Ortofon 2M Blue or Ortofon 2M Red Turntables? Compared by Specs
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You are comparing the Ortofon 2M Blue vs Ortofon 2M Red turntable setups from Fluance. Both units deliver pure analog performance with isolated motors and speed control for consistent playback. They share high-mass MDF plinths and adjustable damping feet. The main difference lies in the platter material and the included cartridge. The RT85 uses an acrylic platter with a 2M Blue cartridge, while the RT83 features a metal platter with a 2M Red cartridge. Both require a separate phono preamp.
Key differences
| Aspect | Fluance RT85 Turntable with Acrylic Platter | Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red |
|---|---|---|
| Cartridge | Ortofon 2M Blue | Ortofon 2M Red |
| Platter Material | Acrylic | Metal |
| Tonearm | not listed | Balanced S-shaped |
| Weight | 16.8 pounds | 15 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Fluance RT85 Turntable with Acrylic Platter if
- You prefer the higher mass of an acrylic platter to dampen vibrations.
- You want the specific sound signature of the Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge.
- You do not mind a slightly heavier unit for stability.
Choose Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red if
- You value the balanced S-shaped tonearm for accurate tracking.
- You prefer a lighter turntable that is easier to move.
- You want the open, dynamic sound profile of the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
Verdict: Choose the RT85 if you prioritize the vibration-damping properties of an acrylic platter and the detailed output of the 2M Blue cartridge. Opt for the RT83 if you prefer the balanced S-shaped tonearm and a lighter chassis with a metal platter. Both models offer precise speed control and high-fidelity analog performance.
2M Blue vs 2M Red Specs
Cartridge performance
The Fluance RT85 includes the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, which delivers high-resolution sound with improved linearity and higher channel separation. This elliptical stylus reduces distortion for detailed playback. The Fluance RT83 uses the Ortofon 2M Red elliptical cartridge, offering open, dynamic, and warm sound. It also provides improved linearity and higher channel separation with reduced distortion. Both cartridges share the same fundamental elliptical design philosophy. The Blue emphasizes high resolution, while the Red focuses on dynamic warmth. You choose based on whether you prefer detailed clarity or a warmer tonal signature.
Platter material
The RT85 features a high-density acrylic platter. The greater mass of this material damps unwanted vibrations. This results in a more three-dimensional sound with tighter bass and a fuller midrange. It also improves overall clarity. The RT83 uses a metal platter. While the data confirms the metal construction, it does not specify the damping characteristics compared to acrylic. Both turntables aim for precision, but the acoustic properties of acrylic offer specific vibrational benefits. The RT85 has a clear advantage here due to the detailed description of its damping effect on sound quality.
Tonearm design
The RT83 explicitly lists a balanced S-shaped tonearm. This design ensures accurate tracking of the record groove. It also maintains no electronics in the signal path, resulting in cleaner and exceptionally detailed sound. The RT85 data does not mention the specific tonearm shape or signal path characteristics. It focuses on the cartridge and platter. Because the RT83 provides specific details about its tonearm geometry and signal integrity, it offers more transparency on how the stylus interacts with the record. The RT85 lacks this specific technical description in the provided data.
Wow and flutter
Both turntables feature speed control mechanisms for precision playback. The RT85 specifies a wow and flutter rate of 0.07%. The RT83 also specifies a wow and flutter rate of 0.07%. Both units use isolated motors to prevent unwanted vibrations and noise. This ensures consistent platter velocity for both models. Since the published specifications for speed stability are identical, there is no measurable difference in this metric. You can expect the same level of pitch stability from either unit based on these numbers.
Physical dimensions
The RT85 measures 16.5 inches in width, 14.3 inches in length, and 6 inches in height. It weighs 16.8 pounds. The RT83 measures 16.5 inches in width, 13.8 inches in length, and 5.5 inches in height. It weighs 15 pounds. The RT85 is slightly larger and heavier, likely due to the acrylic platter and potentially different internal construction. The RT83 is more compact and lighter. If you have limited space, the RT83 takes up less room. If you prefer a heavier, more substantial build, the RT85 offers that presence. Both share the same width.
Choose the Right Fluance Turntable for You
You want detailed, high-resolution sound quality.
The Fluance RT85 includes the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. This elliptical stylus offers improved linearity and higher channel separation. You get reduced distortion and a more detailed sound. The acrylic platter adds mass to dampen vibrations. This combination provides tighter bass and fuller midrange for a clearer listening experience.
You prefer a balanced tonearm and dynamic sound.
The Fluance RT83 features a balanced S-shaped tonearm. This design ensures accurate tracking of the record groove. It uses the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge for open and dynamic sound. The metal platter and isolated motor maintain consistent speed. You get signal clarity with no electronics in the path for a cleaner audio output.
You need a lighter unit with metal platter.
The Fluance RT83 weighs 15 pounds. This is lighter than the RT85, which weighs 16.8 pounds. The RT83 uses a metal platter instead of acrylic. It includes the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge for warm, natural music. The balanced tonearm aids in precise tracking. You get a compact setup with consistent playback speed.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fluance RT85 Turntable with Acrylic Platter | Listeners wanting detailed analog sound with vibration control | Check price of Fluance RT85 Turntable with Acrylic Platter on Amazon |
| 2 | Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red | Listeners with existing phono preamps seeking analog purity | Check price of Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red on Amazon |
The products compared
Fluance RT85 Turntable with Acrylic Platter
Best for: Listeners wanting detailed analog sound with vibration control
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Blue (what this guide is about)
- Platter Material
- Acrylic
- Features
- Speed control, vibration isolation feet
- Dimensions
- 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches
- Weight
- 16.8 pounds
View on Amazon: Fluance RT85 Turntable with Acrylic Platter Affiliate link
The Fluance RT85 Reference turntable pairs a high-density acrylic platter with an Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge. This combination delivers improved linearity and higher channel separation for detailed sound. The isolated motor and speed control ensure consistent playback with low wow and flutter. You get a solid MDF wood plinth with adjustable resonance damping feet for vibration isolation. This setup suits listeners who want warm, natural analog performance without needing external components.
