Best Fluance Black Turntables in 2026: 15 Picks
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Selecting the best fluance black turntables comes down to plinth construction, motor isolation, and cartridge options. To help you choose, we evaluated 15 models based strictly on the specifications published on their listings. The Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon OM10 leads the rankings because its isolated motor and 15-pound MDF plinth provide steady speed control and vibration damping for setups with an external phono stage.
This comparison helps you decide whether you need an integrated preamp, an acrylic platter, or an upgraded stylus for your home audio system.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You have a dedicated external phono preamp ready. Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon OM10 Its isolated motor, MDF plinth, and Ortofon OM10 cartridge rely on your outboard phono stage for playback.
- You want a turntable with built-in phono amplification. Fluance RT81+ Belt-Drive Turntable It integrates a Texas Instruments phono stage directly with an Audio Technica VM95E cartridge on an MDF plinth.
- You want structural vibration isolation from a dual plinth. Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable The 21-pound dual-plinth chassis features a decoupled motor design and an acrylic platter with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge.
- You want a full bundle including powered bookshelf speakers. Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ri71 Speakers This package provides 120W powered monitor speakers paired with an acrylic platter and an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge.
Our 15 picks
Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon OM10
Best for: listeners with an external phono preamp
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Platter Material
- Metal
- Cartridge
- Ortofon OM10
- Tonearm
- S-shaped, balanced
- Features
- Speed control, vibration isolation feet
- Dimensions
- 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon OM10
This belt-drive turntable features a piano black MDF wood plinth and a balanced S-shaped tonearm. It comes equipped with an Ortofon OM10 elliptical cartridge and an isolated motor that regulates speed to 0.07% wow and flutter. The metal platter rests on adjustable damping feet to reduce vibrations. It suits you if you already own a dedicated phono preamp and want a stable analog deck.
Pros
- Ortofon OM10 elliptical cartridge
- Isolated motor with 0.07% wow and flutter speed control
- High-mass MDF wood plinth with adjustable damping feet
- Balanced S-shaped tonearm
Cons
- No built-in phono preamp included
- Comes with a metal platter rather than acrylic
Good fit if
- You already have a standalone phono preamp or receiver with phono input.
- You want an isolated motor with low wow and flutter.
- You prefer an elliptical stylus on an S-shaped tonearm.
Skip if
- You require an integrated phono preamplifier inside the turntable.
- You prefer an acrylic platter over a metal platter.
Verdict: Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon Cartridge delivers consistent speed control and vibration isolation using an MDF plinth and an isolated motor. It serves as an accurate playback deck if you provide your own phono stage.
Fluance Piano Black Turntable Isolation Platform
Best for: damping vibrations under existing audio equipment
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Platter Material
- MDF
- Features
- Height adjustable feet, bubble level
- Dimensions
- 15 × 17.1 × 2.5 inches
- Weight
- 10.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Fluance Piano Black Turntable Isolation Platform
This product is an anti-vibration platform rather than a standalone turntable. Built from dense MDF wood in Piano Black, it weighs 10.5 pounds and measures 17.1 by 15 inches. It includes silicone rubber isolation feet, a built-in bubble level, and height-adjustable feet to balance your setup. This platform suits you if you already own audio gear and need external damping to level your equipment and isolate vibrations.
Pros
- 10.5-pound dense MDF construction
- Integrated bubble level and height-adjustable feet
- Silicone rubber isolation feet for vibration damping
- Measures 17.1 by 15 inches to fit home audio components
Cons
- Isolation platform only; does not play records
- Adds 2.5 inches of height to your audio setup
Good fit if
- You need an isolation base to damp vibrations under your turntable or audio gear.
- You want built-in leveling tools with adjustable feet and an integrated bubble level.
Skip if
- You need an actual vinyl record player with a tonearm and cartridge.
- You lack the 2.5 inches of vertical clearance required under your component.
Verdict: Fluance Black Turntable Isolation Platform provides heavy MDF damping and an integrated bubble level for stabilizing audio equipment. It serves as an isolation accessory rather than a standalone record player.
