FLUANCE RT81+ Elite: THE BEST Turntable Under $300?

The Fluance RT81+ Elite turntable is priced like at toy... but doesn't act like one! Could this be the BEST under $300 turntable on the market today? Do it's upgraded features and cartridge out it at the head of the pack. There is only one way to find out... watch this in depth video! And while you're at it... PLEASE Subscribe, like and punch that Notification Bell for me. You'll be glad you did
FLUANCE RT81+ Elite TURNTABLE link:
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FLUANCE RT85 TURNTABLE link:
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AT VM95ML Microline Replacement Stylus link:
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Record Doctor Record Clamp link:
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Record Doctor VI Record Cleaning Machine link:
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Wiim Streaming Amp link:
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Klipsch RP-51M Powered Speakers link:
amzn.to/3OKDwlY

[@abxaudiophiles]

Loving the United States of Analog!! Leading audio enthusiasts to the gateway to magical musical reproduction is always admirable. Well played sir. ❤❤😊😊

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thank you SO MUCH! That nice of you! This is an expensive hustle!

[@peterstudley1804]

I have no user knowledge of the fine fluance RT 81 , but i do have alot of knowledge about Audio-technica cartridges, they are extremely good for the money you pay , i use the AUDIO-TECHNICA VM95EN/VM95ML/VM95SH , VM530ENH, i have 3 of these and another on its way and last but not least the, VM740ML, which is superb, ive had many other carts by a host of different manufacturers and the Audio-technica carts always perform, i rotate them on a regular basis , i have a nice turntable its a technics SL 1200G , nice video as always, thank you.

[@chrisjames483]

I have an RT85N. It's a very good table for the money. Solid plinth, nagaoka mp110 cartridge and a great platter. The sound is legit.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I love the MP110. I have a friend that hates has a 86N and he swears by it. Thanks for watching! Appreciate a sub!

[@jeffkorenman2498]

Please LIKE and COMMENT and SUBSCRIBE. Show respect to the Bobfather !

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks... I forgot to plug!

[@mansolomd]

Excellent explanation at the beginning. Very needed info for a lot of us.

[@davidchesser584]

I love Fluance. I am using the RT85N and absolutely love it. Especially for the money. Love the videos

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Good choice! Thanks, David!

[@robertmckissick9347]

I love your video on this turntable. I am finally retired now at 67 and although I haven't played my old lp's in some time, still have plenty. I kept my old jvc belt drive turntable...but know the cartridge (audio technics 1001) is in bad shape. I looked at my old turntable (which is missing the belt anyway) and think this Fluance RT81+ will be perfect for me. I can't hear as well anyway...so this should be perfect. Great review...appreciate the time you put into all you reviews.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Go for it! You deserve it!

[@whome8192]

Audio-Technica AT-LP3XBT is a great sounding, fully automatic turntable with upgradable stylus, cartridge, and headshell. $299. Love it, sounds incredible. You can get in white or black. Has same cartridge stock that allows one to upgrade the stylus. Only downside is it has Bluetooth, but some may like that.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Good to know! Conical cart is one step down from eliptical, but upgradable. Thanks for scoping that out!

[@maxbg]

I had the same TT. Recently upgraded the stylus to VM95ML. The sound reproduction is now amazing!

[@derekschutte9734]

You're killing it ! Thanks for keeping it real !

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Appreciate you!

[@edholmwood2263]

I love my Fluance RT84 and I have upgraded the cart to an Audio Technica VM540ML. Great cart, great table. You can adjust the speed of that table via an adjustment on the bottom of the plinth. Absolute Sound have a big recommendation. Thank you Bobfather.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

You got it , Ed! I wanted to do something for the newbies so they don't get ripped off out there! Thanks again for your support!

[@Texacate]

Excellent review. Thinking about the RT81+ for my home office. I do love my RT85 in the living room.

[@chrisdurant1103]

Love your videos, my son and I love Hifi, were always testing and playing new or old speakers, amps, turnables, finally gave up on vintage tt, too many issues all the time. After your review I got a Fluance RT82 in Bamboo, sold off the Ortofon it came with and put in a vintage AT Shibata, sounds and works great, all in $225.00 dealio city. Thank for all the great content.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

So cool that you are having experiences with your son! I am ant to hear the the shibata!

[@unstablenetwork4744]

Just recommended this yesterday. It really is hard to beat. Bought my son the piano white version, and it looks classy.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

It is nice looking when you compare it to a suitcase! Thanks for watching!

