I went thru the same challenge, myself. I went with the Fluance RT85 with the Ortofon 2M Blue. I've had it for several years, but love mine. Vey happy with mine..
Great choice... I replaced the 2MBlue with a Hana EL moving coil (using a separate head shell) and WOW !!! It's so easy to just swap removable head shells !!! 5 minutes to swap cartridges once it is properly installed on the extra head shells that I bought for this very purpose.
I love my ProJect Debut Carbon with an Ortofon Blue cartridge, it's a workhorse that is reliable and sounds great. The only problem with the Debut Carbon is the hinges on the dust cover...they're sticky, cheap plastic clamps and impossible to adjust for the tension.
I have had the Fluance 85 with the Ortofon blue for 3 years now with no problems. You can even order the Fluance with the Nagaoka MP-110 stylus now. Great turntable and sounds fantastic.
Regarding the Record Doctor, I've owned the Record Doctor VI for about a year and it works great for the money. This machine has been out for over 20+ years if I'm correct so the Record Doctor has enjoyed a mostly satisfied customer response. I don't have a large record collection however I can't see spending more than the cost of a Record Doctor. It's great on used vinyl. The trick is the technique regarding how to use it, using a better quality cleaning fluid, and the cleaning brushes (I use two different styles of brushes) The Record Doctor VI is fantastic.
I also use a Nagoka MP-110 on my vintage Pioneer PL-530. I love that warm traditional sound. Someday I would like to upgrade to the MP-150 (the green one) I've heard it's even better. But right now too spendy for my pocketbook.
I've got the Project Debut Carbon EVO with the acrylic platter and I'm super happy with it. Major upgrade over my old AT LP120 with a 2M Blue installed. 🤘
My roommate has the LP120 with the Ortofon blue into an ifi phono too and my EVO still has the aluminum platter using the tube box s2 and yes, mine sounds better for sure. How much of a difference does the acrylic platter make?
@@seano218 it made statically electricity a thing of the past. I experienced lots of static but the stock platter but with the acrylic it is non-existent. Sound is great with both but I would say it's better with the acrylic since I never have any static pops anymore. Both a great tables but my Evo is my favorite.
@@seano218 Happy to help! If you aren't experiencing static like I was, I'd recommend upgrading the stylus to the Moonstone. That will be my next upgrade later in the year. Keep spinning that vinyl my friend! :)
@tremoloman thank you! Great information. I have the Ranier on it now and really like it, but will consider the Moonstone since I think I want to keep in the Sumiko family. Just got 3 more new vinyl yesterday, lol!Thanks and you too!
Keep your vinyl out of a room that has a wood fireplace or wood stove in it. Smoke, Soot, and Ash do get in the air and travel throughout the room. With Gas or propane you don't have those issues. If you are a smoker. Then your listening area needs to be 100% a smoke free zone.
@@roberttoews2775 Caution on ventless fireplaces corrosion on shivery surfaces. I have a number of items tarnished by ventless fireplace. Contacts of head-shell are a likely spot.
Great video Frank. I am still using my Thorens TD160 Super I bought in the 70's. Recently replaced the springs and upgraded the tonearm to an SME 3009 III, which plays nicely with my Shure V15 IV with a JICO SAS replacement stylus. Just getting back into vinyl for the last year, and loving it!
I went with the RT85 for my first turntable and have no regrets. I'm sure the Project is great too. I spent way to much time agonizing over making the "perfect" choice. I realize now, it's the vinyl that matters. I'm sure I'll upgrade in a few years but right now I barely even think about the table itself.
Pro-Ject has been continually upgrading and updating it's turntables. One of it's latest is the Debut Pro S, which shows that it is figuring out how to incorporate state of the art late-40's superior tone arm technology and bring it into the present day. I am talking about the "S" and "J" style tubular metal tone arms. One of the features is an interchangeable head shell where you can have multiple mounted and adjusted cartridges in different head shells ready to go. Not all records are made the same and there are certain cartridges which can play different records better. Myself, I use 9 different cartridges all mounted in their own head shells. The Technics SL-1200 turntables have been known for their audiophile quality forever. When they went back and redesigned the SL-1200 basically from the ground up, they continued to use the same style of tone arms. When a company goes so far in re-creating one of the best turntables ever, if they found that any other kind of tone arm would be superior, wouldn't they have changed it? You really only get what you paid for, so, when using modern old-world technology, and you pay more for it, you should expect the best.
