★ *GET IT HERE: **bit.ly/RT85player* ★ *CLICK ⌄ “SHOW MORE” in the description for answers to many of your questions* ★ *RULES: Please be respectful. NO OUTSIDE LINKS, URLs, email addresses, etc.*

In my 82 years and over 55 years of owning and enjoyng vinyl music , I have owned 5 Turntables..I just bought the rt-85 and absolutley love it. I did a lot of research to make this purchase and even though I paid much more for it , I love the fact that Fluance is a Canadian company as I am Canadian lol.. The Orofon 2m blue is fantastic for my hearing...I couple it with a Pioneer SX-780 into B&W DM6 speakers and the sound is fantastic...thanks for your review..

Just got my Fluance RT85. I think it is awesome. I am just getting back to my music after raising my children. For the price I could not be happier. I am very happy with my choice

I have the walnut model, the finish is mirror smooth. It looks like glass layed on top of wood. I only have two gripes with it, number one, the dust cover has to be removed at high-volume. It adds a rumble and a resonance in the mid bass. Second,The VTA is not adjustable. So if you add a record mat, which you don’t really need, you can’t change the vertical tracking angle. Other than that I think it’s a superb turntable package. Other than being forced to watch Michael Bloomberg ads, this was a great review. BTW, The cartridge was perfectly aligned out of the box.

I just got my RT85 last week and LOVE IT. I checked out a lot of reviews for it and no one had anything bad to say about it. I'm about to retire and was in need of a new table and decided, while I had a regular income, to splurge and get the flagship. It was definitely worth it!! I would recommend the RT85 to anyone looking to upgrade their current turntable. IT ROCKS!!!

I’ve been listening to my RT85 for a couple of weeks now! I’m astonished at what this turntable sounds like. In my setup combination, it’s perfect. I listen pretty much all jazz, and I couldn’t ask for anything better. As for the price, it can’t be beat. The motor is whisper quiet. I’m willing to say that this will be my last turntable. Thank you Fluance! You have hit a home run.

After getting a desire for a new turntable, reading countless reviews, and watching way too many videos to mention, I became aware that the Fluance RT 85 kept making the short lists. Obviously, there are less and less brick and mortar dealers in 2019, a test listen was unfortunately out of the question. The only places to purchase were on-line. I committed sight unseen and unheard. I ordered from your company on November 8th, received November 11th. I opened an extremely well packaged collection of various components to assemble, and never once did I feel overwhelmed during assembly. The manual was on top, exactly where it should be. After well less than maybe a half of an hour, it was playing. The Ortofon 2m Blue was mounted and aligned perfectly, while the white linen gloves were a must to attach the acrylic platter. There is no type of platter mat, however I do not see the need for one. The belt used to drive the turntable was an easy install around the platter and the shaft on the servo motor shaft. The specs said the motor adjusts the RPM’s 500 times per second. I love the look of the walnut on the very substantial plinth. There are no mechanical or electrical extras included save the auto-stop. After the end of the play, the platter spins about 20 seconds and then the platter stops. First impression was that this was a keeper. I must add that during the break-in, my Klipsch tweeters were replaced, the speakers were bi-wired, and lastly the “too lively, too harsh” new receiver was replaced with a one-owner beautifulfuly warm sounding Harman/Kardon 730 from 1976. This latter combo has been in use most for the majority of my listening. I’m listening to as many variables as possible (for me) concerning my vinyl. Old, new, NM condition, good condition, rock, country, folk, etc., etc. I’ll admit that I’m no audiophile, just the beast that needs soothing by pleasant sounds. I love listening, and the RT 85 with the Ortofon 2m Blue is an answer to a question that I had really never asked. This combination is fabulous! Yes, the cart is very sensitive and surface noise and trapped particulates are audible, but not so much to the degradation of the playback. It is vinyl, after all. I can not call this turntable entry level, nor can I call it audiophile level. I can call it one of the best points of diminishing return purchases I have ever made. It simply oozes with a retro feel, a great inclusion of quality, and a sound that I can live with for quite a while.

I purchased the Fluance RT85 directly from Fluance. I received it on April 22, 2020. I love this turntable.