[@jim010109]

Definitely has a cool looking vintage vibe. Great review!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks, Jim! HD to do one for the kids just getting into the game!

[@gregcarson3444]

Hey Bob, good review again. Being an old retired guy, well, not that old, at 68, budget is important, the days of $2,000 to $5,000 dollar turntables, speakers, ect. Is over for me. For my office at home, a 10 x 10 room, I am running all Fluance stuff. I am running the RT85, me I just love the Ortofon 2m blue, I know there are some that don’t but it is perfect for me. I am using Fluance PA10 preamp, the AI61 powered speakers. I found the speakers have good sound, but a little light on the bass for my taste, so I added in their DB10 subwoofer, perfect. With the powered speakers, I don’t really use the Bluetooth function, unless I am watching a TV show on my iPad. I do us the USB port to stream music through the speakers, and I have a blue ray player hooked up through the optical for CD’s. Is it HiFi, I don’t know, close, but it is MyFI. All this for around $1100, so a nice little system for a smaller room and budget.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Run that blu-ray player thru a Geshelli Labs J2 DAC for a welcomed sound upgrade!

[@gregcarson3444]

I have been looking at that, or maybe a Schitt, a good ol’ Texas company, I believe.

[@mikewolfe9458]

Thanks man! I’m trying to help my daughter pick out her first turntable, and this one looks like a solid contender.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

No suitcases, PLEASE! Thanks for watching!

[@mikewolfe9458]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog oh yeah we’re down to this, a pro-ject t1, or a u-turn. Fun stuff! Take care, man. See ya on the next video!

[@paulbenish8982]

Great review. Can’t go wrong with this turntable. I’ve owned mine for a few months. Got it in matte black which you can’t seem to buy anymore

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Matte black is sick! The gloss walnut shows fingerprints! Nothing a microfiber cloth can't solve! Thanks for watching!

[@paulbenish8982]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalogmatte black also shows fingerprints, not too bad though. Just in the area I rest my palm when cueing. I wipe them away same with the dust. I won’t get you started on the cover again 😂

[@edwardkane7708]

Great video, Bob. I’ll be watching all that you put out. Possible future topic (?): what to look for and consider when upgrading from THIS level of gear to the next (audible difference) tier. A new TT? Simply a new cart? An outboard phono preamp? Isolation feet? What can give the best bang for my $$? Keep on keeping on!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Will do! That will be Part IV of my Vinyl Series! Thanks for the suggestion!

[@prterhorst6204]

Sadly the Fluance TTs do not hold up over time. The damping on my cueing lever failed after a couple years and Fluance said I had to replace the entire tonearm -- then said they could not sell me one because, not only are they are out of stock, the tonearm assembly is discontinued. Seriously??? How many TTs have they sold with this tonearm -- and are still selling? Terrible customer service, just terrible.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Understand... but I can tell you the cueing lever is the weak spot on a lot of tables. On my Technics 1200m7 it's flimsy as hell and only a matter of time before it breaks off in my hand. My Studiodeck cueing is nothing to write home about either. I will report back on this table after a few months. The point of my review is that there is something better than a suitcase job for vinyl beginners. It is not the end all of tts but it's a hell of a start for $299. Thanks for taking the time to weigh in!!!

[@mattali4163]

⁠@@UnitedStatesofAnalogjust found this channel. Exactly what I been looking for. How would you compare this to the Audio Technica LP120 or LP60?

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

Preach! There is literally NOTHING else at this price point that can touch the Fluance. It’s what I would recommend to a friend or family member who is “vi curious”.

[@jedi-mic]

Well I don't know the project PrimaryE it's probably better it's about 250 Dollars it used to be you can get it with or without phonostage

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

@@jedi-mic Primary E, now called E1 is $350, no internal phono stage, and no removable headshell. Swing and a miss.

[@carlosrobles4957]

I have a RT80 and just upgraded the stylus, it has been great so far😊

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Good to hear! I'm getting some push back on Fluance here. Glad you've had one for awhile at it's still serving you well! Thanks for watching!

[@docwells7]

Fluance does a brilliant job of enticing one to step up to the next level turntable. It's always a bargain. I knew I was going to eventually upgrade to the RT85, and it would have cost me a couple hundred dollars to do it piecemeal. I just bit the bullet and went for it. I figured I'd go for the one with the Ortifion Blue cartridge since the Nagaoka was a less expensive cartridge, so to buy it separately would be cheaper for me. I absolutely love the RT85. The RT81 extra/plus seems like a great entry level turntable that could serve as a great keeper for a second room if one decided to upgrade, but would likely serve someone as a great turntable if they're not too OCD.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

You got it! Thanks!