Great video Frank!! I'm using a roughly 35 year old Technics SLDL1 linear tracking turntable with a Ortofon OM10 cartridge. I'm still in love with the automatic features of it. I just recently bought a Squeaky Clean Record Cleaner. I'm waiting for the bad weather to get to using it. Thanks for letting us know your opinions on various topics. It never hurts to hear other people's opinions. Keep on spinning Frank 👍
I actually sold my (still working) SL2DQ Technics TT after 40ish years. It had been sitting in my garage through a decade of Winnipeg Winters before I pulled it out of the rafters and gave it a slight cleanup. I fell back in to Vinyl during the pandemic and used it for about Two years before making the decision to let it go. I purchased the Fluance RT85 and have been extremely pleased ever since. Not sure it will have as much life as it’s predecessor, but I’m hoping!
I also dig the Ortofon 2M blue, especially compared to the red IMO. I went w/ a fully auto rig after years of getting tired of running back into the room after a records over etc. I have the Dual CS 429 (w/ the Ortofon 2M Blue) and I am NEVER going back to a manual table again! And yes, this is a legit Dual ,made in Germany still. Didn't cost too much at the time, got open box for about 450 usd (from memory) I also love the convenience of my Humminguru!
Not a tt but I've had some fluance speakers for close to 15 years and they are stellar, have run a 5.1 setup of theirs too in the past. can't say a bad word about them. Great customer service with lifetime warranty on the speakers too.
I purchased a Fluance RT85 and their PA10 Phono Preamp about a year ago. I had audible noise coming through the speakers. I changed out the Phono Preamp for Pro-Ject Tube Box S2, same problem. I checked all the connections and even switched cartridges. I also plugged in the turntable and preamp to a different outlet, and changed the cables. Nothing worked. So I picked up a used U-Turn custom turntable which had their Pluto 2 phono preamp built in. The noise I had with Fluance was gone. I sent everything back to Fluance. I cannot recommend Fluance Turntables. They look very nice, feel quite solid and they appear to be well-built, but I suspect underneath the surface the quality may be questionable. I definitely would recommend U-Turn and Audio Technica. I never owned a Pro-Ject turntable but I suspect, based on what I do know about their turntables, that I would have likely not experienced the disappointment like I had with Fluance. But that's just me.
Great video. I went with the RT-85 and don't regret it. I felt like I got more for the money. The 2m blue is a good cart but I prefer the AT-540 ml. Great detail and bass but not too bright which sometimes the blue was bright to me. Cleaning wise I use the spin clean but I plan on getting a record doctor eventually. I think everything you mentioned in this vid would be a good choice.
Aloha Frank, Great Personnel review on those 2 Turntables. I think your right as far as Pro-ject Turntables go, they have been in your life longer with no problems. Don't get me wrong, I bought a RT-85 & so far it's working great for me at this time, I've had it about 2 years now with no problems as of yet. Your right you get a bang for your buck on the Fluance. Thanks again Frank on your personal preference on which one you would buy & why. Looking forward to seeing your next video. Mahalo Ed
1. I was going to buy a Fluance but they were sold out and had no idea when they would get them in at the time, so I went with the Debut Carbon and I have loved it. I guess I lucked out with that one! 2. I used the Spin Clean when I first started but it became very cumbersome and started messing up on me, so I got the Pro-Ject VC-E Compact Record Cleaning Machine, and it is wonderful. 3. I have the M2 Red, but looking to go to the M2 Blue in time.
I agree. I had both a Fluance rt-85 and a Project debut esprit. Both with the ortofon blue. The esprit had a slight edge on sound and quality built. Cables, plater look. That’s just my opinion on the look. The sound is an objective observation
I’m using a 2M blue on my Technics 1200 and a Sumiko Blue Point No. 2 high output MC on my Project Rpm 3 carbon turntable. I also have the 2M red and a Shure SC35C I use occasionally on the 1200 Great video!
I have the RT85. I liked the fact that it came with the acrylic platter and a removable head shell. There are a couple of things they could have improved upon like the tone arm cue lever. But overall, I have been happy with it for the price.
I was glad to see your opinions on the Fluance vs. Pro-Ject. I have a Pro-Ject Debut Evo and I put an Ortofon Blue on it. I am very happy with it, but I wondered if I should have shopped around a bit, which I did not. I had a PJ Debut Carbon for 5 years, but had to upgrade to the Evo because I hated the speed change. One thing though is that I wouldn't have been able to use a Fluance with the motor where it is because I use a Cecil E. Watts Dust Bug and it is mounted right there. I also use a QUp tone arm lifter.