Fast math: RT85 provides the Blue cartridge ($230) and acrylic platter ($120) thus the turntable costs you $150. Good deal!

I own both the RT 81 and RT 85 and love them both, including the beautiful high gloss finish on the two of them. I use the RT 85 with the Fluance PA10 preamp and Fluance bookshelf and floor-standing speakers. Needless to say, I'm a happy man when the records are spinning. A terrific company with terrific audio products.

The great thing about Fluance is that you can buy a lower priced turntable to check out the brand....and then add some upgrades to make it an RT 85. I bought the RT 83 ($349) with an Ortofon Red, loved it!!! Later I switched the cartridge to an Ortofon Bronze and added their acrylic platter...

Hi Andrew, my wife after searching a lot (ALOT) for a turntable to give me as a present… she bumped into your channel and loved how you explain things… she got me the Fluence RT85… and now I need to get a good pair of speakers without busting the bank… I’m new regarding audio and vinyls so I would like you to guide me on this new path I’m taking.. many thanks and wishing you a happy 2023… Fran

I have had my RT85 with a Cambridge solo preamp for 2 months, just getting back into vinyl after 30 years. I was actually anti vinyl for many years, but this COVID environment did something to how I wanted to listen to my music. Namely buying physical media from small artists and going thru the process of listening and touching the media. I am shocked at how good this pair sounds, against red book cd’s and even some sacd’s. It has been a very satisfying purchase.

I bought the RT85 in bamboo back in May and I just love it. It looks great, sounds great, and I don't feel a need to upgrade it!

Hi Andrew - This is a nice no-nonsense review about Fluance's RT-85T. I've had my RT-85 for just over a year, and mine was among the first generation. The finish (black) is perfect. I understand that the demand was so high for this model, that there was a long period of unavailability, so perhaps the finish with later units weren't as nice as the first batch. I'm just guessing here. But for the $$$, this is a high-quality turntable; and I agree, it rivals higher-end products. A couple of other talking points, if I can share: * The unit has three leveling feet, not four like other turntables. Two at the front, one at the back. This makes leveling easier. * Fliuance includes a bubble level in the box. * Fluance pre-aligns the cartridge in the headshell at the factory, so manual alignment is unnecessary out-of-the-box. * I own several turntables, a few of which are direct-driven. Some of these introduce cogging noise. Belt-driven turntables won't. If you'd care to ask what DD turntables "cog", feel free to PM me. All the best, and keep up the good work.

I have the RT 82. Easily best turntable I've ever heared! Love this thing. Excels in every department (so long as you give it good quality supporting components i.e. reciever, speakers etc. but that's true for any turntable) Would not want any other. Happy listening.

I got this one because its simplicity. I absolutely love it. Easy to adjust, and dead silent motor. so good for the price. your right, higher end TTs should be afraid.

Just dropping a line to let you know that I bought this turntable, 3-months ago, after watching your review. Couldn't be happier with the purchase and addition to my system. Thanks for the great content!

I own one! It's exactly what you described. The thing for me is the 2M Blue sounds sometimes too bright for my taste but no problem I can switch between other cool cartridges out there. The price is amazing. Very reasonable for someone who has a humble audio system that actually sounds good. Enjoy your videos a lot. Keep up the good work, Andrew. - A fan from Thailand.

not a budget turntable in Canada as one has to pay exchange rate on USD and sales taxes..mine came to $810 CDN..but at my age of 82 this will be the last TT I will buy..and I am truly in love with the rt85..the sound of my old records come to life for me..I was using a taya TT with a Shure V15II cart which is great but the 2m blue is even better with the Nude stylus..thanks for the review ..I totally agree

I started with the RT-80 for my vinyl journey, because I didn't know if I would like listening to vinyl or not, if I would even find the time. Fluance's turntables are made to be upgradable, so the idea was if ever do enjoy it, I would buy the extras along the way, and spread the budget. I know now I will upgrade my accessories. It's a fun hobby.

