Mar 27, 2019
The Japanese company Audio-Technica has more than 50 years of experience in the development of the audio devices and has established itself as a leading manufacturer of the widest range of equipment....
Read MoreFor those who value quality – Fluance RT81 vs Audio-Technica AT-LP120
Features & Performance
The Fluance RT81 vs Audio-Technica AT-LP120 features comparison shows that both manufacturers aim to deliver pure and natural sound. These two models have built-in pre-amps – 2.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz.
The RT81 uses the cartridge with the moving magnet technology while the AT-LP120 uses the dual magnet cartridge technology. The RT81 also has bigger appropriate needle pressure – compare its 3.5 g versus 1.5 g in the Audio-Technica AT-LP120.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120 is more flexible when it comes to the speed, since it supports 33.3, 45 and 78, while the RT81 supports 33.3 and 45 RPM only.
Design & build quality
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120 vs Fluance RT81 design comparison shows two different approaches. The Fluance RT81 looks classic with its high gloss walnut finish, while the AT-LP120 looks more modern.
The Fluance RT81 has small knobs, while the AT-LP120 has knobs and slider to control the playback. Both models have a transparent dust cover.
Both models are built well – thee have stable legs that help to avoid any resonance. Both turntables have lightweight, slightly-curved tonearms.
The dimensions are 13.8x16.5x5.5 in for the Fluance RT81 versus 13.9x17.8x6 in for the Audio-Technica AT-LP120. The weight is 14.1 and 23.5 pounds respectively.
Fluance RT81 pros & cons
Pros:
- The initial set up is easy and fast due to a very detailed manual. It does not have many functions so it is a perfect option for people who are not familiar with turntables.
- The reliable “auto stop” feature.
Cons:
- You may have issues with the speed – it was inconsistent (it may be due to the belt drive).
- Some units may start slowing down after a short period of exploitation.
- You may get some hum noise (due to the headshell, no matter whether it is grounded or not, so some customers consider replacing it).
Audio-Technica AT-LP120 pros & cons
Pros:
- This model is flexible in terms of connections – it has a well-built USB port.
- The stylus is very precise and it does not have any issue with tracking (however, some customers consider replacing the cartridge, but it is not necessary). Tonearm adjusting is not challenging.
- It has many features, so it is a good option for professionals.
Cons:
- Some customers find the tonearm assembly not great for cueing control – it has a special lever on the tonearm assembly.
- The RCA audio cables are internally connected, so it is difficult to replace them.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120 review
Fluance RT81 review
Mar 27, 2019
Fluance is a Canadian brand that specializes in a high-end audio technique. It produces turntables pf premium quality using superior components and expert audio engineering. The company continues to ...
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Common
Product
Audio-Technica AT-LP120
Fluance RT81
Model
AT-LP120
RT81
Brand
Audio-Technica
Fluance
Rating
4.4 of 5
4.6 of 5
Reviews
2762
350
Cartridge
Type
dual magnet
moving magnet (MM)
Appropriate needle pressure, g
1,5
3,5
Supplied headshell weight, g
2,5
6,4
Stylus
Replaceable
Type
diamond
diamond
Model
ATN95E
AT95E
Motor
Drive method
direct
belt
Platter type
aluminum diecast
aluminum diecast
Speed, RPM
33.3, 45, 78
33.3, 45
Torque
>1.6 kgf-cm
>4.5 kgf-cm
Wow & flutter (WRMS), %
0.2
0.2
Sound
Frequency response, Hz
20 - 20000
20 - 20000
Signal to noise ratio, dB
50
67
Gain
36
Output level
Pre-amp "PHONO": 2.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec. Pre-amp "LINE": 150 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
Pre-amp "PHONO": 2.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz. Pre-amp "LINE": 140 mV nominal at 1 kHz
Controls
Operation type
full manual
automatic
Pitch control
Pitch variation, %
+/-10 or +/-20
Braking system
electronic
electronic
Connections
USB
1
0
RCA
1
1
Other
has not
has not
Features
Dust cover
45 RPM adapter
Other
has not
has not
Power
Motor type
DC
DC
Power consumption, W
11
1,5
Dimensions
Size, cm/inches
15.2 x 45.2 x 35.3/ 6 x 17.8 x 13.9
13.7 x 41.9 x 35.8/5.5 x 16.5 x 13.8
Weigth, kg/pounds
10.6/23.5
6.4/14.1
Turntables HelpToChoose comparison rating
- 11.8Audio-Technica AT-LP120
- 12.3Fluance RT81
The Fluance RT81 is better turntable in this comparison. Check Fluance RT81 price
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