I bought my Fluance RT 81 about 6 months before Fluance came out with the RT 85. I’ve been quite happy with the 81. My home theatre system is all Fluance too.
I’ve had my RT 85 for over a year now no issues I love the ortphon blue but the red is decent too. I’ve only used the spin clean which does the job for me.
Ive been running a fluance rt81 for 5 years with zero issues but i did hear the odd story when researching. As time progresses im sure fluance will go on to be a great TT manufacturer
For me the biggest issue with fluance is it's unavailability in germany (or europe i n general).. a while ago i was thinking about getting an rt85 but instead of round about 500 bucks i would have to pay 1200 bucks or something like that due to taxes and shipping.. so i got a really good deal on a Pro-Ject X1 which is absolutely brilliant and I couldn't be happier with it. Probably my endgame turntable.
Enjoyed the video Frank!! I do have the record back in the spin clean and that's about all I'm going to use to clean my records I can't afford the big expensive equipment...lol
I'd go for the Rega P1, after hearing hyvinyws comparison sound comparison, that inexpensive carbon cartridge beats the output of pricier cartridges attached to the Debut and Fluance, the overall engineering and how the tonarm and rest of the system work with the cartridge comes into play. The knock on the p1 is its pretty much set up to be non adjustable, so your better off springing for the P2 if you foresee wanting to upgrade the cartridge on a Rega. The Debut Pro/S and the U-turn theory or the Technics SL100C are the other options in that $1k range. Those all feel like more the lowest priced have "forever" tables, the under $500 new ones seem more like, "I'll try it for now until I upgrade" type tables.
Hi Frank regarding your turntable choices I have this weekend changed my 40 year old Rega Planar 3 with a new Rega planar 2 , I was a little unsure at first as the new one has the Rega Carbon cartridge as standard which here in the UK is only £35 but the 40 years of development between the 2 decks is really obvious , the new deck wins hands down just hope it lasts as long as the old one . Love your videos buddy from Rob in England 🇬🇧.
That's a very interesting observation re: old 3 Vs new 2. I've never had a 2. I have: an early planner 3 with the S shaped R200 tonearm, much modified planner 3/ rb300 tonearm, much modified RP3 and slightly modified RP6. All modifications were done out of curiousity for the fun of it.😉 Can you guess I like a Rega? 😉😂 Jim 🏴🙂
I had the Record Doctor on my Amazon list and my wife did some very extensive reading of the reviews, and one concern she had was that the moisture doesn't leave the machine quickly, and she saw pictures from owners showing mold on the inside, plus she thought that the build quality wasn't very good. I think that there was glue runs from the assembly on the inside, which obviously doesn't impact how it cleans, but she thought that for the money it should have been built better. She found an Etsy seller who had 3D printed jigs that were similar to the record vac, but you plug a wet/dry vac into it and it has a replaceable arm with a brush. I honestly haven't used it yet, mostly because I haven't really sorted out what solution I want to use for it, plus, I'm also kind of lazy when it comes to record cleaning. Most new vinyl I give a wipe with a carbon fiber brush, but I do have a growing pile of used records that do need cleaning, and I just need to block out some time to get through those.
I just like that vinyl appears to be on the up. Have to say I was amazed how much a difference an Origin Live Cartridge Enabler made to an Ortofon 2M Red 🙂 😉 Jim 🏴🙂
What cartridges are on each turntable? Your photos show an Ortofon 2m Blue on the Fluance and an Ortofon 2m Red on the Pro-Ject. I know these could be stock photos, but I’m still curious because the different cartridges would make a difference in the sound.