I had already decided on the next TT I would purchase at some future date when my Denon unexpectedly died right here at Christmas time. I knew I didn't have the money to get my dream table but I could not face an extended period with no TT at all and so I started shopping with a limited budget. The RT85 was stretching the budget but after reading the specs, I could not bring myself to buy one of the more affordable tables. I ordered this table this morning. Then, tonight I find your review and I was delighted to see you practically gushing over this table. It was quite affirming. I feel pretty good about my decision and can hardly wait for it to arrive! Best of all, there will be no rush to save up for that dream table now. Sounds like this one will tide me over nicely

I have the RT85 in Bamboo. I went with this because you and Cheapaudioman recomended this one. I think the finish on the Bamboo is better than that of their gloss too. I am picking up the Bellari VP130 MK2 this weekend. Using it with Cambridge Audio AXR85 and Jamo Concert 9 Series C 95II. Cant wait!

I have the RT 85 and love it. You can now get it in bamboo and white. There's also a new cartridge option.

I run mine through a Yamaha Integrated Amp and I love it. It is without a doubt the best turntable I have ever owned and that includes some 1980's technic turntables. I do recommend a record puck for this table. It seems to stabilize the disc and prevents drag on the acrylic plater.

G'day from Australia. Your channel is superb and you are my reference for advice and opinions. Because of this review, I have decided to update my Stanton T90 USB (which will be going to my son who has just bought his first album at the age of 20 and who is studying to become a sound engineer/musician/composer at the Australian Institute of Music). My only criticism is that on ordering from their website there was no option for the country power supply so hence I received a US power cable, No biggie I can pick one up on Amazon on the cheap. So now I wait to hear the brilliant sound that I am sure that this turntable can produce with that combination of the Ortofon 2M Blue and that chunky acrylic platter. And by the way, you can tell from my ex turntable I have vintage gear. My amp is a Sansui G-7700 which power my AR 94"s. All the best over there and I hope you come out of your troubles with good health and optimism.

I just wanted to make a note on the RT-85. Its a wonderful turntable. From opening up the packaging(ordered direct from fluance) to setting it up. I had a slight issue setting up and balancing the tone arm but it was so minor that I just repeated the steps and made sure I followed everything and everything was great. The really minor gripe I had with the set up though was numbering on the counterweight were not reallt visible, same color as the counterweight made it really difficult for me to see. But that was so minor. The sound quality is truly blissful for me. I am upgrading from a budget turntable that I purchased used.

I use an RT81, and as a "starter" turntable it's been nothing but good to me. I plan on upgrading within the year and I'm about 99% sure the RT85 will be it. By all accounts it's the real deal.

I bought the RT84 while on sale and then added the platter. It was cheaper that way than it was to just by the 85. I love this turn table. I went with the wood finish because I'm just not a fan of gloss black. You didn't even talk about one of its best features. The adjustable acorn style feet. Having only three makes it so easy to level.

Luv my RT 85. This review helped me determine last yrs new turntable purchase. I got the walnut finish. And at this price point (shots!), I really like it. On a different turntable I compared the Ortofon Blue to the Nagaoka MP 110. I did this months before Fluance added the MP 110 to their option list. The Blue is punchier. The Naga is great and I like it, but the blue has more depth. Its also $100 more than the Naga. So keep that in mind when purchasing the RT85 this yr. Thx again Andrew.

Dear Andrew, I just got my Fluance. RT-85 unpacked and installed. Thank you for this review and recommendation.. First three records played were superb sounding and I suggest you might audition, The Gil Evans Orchestra, OUT OF THE COOL, Tony Bennett, THE MCPARTLANDS AND FRIENDS MAKE MAGNIFICENT MUSIC, and Andre Previn,conducting SCHEHEHERAZADE (Phillips 6514 231) Exciting and gorgeous sound from all three. I have a vintage Linn Sondex LP 12 with a Benz Ruby because I like to have two of everything in case one is out for repair . No favorites. I love them both for different reasons. They both make me happy! Cheers, Thomas