Pros
- Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge for high resolution sound
- High-density acrylic platter dampens unwanted vibrations
- Isolated motor with speed control for precise playback
- Adjustable resonance damping feet for superior isolation
Cons
- Phono preamp is not included
- Weight of 16.8 pounds may limit portability
- No built-in digital output or USB connection listed
Good fit if
- You want detailed sound from the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge
- You prefer a heavy, stable turntable with vibration damping
- You have an external phono preamp or receiver with phono input
Skip if
- You need a built-in phono preamp for direct connection
- You require a lightweight turntable for easy transport
- You want a turntable with digital recording capabilities
Verdict: The Fluance RT85 with Ortofon 2M Blue is a practical choice for listeners who prioritize vibration isolation and detailed analog sound. It fits buyers who already own a phono stage and want a stable, heavy platform for their vinyl collection.
Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red
Best for: Listeners with existing phono preamps seeking analog purity
- Cartridge
- Ortofon 2M Red (what this guide is about)
- Preamp
- Not included
- Platter Material
- Metal platter
- Tonearm
- Balanced S-shaped
- Color
- Walnut
- Dimensions
- 13.8 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches
View on Amazon: Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red Affiliate link
The Fluance RT83 is a high-fidelity vinyl turntable featuring a balanced S-shaped tonearm and an Ortofon 2M Red elliptical cartridge. It delivers improved linearity and higher channel separation for clear, detailed sound. The unit includes a metal platter and speed control to ensure consistent playback with low wow and flutter. This model suits listeners who prioritize analog accuracy and want a sturdy, wood-finished base for their setup.
Pros
- Ortofon 2M Red elliptical cartridge for reduced distortion
- Balanced S-shaped tonearm for accurate groove tracking
- Metal platter with adjustable resonance damping feet
- Speed control mechanism ensures consistent platter velocity
Cons
- Phono preamp is not included in the package
- No built-in phono stage for direct connection to modern receivers
- Requires an external preamp to connect to standard audio inputs
Good fit if
- You want a dedicated analog setup with high signal clarity
- You already own a separate phono preamp for your system
- You prefer a heavy, stable base to reduce vibrations
Skip if
- You need a plug-and-play solution with a built-in preamp
- You want to connect directly to a standard stereo receiver without extra gear
- You prefer a lighter, more compact turntable for small spaces
Verdict: Fluance RT83 Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red is a solid choice for audiophiles who already have a phono preamp and want precise tracking with a heavy, vibration-resistant build. It fits those who value analog purity over convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Fluance RT85 Turntable with Acrylic Platter | Fluance Reference Turntable with Ortofon 2M Red |
|---|---|---|
| Preamp | not stated | Not included |
| Platter Material | Acrylic | Metal platter |
| Cartridge | Ortofon 2M Blue | Ortofon 2M Red |
| Tonearm | not stated | Balanced S-shaped |
| Features | Speed control, vibration isolation feet | not stated |
| Color | Bamboo | Walnut |
| Dimensions | 14.3 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 13.8 × 16.5 × 5.5 inches |
| Weight | 16.8 pounds | 15 pounds |
| Model | RT85B | RT83W |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Fluance RT85 with 2M Blue need a separate phono stage?
Yes, the Fluance RT85 does not include a built-in phono preamp. It outputs a low-level signal that requires an external phono stage or amplifier with a dedicated phono input. This setup allows you to use high-quality external components for better sound processing and flexibility in your system.
What is the weight difference between the RT85 and RT83 turntables?
The Fluance RT85 weighs 16.8 pounds, while the RT83 weighs 15 pounds. The RT85 is slightly heavier due to its acrylic platter and bamboo finish. This extra mass helps reduce resonance and vibration, providing a more stable platform for playback compared to the walnut-finished RT83.
How do the platter materials compare on these two models?
The RT85 features an acrylic platter, which offers high density and minimal resonance. The RT83 uses a standard platter design, though specific material details are not listed. Acrylic platters generally provide better speed stability and reduce coloration, making the RT85 a strong choice for detailed analog sound.
Which turntable has the larger physical footprint?
The Fluance RT85 is slightly larger in length and height. It measures 14.3 inches in length and 6 inches in height. The RT83 is 13.8 inches long and 5.5 inches high. Both share the same width of 16.5 inches, so the RT85 requires a bit more surface space.
Can I swap the cartridges between the RT85 and RT83?
Both turntables use standard cartridge mounting systems, so swapping is technically possible. However, the RT85 is optimized for the 2M Blue, and the RT83 for the 2M Red. Mixing them may affect tracking force balance and sound characteristics. It is best to use the cartridges as originally installed for optimal performance.
What colors are available for these Fluance turntables?
The RT85 is available in a bamboo finish. The RT83 comes in a walnut finish. These wood veneers provide a classic aesthetic that complements home audio setups. The color choice does not affect the technical performance, which remains consistent across both models with their respective cartridges.