ConsFirst / Turntables / Compare
Fluance RT85N vs Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT
Which one has the downsides you can live with?
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The short answer
Fluance RT85N ranks higher (#1 vs #3 of 8) and scores better on sound quality, gentle on records, build & reliability. Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT wins on easy setup.
The biggest complaint about the Fluance RT85N is no built-in preamp; for the Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT it's sound isn't as full as rivals. Pick the one whose catch bothers you less.
Side by side
| Fluance RT85N | Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT | |
|---|---|---|
| Rank in turntables | #1 | #3 |
| Price tier | $$$ | $$ |
| Type | Manual | Bluetooth |
| Amazon 1–2★ share | 5% | 7% |
| Overall score | 4.3 | 3.4 |
| Sound quality | 5.0 | 3.0 |
| Gentle on records | 4.5 | 3.0 |
| Easy setup | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| Upgradability | 3.0 | 3.0 |
| Build & reliability | 5.0 | 3.0 |
Price tiers: $ under $150 · $$ $150–400 · $$$ over $400. Highlighted = clearly better (a score gap of 0.3 or more, or a 1–2★ share at least 3 points lower). Scores are explained, with sources, on each product's page.
Top complaints
Fluance RT85N
- 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)
Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT
- Sound isn't as full as rivals
Engadget says it's crisp and clear but not as full and immersive as some other turntables in its price range, and lists 'better sound is available for less money' as a con.
Source: Engadget - Skipping and reliability reports
Amazon's review summary says reliability is mixed, with some owners reporting it stopped working after a month and several mentioning skipping.
- Stylus upgrade and looks
Engadget expects you'll probably want to upgrade the stylus quickly, and lists a less-than-premium look as a con.
Source: Engadget
Who should pick which
Pick the Fluance RT85N if
Building a real hi-fi system around vinyl
Accurate sound across every genre
Buyers who don't want to upgrade parts later
Skip it if: Your amp or speakers have no phono input and you don't want to buy a preamp; You own 78 RPM records; You want Bluetooth or push-button play
Pick the Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT if
Beginners who want push-button play
Streaming records to Bluetooth speakers or headphones
A step up from the AT-LP60X
Skip it if: Sound quality is your top priority at this price; You don't need Bluetooth (the plain AT-LP70X costs less); You want a premium look
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