I know this is 3 years old but the Fluance tables are game changers. I actually have 2 RT85's. I have tested their RPM's and Wow/flutter specs and they are amazing. But I have been sharing a secret with others and even wrote to Fluance. This table goes from very very good to phenominal with the change from Ortofon (or others) to an Audio Technica Microline. In my case, I have an original AT440Mla and AT540Ml. In direct comparasions to say the 2M blue, the AT is like lifting a veil where the clarity and sound stage just blossom. Once you hear it with the AT carts I mention, you cant go back. So now I have two 2M Blues and no use for them...LOL. Now I know the 540 is about $100 more than what the RT85 comes with but they really should offer it even with a price increase. They now have the Nagaoka but thats still just another semi-budget cart. I hope they try it but again, just sharing with your readers how to make this stand up to MUCH higher prices TT's. And yes, I have owned them...and I prefer the Fluance. Sometimes simplicity works :-)

I've seen the Fluance TTs reviewed and no one has really had any bad words about them. I'm glad to see this one does not have a built-in preamp as I hate them. As far as the 2M Blue I almost bought one a few years ago, but found the Ortofon MC-3 Turbo to be my cart to go to. It's has a fine fine stylus tip and it's a high output moving coil cart that can be played with any moving magnet preamp.

Hi I Have been doing audio system builds for 40+ years , I purchased the RT 83 for 299 00, By far the best turntable for the price , I have a pair of compleaty rebuilt jbl l100,a speakers, denon pra 1200 denon poa 2400 amp the ortofon om10 performance is like a dj cartridge, I'm playing albums that came from my dads 1960,s collection, I'm very happy

I almost bought an Audio Technica dj type turntable... But got the RT85 and glad i did... Its a superb deck.. 👍

Great vid. I'd love to see the new Project Debut Carbon Evo ($500) turntable reviewed and compared to the RT85. They're both beauties for their price. But they have completely different high points. Like the carbon tone arm and feet of the Project being very high quality. Comes with a good sumiko cartridge (which is said to sound more musical than the ortophon blue). However, the RT85 has an easy to use s-shaped arm, a nice acrylic platter and sturdy body which are all very tempting. Neither turntable has phono stage outputs so it's really hard for me to choose. Wish I could compare them. Turntables are getting great at this price point!

This and many other reviews on KZfaq influenced me to buy my RT 83. At the time, I wanted a Fluance, but I wanted an affordable price. I do plan to upgrade some of the accessories that make up the RT 85. I’ve already ordered the acrylic platter, but will hold off on the blue cartridge for now. It’s funny how Andrew kinda dismissed the piano black finish which is why I bought the walnut brown finish and it was one of the mail drawing points to buying a Fluance. While all my friends are investing in a Audio Technica, I’m glad I took the time to research all and went a different route and invited in a Fluance turntable

Andrew, I love your channel. It's been very informative. I used to be an audiophile when I was a young Air Force officer but life got in the way. Now I'm retired so I am starting again. Someday I plan to purchase a set of the Klipsch Heresy IV's but for now I plan to get the RT85 and hook it up to a set of Klipsch R-15PMs. Best wishes

Andrew, great review of the RT85. Your experience lines up closest to mine of any review I’ve seen of the table. I ended up gifting my Orbit to a good friend as a housewarming gift, and ended up auditioning a MoFi StudioDeck that left a bit to be desired to my ear for that kind of investment. Right around the time I decided to send it back, these Fluance Reference tables were released, and I figured what the heck, for that price with a 30 day audition period, nothing to lose. Totally blown away with the price to performance ratio. Perhaps the most impressive aspect to me is that the motor is absolutely dead silent.

I bought this table Friday, lol and someone just sent me this review. Can't wait.

I bought the RT84 and later upgraded to the acrylic platter. Luckily my RT84 came with 2M Blue so I now have an RT85. The Blue is a great cart but it's a lively cart imo. It picks up everything, any and all the slightest imperfections on a record so I use it only on new or mint records. On my older, and or, used records I switch to my Shure M97XE as it's much more forgiving. Great review 👍 BTW.

I’m glad you made this video ive been looking at this turntable for more than a month . Thanks 🙏🏼

My wife got my one for Christmas, other than being a dust magnet I enjoy it a lot. I am hearing a slight difference in sound from my AT Lp120 but that is probably from the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge. Overall very impressed although I prefer direct drives.

The rt85 now comes in white and bamboo. I just got the white for the same subjective reasons and I love it.