Hi Frank. You give some very good advice and reviews. If anyone owns a TT that's a belt drive there are several things that need to be addressed over time. My timeline is once a year at least. One is cleaning and lubricating the platter/spindle bearing and/or thrust plate. Second is the belt will wear over the span of several years so it helps to replace it depending on usage of the TT. Obviously DD turntales negate either of these. I do own a belt drive though. Greg
I have the fluance rt85 with the acrylic platter and I love it.I also have the audio technica 120 and enjoy it to.plus about 5 various technics turntables I think I’m set on turntable’s for the rest of my life 😂😂
having used a lower-level ProJect, i found it to be a bit limiting. for a beginner, the Fluance can be the gateway drug because of the detachable headshell, allowing the user ease of cartridge changing and swapping. the W&F specs are good and won't be a distraction. better specs can come later when the enthusiast realizes it IS worth the extra cost to get refinement. changing cartridges on a captive arm is a chore that i abhor and would discourage any fledgling music lover. i do love my SpinClean and found it to be essential and cost-effective. i wish i had one decades sooner than i did. i had a record doctor in the late 90s and it failed by having the fan impellers break off inside the glued-together box that formed it and then the impellers weren't user replaceable due to the fact that it was PRESSED ON and the motor was also glued in place. the sellers (Audio Advisor) said they would fix it for $100 but i would have to pay freight one way. i discarded it and manually washed my records after that but that was also unsatisfying. as you have discovered, ultrasonic cleaning is the way to go and i recently got a Degritter to replace my SpinClean and am quite happy with it so far. the fireplace in the same room as my records....distance, of course, would obviate the idea of heat damage but i am concerned about the smoke particulates that will eventually make their way onto the records. for that reason, i would recommend another room for record storage. that's my story and i'm sticking to it. ...hifitommy
Was wondering this.. A rare 45 i have had for years of the ROLLING STONES.. Somehow now as a small chip.. Thankfully it is before the music starts.. But with a fully automatic turntable afraid to use it due to when the arm drops onto the record.. I know how to repair skips / pops but never came across a chipped record.. Any ideas?? Any products?? Thanks and take care.. Mark..
If I had a choice of a new turntable, it would be the Fluance. But for now, I'll stick to my mid-80's Denon DP-62L with an Ortofon MC. As far as the runout grooves on LPs (and for CDs, too), I have found the macro lens on my phone pretty handy. Since it is designed for close up photos, YMMV. Cheers, sir.
I've owned the Ortofon Blue and the Nagaoka 110 and your recommendations are spot on. I preferred the Blue on my system. Couldn't hear the detail in the 110 vs the Blue.
Thank you for an interesting video. I like both these brands of turntables. I think Fluance offers most for the money and I have a very good impression of it. Both brands are good. Have nice day everyone.
So awhile back I bought a Beatles album off of FB. It looked great so when the lady said she had another Beatles album she’d sell me for $10 I said sure. I was in a bit of a hurry so I didn’t check out the second album. When I got home I found that it must’ve been close to some heat source as one edge was bent up (or down depending on the side). I was totally bummed as the rest of the album was clean. After trying to figure out if it was salvageable I decided to throw it in a frame since 1. You would have to skip the first song because of the condition and 2. Only one side would be “playable”. I guess what I’m warning of is to be careful of your vinyl being in any vicinity of a heat source as I’m sure this album had to been placed near one because of the weird bend that it created.
Another thing to be careful of for heat is top shelf in closets. In the early 80's, in my first apartment, that fairly good size. All my records on that top shelf, in the closet. We'll it gets pretty hot here. I lost my 200 plus record collection to warpage. Never did that again. I now have a 2000 plus record collection. They now all share the air conditioning as I do.
Nice video! I have the RT85 from about two years and I'm happy with it. My question: After 1000 hours of using the Ortofon 2M Blue, can I replace it with the next cartridge, 2 M Bronze? (for Black probably not...too expensive to install in on RT85). Thank you!
I've been eyeing the RT-85, but I'm curious to see if Fluance will be making a new model with an accessible pitch control, or even an actual semi-auto shutoff. The "auto stop" feature it currently has seems to be a little flawed.
I always wondered which table was better, I’ve had some experience with Pro-Ject myself. Where does U-Turn fit into this shoot out, is it in the same league?
Not to mention, Pro-Ject has quite a few upgrade options. Love my EVO! Ditch the felt mat and get the cork/rubber one instead as it is better sounding and cleaner.
I have an 85 that I picked up second hand from a guy about a year and a half ago and it's in my main "listening room" and it's a good TT...No issues, no real complaints. And like you, I'm no audiofile, just a music loving tech guy.. However... In my dining room I have my old Dual 604 with a Shure M95 hooked up to my Onkyo Bookshelf stereo and let me tell you.. I love that damn TT. So.. Yeah.. Not sure where I was going with this but that's my story...
Hey Frank. I have noticed the ending guitar solo in Comfortable Numb reminds me of Maggot Brain. I don't know if this is a case of Maggot Brain as an influence, a common thread in blues rooting, or just my own crazy idea. Your thoughts ?
