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Fluance

Fluance RT85N: the downsides first

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#1 of 8
$$$ManualScore 4.3/5
5%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (389 ratings); the listing may pool finish variants.

Both Wirecutter and Engadget name it the best turntable overall. In Wirecutter's tests it had the most accurate sound and the lowest distortion, plus a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge, an acrylic platter and a heavy plinth. You'll need a separate phono preamp, it can't play 78s, and the glossy finish shows fingerprints.

Top complaints

  • No built-in preamp

    Wirecutter and Engadget both note that you'll need a separate phono preamp if your receiver or speakers lack one. Wirecutter says Fluance offers its PA10 for about $100.

    Source: Wirecutter (NYT), Engadget
  • Glossy finish shows fingerprints

    Wirecutter says all the finishes are glossy and quickly collect fingerprints, and Engadget says the glossy finish isn't for everyone.

    Source: Wirecutter (NYT), Engadget
  • No 78s; limited upgrades

    Wirecutter notes there's no 78 RPM setting and that you can't easily upgrade it beyond the cartridge, though it already has the cartridge and acrylic platter you might upgrade to.

    Source: Wirecutter (NYT)

What owners love

  • Most accurate sound tested

    Wirecutter measured the lowest distortion, under 0.07% wow and flutter (the least of any belt-drive model) and the most accurate stereo balance. Engadget calls the sound warm and expressive. Amazon owners praise the detail.

    Source: Wirecutter (NYT), Engadget, Amazon.com product page (Customers say)
  • Premium parts

    It has a 16 mm acrylic platter, a 16.7 lb plinth, spiked isolation feet, servo-regulated belt drive and the Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge (Wirecutter). Engadget praises the isolated motor.

    Source: Wirecutter (NYT), Engadget
  • Easy for a manual deck

    Wirecutter says the setup guide is simple and praises the cue lever, speed knob, auto stop and anti-skate dial. Amazon owners say it's easy to set up.

    Source: Wirecutter (NYT), Amazon.com product page (Customers say)
Good for
  • Building a real hi-fi system around vinyl
  • Accurate sound across every genre
  • Buyers who don't want to upgrade parts later

Scores (tap for why)

  • Sound quality5.0
    Why 5.0?Most accurate frequency response and lowest distortion in Wirecutter's measurements; top pick at Engadget too.
    Source: Wirecutter (NYT), Engadget
  • Gentle on records4.5
    Why 4.5?It has a Nagaoka MP-110 elliptical stylus, an adjustable counterweight, an anti-skate dial and a cue lever (Wirecutter, Engadget). Engadget says auto stop prevents unnecessary wear.
    Source: Wirecutter (NYT), Engadget
  • Easy setup4.0
    Why 4.0?Simple setup guide with a bubble level (Wirecutter), but you may need to buy and connect a separate preamp.
    Source: Wirecutter (NYT)
  • Upgradability3.0
    Why 3.0?Only the cartridge is easy to upgrade, but it already ships with parts most people upgrade to (Wirecutter).
    Source: Wirecutter (NYT)
  • Build & reliability5.0
    Why 5.0?Wirecutter calls it exceptionally well built for the price, with the heaviest non-DJ plinth tested. Amazon owners report few construction issues.
    Source: Wirecutter (NYT), Amazon.com product page

What experts say

  • Wirecutter (NYT): Top pick, the best turntable under $600 (updated 2026-08-28). The most accurate sound and best build tested; flaws are no preamp, no 78s and a glossy finish.
  • Engadget: Best record player overall (updated 2026-03-04): warm, expressive sound and a robust plinth, but it needs a separate preamp.
Check price on AmazonWe don't list prices — they change daily. Paid link.

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