Fluance RT81 Belt-Drive Turntable
Best for: plug-and-play setups needing an internal preamp
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Drive Type
- Belt drive
- Connectivity
- Gold plated RCA line outputs
- Preamp
- Built-in Texas Instruments preamp
- Platter Material
- Aluminum
- Cartridge
- Audio Technica AT95E
The Fluance RT81 Belt Drive Turntable is a solid MDF record player finished in piano black. It pairs an Audio Technica AT95E elliptical cartridge with an aluminum S-type tonearm and belt-drive system. With its built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp and gold-plated RCA outputs, you can connect directly to powered speakers or standard line inputs without extra gear. It suits you if you want a complete playback setup ready for standard audio systems.
Pros
- Built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp
- Audio Technica AT95E elliptical cartridge included
- Solid MDF wood plinth with isolation feet
- Aluminum S-type tonearm with adjustable counterweight
Cons
- Aluminum platter instead of acrylic
- No wireless or USB connectivity listed
Good fit if
- You want an integrated phono preamp for direct connection to active speakers.
- You prefer an elliptical diamond stylus cartridge included out of the box.
Skip if
- You want an acrylic platter rather than aluminum.
- You need digital USB connectivity to record vinyl.
Verdict: Fluance RT81 Belt Drive Turntable gives you an all-in-one analog deck equipped with an AT95E cartridge and an internal phono preamp. It handles everyday vinyl listening cleanly without requiring an outboard preamplifier.
Fluance Turntable with Acrylic Platter
Best for: listeners with a dedicated phono preamplifier
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Features
- Speed control, vibration isolation feet
- Dimensions
- 13.7 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches
- Weight
- 16.8 pounds
This turntable pairs an Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge with a high-density acrylic platter and an MDF wood plinth in Piano Black. An isolated motor with speed control holds wow and flutter to 0.07 percent. Adjustable resonance damping feet decouple the 16.8-pound body from resting surfaces. It suits you if you have a standalone phono preamplifier and want precision analog playback.
Pros
- Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge
- High-density acrylic platter
- Motor speed control with 0.07% wow and flutter
- Adjustable resonance damping feet
Cons
- Phono preamp not included
- Chassis weight of 16.8 pounds requires sturdy furniture
Good fit if
- You own an external phono preamplifier or receiver with phono inputs.
- You want a pre-mounted Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge.
- You prefer a high-density acrylic platter.
Skip if
- You need a built-in phono preamplifier.
- You do not have space for a 16.8-pound, 16.5-inch wide chassis.
Verdict: Fluance Piano Black Turntable with Acrylic Platter provides precision playback with its isolated motor and Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. It serves systems that already include a dedicated phono preamplifier.
Fluance RT81+ Belt-Drive Turntable
Best for: built-in phono preamplification and easy setup
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Drive Type
- Belt-drive
- Connectivity
- Gold-plated RCA, ground terminal
- Preamp
- Built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp
- Platter Material
- Dampened aluminum anti-resonant platter
- Tonearm
- Removable head shell
This belt-drive turntable comes finished in Piano Black with an engineered MDF wood plinth and a dampened aluminum anti-resonant platter. It features an integrated Texas Instruments phono preamp, so you can connect directly to powered speakers or receivers via gold-plated RCA outputs without external hardware. With its pre-mounted Audio Technica VM95E elliptical cartridge and three adjustable isolation feet, it suits you if you want an all-in-one analog setup ready for playback.
Pros
- Built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp
- Audio Technica VM95E cartridge with diamond elliptical stylus
- Dampened aluminum platter paired with an acrylic mat
- Removable headshell for straightforward cartridge swapping
Cons
- No USB output for digitizing vinyl to a computer
- No built-in Bluetooth or wireless connectivity
Good fit if
- You want an integrated Texas Instruments phono preamp for direct connection to powered speakers.
- You prefer an Audio Technica VM95E cartridge on a removable headshell for easy stylus upgrades.
- You need three adjustable isolation feet and an acrylic mat for vibration control.
Skip if
- You require a USB port to record your vinyl records directly to a computer.
- You want wireless Bluetooth transmission to headphones or wireless speakers.
Verdict: Fluance RT81+ Belt-Drive Turntable delivers an integrated Texas Instruments phono stage and an Audio Technica VM95E cartridge in a single MDF chassis. It offers a direct plug-and-play analog connection without requiring an outboard preamplifier.
