Review Details

RT82 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable

Product Rating:

Product Review (submitted on October 4, 2019):

All I can say is WOW! It's beautiful. This piece of equipment does not present itself as a $300 turntable. It looks and feels like something much nicer. Comparing it directly with my Pro-Ject DC, since it's relatively in the same category, I can say unequivocally that the build quality on this thing is much nicer. Significantly nicer, actually. Not to say the Pro-Ject isn't nice, because of course it is. It's hard to do an A/B on sound since they are on different setups, and my DC has a 2M Blue and an acrylic platter and is on better equipment all-around, but this Fluance table presents itself stunningly.
My issue with the U-Turns and lower end Pro-Jects (Elemental or T1) is that they don't come with real counterweights. They're setup specifically for the cart that it comes with but if you ever want to upgrade it'll be a real pain on the ass the get the tracking force correct.

The RT-82 came with the Super OM10 cart, and it's playing beautifully. I'm sure the 2M Blue would trounce it, but all in due time. Super happy with my secondary rig. The movements of the table, from the tone arm action, cue lever, the lid hinges, speed control knob, etc. are all super smooth and tight. It also has auto-stop (not return) and an anti-skate dial as opposed to the fishing line and weight that the Pro-Ject comes with. Certainly pluses. The speed box and auto-stop feature really set this otherwise manual table apart from other manual tables at the same price point. All in all, out of the gate I would recommend this table anyone that is looking for a high-quality listening table but can't play with the big boys of the audiophile world. Either by choice or by responsibility! ; ) Spin on!