Hi Frank. In terms of cartridges I’m currently using the Audio Technica VM95. Great successor to the AT95 but has the added bonus of being able to interchange stylus types on the same cartridge. I’ve currently got an elliptical stylus fitted but going to upgrade to the micro line soon! Great video. Cheers!
I LOVE my White RT-85. Bang for the buck, you cannot go wrong. As for “warm” sound, that is a personal opinion and comes down to way more than just what the cartridge does. Losing speed is more a belt and dust issue. Appreciate your opinion, but..
Depends on budget... in the long run I would suggest a separate amp, for sure. I don't have a ton of experience with powered speakers, but I do use some Edifiers which I love. Great value.
The Carbon Evo has some excellent upgrades. I personally really like the Sumiko Rainier a lot and don't like the 2M Red that comes with the original Carbon. Bought the Rainier for my son's original Carbon and thought it totally transformed it. It seems to be in the Nagaoka vein, if I understand correctly. Personal preference, of course.
I do have an RT81 and have been thinking about upgrading. But my dilemma is this: I have my dads Technics SL-D20. It does have a few issues and thinking about trying to get it fixed. Just don’t want throw a bunch of money at it and find out I should have just bought a new one.
Thanks for the video Frank. Very happy with my Audio Technica LP5X with the red ortofon catridge, although I may try the blue soon. Spin cleaner for me based on cost, but my local record shop offers the Vac method for a small fee per record. Keep on spinnin !!
I have had zero problems with Fluance RT82. My only regret is wishing I had originally purchased the Fluance RT85 instead of later upgrading the RT82 into an RT85 (platter and cartridge). If I were ever to replace this turntable, I think I would consider a direct-drive turntable just to try something different.
I'm a little confused. Does the turntable really make that much of a difference to the playing of your records? Or is it the cartridge/stylus? Wouldn't a better quality cartridge/stylus on a lower priced turntable be just as effective as that same cartridge/stylus combo on a higher priced turntable?
not necessarily. a more expensive TT will likely have a better motor (more consistent/accurate speeds), a heavier/better plinth and/or an acrylic platter (reduction of sound artifacts), etc. a better cartridge will help a cheaper TT sound better but not all the way to the level of a more expensive, higher quality unit.
so many of the youtubers ravin about project debut evo ignore the motor noise,the off-center platter and the high rumble factor. dunno why. couldnt come across it on any review but found plenty of owners complaining about it. aparrently some of these basic deal-breaker design flaws have been there for a while. i traded it in for another debut carbon evo. same problems. found those customer reviews online, and since my $60 BPC sony, except for the cartridge, was outperforming my $600 pro-ject carbon evo gave up and got a rega. realized with that debut evo i as paying $600 for a sumiko ranier, which gets the credit for the good sonics comin out of the pro-ject. traded it in for a rega that worls properly.
Nice one frank,, Ive matched carts. With arms mostly, ( compliance and mass) but still found many variables within these guide lines to suit my ear,, digging my new T shirt,, 🎃 🎃🎃🎃🎃
Great video. You said you do have an RT85, how long have you had it and have you had any problems with it? It’s what I plan on buying but watching this video does have me a little nervous. Probably will still do it, I think.
2 years and no major problems. The speed isn't as as steady as it was new. I changed the belt and the issue persists. Still trying to figure that one out.
I may be in the minority, but I lean towards a Sony or Pioneer type from the 70's/80's turntable that's under $100 or under $50. I feel if I buy a 100's or thousands turntable, I'd have to equal that with vinyl and purge some rougher LPs that might cause damage.
I'm with you on this one....picked up a perfect vintage Hitachi PS-48 from 1976 for my spare room....so good was the look and sound that I parted with my Rega 3...no comparison👍🤘
I almost bought a Fluance but opted for a Music Hall MMF 1.5 mainly due to electronic pitch control and the 78 rpm feature. Yes it has an AT cart branded as a Melody but I bought an upgrade stylus from LP Gear. Sounds good to me. The turntable itself cost about the same as a Fluance.
Hi Frank, I would go with the EVO as it can be upgraded in a number of ways. Better still for more money the EVO Pro or the new EVO Pro S would be better still and can also be upgraded. £449 for the EVO plus £699 for the Pro and £799 for the Pro S. I am a member of the Reddit Turntable Group and the American members are always banging on about how the Fluance Turntables are so great. Some of the Fluance are available in the UK, but they don't get much push here.