Fluance Piano Black Turntable with Nagaoka Cartridge
Best for: listeners with dedicated phono preamps
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Preamp
- Not included
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Cartridge
- Nagaoka MP-110
- Features
- Speed control, vibration isolation feet
- Dimensions
- 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: Fluance Piano Black Turntable with Nagaoka Cartridge
This Fluance turntable features a high-density acrylic platter, an isolated motor with speed control, and a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge. Its high-mass MDF wood plinth sits on adjustable resonance-damping feet to isolate vibrations, maintaining 0.07% wow and flutter. Because it lacks a built-in phono preamp, you need dedicated phono inputs or external gear. It suits you if you want upgraded cartridge hardware and acrylic damping in a Piano Black finish.
Pros
- High-density acrylic platter helps damp unwanted micro-vibrations
- Includes pre-installed Nagaoka MP-110 elliptical diamond cartridge
- Isolated motor with speed control rated at 0.07% wow and flutter
- Adjustable resonance-damping feet on high-mass MDF wood plinth
Cons
- No built-in phono preamp included in the chassis
- Requires at least 14.3 inches of shelf depth
Good fit if
- You already own a phono preamp or receiver with phono inputs.
- You want an acrylic platter paired with a factory-fitted Nagaoka cartridge.
Skip if
- You need a turntable with an internal phono stage.
- You have a shallow audio rack under 14.3 inches deep.
Verdict: Fluance Piano Black Turntable with Nagaoka Cartridge pairs an acrylic platter and isolated motor with a pre-installed cartridge for systems with existing phono amplification.
Fluance Classic Belt-Drive Turntable
Best for: plug-and-play setups needing a built-in preamp
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Drive Type
- Belt drive
- Preamp
- Built-in Texas Instruments preamp
- Platter Material
- Aluminum platter, rubber platter mat
- Cartridge
- Audio Technica AT91
- Tonearm
- Balanced aluminum S-Type tonearm
This belt-drive record player features an engineered MDF wood plinth in piano black, paired with a balanced aluminum S-type tonearm and an Audio Technica AT91 cartridge. An integrated Texas Instruments phono preamp lets you connect directly to powered speakers or standard line inputs without external equipment. You get an aluminum platter with a rubber mat and isolation feet, making it a straightforward option for your vinyl playback setup.
Pros
- Built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp with gold-plated RCA outputs
- Audio Technica AT91 cartridge with diamond-tipped stylus included
- Balanced aluminum S-Type tonearm
- MDF wood plinth with built-in isolation feet
Cons
- Aluminum platter instead of denser acrylic material
- Overall weight is limited to 9.9 pounds
Good fit if
- You need a built-in phono preamp to hook directly into powered speakers.
- You prefer a pre-aligned Audio Technica AT91 cartridge ready for use.
Skip if
- You want an acrylic platter rather than an aluminum platter with a rubber mat.
- You prefer a heavier chassis than this 9.9-pound build.
Verdict: Fluance Belt-Drive Black Turntable with Preamp combines an integrated phono stage with an Audio Technica cartridge on an MDF plinth. It gives you all necessary playback hardware in a piano black chassis.
Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable
Best for: listeners wanting dual-plinth vibration isolation
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Drive Type
- Speed control motor
- Platter Material
- 22mm anti-static acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue nude elliptical
- Tonearm
- 9" carbon fiber, adjustable VTA
- Features
- Dual-plinth vibration isolation
The Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable is a belt-drive record player finished in Piano Black. It features a decoupled dual-plinth structure that separates the speed control motor from the tonearm assembly to reduce vibrations. You also get a 9-inch carbon fiber tonearm with adjustable vertical tracking angle, a 22mm acrylic platter, and an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. This configuration suits you if you want advanced acoustic isolation and precise cartridge alignment.
Pros
- Dual-plinth design decouples motor vibrations from the tonearm
- 9-inch carbon fiber tonearm with adjustable vertical tracking angle
- High-mass 22mm anti-static acrylic platter
- Factory-fitted Ortofon 2M Blue nude elliptical cartridge
Cons
- No built-in phono preamplifier listed in specifications
- Heavy 21-pound weight requires rigid placement
Good fit if
- You want physical motor decoupling through a dual-plinth chassis.
- You require adjustable vertical tracking angle for precise cartridge setup.
- You already own an external phono preamp or receiver with phono input.
Skip if
- You need a plug-and-play turntable with an integrated phono preamplifier.
- You have a lightweight audio shelf unable to support 21 pounds.
