Audiophile battle royale: fluance rt81 vs at-lp3 – unlocking the secrets of vinyl
What To Know
- On the other hand, the AT LP3 has a more traditional look and feel, with a wooden plinth and a die-cast aluminum platter.
- The Fluance RT81 comes with a dust cover and a rubber slipmat, while the AT LP3 includes a dust cover, a felt mat, and a 45 RPM adapter.
- Both turntables offer a built-in phono preamp, but the Fluance RT81 has an additional line-level output that allows you to connect it to an external phono preamp if desired.
For audiophiles seeking an affordable entry point into the world of vinyl, the Fluance RT81 and Audio-Technica AT LP3 are two highly regarded turntables. Both offer a balance of features, performance, and value, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Fluance RT81 vs AT LP3 to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Fluance RT81 boasts a sleek and modern design, with a solid MDF plinth that effectively dampens vibrations. Its platter is made of aluminum and features a felt mat for improved record stability. On the other hand, the AT LP3 has a more traditional look and feel, with a wooden plinth and a die-cast aluminum platter. Both turntables offer adjustable feet for leveling on uneven surfaces.
Cartridge and Stylus
The Fluance RT81 comes equipped with the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, which is known for its detailed and balanced sound. It has an elliptical stylus that provides excellent tracking and reduced distortion. The AT LP3 uses the AT95E cartridge, which is also a solid performer but has a conical stylus that may not extract as much detail from records. However, the AT LP3 allows for easy cartridge upgrades, giving you more flexibility in tailoring the sound to your preferences.
Tonearm and Tracking Force Adjustment
The Fluance RT81 features a straight carbon fiber tonearm with an adjustable counterweight for precise tracking force adjustment. This allows you to optimize the performance of the cartridge for different record weights and conditions. The AT LP3 has a J-shaped tonearm with a pre-set tracking force, which may limit your ability to fine-tune the setup.
Speed Control and Connectivity
Both the Fluance RT81 and AT LP3 support 33 1/3 and 45 RPM playback speeds. The Fluance RT81 uses a belt drive system that provides smooth and stable speed control, while the AT LP3 employs a direct drive system that offers quick and precise speed changes. Both turntables feature a built-in phono preamp, allowing you to connect them directly to your audio system without the need for an external preamp.
Features and Accessories
The Fluance RT81 comes with a dust cover and a rubber slipmat, while the AT LP3 includes a dust cover, a felt mat, and a 45 RPM adapter. Both turntables offer a one-year warranty for peace of mind.
Price and Value
The Fluance RT81 typically retails for around $299, while the AT LP3 is slightly more expensive, costing around $399. Both turntables offer excellent value for money, but the Fluance RT81 has a slight edge in terms of price.
The Bottom Line: Making the Right Choice
The Fluance RT81 and AT LP3 are both excellent entry-level turntables that offer a great listening experience. However, the choice between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize design, cartridge performance, and adjustable tracking force, the Fluance RT81 is a solid option. If you prefer a more traditional aesthetic, easy cartridge upgrades, and direct drive speed control, the AT LP3 is a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which turntable has better sound quality?
A: Both the Fluance RT81 and AT LP3 offer excellent sound quality, but the Fluance RT81 may have a slight edge due to its Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
Q: Is it easy to upgrade the cartridge on the Fluance RT81?
A: No, the Fluance RT81 does not allow for easy cartridge upgrades.
Q: Which turntable is better for playing warped records?
A: The Fluance RT81 has a carbon fiber tonearm that is better at tracking warped records compared to the AT LP3’s J-shaped tonearm.
Q: Can I connect both turntables to my receiver at the same time?
A: No, you cannot connect both turntables to your receiver at the same time as they both use the same phono input.
Q: Which turntable has better connectivity options?
A: Both turntables offer a built-in phono preamp, but the Fluance RT81 has an additional line-level output that allows you to connect it to an external phono preamp if desired.