@@Channel33RPM Yea, they are forever expanding and never seem to stop. They also have a newer version of the X2 with balanced XLR outputs plus the Vinyl NRS Box S3 which helps decrackke vinyl.
My take on this as a recovering audiophile of 50 years. Pro-Ject table. Hard to beat this OEM for so many. While I don't think much of the platter, the CF arm is better than the (excellent) Fluance. My MMF-7 (Roy Hall design and Pro-Ject built) has been humming along for 15+ years. Budget cart, Nagaoka bests carts at twice the price. I have an MP-150 that I swap out with an AT 0C9XML and Ortofon 2M Black on my Technics SL1200G, and it wants for nothing. _However,_ I'm not sure about their higher end models. I've had 2 MP-300's, 2 different vendors both with left channel issues (yes, I swapped headshell cable and it switched sides). Hmm. As far as cleaners, I've had the first gen Record Doctor, and now have the anniversary issue (better than low-priced version). Chose it over the Pro-Ject cleaner because longevity and _downward_ vacuum. I'm not at all convinced of the HumminGuru's build quality, nor believe it has a proper cavitation process. I think it's a motorized spin-clean with light carbonation. RD also has a track record. Considering my hardware investment and number of LP's, I'll probably spring for a proper ultrasonic cleaner at some point. But the record doctor does a great job - and noticeable!
Greta vid as always. Can you tell me what the vinyl sleeves are that I always see TH-camrs using where you can see the record in the back, i.e. it’s stored outside of the cardboard sleeve?
You know where I sit. I bought the Fluance first, as it slays on the spec/feature set, but my Pro-Ject is just the better table, from my experience. I still happily recommend the Fluance for value for money, but the Pro-Ject (after some upgrades) is far better, imho.
I went thru the same challenge, myself. I went with the Fluance RT85 with the Ortofon 2M Blue. I've had it for several years, but love mine. Vey happy with mine..
Great choice... I replaced the 2MBlue with a Hana EL moving coil (using a separate head shell) and WOW !!! It's so easy to just swap removable head shells !!! 5 minutes to swap cartridges once it is properly installed on the extra head shells that I bought for this very purpose.
I have the RT-85 and it's amazing, the sound quality is there. No problem with mine.
I love my ProJect Debut Carbon with an Ortofon Blue cartridge, it's a workhorse that is reliable and sounds great. The only problem with the Debut Carbon is the hinges on the dust cover...they're sticky, cheap plastic clamps and impossible to adjust for the tension.
I too love my Debut Carbon (with red Ortofon) but I still miss an auto return and USB connectivity.
A couple of drops of WD-40 on each hinge easily fixes that issue.
Fluance RT81, myself, love it.
I have had the Fluance 85 with the Ortofon blue for 3 years now with no problems. You can even order the Fluance with the Nagaoka MP-110 stylus now. Great turntable and sounds fantastic.
I have the Pro-Ject Carbon & I'm 100% satisfied! Cool topic! T.I.E. bro!
Regarding the Record Doctor, I've owned the Record Doctor VI for about a year and it works great for the money. This machine has been out for over 20+ years if I'm correct so the Record Doctor has enjoyed a mostly satisfied customer response.
I don't have a large record collection however I can't see spending more than the cost of a Record Doctor. It's great on used vinyl. The trick is the technique regarding how to use it, using a better quality cleaning fluid, and the cleaning brushes (I use two different styles of brushes)
The Record Doctor VI is fantastic.
I also use a Nagoka MP-110 on my vintage Pioneer PL-530. I love that warm traditional sound. Someday I would like to upgrade to the MP-150 (the green one) I've heard it's even better. But right now too spendy for my pocketbook.
I use Ortofon on my Pioneer PL 530 and love the sound as well.
@@gravengladomain6297 which one do you use?
I'm still happy with my seventies pioneer pl560 with a ortofon blue,great for the harder rock sound!
Those older Pioneers are killer.
I've got the Project Debut Carbon EVO with the acrylic platter and I'm super happy with it. Major upgrade over my old AT LP120 with a 2M Blue installed. 🤘
My roommate has the LP120 with the Ortofon blue into an ifi phono too and my EVO still has the aluminum platter using the tube box s2 and yes, mine sounds better for sure. How much of a difference does the acrylic platter make?