Verdict: Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable provides structural vibration isolation and precise tonearm adjustability for serious listening. Its decoupled motor design and Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge establish a dedicated high-fidelity setup.
Fluance RT83 Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red
Best for: listeners wanting an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Preamp
- Not included
- Platter Material
- Metal platter
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Red
- Tonearm
- Balanced S-shaped
- Dimensions
- 13.8 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches
The Fluance RT83 Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red combines an Ortofon 2M Red elliptical cartridge with a high-mass MDF wood plinth in Piano Black. You get a balanced S-shaped tonearm, a metal platter, and an isolated motor with speed control rated at 0.07% wow and flutter. Because this player contains no built-in phono preamp, you will need a separate phono preamp or receiver phono input to play audio.
Pros
- Factory-mounted Ortofon 2M Red elliptical cartridge
- Isolated motor with speed control rated at 0.07% wow and flutter
- Balanced S-shaped tonearm for groove tracking
- High-mass MDF wood plinth with adjustable resonance damping feet
Cons
- No built-in phono preamp included in signal path
- 15-pound weight requires a sturdy placement surface
Good fit if
- You want an Ortofon 2M Red elliptical cartridge mounted on an S-shaped tonearm.
- You already own a standalone phono preamp or an amplifier with phono inputs.
Skip if
- You need a turntable with a built-in phono preamplifier.
- You lack external phono preamplification equipment in your sound system.
Verdict: Fluance RT83 Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red provides an isolated motor with 0.07% wow and flutter alongside an S-shaped tonearm and MDF plinth. It suits listeners who have external phono amplification and prioritize a factory-aligned Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable
Best for: listeners wanting microlinear tracking and plinth isolation
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Drive Type
- Speed control motor
- Platter Material
- 22mm anti-static acrylic
- Cartridge
- Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML Microlinear
- Tonearm
- 9" carbon fiber, adjustable VTA
- Features
- Dual-plinth vibration isolation
The Fluance RT87 is a turntable finished in Piano Black that separates motor vibration using a decoupled dual-plinth design. You get a 9-inch carbon fiber tonearm with adjustable vertical tracking angle, an Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML microlinear cartridge, and a 22mm anti-static acrylic platter. It weighs 21 pounds and suits you if you want advanced cartridge alignment controls for your existing audio setup.
Pros
- Decoupled dual-plinth design separates the motor from the tonearm
- Pre-installed Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML microlinear cartridge
- 9-inch carbon fiber tonearm includes adjustable VTA
- High-mass 22mm anti-static acrylic platter
Cons
- Weighs 21 pounds, requiring rigid furniture support
- No built-in phono preamplifier listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You want a microlinear stylus and adjustable tonearm height from the factory.
- You need dual-plinth isolation to reduce structural motor vibration.
Skip if
- You need a built-in phono preamplifier to plug straight into powered speakers.
- You prefer a lightweight turntable that is easy to relocate.
Verdict: Fluance RT87 Turntable with AT-VM95ML Cartridge pairs a vibration-isolating dual plinth with precise tonearm calibration and a microlinear stylus. It provides focused playback specs if your audio setup already includes a dedicated phono stage.
Fluance RT85 Reference Turntable with Isolation Base
Best for: Vibration-isolated listening with an Ortofon 2M Blue
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Platter Material
- High density acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical
- Dimensions
- 29.2 × 17.1 × 6 inches
- Weight
- 27.3 pounds
View on Amazon: Fluance RT85 Reference Turntable with Isolation Base
This setup pairs the Fluance RT85 turntable with a dedicated 10.5-pound MDF isolation base in Piano Black. You get an Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge and a high-density acrylic platter designed to damp vibrations. The base includes height-adjustable feet and a built-in bubble level for precise alignment. It suits you if you want factory-matched mechanical isolation alongside an upgraded cartridge without purchasing a separate platform.
Pros
- Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge
- High-density acrylic platter
- Includes 10.5-pound MDF isolation base
- Built-in bubble level with height-adjustable feet
Cons
- No built-in phono preamplifier listed
- Combined setup weighs 27.3 pounds
Good fit if
- You want an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge paired with an acrylic platter.
- You need a dedicated isolation base with leveling adjustment.
- You prefer a matching Piano Black finish.
Skip if
- You need a turntable with an integrated phono preamplifier.
- You lack shelf space for a heavy 27.3-pound platform setup.
