sound, and the bass is deep without being overpowering. I tested everything from old vinyl records to streaming via Bluetooth, and the results were consistently impressive. The phono preamp, with its ultra-high accuracy frequency response, faithfully reproduces recordings with precision, staying true to the RIAA standard.

Ease of Use with a Seamless Setup

Setting up this system was a breeze. Everything you need comes in the box, including RCA cables, ground wires, and a motor pulley cap. I appreciated the inclusion of cotton gloves for handling the acrylic platter—such a thoughtful touch! Switching between vinyl playback and streaming music via Bluetooth was intuitive and quick. The remote control added convenience when I wanted to adjust the speakers without leaving my chair. It’s a plug-and-play setup, so even if you’re not tech-savvy, you’ll have it running in no time.

Good Aspects

• The natural walnut finish and stylish design make it a centerpiece.
• Sound clarity is exceptional, thanks to the Nagaoka MP-110 Cartridge.
• 150-watt powered speakers deliver room-filling audio with great imaging.
• Easy to switch between vinyl playback and Bluetooth streaming.
• Thoughtful additions like cotton gloves and a dust cover enhance the experience.

Caveats

• The system is hefty, weighing 77.1 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some.
• While the sound is excellent, Bluetooth connectivity doesn’t support high-resolution codecs, which could be a downside for audiophiles.
• The price point may feel steep for beginners just stepping into the vinyl world.

Competing Products

Compared to other turntables like the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO or Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB, this one stands out in terms of design and bundled features. The Pro-Ject model, for instance, offers a minimalist look but lacks the integrated powered speakers and Bluetooth functionality. On the other hand, the Audio-Technica model is more budget-friendly but doesn’t come close to the soundstage depth provided by the Fluance system. If you’re looking for a complete package with natural playback and minimal setup hassle, this product has a clear edge over its competitors.

Quality for Price

For what it offers, this turntable system feels like a solid investment. While the initial cost might make you hesitate, the combination of premium materials, high-performance components, and versatile features justifies it. The inclusion of powered speakers and a phono preamp makes it a one-stop solution for both vinyl enthusiasts and casual listeners. It’s not just about the sound; it’s about the overall experience, and that’s where this product excels.

In summary, this turntable system strikes an excellent balance between style, performance, and ease of use, making it a worthwhile addition to any audiophile’s setup. However, its weight and Bluetooth limitations are worth keeping in mind before making your purchase.

Additional information