I own the RT81 & love it! I upgraded cart to a Nageoka MP110 with Shiit Mani preamp. I always dream of owning the Rega P3 but I am totally happy with the Rt81. They didn't offer the reference tables when I purchased mine. At the time it was the top of the line from Fluance. Thank you.

I’m extremely happy with the rt82 as well. What I love about this line is that you can upgrade as you go because the basic turntable is the same from the 82-85 with the exception of the platter and cartridge.

I bought one last year and think it is excellent. In the Fluance lineup it is an incredible value when considering the Ortofon Blue and acrylic platter.

I own the RT85 in the Walnut finish. I've had it for about 6 months and love every time I get to listen to a record being played on it. I'm also fond of the Walnut finish, I heard your criticisms of the Black (I can't really speak to that), but I have not noticed any of the dimples or imperfections in my Walnut that you noted in the Black. I listen to a wide range of music from Classic Rock, to Indie Rock, to Jazz, to Classical. Whether it's a big band or just a singer songwriter with an acoustic guitar, I very often feel that I am experiencing a live performance from the recording (as if I'm in the recording studio with the band). That is the ideal situation that I am trying to create in my home listening. I love it! I have a review on Amazon that is located near the top (2nd most helpful in the RT85) and posted a few videos and images of my Walnut table if any potential buyers would like to see that finish. Take care!

Great and honest review. I had one of these, and later opted for a Clearaudio. Yes, more money, but well worth it. It's right at the edge of diminishing returns, and that's where I like to keep my audio purchases for best value.

I liked your RT85 review very much. I ordered the Fluance RT85 a few days ago. I trust your thoughts, and still have, somewhere, my old B&O Beogram with a mm3 cartridge. I used to love that players sound, and separation. I love classic rock, and roll, and wonder if I chose the right player to rock out with? I'm older now, and want to enjoy it rather than be annoyed .

because of this review i pulled the trigger for a present for my father inlaw he loves the look and the sound

It's funny but the RT-84 is the same turntable minus the acrylic platter. I for one was sceptical that an acrylic platter would make a difference, but it does. The mids are clearer, more heft and likewise the bass. I would not have believed it had I not heard it and the difference is not huge, but it's there.

I had to buy to bamboe rt85 from oversee as they are not available in Europe. But including shipping, still my best turntable for the money. Love the sound and look. Highly recommended

Great review, just ordered the RT85!

Other Record Players should be afraid Rega Planar 1: Hold my beer

I love your reviews, however as most of us knows there are so many other aspects that comes into play when choosing a turntable with a sound system. I have a 7.1 Denon AVR combined with a KEF 5.1 Q-Speaker system. The previous turntables of mine has been Pioneer PL512 and Dual 505.3, both I had to leave behind moving from Europe to USA due to voltage and frequencies. I like to get confirmation that Fluance RT85 would be a proper machine for me to continue my vinyl listening and experience. Thank you all.

I love your review of the RT-85 TT..and I bought one about a month ago. At 82 this my last TT but I am very very pleased with it. although I had to pay $810 for it being Canadain..that is ok. The only thing that I would like to see changed is the whitening of the tracking force and anti-skating numbers as they are had to read…keep up with your great videos..

Got this turntable from you, Andrew during the big sweepstake. I absolutely love it and it has kickstarted my love for vinyl again. Thanks again Andrew and Kristi

I do own one. No complaints but one, when you play 45s, something happens to the audio. It gets a wow effect somewhere at the last minute. Don't matter the single you're playing. I don't know if you noticed that. Still, I would buy a Fluance RT85 any day of the week and twice on Sunday.

Just thought I'd let you know that I purchased one of these, based on this recommendation and a few others. I'm very very pleased with it. Right now I have it running through a schiit mani pre-amp into a pair of edifier 1850bt powered speakers. Sounds lovely. Upgrading the rest of my system next. Really liking the look and reviews of the Wharfdale EVO 4.2 speakers. Trying to figure out the best integrated amplifier to pair with them in my budget. Always the conundrum. Anyway, thanks for the recommendation. Fantastic turntable.