@@seano218 it made statically electricity a thing of the past. I experienced lots of static but the stock platter but with the acrylic it is non-existent. Sound is great with both but I would say it's better with the acrylic since I never have any static pops anymore. Both a great tables but my Evo is my favorite.
@@tremoloman thank you for the information!
@@seano218 Happy to help! If you aren't experiencing static like I was, I'd recommend upgrading the stylus to the Moonstone. That will be my next upgrade later in the year. Keep spinning that vinyl my friend! :)
@tremoloman thank you! Great information. I have the Ranier on it now and really like it, but will consider the Moonstone since I think I want to keep in the Sumiko family.
Just got 3 more new vinyl yesterday, lol!Thanks and you too!
Keep your vinyl out of a room that has a wood fireplace or wood stove in it. Smoke, Soot, and Ash do get in the air and travel throughout the room. With Gas or propane you don't have those issues. If you are a smoker. Then your listening area needs to be 100% a smoke free zone.
A portable air filtration unit might help. Or better yet, protect all your records with sleeves from Vinyl Storage Solutions. 😉
@@roberttoews2775 Caution on ventless fireplaces corrosion on shivery surfaces. I have a number of items tarnished by ventless fireplace. Contacts of head-shell are a likely spot.
So let's say hypothetically I was getting stoned in the same place i store my records and record player, is that a bad thing? 🤷♂️
Good advice. I have a nice wood stove, but do not store my vinyl there🤓
Great video Frank. I am still using my Thorens TD160 Super I bought in the 70's. Recently replaced the springs and upgraded the tonearm to an SME 3009 III, which plays nicely with my Shure V15 IV with a JICO SAS replacement stylus. Just getting back into vinyl for the last year, and loving it!
Same here My RT85 is rock solid. No issues. I am sure project is fine.
I have had a Project Xpression II since it was released in 2007. It has run for 15 years with no problems. very very faithful
I went with the RT85 for my first turntable and have no regrets. I'm sure the Project is great too. I spent way to much time agonizing over making the "perfect" choice. I realize now, it's the vinyl that matters.
I'm sure I'll upgrade in a few years but right now I barely even think about the table itself.
I got the RT85N and still wonder if I should have gotten the Pro-Ject. My Fluence sounds amazing with my NAD c368 and KEF LS50 Meta’s
Im in your situation now. The research in my decision is killing me to make a choice. My first choice was/is rt85.
Pro-Ject has been continually upgrading and updating it's turntables. One of it's latest is the Debut Pro S, which shows that it is figuring out how to incorporate state of the art late-40's superior tone arm technology and bring it into the present day.
I am talking about the "S" and "J" style tubular metal tone arms. One of the features is an interchangeable head shell where you can have multiple mounted and adjusted cartridges in different head shells ready to go. Not all records are made the same and there are certain cartridges which can play different records better. Myself, I use 9 different cartridges all mounted in their own head shells.
The Technics SL-1200 turntables have been known for their audiophile quality forever. When they went back and redesigned the SL-1200 basically from the ground up, they continued to use the same style of tone arms. When a company goes so far in re-creating one of the best turntables ever, if they found that any other kind of tone arm would be superior, wouldn't they have changed it?
You really only get what you paid for, so, when using modern old-world technology, and you pay more for it, you should expect the best.
Great video Frank!!
I'm using a roughly 35 year old Technics SLDL1 linear tracking turntable with a Ortofon OM10 cartridge. I'm still in love with the automatic features of it. I just recently bought a Squeaky Clean Record Cleaner. I'm waiting for the bad weather to get to using it.
Thanks for letting us know your opinions on various topics. It never hurts to hear other people's opinions.
Keep on spinning Frank 👍
I actually sold my (still working) SL2DQ Technics TT after 40ish years. It had been sitting in my garage through a decade of Winnipeg Winters before I pulled it out of the rafters and gave it a slight cleanup. I fell back in to Vinyl during the pandemic and used it for about Two years before making the decision to let it go. I purchased the Fluance RT85 and have been extremely pleased ever since. Not sure it will have as much life as it’s predecessor, but I’m hoping!
I also dig the Ortofon 2M blue, especially compared to the red IMO. I went w/ a fully auto rig after years of getting tired of running back into the room after a records over etc. I have the Dual CS 429 (w/ the Ortofon 2M Blue) and I am NEVER going back to a manual table again! And yes, this is a legit Dual ,made in Germany still. Didn't cost too much at the time, got open box for about 450 usd (from memory) I also love the convenience of my Humminguru!