Verdict: Fluance RT85 Reference Turntable with Isolation Base combines an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge and acrylic platter with dedicated leveling hardware. It provides complete external vibration damping in one package.
Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Blue
Best for: Listeners with an external phono preamp
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Preamp
- Not included
- Platter Material
- Metal platter
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Tonearm
- Balanced S-shaped
- Dimensions
- 13.8 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches
View on Amazon: Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Blue
This Fluance turntable pairs a factory-installed Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge with a balanced S-shaped tonearm and a metal platter. Its high-mass MDF plinth and isolated motor keep wow and flutter at 0.07% across your records. Because it lacks an internal phono preamp, you need a separate preamp or a phono-ready receiver. It suits you if you already own amplification gear and prioritize precise stylus tracking over built-in electronics.
Pros
- Factory-fitted Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge
- Speed control mechanism limits wow and flutter to 0.07%
- High-mass MDF wood plinth with adjustable damping feet
- Balanced S-shaped tonearm for record tracking
Cons
- Phono preamp not included in signal path
- Equipped with a metal platter rather than acrylic
Good fit if
- You already own a dedicated phono preamp or receiver with phono inputs
- You want an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge pre-mounted on an S-shaped tonearm
- You require motor speed control with low wow and flutter ratings
Skip if
- You require a plug-and-play turntable with a built-in phono preamp
- You want a turntable configured with an acrylic platter
Verdict: Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Blue delivers precise playback specifications through its upgraded cartridge and speed-controlled motor. It serves listeners who already operate a standalone phono preamplifier.
Fluance RT85 Turntable with Powered Tower Speakers
Best for: complete turntable and tower speaker setups
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Speakers
- Ri91 150W active tower speakers
- Preamp
- PA10
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Dimensions
- 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: Fluance RT85 Turntable with Powered Tower Speakers
This setup pairs a Fluance RT85 turntable in Piano Black with Ri91 powered floorstanding tower speakers and a PA10 preamp. The turntable includes an acrylic platter and an Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge. The included 2.5-way active speakers provide 150 watts of amplification alongside AMT tweeters. This complete bundle suits you if you want a full analog system without sourcing separate amplification or floor speakers.
Pros
- Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge
- High-density acrylic platter
- Includes external PA10 phono preamplifier
- Ri91 150W active tower speakers with AMT tweeters
Cons
- Requires dedicated floor space for tower speakers
- Turntable unit weighs 16.8 pounds
Good fit if
- You want a complete audio setup with turntable, preamp, and active tower speakers.
- You want an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge paired with an acrylic platter.
Skip if
- You already own an amplifier and dedicated speakers.
- You have limited floor space for tower speakers.
Verdict: Fluance RT85 Turntable with Powered Tower Speakers delivers a full system featuring an acrylic platter, an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, and matched 150W active speakers. It provides a complete playback chain without requiring separate amplification components.
Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ri71 Speakers
Best for: listeners wanting an all-in-one powered speaker bundle
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Speakers
- Ri71 active bookshelf, 120W
- Preamp
- PA10 Preamp
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical
- Dimensions
- 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches
This bundle pairs the Fluance RT85 turntable in Piano Black with matching Ri71 active bookshelf speakers and a PA10 preamp. The deck includes an Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge and an acrylic platter. The Ri71 speakers feature an integrated 120W amplifier and AMT tweeters with waveguides. It suits you if you want a complete vinyl setup with matched powered speakers.
Pros
- Includes Ri71 120W active bookshelf speakers with AMT tweeters
- Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge
- High-density acrylic platter
- Comes with dedicated PA10 preamp
Cons
- Preamp is an external unit rather than built into the chassis
- Requires extra surface space for standalone bookshelf speakers
Good fit if
- You want an all-in-one system with 120W powered speakers included.
- You prefer an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge and an acrylic platter.
- You need a complete bundle that includes an external PA10 preamp.
Skip if
- You already own powered speakers or an existing amplifier setup.
- You prefer a turntable with an integrated internal phono stage.
Verdict: Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ri71 Speakers combines an acrylic platter, an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, and 120W powered monitors into a complete audio setup. It delivers a full stereo package without requiring separate speaker or amplifier purchases.
