Looking Beyond the Fluance RT87 Reference High Fidelity Dual-Plinth Turntable? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The fluance rt87 reference high fidelity dual plinth turntable uses a heavy dual-plinth architecture to isolate the motor from the tonearm. This design minimizes structural vibrations for precise stylus tracking. It comes with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge and a PA10 phono preamp. The system also includes 120W active bookshelf speakers with AMT tweeters for clear high-frequency response.
You might look for other options if you need Bluetooth connectivity or a different cabinet finish. Some alternatives offer Class D amplifiers or varied speaker configurations. The 6 alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original. They share key features like phono preamps and similar cartridge models. Each option provides a distinct balance of size, weight, and audio output. You can compare these specs to find the best fit for your space and listening habits.
Our top pick: Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Ri71 Speakers.
How these models differ
Fluance Reference RT85 with 6.5-Inch Bookshelf Speakers
The Fluance RT85 with Ai61 speakers swaps the dual-plinth isolation for a single-plinth design, reducing weight to 44.7 pounds. It retains the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge but adds Bluetooth connectivity to the Ai61 bookshelf speakers. These speakers deliver 120 watts of Class D amplification, offering a high-output system without separate components. You gain wireless streaming convenience, which the original lacks. However, you lose the mechanical vibration isolation of the dual-plinth architecture. This model suits listeners who want a complete, high-output system with digital flexibility rather than pure analog isolation.
Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ai41 Bookshelf Speakers
The Fluance RT85 with Ai41 speakers features a lighter 33.4-pound frame compared to the original’s 46.9 pounds. It uses Ai41 bookshelf speakers instead of Ri71 models, resulting in a smaller footprint at 21.9 inches in length. Like the other RT85 variant, it includes Bluetooth connectivity for digital streaming alongside the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. You trade the heavy dual-plinth vibration control for a more compact, all-in-one unit. This choice fits users who prioritize convenience and Bluetooth streaming over component modularity. It provides a single unit for both vinyl and digital music, simplifying your setup significantly.
Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable
The standalone Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable removes the integrated speakers, dropping the weight to 21.7 pounds and the height to 6.3 inches. It keeps the dual-plinth vibration isolation and the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. You gain the flexibility to pair the turntable with any external speakers and amplification you prefer. This model gives up the convenience of a ready-to-play speaker system. It is ideal for listeners who already own high-quality speakers or want to customize their signal path. The rigid carbon fiber tonearm and isolated design remain, ensuring precise tracking without the bulk of active speakers.
Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Speakers
This variant pairs the dual-plinth turntable with Ai61 speakers instead of Ri71 models. It weighs 48.2 pounds, making it slightly heavier than the original. The Ai61 speakers provide 120 watts of Class D amplification, similar to the RT85 but within the dual-plinth chassis. You retain the superior vibration isolation of the two-tier design while getting integrated active speakers. This option suits those seeking a high-fidelity analog experience with powerful, built-in audio. It offers a complete, ready-to-play system with precise stylus tracking. The choice between Ri71 and Ai61 speakers depends on your preference for tweeter technology and dispersion characteristics.
Fluance RT84 Turntable with Preamp and Speakers
The Fluance RT84 with Ai61 speakers uses a single-plinth design, weighing 42.9 pounds. It includes Bluetooth connectivity and 120-watt Class D amplification in the Ai61 bookshelf speakers. The Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge ensures consistent sound quality across the Fluance range. You gain wireless streaming capabilities and a powerful stereo experience without managing separate components. However, you sacrifice the dual-plinth vibration isolation found in the RT87. This model fits users who want a complete, high-output vinyl system with modern digital features. It is a robust choice for those prioritizing convenience and output power over mechanical isolation.
