Fluance Unveils the RT87 Reference Turntable with Dual-Plinth Design and Carbon Fiber Tonearm
Fluance has officially introduced the RT87 Reference High Fidelity Dual-Plinth Turntable. This marks the company’s most ambitious entry yet in its popular Reference Series lineup. Designed from the ground up with vibration isolation as a primary focus, the new deck combines a dual-plinth architecture, carbon-fiber tonearm, and premium cartridge options to deliver a more refined vinyl listening experience. At $799, the audiophile competition better be worried! Let’s discuss!
What’s New?
The headline feature of the RT87 is its all-new dual-plinth construction. This physically separates the motor from the tonearm and cartridge assembly. The lower plinth houses the motor, while the upper plinth (where the tonearm and cartridge reside) is decoupled using precision conical isolators.
According to Fluance, this design helps reduce motor-borne resonance and external vibrations before they can reach the stylus, improving signal purity and resulting in better instrument separation, more precise imaging, and a quieter overall listening experience.
The RT87 also introduces a newly engineered nine-inch carbon fiber tonearm designed for high rigidity and low resonance. Its longer geometry reduces tracking error across the record surface. The adjustable Vertical Tracking Angle (VTA) allows users to fine-tune cartridge alignment for optimal playback. A removable headshell also makes cartridge upgrades quick and straightforward.
Cartridge Choices
Fluance is offering the RT87 in two different configurations, giving buyers a choice of premium moving magnet cartridges.
One version comes fitted with the Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML, featuring a Microlinear stylus designed for exceptional detail retrieval and low distortion. The second option includes the Ortofon 2M Blue.
“With the RT87, we wanted to push every aspect of high-fidelity playback performance further; from vibration isolation to tonearm precision,” said Justin Koetsier, Product Manager at Fluance. “Every decision behind this turntable was made with musical accuracy in mind.”
Built for Better Performance
Supporting the playback system is a substantial 4.1-pound, 22mm anti-static acrylic platter. The added mass is intended to improve rotational stability while minimizing unwanted resonance. The acrylic’s material properties closely match those of vinyl itself.
The belt-driven turntable supports playback at 33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM and includes an automatic stop function for added convenience.
Fluance has also equipped the RT87 with premium touches such as gold-plated Tiffany RCA connections and precision-machined tonearm components. Fluance designed the platform with future upgrades in mind for enthusiasts who want to continue refining their analog systems.
Pricing and Availability
The Fluance RT87 is available now in Natural Walnut, Piano White, and Piano Black finishes.
Pricing is set at $799.99 USD in the United States and $699.99 USD internationally, with availability through Fluance’s website and Amazon.
AV Gadget Take
The RT87 represents a notable step forward for Fluance’s Reference Series. By focusing on vibration isolation, a redesigned carbon-fiber tonearm, and higher-end cartridge options, the company is clearly targeting enthusiasts looking for a more serious analog platform while keeping the price below the four-figure mark.
For vinyl listeners considering an upgrade, the RT87 appears to offer a compelling mix of performance, flexibility, and value.
Keep your eyes peeled for a review later this summer!