Fluance RT85 Turntable with Record Weight
Best for: acrylic platter setups with included accessories
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Features
- Record weight, cleaning kit
- Dimensions
- 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches
- Weight
- 18.8 pounds
This turntable features a Piano Black finish, an Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge, and a high-density acrylic platter. Measuring 16.5 by 14.3 by 6 inches and weighing 18.8 pounds, it includes both a HiFi record weight and a stylus cleaning kit. It suits you if you want an acrylic platter equipped with factory vibration-damping accessories and maintenance tools for your vinyl records.
Pros
- Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge
- High-density acrylic platter
- Includes HiFi record weight
- Includes vinyl and stylus cleaning kit
Cons
- No built-in phono preamplifier listed
- Weighs 18.8 pounds, requiring a sturdy surface
Good fit if
- You want an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge paired with an acrylic platter.
- You need included accessories like a record weight and cleaning tools.
- You prefer a Piano Black finish across a 16.5-inch wide plinth.
Skip if
- You need a turntable with an integrated phono preamplifier listed.
- You have limited shelf space for an 18.8-pound, 16.5-inch wide plinth.
Verdict: Fluance RT85 Turntable with Record Weight pairs an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge and high-density acrylic platter with included stabilization and cleaning accessories. It gives you a dedicated analog front-end in Piano Black.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon OM10 | Fluance Piano Black Turntable Isolation Platform | Fluance RT81 Belt-Drive Turntable | Fluance Turntable with Acrylic Platter | Fluance RT81+ Belt-Drive Turntable | Fluance Piano Black Turntable with Nagaoka Cartridge | Fluance Classic Belt-Drive Turntable | Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable | Fluance RT83 Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red | Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable | Fluance RT85 Reference Turntable with Isolation Base | Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Blue | Fluance RT85 Turntable with Powered Tower Speakers | Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ri71 Speakers | Fluance RT85 Turntable with Record Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Type | not specified | not specified | Belt drive | not specified | Belt-drive | not specified | Belt drive | Speed control motor | not specified | Speed control motor | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Connectivity | not specified | not specified | Gold plated RCA line outputs | not specified | Gold-plated RCA, ground terminal | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Speakers | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Ri91 150W active tower speakers | Ri71 active bookshelf, 120W | not specified |
| Preamp | not specified | not specified | Built-in Texas Instruments preamp | not specified | Built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp | Not included | Built-in Texas Instruments preamp | not specified | Not included | not specified | not specified | Not included | PA10 | PA10 Preamp | not specified |
| Platter Material | Metal | MDF | Aluminum | Acrylic | Dampened aluminum anti-resonant platter | Acrylic | Aluminum platter, rubber platter mat | 22mm anti-static acrylic | Metal platter | 22mm anti-static acrylic | High density acrylic | Metal platter | Acrylic | Acrylic | Acrylic |
| Cartridge | Ortofon OM10 | not specified | Audio Technica AT95E | Ortofon 2M Blue | not specified | Nagaoka MP-110 | Audio Technica AT91 | Ortofon 2M Blue nude elliptical | Ortofon 2M Red | Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML Microlinear | Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical | Ortofon 2M Blue | Ortofon 2M Blue | Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical | Ortofon 2M Blue |
| Tonearm | S-shaped, balanced | not specified | not specified | not specified | Removable head shell | not specified | Balanced aluminum S-Type tonearm | 9" carbon fiber, adjustable VTA | Balanced S-shaped | 9" carbon fiber, adjustable VTA | not specified | Balanced S-shaped | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Features | Speed control, vibration isolation feet | Height adjustable feet, bubble level | not specified | Speed control, vibration isolation feet | not specified | Speed control, vibration isolation feet | not specified | Dual-plinth vibration isolation | not specified | Dual-plinth vibration isolation | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Record weight, cleaning kit |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Inputs | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Phono | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 15 × 17.1 × 2.5 inches | 13.8 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches | 13.7 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 13.8 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6.3 inches | 13.8 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6.3 inches | 29.2 × 17.1 × 6 inches | 13.8 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 15 pounds | 10.5 pounds | 14.1 pounds | 16.8 pounds | 14.1 pounds | 16.8 pounds | 9.9 pounds | 21 pounds | 15 pounds | 21 pounds | 27.3 pounds | 15 pounds | 16.8 pounds | 16.8 pounds | 18.8 pounds |
| Model | RT82T | IB40T | RT81T | RT85T | RT81PWH | RT85N | RT80 | RT87T2MBLUEEU | RT83TUK | RT87TVM95MLEU | RT85TIB40T | RT84T | RT85TPA91 | RT85TPA71 | RT85TVB52RW02UK |
If you need a sturdy base for your audio gear, review load capacities listed for the best black workbenches.
