Fluance RT85 Turntable with Ortofon 2M Blue - Warm Analog Sound

In this review of the Fluance RT85 turntable, the bottom line is simple: vinyl listeners seeking a warm, detailed analog experience should consider this as a near-complete package. The RT85 pairs a high-resolution Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical cartridge with a heavy acrylic platter and an isolated motor, delivering audible improvements in clarity, imaging and bass control compared with entry-level decks. Setup is straightforward and the build quality - from the high mass MDF plinth to the machine-finished platter - clearly aims at listeners who want a focused, musical playback platform rather than gimmicks.

Key Features

• Pure analog performance: The deck is tuned to provide a warm, natural vinyl sound that places the listener into the center of the performance.
• Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge: This higher-spec elliptical cartridge improves linearity and channel separation for clearer highs and more detailed mids.
• High density acrylic platter: The additional mass helps damp unwanted vibrations for tighter bass and a more three-dimensional soundstage.
• Speed control and isolated motor: The motor isolation and speed control deliver consistent platter velocity with low wow and flutter for accurate playback.
• High mass MDF wood plinth: A real wood finish and adjustable resonance-damping feet provide superior isolation from micro-vibrations and a refined aesthetic.
• Easy setup: Customers consistently find the instructions clear and assembly straightforward, getting to listening quickly.

Who It's For

The RT85 is best for vinyl enthusiasts who value sound quality and build over extra digital features; if you already own a decent amplifier or phono preamp, the RT85 brings an immediate upgrade thanks to the Ortofon 2M Blue and the acrylic platter. Audiophiles on a budget who want a largely plug-and-play turntable with real component-grade parts will appreciate what this model delivers.

It is less appropriate for users who require a built-in phono preamp or extensive streaming/smart features; buyers who need those should look for a different model or add a compatible phono stage. Also, if ultra-portability or the lightest possible weight is a priority, the RT85's high-mass design may not be ideal.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent sound quality and musicality, particularly with the Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge installed.
• High density acrylic platter and heavy plinth reduce vibrations for clearer bass and better imaging.
• Well-built with attractive walnut finish and adjustable damping feet for stable placement.
• Speed control and isolated motor produce low noise and consistent rotation, reported as nearly silent in customer feedback.

Cons

• No built-in phono preamp is included, so an external preamp is required for systems without a phono stage.
• Its higher mass and premium parts make it less suitable for very portable setups or cramped spaces.

Specifications

Cartridge	Ortofon 2M Blue elliptical
Platter	High density acrylic platter
Motor	Isolated motor with speed control (0.07% wow/flutter)
Plinth	High mass MDF wood with real walnut finish
Vibration isolation	Adjustable resonance damping feet and isolated design
Phono preamp	Not included

Our Verdict

The Fluance RT85 is a compelling choice for listeners who prioritize analog warmth, detail and solid construction. With the Ortofon 2M Blue and a high density acrylic platter, it delivers noticeably improved clarity, imaging and bass control compared with budget decks, making it strong value for anyone building a quality two-channel system who can provide a phono stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this turntable include a phono preamp?
It does not include a phono preamp, so you will need an external phono stage or an amplifier with a phono input.

How difficult is setup?
Most customers find setup straightforward; the cartridge and tonearm are mounted and instruction guides make alignment and initial adjustments manageable for first-time owners.

Is the motor noisy?
Users report very low motor noise thanks to the isolated motor design, and many note the deck is effectively silent at typical listening levels.