Did you consider trying the blue cartridge on your other tables instead of comparing it to the red on those tables? I did a side by side when I was shopping for a new table with the Music Hall mmf 1.5 (around the same price) and I swapped their cartridges and it was clear that the cartridge, alone, did not explain the difference between the tables. Even with the Ortofon Blue on the Music Hall, the RT85 was waaaaaaaaay better in just about every way. And, without the acrylic platter or the height adjustable feet (so you can level the table), I feel like the RT85 is a no brainer. I love mine.

Thanks Andrew. I came back and watched this a 3rd time as I am looking to replace my tt on a fixed budget. Thanks again!

I just want to say thanks for the way you present your videos. I just order my Fluance RT85 and can't wait to start listening to my old records and new ones. Thanks again and keep the good work.

After doing some research I came to the same conclusion about this table and cracked up when I searched here to find you had already reviewed it! :D Still love my vintage table but as old as it is it just can't be a daily driver for much longer. Wanted some of the same features though and this one does go a couple steps above just like you noted being the acrylic platter and the Ortofon Blue. I also think the adjustable feet give it an additional edge over many at this price point which with others would require you to buy a set in order to level the table which is key and would easily be another $100>

For the price the RT85 is the best piece of equipment I've gotten in years, hands down. I've used it for 8 months now and encountered zero problems. Highly recommended. You won't get a better turntable for the money.

I just bought one on Amazon today should arrive on Wednesday - I'll keep you posted. I'm super excited and considered your review when making a choice. Thanks man!!!

Great review. My buddy has it and digging it. That’s a damn good stylus for the price - very good value. Thanks for this!

Outstanding honest and clear review. Bought one for myself for Christmas with the Fluance PA10 preamp and it’s waiting for me in Texas since I live in Europe (not sold here, unfortunately). Really encouraging that it’s your new budget reference tt.

PSA - any Fluance owner should take a look at Sumiko for their next cartridge. I put a Moonstone on my Rt-85 and OMG it's pretty magical. And it's in compliance if you believe the Vinyl Engine resonance calculator, unlike the Ortofon Blue that actually comes with the deck.

I purchased the gloss Black and mine has a much smoother and shinier finish than in your sample. It's like glass. Love mine

Good review. I've owned an RT-85 and happy with my purchase. Great system for the money.

Hey Andrew! You didn't mention the 3 feet that it has; another high end feature for better vibration isolation.

This is GORGEOUS. Love the 2M Blue, one of the most underrated carts available. Love the feet. Crazy good deal. Hmmmm. May have to check out the walnut finish. Looks much more high quality than the Pro-ject or Uturn.

My first turntable is a Fluance RT82 that is no longer an RT82. It has the acrylic platter, some machine aluminum & sorbothane feet, a 3 inch thick isolation platform, the Ortofon 2M Bronze cartridge/stylus and the Pro Ject Tube Box S2. I'm never going to be able to get back 1/3rd of the $$$ I put into this table, and now it's way too nice to get rid of just because I'd like a prettier/fancier table. ....but I wish I had just bought a $1,500-$2,000 table to begin with. It just didn't make sense to do so at the time, because I didn't know if I was even going to gaf about vinyl or not & didn't even know how to turn on a turntable. ...but I've got so much $$$ in upgrades on this Fluance now. I've been thinking that I might as well upgrade my stylus to the 2M Black & buy a linear power supply for the tube preamp. Hell, at this point...why not?

Dang, I wish I'd known this before I purchased a Project Debut Carbon and upgraded to an acrylic platter and 2M blue cart. I spent significantly more and I still have to take the platter off to change speeds!

I have the Fluance RT81 and I'm very happy with it. When the time comes I may upgrade to the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge.

I truly benefitted from your knowledge and critic. I'm in the market for a turntable. My SONY from the late 70's has passed away. I'll use you info to help in my decision. Thanks a million.

It sounds like you really had to work to find something negative about this table, and still like it. Good job! Keep up the good work.

The internet-direct model allows for increased price/performance ratio versus tables sold in stores. This is what allowed the U-Turn Orbit to be such a great deal when it first came out. So at $500 the RT85 *should* be at least competitive with $1k tables. So I think although it's a great price, Fluance is actually holding back on what they could be offering for the money.

