3/12/2023 0 Comments Fluance turntableJay Cabrera Getting started with the Fluance RT85Īt first glance, the RT85 looks rather daunting in its shipping box, with many separate parts individually wrapped in foam, cardboard, and plastic of varying thicknesses. Though the Fluance RT85 has two standard RCA outputs and comes with cables, you’ll need a dedicated phono RCA input. The lack of an integrated phono preamp allows power users to fine-tune their stereo systems, but more casual users might see this as a minus. This detail is easy to overlook, as many cheaper record players include built-in preamps or even USB connectivity. Though it has two standard RCA outputs on the rear and comes with gold-plated RCA cables, you’ll need to bring your own stereo receiver with a dedicated phono RCA input in order to pair it with some appropriately expressive speakers (such as the Fluance Ai41s). Importantly, the RT85 does not include its own preamp. A speed control contributes to precise playback (which can accommodate 33 ⅓ RPM and 45 RPM sources, but not 78 RPM). Its motor is also isolated from the plinth -a thoughtful design move that should theoretically reduce the stylus picking up motor noise. Fortunately, the RT85’s platter is exceptionally heavy. Cheaper belt-drive systems have a reputation for inconsistent speeds due to motor and platter separation, but connective belt problems are mitigated with a heavy platter that maintains momentum using its mass. This means the motor doesn’t rotate the platter directly. The RT85 is a two-speed servo-controlled belt-driven design. The RT85’s considerable weight and size of 13.75 inches x 16.5 inches x 5.5 inches make it a challenge to position it in tight spaces, so a sturdy and roomy turntable stand is the best match for this unit. In total, the RT85 weighs a solid 17 pounds. The platter’s high density and mass contribute to a more consistent speed thanks to increased inertia. Topping this MDF chassis is a translucent acrylic platter, which comes packed in a separate accessory box. The feet are adjustable to keep the turntable level on uneven surfaces. The RT85’s body is a high-gloss multilayered wood plinth with three feet covered in shock-absorbing rubber. I tested the glossy piano black model, but it’s also available in piano white, walnut, and bamboo finishes (each with a stylish smoke-tinted plastic dust cover). Visually, the Fluance turntable is quite striking. What that means is that once you put a record on the platter the only thing rocking out will be you. The RT85 offers way more than nostalgic appeal its design features consistent playback speed with minimal resonance and unwanted transfer of motion. Record players have come a long way since the first needle touched wax in 1948.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |