Fluance rt81 vs rt82: the showdown for sound superiority – which one will leave you captivated?
What To Know
- The Fluance RT81 and RT82 share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek and modern look with a matte black finish.
- If you’re looking for a high-quality turntable with a compact footprint and a neutral sound profile, the Fluance RT81 is an excellent option.
- Yes, both the Fluance RT81 and RT82 allow you to upgrade the cartridge to customize the sound to your liking.
In the realm of audiophile turntables, Fluance has established itself as a reputable brand renowned for its exceptional sound quality and value-driven offerings. The Fluance RT81 and RT82 are two of the company’s most popular models, each boasting unique strengths and characteristics. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Fluance RT81 vs Fluance RT82, empowering you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Fluance RT81 and RT82 share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek and modern look with a matte black finish. Both turntables are constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and stability. The RT81 has a slightly more compact footprint than the RT82, making it a better choice for smaller spaces.
Platter
The Fluance RT81 features a 300mm aluminum platter, while the RT82 boasts a larger 315mm platter. The increased mass of the RT82’s platter contributes to improved speed stability and reduced wow and flutter. Both platters are equipped with a felt mat to minimize vibrations and enhance sound quality.
Tonearm
The Fluance RT81 utilizes an 8.6-inch S-shaped tonearm, while the RT82 features a longer 10-inch tonearm. The longer tonearm on the RT82 allows for greater tracking accuracy and provides a more stable platform for the cartridge. Both tonearms are adjustable for precise stylus alignment.
Cartridge
The Fluance RT81 comes pre-installed with the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, known for its balanced sound and excellent detail retrieval. The RT82, on the other hand, is equipped with the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, which offers a more refined and extended frequency response. Both cartridges are highly regarded in the audiophile community.
Motor
The Fluance RT81 employs a DC motor with a belt-drive mechanism, providing smooth and consistent speed control. The RT82, however, utilizes a more advanced AC motor with a precision-machined pulley, resulting in even greater speed stability and reduced noise.
Preamplifier
The Fluance RT81 does not include a built-in preamplifier, requiring you to connect it to an external phono stage. The RT82, on the other hand, features a built-in phono preamplifier, allowing you to connect it directly to your amplifier or receiver. This feature makes the RT82 a more convenient option for those who do not have a separate phono stage.
Connectivity
Both the Fluance RT81 and RT82 offer RCA outputs for connecting to an amplifier or receiver. The RT82 additionally provides a USB output, enabling you to digitize your vinyl records and archive them on your computer.
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, both the Fluance RT81 and RT82 deliver excellent sound quality. The RT81 produces a well-balanced and detailed sound with a neutral tonal balance. The RT82, however, exhibits a slightly more expansive soundstage and improved dynamics, thanks to its larger platter and more advanced motor.
Which Turntable Is Right for You?
The choice between the Fluance RT81 and RT82 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a high-quality turntable with a compact footprint and a neutral sound profile, the Fluance RT81 is an excellent option. However, if you prioritize speed stability, extended frequency response, and the convenience of a built-in preamplifier, the Fluance RT82 is the better choice.
Takeaways: Exploring the Nuances of Audiophile Turntables
The Fluance RT81 and RT82 are both exceptional turntables that offer exceptional sound quality and value for money. By understanding the key differences between these two models, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific preferences and audio setup. Whether you choose the Fluance RT81 or RT82, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a transformative listening experience that will bring your vinyl collection to life.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which turntable has a more accurate tonearm?
A: The Fluance RT82 features a longer 10-inch tonearm, providing greater tracking accuracy and stability.
Q: Can I use a different cartridge with these turntables?
A: Yes, both the Fluance RT81 and RT82 allow you to upgrade the cartridge to customize the sound to your liking.
Q: Does the Fluance RT81 come with a dust cover?
A: Yes, both the Fluance RT81 and RT82 include a clear acrylic dust cover to protect the turntable from dust and debris.
Q: Which turntable is better for high-resolution audio?
A: The Fluance RT82, with its larger platter and more advanced motor, provides improved speed stability and reduced noise, making it a better choice for high-resolution audio playback.
Q: Can I connect the Fluance RT81 to a Bluetooth speaker?
A: No, the Fluance RT81 does not have Bluetooth connectivity. However, you can connect a Bluetooth adapter to the RCA outputs to enable wireless playback.