Andrew, your review on the RT85 was fantastic and very informative. I would love to hear your thoughts on the latest "85" addition, the 85N with the Nagaoka 110. The 85N not only has a new cartridge but the tonearm mass was changed. In my conversations with Fluance, the Ortofon Blue will not work properly with the newer model, which negates interchanging to see which one I prefer. The Nagaoka gets high praise, would love to hear your take. Thanks

I purchased the RT85 based on your review. And I look foreword to listening to it.....

That audio cabinet does it for me. Just beautiful.

Andrew great thorough review. I bought this turntable before your review was posted. I bought the Marantz nr1200 receiver in large part because of your review. I love the Rt85 's feature that stops the turntable at end of record. It is a bit odd because it keeps spinning for about 30 seconds before it stops. One thing I do not like is that some headshells, such as the Ortofon ones, do not reach the record. I have to use a cork mat to increase the height of the platter for some headshells to work. That works well but defeats the purpose of the acrylic platter. Gracias.

Good review. I found fluance a couple of months ago after specifically searching for turntables without a preamp. Logic being if they forego the preamp, more quality may go into the table/platter/tonearm/cartridge itself. Fluance is what popped up and the RT85 looked appealing. Glad to see this review (even a year late).

Thank you for your review, just received mine today. Need to spend more time listening but so far so good, i like what i hear.

Just ordered one. Thanks for your review!

Fluance also has an integrated speed control mechanism on their reference turntable line (RT82 and up) that adjusts the motor speed to compensate for speed inconsistencies that may stem from the belt.

Coming from the Essential III to the RT85, I love my 85, the Bass goes deeper and overall the sound is more engaging.

Loved the review. I'm trying to choose between this and the U-Turn which you also gave a glowing review on. Damn it, you don't make it easy! I like the features better on this one like the auto-stop function (which you didn't mention), the switchable tonearm head and the upgraded cartridge. I guess I'm leaning towards the Fluance!!

I’ve had my piano black RT85 for nearly a month now. And I would argue that the plinth is far superior to the U Turn and Pro-Ject tables. Granted Pro-Ject does offer similar models for a much higher cost.

Great review. It helped me tremendously. After much consideration I ordered the Rt85!

I purchased the RT82 model in the birch option to pair with a Nagaoka MP-200 cart. I also changed the platter to acrylic and am incredibly happy with the result. I wish the high end was a tad bit brighter but I'm happy with the richness of the sound. Thanks for all your reviews.

I have the RT84 with the Ort blue. I just ordered a Fluance acrylic platter to upgrade to an RT85. Looking forward to testing the difference.

I love my rt81. Wish I could’ve afforded the 85. I plug Fluance all the time in my channel and especially Facebook. And time anyone asks for a starter table or a table period, I refer them to the reference series.

Recently bought this RT85 beauty for family to use, only played it once so far but it is a delight. Also bought Rega P3 recently for GF but haven’t been able to hear it yet personally.

Hello Andrew, really appreciate your input. I just pre-order that turn table today and your review make me wish I could get it sooner then December 6th. I started collecting several Dual Turn table that I buy cheap because the motor is supposely dead and then I revive them. I listen all day to music on those tables because with their stacking spindle I can run an hour without having to change side. But being from Quebec and having the opportunity to buy a brand new turn table made from a Canadian Company at that price and that well equiped then count me in. Thank you again.

I’ve been waiting for this review. The RT85 will probably be my next turntable.

The arm alters the sound on any turntable and it boils down to mechanical isolation from the base and the platter. some deaden the sound slightly, some "ring" and make the notes trail on a hair longer. A heavy base and well made feet separate the signal caught by the stylus from external influence. So: turntables GO have a sound, it is just largely in service to the overall sonic character of the cartridge. A really "zingy" sounding cart might benefit from the sum result of pairing with a super heavy & dampened turntable.

just ordered one, can't wait!

Your review led me down a rabbit-hole of research that led to me picking one of these up at a little over $600 Canadian and I'm very pleased with it. I'd probably have to spend quite a bit more to be more pleased. It's a shame that the dust cover will scratch if you shine a bright light on it, but a cheaper dust cover for a better cartridge is a pretty good trade. I can tell that all the money went toward what matters with this turntable.