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

Still love my RT 81. I think it’s an awesome turntable at $250. I have upgraded the stylist though and added an external preamp. So now it is really a $450 turntable.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Congrats for making it work for you!

[@carravagio16]

Bob, I enjoy your videos and presentation. Just an idea so you dont have to purchase gear for all your videos, you can do different "series" of videos on thing you already have in your colleciton such as Reviews / deep dives into some of your favorite artist / vinyls, Room tour of your gear, you could just take topics and opion on things in the hobby like cables, gear...deep thoughts from bob LOL, anyway just some suggestions. also what radio station are you on, i wanted to check out what you do. thanks, brian charlotte. You could also put together systems i differnt price groups. Great beginner gear and set up.......okay enough ranting

[@ferdie092470]

Thanks for your valuable inputs on this player. I've just started appreciating playing records. So, I started with "used" player as most of them are priced much lower than their brand new versions. But part of me also doesn't want to buy an expensive player. So I think this one is good for me.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

It doesn't suck. It's a great value... of course there are much better players!

[@alexlacina3453]

Great advice as always Bob-e-o

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thank you kindly!

[@michaelwright1602]

Great find Bob! That is a nice looking TT for the money, looks much more expensive.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

For sure! Thanks for dropping by!

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

Looks like a solid nomination for an 'entry' level/beginner turntable. Any suggestions for a phono preamp? Thanks for your time and efforts to share this with us all. Stay well, my friend.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Well. I think is I was at this part of my journey... and I can't believe I'm saying this... I'd stick with the internal until I upgraded my table. Otherwise is a $150 for a Schiit or $200 for a iFi preamp. Something like an ART Pro is cheaper but probably not a great improvement. Thanks!

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

@UnitedStatesofAnalog Thanks for your reply and advice, Sir. Perhaps just save a little and get the next model up?

[@bmuhamad]

Beautiful.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@DRACULALIZARD]

First time viewer.. great video! I wouldn't consider myself a beginner, but I'm far from a expert. I have around 800 records now, and thinking about an upgrade from my Technics SL-QD33. I'm looking for a direct drive, fully automatic table. Can you recommend something?

[@318ishonk]

Certainly looks the part👍 I think I'll replicate that glossy walnut veneer look on my DIY Lateral FET amplifier. Front and back in wood veneer, white decals, rest in black.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Go for it!

[@robertnitsche8410]

I'm with you Bob, I call dust covers "resonance catchers".

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I was searching for a good description like that!

[@ediblehorse]

Hi Bob. I've had the Fluance and liked it alright. I kinda prefer the Ausio-Technica Lp-120 at this price point. Mht be slightly higher $$$ these days. Nice vid. Thanks. Ed from Chicago

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

120's are slick. I thought the were $400+ .

[@JimmShaffer-vr9wu]

Jimm from the Philippines again. I really, really wanted the Fluance RT 85. But guess what? Just like the Heco Auroras, i cant get Fluance here. 😢 Oh well. Im settling for good vintage turntables for now. I can get Rega Planar but im like the look.of the Fluance better. Love your videos!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks! Happy hunting! Appreciate you coming back!

[@TheLifeandSadEnding]

I have an RT81 and I just took delivery of an RT85N. Sadly I am returning it due to random loud popping sounds from the MP110 cartridge. It sounded great when it was working.

[@jamesberryman9893]

If I wouldn't have just bought a pair of Hifiman Edition XS, I would've bought either this or an Audio Technica TT... as a beginner TT of course. Going to add it to my wishlist! Thanks!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks! Appreciate you! Good luck!

[@larryh.4629]

Bought mine when they were between upgrades rt81plus vs. Rt81 elite/plus it was on amazon for less than $250 tax included. À week later it was 299. Was on the fence but at 250 with the upgrades i had to go this route the price was too good to pass. Thanks bob

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

You're welcome! Thanks for being here!

[@dtracy03ss]

Heck Yah, great deal!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Thanks for weighing in!

[@dhchoi]

Bob ! I do love this video. this is really informative. Thanks from Seoul S. Korea. " My 2000 dollars MoFi doesn't do that !! " LOL !!!!! OMG LOL !

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

It's true... it's true!

