For vinyl enthusiasts looking to step up from entry-level turntables, the Fluance RT81 and the Audio-Technica LP60X are two popular options worth considering. These turntables offer improved performance, enhanced build quality, and additional features compared to their entry-level counterparts. In this article, we will compare the Fluance RT81 and the Audio-Technica LP60X across various aspects, helping you make an informed decision and choose the turntable that best suits your needs.
Design and Build Quality: The Fluance RT81 features a sleek and stylish design with a solid construction. Its high-density MDF (medium-density fiberboard) plinth reduces resonance and vibration, providing a stable foundation for the turntable. The turntable’s aluminum platter adds to its overall durability and ensures smooth rotation. In contrast, the Audio-Technica LP60X boasts a compact and lightweight design with a plastic body. While it may not offer the same level of robustness as the RT81, it remains portable and easy to set up.
Platter and Motor: The RT81 is equipped with a precision-engineered aluminum platter, which offers improved rotational stability and minimizes unwanted resonance. Its belt-driven motor ensures consistent speed and reduces wow and flutter. The LP60X, on the other hand, features an aluminum die-cast platter, which also provides reliable rotational stability. However, it should be noted that the LP60X is fully automatic, meaning the platter starts and stops automatically when the tonearm is placed or returned to its rest.
Tonearm and Cartridge: Both turntables come with integrated tonearms and pre-installed cartridges. The RT81 boasts an S-shaped tonearm made of aluminum, which helps reduce tracking error and distortion. It offers adjustable counterweight and anti-skate settings for precise cartridge alignment. The RT81 is paired with the Audio-Technica AT-95E cartridge, known for its accurate audio reproduction. The LP60X features a straight tonearm with a fixed universal headshell and comes with the Audio-Technica ATN3600L cartridge, providing satisfactory sound quality for casual listening.
Speed Control and Adjustments: The RT81 offers manual speed control, allowing you to switch between 33⅓ and 45 RPM by manually changing the belt position on the pulley. This feature enables you to play both standard LPs and 45 RPM singles. The LP60X, being fully automatic, automatically determines the correct speed based on the record size. While this feature offers convenience, it limits the LP60X to playing standard 33⅓ and 45 RPM records only.
Sound Quality: The RT81 is designed to deliver a high-fidelity audio experience. Its precision-engineered components and superior cartridge contribute to a more detailed and immersive sound reproduction. The Audio-Technica AT-95E cartridge excels in capturing nuances and subtleties within the music. The LP60X, while not as audiophile-oriented as higher-end turntables, provides a satisfactory sound quality suitable for casual listeners and beginners.
Upgradability: Both turntables have limited upgradability options. The RT81 offers more potential for upgrades, such as cartridge and phono preamp upgrades, allowing you to further enhance the sound quality according to your preferences. The LP60X, as an all-in-one unit, has a more fixed design and limited upgrade potential.
Price and Value: The Fluance RT81 is positioned as a higher-end entry-level turntable, priced slightly higher than the Audio-Technica LP60X. The RT81 offers superior build quality, more advanced features, and a greater potential for upgrades, justifying its higher price. The LP60X, on the other hand, provides a budget-friendly option for those seeking a simple and hassle-free turntable experience.
Conclusion: In the comparison between the Fluance RT81 and the Audio-Technica LP60X, it is clear that both turntables have their strengths and weaknesses. The RT81 offers superior build quality, more advanced features, and a higher potential for upgrades, making it a suitable choice for vinyl enthusiasts looking for better sound quality and more control over their setup. The LP60X, on the other hand, is a budget-friendly option, providing simplicity and convenience for casual listeners and beginners.Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Consider factors such as design, build quality, features, sound quality, and upgradability to determine which turntable aligns better with your requirements. Both the Fluance RT81 and the Audio-Technica LP60X are capable turntables that can provide an enjoyable vinyl listening experience.