Fluance Elite Belt-Drive Turntable
The Fluance Elite Belt-Drive Turntable is a belt-drive model, differing from the direct-drive original. It weighs only 14.1 pounds and lacks the dual-plinth structure, standing at 6 inches high. It includes an integrated phono preamp and the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. You lose the heavy vibration isolation and the included speakers, but gain a simpler, more affordable analog setup. This model suits listeners seeking clear, warm sound without extra gear or complex assembly. It is ideal for those who want a straightforward, high-fidelity analog experience. The belt drive may offer different vibration characteristics compared to the direct-drive motor of the RT87.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Ri71 Speakers
Best for: complete analog setups with vibration control
- Speakers
- 120W active bookshelf speakers
- Preamp
- PA10 phono preamp
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Features
- Dual plinth
- Color
- White
- Dimensions
- 25.7 × 16.5 × 12.2 inches
View on Amazon: Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Ri71 Speakers Affiliate link
The Fluance RT87 Reference is a high-fidelity turntable system featuring a dual-plinth design for vibration isolation. It includes a PA10 phono preamp, an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, and Ri71 120W active bookshelf speakers. The piano white finish measures 25.7 inches long. This setup targets listeners who want precise stylus tracking and a complete analog audio chain without mixing components from different brands.
Pros
- Dual-plinth architecture decouples the motor from the tonearm
- Includes 120W Ri71 active bookshelf speakers with AMT tweeters
- Pre-loaded with Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge
- Comes with PA10 phono preamp for accurate signal processing
Cons
- Heavy build at 46.9 pounds
- Large footprint requiring 25.7 inches of space
- Limited to phono inputs only
Good fit if
- You want a complete analog system with matching components
- You prioritize vibration isolation for clearer sound
- You need active speakers with integrated amplification
Skip if
- You need Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming
- You have limited shelf space under 20 inches
- You prefer passive speakers for future upgrades
Verdict: Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Speakers is a robust choice for audiophiles who value mechanical isolation and a unified signal path. It suits those who want a ready-to-play setup with high-mass construction and precise tracking.
Fluance Reference RT85 with 6.5-Inch Bookshelf Speakers
Best for: listeners wanting a complete high-output system
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Speakers
- Ai61 powered 6.5", 120W Class D
- Preamp
- PA10 phono preamp
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Tonearm
- S-type precision
View on Amazon: Fluance Reference RT85 with 6.5-Inch Bookshelf Speakers Affiliate link
This Fluance RT85 bundle pairs a high-fidelity turntable with 120-watt Ai61 powered bookshelf speakers. It includes a PA10 phono preamp and an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. The setup uses an acrylic platter, servo motor, and S-type tonearm. Bluetooth connectivity lets you stream music wirelessly. It offers a complete analog and digital listening solution in one package.
Pros
- 120-watt Class D Ai61 powered speakers
- Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge
- PA10 phono preamp included
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- 44.7 pounds total weight
- No remote control listed
- No app control listed
Good fit if
- You want a complete turntable and speaker system
- You prefer Bluetooth streaming options
- You need a high-output 120W amplifier
Skip if
- You only want a turntable without speakers
- You need a lightweight portable setup
- You require app-based control
Verdict: Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ai61 Speakers delivers powerful 120-watt audio and Bluetooth streaming for listeners who want a complete, high-output system without separate components.
Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ai41 Bookshelf Speakers
Best for: All-in-one vinyl and Bluetooth listening
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Speakers
- Ai41 powered 5" bookshelf, 90W
- Preamp
- PA10 phono preamp
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Tonearm
- S-type precision tonearm
View on Amazon: Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ai41 Bookshelf Speakers Affiliate link
The Fluance RT85 is a complete high-fidelity vinyl setup that pairs a turntable with powered bookshelf speakers. It includes a PA10 phono preamp for accurate signal conversion and an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge for detailed playback. The Ai41 speakers deliver 90 watts of power per channel. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stream digital music alongside vinyl records. This all-in-one system simplifies your audio setup while maintaining analog quality.
