Fluance RT87 Turntable Review: A New Benchmark for Audiophile Value

Sophisticated Engineering for Superior Sound

The core of the Fluance RT87's impressive performance lies in its meticulous design, particularly its dual-plinth isolation system. This innovative architecture physically separates the turntable's motor, located in the lower plinth, from the sensitive tonearm and platter assembly on the upper plinth. This physical decoupling, achieved with precision conical isolators, significantly reduces the transfer of motor-borne resonance and external vibrations that can otherwise interfere with the stylus's ability to accurately trace the record grooves. The result is a remarkably quiet background and enhanced clarity in the audio reproduction.

Complementing the isolated plinth design is a substantial 22mm thick, 4.1-pound anti-static acrylic platter. This high-mass platter not only improves rotational stability, effectively reducing wow and flutter, but its inherent acoustic properties also help to damp unwanted resonances and minimize static electricity build-up during playback. The combination of these elements provides a stable and consistent platform for your vinyl, allowing the music to emerge with greater precision and sonic consistency.

Precision Tracking and Cartridge Versatility

Another standout feature of the RT87 is its newly engineered 9-inch carbon fiber tonearm. Carbon fiber is chosen for its exceptional rigidity and low resonance characteristics, which are crucial for precise stylus control and minimizing unwanted vibrations within the tonearm itself. The tonearm's straight-arm geometry and longer effective length are designed to trace a gentler arc across the record surface, thereby reducing tracking error. Crucially, the RT87’s tonearm includes adjustable Vertical Tracking Angle (VTA), a feature often found on more expensive turntables. This allows users to fine-tune the tonearm's height to ensure the stylus is perfectly perpendicular to the record surface, optimizing playback and detail retrieval for various record thicknesses and cartridge profiles. A removable headshell further simplifies cartridge upgrades and adjustments, offering audiophiles flexibility to experiment and evolve their setup.

Out of the box, the Fluance RT87 offers a choice of two highly regarded moving magnet (MM) cartridges: the Ortofon 2M Blue or the Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML. The Ortofon 2M Blue, with its nude elliptical stylus and higher 5.5 mV output, is celebrated for its balanced sound, clarity, engaging soundstage, and excellent tracking. Alternatively, the Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML features a Microlinear stylus, known for its exceptional detail retrieval, low distortion, and ability to track deeper into the groove, making it a favorite for those concerned with inner-groove distortion. Both cartridges are excellent choices that provide a solid foundation for serious listening, and their inclusion adds significant value to the turntable.

Real-World Performance and User Experience

In practice, the Fluance RT87 delivers a truly immersive analog listening experience. Reviewers consistently praise its ability to reproduce records with a "warmth with body and spaciousness," often revealing new details in familiar recordings that might be missed on lesser equipment. The turntable's robust build quality, including its substantial plinth and platter, contributes to a sense of durability and stability, which helps prevent skips or scratches from minor bumps.

However, it’s important to note that the RT87 is designed for the more dedicated vinyl enthusiast. Its fully manual operation and the necessity of external components mean it's not a plug-and-play solution. Users will need to invest in a separate phono preamp and an amplifier or powered speakers, as the RT87 does not have these built-in features. Setting up the tonearm, counterweight, and anti-skate system (which uses a hanging weight) requires patience and a bit of fine-tuning, which some beginners might find challenging.

Despite the setup nuances, the consensus is that the effort is well worth it for the audio quality delivered. The ability to play at 33⅓, 45, and even 78 RPM (with appropriate stylus and records), combined with an auto-stop function, adds convenience without compromising the purist ethos. Its aesthetic appeal, available in Natural Walnut, Piano Black, and Piano White finishes, ensures it looks as good as it sounds in any setup.

For those ready to move beyond entry-level turntables and dive deeper into the nuanced world of high-fidelity vinyl playback, the Fluance RT87 stands as an exceptional choice, offering premium features and outstanding sound performance at a competitive price.

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