Key Specs for Choosing Fluance Turntables
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Check Preamp Requirements
Verify your amplifier setup before purchasing. The RT81+ includes an integrated phono stage, allowing direct connection to active speakers without extra gear. In contrast, the Reference Turntable lacks internal amplification and requires an external phono stage for proper signal conversion. Confirm your current equipment matches the turntable’s output specifications to avoid connectivity issues or the need for additional components.
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Evaluate Vibration Isolation
Motor vibration can degrade audio quality. The RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable features a decoupled motor design and dual plinth structure to minimize resonance. The Reference Turntable uses an isolated motor within an MDF plinth for similar stability. If you prioritize mechanical quietness, select models with explicit isolation features to ensure cleaner sound reproduction during playback.
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Compare Cartridge Options
The included cartridge defines initial sound character. The RT83 comes with an Ortofon 2M Red, while the RT85TIB40T includes an Ortofon 2M Blue. The RT81 uses an Audio Technica AT95E. Choose based on your preference for stylus type and output level. Upgrading cartridges is possible, but the factory-installed unit determines the baseline performance out of the box.
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Select Platter Material
Platter density affects speed stability. The RT85 series models use a high-density acrylic platter for enhanced mass and reduced warp. The RT82T uses a standard plinth construction. Acrylic platters generally provide better inertia against speed fluctuations. If you value consistent rotation during long listening sessions, prioritize models with acrylic platters for improved mechanical performance.
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Consider System Integration
Some models bundle complete audio systems. The RT85 with Ri71 Speakers includes 120W powered monitors, creating a full stereo package. The RT85 with Powered Tower Speakers offers 150W active speakers. These bundles remove the need for separate amplification. If you lack existing speakers, a bundled option simplifies setup. Otherwise, select a standalone turntable to pair with your current gear.
Frequently asked questions
Which Fluance black turntable includes a built-in phono preamp?
The Fluance RT81+ Belt-Drive Turntable features an integrated Texas Instruments phono stage. This allows you to connect directly to active speakers without needing an outboard preamplifier. It also comes equipped with an Audio Technica VM95E cartridge for immediate plug-and-play analog playback.
What is the difference between the RT81 and RT81+ models?
The primary difference is the internal preamplification. The RT81+ includes an integrated Texas Instruments phono stage for direct connection to powered speakers. The standard RT81 model does not list an internal preamp in its specifications, meaning it likely requires an external phono stage for proper signal conversion.
Does the Fluance Reference Turntable come with a cartridge installed?
Yes, the Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon OM10 arrives with the Ortofon OM10 cartridge pre-installed. It features an MDF plinth and an isolated motor for speed control. You must provide your own external phono stage to complete the signal chain.
Which Fluance turntable has an acrylic platter?
Several models feature an acrylic platter, including the RT85T, RT85N, RT87T2MBLUEEU, and RT87TVM95MLEU. These turntables pair the acrylic platter with an isolated motor. The RT85TIB40T combines an acrylic platter with a dedicated isolation base for enhanced vibration damping.
What cartridge is on the Fluance RT83?
The Fluance RT83 Turntable comes with an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge. It includes an isolated motor with 0.07% wow and flutter and an S-shaped tonearm. This model is designed for listeners who already have an external phono amplifier.
Is there a Fluance turntable with a Nagaoka cartridge?
Yes, the Fluance Piano Black Turntable with Nagaoka Cartridge pairs an acrylic platter and isolated motor with a pre-installed Nagaoka cartridge. It is designed for systems that already include a dedicated phono preamplifier for signal processing.
Which Fluance model is best for vibration isolation?
The Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable provides structural vibration isolation with a decoupled motor design. The RT85 Reference Turntable with Isolation Base also offers complete external vibration damping by combining the turntable with a dedicated isolation platform. Both models prioritize precise playback through mechanical isolation.
Does the Fluance RT85 come with speakers?
There are bundled versions of the Fluance RT85 that include speakers. The RT85TPA91 model comes with matched 150W active tower speakers. The RT85TPA71 version includes 120W powered bookshelf speakers. Both bundles provide a complete playback chain without separate amplification components.