Canadian hi-fi audio makers Fluance today launched a new addition to its flagship Elite lineup of turntables, the , an upgraded version of its popular entry-level record player, the RT81. Known for their hefty build quality and stable, anti-resonant performance, the $300 RT81+ pushes things further with a new Audio-Technica cartridge that is fully upgradeable, a redesigned anti-resonant aluminum platter, and new sound-isolating feet.
At the $300 price range, the belt-driven Fluance RT81+ Elite straddles the fine line between entry-level and mid-range, making an intriguing option for those just getting into vinyl records and those who either have a little more money to spend or want to take the next step. Like many of Fluance’s other turntables, like the higher-end RT85N Reference turntable, what helps make these next steps possible is upgradeability.
Out of the box, the RT81+ has already done some of this heavy lifting with the addition of the new Buy at Amazon moving magnet cartridge (a step up from the RT81’s workhorse AT95E cartridge), which offers a better frequency response and slightly better signal output (it’s a bit louder). The stylus is fully replaceable should it break or wear out, and (here’s where the upgrade part comes in) should you opt to spend some extra cheddar on a higher-end cartridge, the RT81+’s headshell is completely removable making it easy to swap in something better.
Next on the docket for upgrades is the RT81+’s platter, and while it is still made of aluminum like its predecessor’s, it’s made from a new “dampened aluminum” and is slightly heavier, helping to add some additional anti-resonance to the turntable, Fluance says, but we’ll let you know in our forthcoming review. Also contributing to the RT81+’s vibration-fighting components is a new set of rubberized, conical isolation feet that appear to have been lifted from the more premium RT85N, which is a good thing. They’re also height adjustable and the turntable comes with a small spirit level for balancing the turntable out on less-than-level surfaces.
The Fluance RT81+’s hefty MDF wood plinth weighs in at 14 pounds making it one stable turntable. The RT81+’s combination of aluminum S-style tonearm that is adjustable with counterweight and anti-skate features, as well as its built-in and switchable phono preamp that can be easily connected to either a receiver/amp or a set of powered speakers, offers versatility to a wide range of users for $300.
“This turntable is designed to stand out and last for decades to come. It incorporates a number of unique features that reflect Fluance’s commitment to superior sound quality, upgradeability, and customer accessibility,” said Justin Koetsier, Product Manager at Fluance. “In essence, the RT81+ aims to deliver an accessible, yet sophisticated and upgradeable, high-fidelity audio experience, embodying our vision of inclusivity. Even as products become more expensive, we remain focused on enabling customers to start with a base model and build it up into a high-end model over time, as they desire and as their resources allow. This is more than a product; it’s an enduring commitment to our customers’ evolving audio lifestyle.”
The Fluance RT81+ Elite is available today in Piano White, Piano Black, and Natural Walnut finishes at the Fluance website and on Amazon.