[@CCamm6469]

I currently have an Audio-Technica ATLP60XBT. I think it sounds really good but i know this is an entry level turntable. I'm not running it BT. I use the RCA connection to my powered speakers. I'm chomping at the bit to upgrade to this Fluance model. Do you think that would be a worthwhile upgrade or should i hold off and go with one of Fluance's higher end models like the RT 85 or 85N?

[@pnichols6500]

I removed the hinges on my MoFi turntable lid because I remove it when I'm playing records and don't have to fumble around trying to align the hinges when replacing. I have a light over the Ultradeck that won't allow the cover to open all the way, but I remove it mostly to avoid resonances. (If you don't have a strong light on your turntable and add one, you will be shocked about all the dust that you have been missing)

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Those MoFi hinges are the worst

[@mariosiaven2965]

Between this and the Pioneer plx500 or the Audio T lp120 that run for like 100$ more what would you choose?

[@davidbono9359]

Wow, that seems like a lot of turntable for $300! How would you say it compares to something like a Pro-Ject Debut?

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

They start at $499 or $599. I've owned two and have a Pro model. Sure wish they had removable headshells! I haven't had good luck with the Debut Series.

[@bornodnoc1034]

You gotta think that the base cost to the manufacturer is $50 bucks plus shipping & packaging. Not too much room for true quality. My prefered option would be a quality 70's table. Pioneer anyone?

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I have a vintage Thorens. But you're gonna lose newbies with vintage talk, They want inexpensive and convenience. I'm just saying this is better that the competition for the price. That's all. Thanks for your question!

[@BansheeFifteen]

So what do you think of this turntable with a Ortofon 2M Blue Moving Magnet Cartridge on it? Overkill?

[@steveh545]

great vid (but your camera wasn't your friend this time around)

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

What are you seeing? It looks alright to me. Were you watch SD version?

[@steveh545]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog OOF. Or focusing on the Mac, not the man lol. Basically looked like autofocus was confused. I’ll watch again later, maybe my internet was acting up. Pretty sure it was HD.

[@bmuhamad]

Great place to be. 😂 🎉 ❤

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Glad you're here!

[@kevinbehnke7149]

Haven't had any luck with Fluance products. I had 3 different items from Fluance including a TT. All had Quality issues and went back. I will never buy another Fluance product.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I get it. This is aimed at first users. I think it will get them by. I've seen no quality issues in mine so far. Thanks for the feedback!

[@jedi-mic]

What is the arm like I've heard there's been issues with the arm when these first came out! I don't know if they've sorted it out, does the arm have any movement in it?

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

I gave it some tugs and it seems secure. Haven't detected any weird noises or feedback. I know there are better arms out there... but this price?

[@jedi-mic]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog right ok did you try twisting it side to side? Maybe it was just propaganda from other manufactures putting it out there lol

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

@@jedi-mic there is a lot of that!

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

@@jedi-mic I think if I twisted any tonearm enough it would create a problem. These are all delicate machines. I accidentally tore off a Ortofon Blue $189 stylus last night while trying to put the protective cover on it. Stupid!

[@jedi-mic]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog yes I'm not asking you to gorilla twist it lol just with your finger and thumb rock it backwards and forwards gently. Yeah some of these stylus protectors are a nightmare and more dangerous they're not using it. you don't really need to put it on only if you're taking it off and storing it, should be fine in its clamp / rest I always leave the lever up in case it gets loose off the clamp then it won't damage the stylus

[@matthewshields2841]

Looks like you can put a system together for vinyl playback for $1K. All those collectors take note!

[@adamcanterbury]

Is it upgradable like the rt82

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

No... not really! Except to swap out the stylus or cart. It's a beast unto itself! But the upgraded feet, cart and acrylic mat are nice.

[@adamcanterbury]

@@UnitedStatesofAnalog thanks for the insight

[@mladenbasic1]

I gotta say that I miss your lav mic.

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Yeah... I have very high ceilings in that room. I didn't think the sound was offensive, but... anyway I guess the Rode shotgun mic is going back! Amazon thanks you.

[@mladenbasic1]

Sorry I didn't know that you went to so much trouble, maybe if you put the Rode mic a bit closer

[@Ricky-cl5bu]

Buy a rega RP1 it’s plug and play

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

That's $500 -$600 isn't it! I think Rega is great, but a lot of beginners can't do that. Thanks!

[@angeliquevaldez4033]

Does anybody know the disk size ?

[@74jberg]

Iown a techmics sl23 which has allbthe same features and autotreturn and cost me only 60 bucks

[@UnitedStatesofAnalog]

Good find!