Who Should Buy the Fluance RT87 Turntable?
The Fluance RT87 is designed for vinyl listeners who are ready to step up from entry-level gear and appreciate the nuances of turntable setup and analog sound. If you find the process of calibrating a tonearm and leveling a plinth rewarding, and your priority is immersive audio quality rather than plug-and-play convenience or connectivity features, this model belongs on your shortlist. Its robust build, high-quality cartridge options, and focus on sound make it appealing for seasoned collectors or those upgrading from starter decks like the Audio-Technica LP60.
How Does the Fluance RT87 Sound Compared to Rivals?
Expect the RT87 to deliver a distinctly spacious and warm presentation, with midrange richness, detailed highs, and tight, controlled bass. The sense of depth and stereo separation is a highlight—details in complex records appear more precise than on most sub-$400 turntables, and the slight analog 'bloom' is present without sounding veiled or muddled.
When compared with similarly priced models, the RT87 stands out for its heavy-duty build and overall noise rejection, thanks to its substantial acrylic platter and isolation feet. Against budget alternatives like the FiiO TT13, it sacrifices features such as Bluetooth and automatic cueing for noticeably improved sonic performance and longer-term durability. When set against classics like the Rega Planar PL1, the RT87 feels sturdier and dampens vibrations more effectively, though the Rega offers comparable sound in a lighter, more minimalist package.
Ease of Setup and Everyday Use
The RT87 is not meant for first-time turntable buyers or anyone seeking easy, out-of-the-box setup. Initial assembly and fine-tuning—balancing the counterweight, adjusting anti-skate, and leveling—demand attention and patience. The multi-step process is typical at this price and quality level, but the details (especially the finicky anti-skate mechanism) can frustrate those unfamiliar with higher-end hi-fi gear.
Daily operation is simple: a speed selector (no belt change required) covers 33, 45, and 78 RPM, and a basic auto-stop toggle adds some convenience. However, you'll need to supply your own phono preamp and 45 RPM adapter—these are not included. The included bubble level and heavy plinth allow meticulous setup, but users looking for features like Bluetooth or integrated preamps should consider more beginner-oriented models.
Value and Trade-Offs: Who Should Skip It?
The RT87 commands a price that only makes sense for listeners who value sound over frills. For $800, you can get convenience and features elsewhere, but not the same combination of robust build and sonic clarity. If your system lacks a good phono preamp, remember to budget roughly $100 more. Those on a tighter budget or new to vinyl should look at the Fluance RT81 or FiiO TT13, which are easier to set up and use but sonically a tier below. The RT87 makes sense if you already have a decent audio system—or plan to assemble one—and want a turntable that will last for years without being made obsolete by style or fad.
Final Takeaway: Does the Fluance RT87 Justify Its Price?
The Fluance RT87 offers an audiophile-grade vinyl experience in a package that emphasizes build quality and audio fidelity over modern features. It rewards attentive setup and matches well with high-quality speakers and a good phono stage. While it is overkill for casual listeners or those still building their systems from scratch, for committed collectors or anyone upgrading from their first deck, it's a strong investment in audio quality, durability, and the tactile ritual of playing records.
- Buy it if: You want immersive sound, are comfortable with hands-on setup, and value longevity in your gear.
- Skip it if: You're looking for plug-and-play convenience, on a tight budget, or require built-in modern features.