Pros
- Includes PA10 phono preamp for precise RIAA equalization
- Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge ensures high-fidelity sound reproduction
- Ai41 powered speakers provide 90W of room-filling stereo sound
- Bluetooth connectivity supports streaming from music apps
Cons
- Integrated speakers limit upgrade flexibility compared to separate components
- Acrylic platter may generate more static than wood or metal alternatives
- S-type tonearm is fixed and not adjustable for different cartridge weights
Good fit if
- You want a complete turntable and speaker system without buying separate parts
- You value Bluetooth streaming alongside vinyl playback
- You prefer a compact setup with integrated powered speakers
Skip if
- You need a modular system with separate amplifier and speakers
- You require a tonearm with adjustable counterweight or tracking force
- You prefer a wooden platter for reduced vibration and static
Verdict: Fluance RT85 Turntable with PA10 Preamp and Ai41 Speakers fits listeners who want a single unit for both vinyl and digital music. It suits those who prioritize convenience and Bluetooth streaming over component modularity.
Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable
Best for: Listeners prioritizing vibration isolation and tracking accuracy
- Preamp
- PA10 phono preamp
- Platter Material
- 22mm acrylic
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Tonearm
- 9" carbon fiber, adjustable VTA
- Color
- White
- Dimensions
- 17.9 × 16.5 × 6.3 inches
View on Amazon: Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable Affiliate link
The Fluance RT87 uses a dual-plinth design to isolate the motor from the tonearm, reducing vibration interference. It features a 9-inch carbon fiber tonearm with adjustable VTA and a 22mm acrylic platter for stable rotation. The included PA10 phono preamp ensures accurate signal conversion. This setup suits listeners who prioritize mechanical isolation and precise tracking for high-fidelity playback.
Pros
- Dual-plinth architecture decouples motor from tonearm
- 9-inch carbon fiber tonearm with adjustable VTA
- 22mm anti-static acrylic platter reduces wow and flutter
- Includes PA10 phono preamp for accurate RIAA equalization
Cons
- Heavier build at 21.7 pounds limits portability
- Only two color options available
- Requires external amplifier or receiver for use
Good fit if
- You want to minimize structural vibration interference
- You need precise stylus tracking with VTA adjustment
- You prefer a high-mass platter for rotational stability
Skip if
- You need a compact turntable for small spaces
- You want a built-in amplifier for simplicity
- You prefer a lighter device for easy moving
Verdict: Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable delivers precise tracking through its isolated dual-plinth design and rigid carbon fiber tonearm, making it a solid choice for listeners who value mechanical stability and detailed sound reproduction.
Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Speakers
Best for: complete analog setups with integrated active speakers
- Speakers
- Ai61 120W active speakers
- Preamp
- PA10 phono preamp
- Color
- White
- Dimensions
- 23.5 × 16.5 × 13.1 inches
- Weight
- 48.2 pounds
View on Amazon: Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Speakers Affiliate link
This Fluance RT87 turntable features a dual-plinth design to isolate the motor from the tonearm, reducing vibration interference. It comes with a PA10 phono preamp and Ai61 active speakers that deliver 120W of stereo power. The package includes a white piano finish and weighs 48.2 pounds. It is designed for listeners who want a complete analog setup with precise stylus tracking and refined detail.
Pros
- Dual-plinth architecture decouples motor and tonearm
- Ai61 active speakers provide 120W of power
- Includes PA10 phono preamp for signal processing
- High-mass construction minimizes structural vibrations
Cons
- Heavy build at 48.2 pounds
- Large footprint measuring 23.5 inches long
- No Bluetooth or digital connectivity listed
Good fit if
- You want a complete analog system with integrated speakers
- You prioritize vibration isolation for pure analog sound
- You prefer a high-fidelity setup with warm tonal qualities
Skip if
- You need a compact turntable for small spaces
- You prefer digital streaming capabilities over analog playback
- You want a lightweight unit that is easy to move
Verdict: Fluance RT87 White with Ai61 Speakers is a robust choice for listeners seeking a high-fidelity analog experience with integrated 120W active speakers and superior vibration isolation. It suits those who value precise stylus tracking and a complete, ready-to-play system.
