For vinyl enthusiasts seeking an entry-level turntable, the Fluance RT80 and the Audio-Technica LP60 are two popular options worth considering. These turntables offer a balance between affordability and performance, making them suitable for beginners and casual listeners. In this article, we will compare the Fluance RT80 and the Audio-Technica LP60 across various aspects, helping you make an informed decision and choose the turntable that best suits your needs.
Design and Build Quality: The Fluance RT80 features a solid construction with a wooden plinth that minimizes vibration and resonance. Its belt-driven motor ensures stable rotation and reduced speed variations. The turntable’s aluminum platter adds to its durability and offers smooth playback. The Audio-Technica LP60, on the other hand, has a lightweight and compact design, making it portable and easy to set up. Its plastic construction, while not as robust as the RT80, still offers satisfactory durability for everyday use.
Cartridge and Sound Quality: The RT80 is equipped with an Audio-Technica AT91 cartridge, which delivers clear and detailed sound reproduction. The elliptical diamond stylus tracks the grooves with precision, capturing the nuances of your vinyl collection. The LP60 comes with an integrated Audio-Technica ATN3600L cartridge, offering decent sound quality for casual listening. While not as detailed as the RT80, it still provides an enjoyable experience for beginners and casual listeners.
Speed Control and Adjustments: The RT80 allows manual speed adjustment, allowing you to switch between 33⅓ and 45 RPM records by manually changing the belt position on the pulley. This feature enables you to play a wide range of vinyl records in your collection. The LP60 offers fully automatic operation, meaning it automatically determines the correct speed based on the record size, simplifying the playback process for beginners.
Built-in Phono Preamp: The RT80 features a built-in phono preamp, allowing you to connect the turntable directly to powered speakers or receivers without the need for an external phono preamp. This feature offers convenience and flexibility in setting up your audio system. The LP60 also includes a built-in phono preamp, providing a similar level of convenience for connecting to different audio devices.
Upgradability: Both turntables have limited upgradability options. The RT80 allows for cartridge upgrades, offering the possibility of improving sound quality by replacing the cartridge with a higher-end model. The LP60, being an all-in-one unit, has a more fixed design and limited upgradability potential.
Price and Value: The Fluance RT80 is positioned as a higher-end entry-level turntable, priced slightly higher than the Audio-Technica LP60. The RT80 justifies its higher price with its better build quality, manual speed control, and the inclusion of a built-in phono preamp. The LP60, on the other hand, provides an affordable option for those on a tighter budget, offering simplicity and convenience for casual listeners.
Conclusion: When comparing the Fluance RT80 and the Audio-Technica LP60, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. The RT80 offers better build quality, manual speed control, and the option for cartridge upgrades, making it a suitable choice for those seeking improved sound quality and more control over their setup. The LP60 provides an affordable and straightforward option for beginners and casual listeners, offering simplicity and convenience.Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as design, build quality, sound quality, features, and price. Both the Fluance RT80 and the Audio-Technica LP60 are capable turntables that provide an enjoyable vinyl listening experience. Choose the one that aligns best with your requirements and budget, and start enjoying the world of vinyl records.