Fluance RT84 Turntable with Preamp and Speakers
Best for: Complete vinyl setups with powerful wireless speakers
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Speakers
- Ai61 powered 6.5" bookshelf, 120W
- Preamp
- PA10 phono preamp
- Platter Material
- Metal
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue
- Tonearm
- S-type precision tonearm
View on Amazon: Fluance RT84 Turntable with Preamp and Speakers Affiliate link
This Fluance RT84 is an all-in-one vinyl setup that pairs a high-fidelity turntable with 120-watt powered bookshelf speakers. It includes a PA10 phono preamp and an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge for accurate playback. The system connects via Bluetooth, allowing you to stream music alongside your records. Its metal platter and MDF plinth provide a stable foundation. This bundle suits you if you want a complete, room-filling stereo experience without buying separate components.
Pros
- Includes 120-watt Ai61 powered bookshelf speakers for high output
- Features an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge for detailed sound
- Built-in PA10 phono preamp converts signals to line level
- Bluetooth connectivity supports wireless music streaming
- Metal platter and MDF plinth reduce vibration
Cons
- Integrated speakers limit upgrade flexibility compared to separate components
- No remote control is listed in the specifications
- Bluetooth is not available for the turntable's audio output
Good fit if
- You want a complete turntable and speaker system in one package
- You prefer a simple plug-and-play setup without extra amplifiers
- You need Bluetooth streaming for digital music sources
Skip if
- You require a dedicated phono stage for higher-end cartridges
- You want to upgrade speakers independently from the turntable
- You need a remote control for operation
Verdict: Fluance RT84 Turntable with PA10 and Ai61 Speakers delivers a powerful 120-watt stereo experience with integrated Bluetooth. It fits you if you want a complete, high-output vinyl system without managing separate components.
Fluance Elite Belt-Drive Turntable
Best for: listeners wanting clear analog sound without extra gear
- 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
- Color
- White
View on Amazon: Fluance Elite Belt-Drive Turntable Affiliate link
The Fluance RT81+ is a belt-drive turntable featuring a dampened aluminum platter and solid MDF cabinet for vibration control. It includes a built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp and gold-plated RCA connections. The Audio Technica VM95E cartridge with a diamond elliptical stylus ensures clear signal reproduction. This model suits listeners who want high-fidelity analog sound without external amplification. Its compact design fits well in smaller spaces while maintaining robust build quality.
Pros
- Built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp for direct connectivity
- Dampened aluminum anti-resonant platter improves frequency response
- Audio Technica VM95E cartridge with diamond elliptical stylus
- Solid engineered MDF wood cabinet for vibration isolation
Cons
- Belt-drive mechanism may require periodic maintenance
- Fixed speed settings limit multi-speed playback options
- No included external power supply for preamp
Good fit if
- You want a complete analog setup with built-in preamp
- You value vibration isolation for clearer audio
- You prefer a compact footprint for your space
Skip if
- You need direct-drive for precise pitch control
- You already have a high-end external phono stage
- You require multiple speed settings for different records
Verdict: The Fluance RT81+ Belt-Drive Turntable delivers reliable performance for listeners seeking clear, warm sound without extra gear. Its integrated preamp and sturdy build make it ideal for those who want a straightforward, high-fidelity analog experience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Ri71 Speakers | Fluance Reference RT85 with 6.5-Inch Bookshelf Speakers | Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ai41 Bookshelf Speakers | Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable | Fluance RT87 Dual-Plinth Turntable with Speakers | Fluance RT84 Turntable with Preamp and Speakers | Fluance Elite Belt-Drive Turntable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Belt-drive |
| Connectivity | not stated | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | not stated | not stated | Bluetooth | Gold-plated RCA, ground terminal |
| Speakers | 120W active bookshelf speakers | Ai61 powered 6.5", 120W Class D | Ai41 powered 5" bookshelf, 90W | not stated | Ai61 120W active speakers | Ai61 powered 6.5" bookshelf, 120W | not stated |
| Preamp | PA10 phono preamp | PA10 phono preamp | PA10 phono preamp | PA10 phono preamp | PA10 phono preamp | PA10 phono preamp | Built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp |
| Platter Material | not stated | Acrylic | Acrylic | 22mm acrylic | not stated | Metal | Dampened aluminum anti-resonant platter |
| Cartridge | Ortofon 2M Blue | Ortofon 2M Blue | Ortofon 2M Blue | Ortofon 2M Blue | not stated | Ortofon 2M Blue | not stated |
| Tonearm | not stated | S-type precision | S-type precision tonearm | 9" carbon fiber, adjustable VTA | not stated | S-type precision tonearm | Removable head shell |
| Features | Dual plinth | Servo motor, 3-point isolation feet | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Color | White | Bamboo / Bamboo | White / Bamboo | White | White | Walnut / Walnut | White |
| Amplifier Type | Phono Preamp | Phono Preamp | Phono Preamp | Phono Preamp | Phono Preamp | Phono Preamp | Phono Preamp |
| Inputs | Phono | Phono | Phono | Phono | Phono | Phono | Phono |
| Class | not stated | Class D | Class D | not stated | not stated | Class D | not stated |
| Dimensions | 25.7 × 16.5 × 12.2 inches | 23.5 × 16.5 × 13.1 inches | 21.9 × 16.5 × 10.9 inches | 17.9 × 16.5 × 6.3 inches | 23.5 × 16.5 × 13.1 inches | 23.5 × 16.5 × 13.1 inches | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 46.9 pounds | 44.7 pounds | 33.4 pounds | 21.7 pounds | 48.2 pounds | 42.9 pounds | 14.1 pounds |
| Model | RT87WH2MBLUEPA71WH | RT85BPA61W | RT85WHPA41W | RT87WH2MBLUEPA10 | RT87WH2MBLUEPA61WW | RT84WPA61B | RT81PWH |
You can compare these specifications against the best turntables for turntables to evaluate different drive mechanisms and tonearm setups.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Fluance RT87 include built-in speakers?
The base RT87 model does not include speakers. It is a turntable-only unit designed to connect to external audio equipment. However, Fluance offers bundled versions like the RT87 with Ri71 Speakers or the RT87 with Ai61 Speakers. These bundles provide a complete setup with integrated active speakers for immediate use.
What cartridge comes with the Fluance RT87?
The turntable ships with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. This cartridge is included across most models in this lineup, including the RT85 and RT84 variants. It provides reliable performance and is a common choice for entry-level high-fidelity listening. The tonearm is constructed from rigid carbon fiber for stability.
How heavy is the Fluance RT87 turntable?
The standalone RT87 turntable weighs 21.7 pounds. Its dimensions are 16.5 inches wide, 6.3 inches high, and 17.9 inches long. Bundled versions are significantly heavier due to the added speakers and preamps. For example, the RT87 with Ai61 Speakers weighs 48.2 pounds and stands 13.1 inches tall.
Can the Fluance RT87 connect to Bluetooth devices?
The standard RT87 turntable does not feature Bluetooth connectivity. It relies on wired connections via its built-in phono preamp. If you need wireless streaming, consider the RT85 or RT84 models. These units include Class D amplifiers and Bluetooth support in their paired Ai61 or Ai41 bookshelf speakers.
What is the difference between the RT87 and RT85?
The primary difference is the plinth design. The RT87 uses a dual-plinth architecture to isolate the motor from the tonearm, reducing vibration. The RT85 uses a single-plinth design, which is lighter at 44.7 pounds. Both use the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, but the RT85 adds Bluetooth capability to its speakers.
Does the RT87 have a built-in phono preamp?
Yes, the RT87 includes a built-in phono preamp. This allows you to connect the turntable directly to powered speakers or a receiver with line-level inputs. The system supports phono inputs for direct connection to dedicated phono stages as well. This flexibility simplifies setup for various listening configurations.
What color options are available for the RT87?
The RT87 is available in Piano White. This finish is consistent across the standalone unit and most bundled versions, such as the RT87 with Ri71 Speakers. Some other models in the lineup, like the RT85, offer bamboo finishes. The RT84 is available in a Walnut finish for a different aesthetic.
Is the RT87 a belt-drive turntable?
The RT87 is not explicitly described as belt-drive in the provided data. However, the Fluance RT81+ is identified as a belt-drive model. The RT87 focuses on its dual-plinth isolation and carbon fiber tonearm for tracking accuracy. It is designed for precise stylus movement and mechanical stability rather than belt-drive mechanics.