Thanks Frank for this video.
I’ve had a problem with my Fluance but still staying with that one.
Have to try Pro-Ject though
No problem 👍
For me a big plus for the Fluance is removable head shell. I have five vintage cartridges and like swapping them.
Not a tt but I've had some fluance speakers for close to 15 years and they are stellar, have run a 5.1 setup of theirs too in the past. can't say a bad word about them. Great customer service with lifetime warranty on the speakers too.
I like to switch out cartridges as I have several so the RT85 has been great for me... need the removable headshell option.
Great vid as usual, Frank. I thought the comments on Fluance and durability were pretty enlightening.
I purchased a Fluance RT85 and their PA10 Phono Preamp about a year ago. I had audible noise coming through the speakers. I changed out the Phono Preamp for Pro-Ject Tube Box S2, same problem. I checked all the connections and even switched cartridges. I also plugged in the turntable and preamp to a different outlet, and changed the cables. Nothing worked.
So I picked up a used U-Turn custom turntable which had their Pluto 2 phono preamp built in. The noise I had with Fluance was gone.
I sent everything back to Fluance.
I cannot recommend Fluance Turntables. They look very nice, feel quite solid and they appear to be well-built, but I suspect underneath the surface the quality may be questionable.
I definitely would recommend
U-Turn and Audio Technica. I never owned a Pro-Ject turntable but I suspect, based on what I do know about their turntables, that I would have likely not experienced the disappointment like I had with Fluance. But that's just me.
I absolutely love my Carbon Evo. Not as much as my Raga Planar 6, but it’s very close, and a 1/3 the price.
Great video. I went with the RT-85 and don't regret it. I felt like I got more for the money. The 2m blue is a good cart but I prefer the AT-540 ml. Great detail and bass but not too bright which sometimes the blue was bright to me. Cleaning wise I use the spin clean but I plan on getting a record doctor eventually. I think everything you mentioned in this vid would be a good choice.
Aloha Frank,
Great Personnel review on those 2 Turntables. I think your right as far as Pro-ject Turntables go, they have been in your life longer with no problems. Don't get me wrong, I bought a RT-85 & so far it's working great for me at this time, I've had it about 2 years now with no problems as of yet. Your right you get a bang for your buck on the Fluance.
Thanks again Frank on your personal preference on which one you would buy & why.
Looking forward to seeing your next video.
Mahalo Ed
I have the evo with an update acrylic plater & Ortofon 2M blue cartridge, & I absolutely love it!
Love my fluance RT85 but would love to compare my ortofone blue with the nagota
1. I was going to buy a Fluance but they were sold out and had no idea when they would get them in at the time, so I went with the Debut Carbon and I have loved it. I guess I lucked out with that one! 2. I used the Spin Clean when I first started but it became very cumbersome and started messing up on me, so I got the Pro-Ject VC-E Compact Record Cleaning Machine, and it is wonderful. 3. I have the M2 Red, but looking to go to the M2 Blue in time.
I agree. I had both a Fluance rt-85 and a Project debut esprit. Both with the ortofon blue. The esprit had a slight edge on sound and quality built. Cables, plater look. That’s just my opinion on the look. The sound is an objective observation
Great 👍 review ! I just purchased a Project Evo in red and I hope I get many years of reliable service .
I’m using a 2M blue on my Technics 1200 and a Sumiko Blue Point No. 2 high output MC on my Project Rpm 3 carbon turntable. I also have the 2M red and a Shure SC35C I use occasionally on the 1200 Great video!
I've had my RT85 for about 6 months and ive had zero problems with it thus far.
I have the RT85. I liked the fact that it came with the acrylic platter and a removable head shell. There are a couple of things they could have improved upon like the tone arm cue lever. But overall, I have been happy with it for the price.
Great bang for your buck, for sure.
I was glad to see your opinions on the Fluance vs. Pro-Ject. I have a Pro-Ject Debut Evo and I put an Ortofon Blue on it. I am very happy with it, but I wondered if I should have shopped around a bit, which I did not. I had a PJ Debut Carbon for 5 years, but had to upgrade to the Evo because I hated the speed change. One thing though is that I wouldn't have been able to use a Fluance with the motor where it is because I use a Cecil E. Watts Dust Bug and it is mounted right there. I also use a QUp tone arm lifter.
I bought my Fluance RT 81 about 6 months before Fluance came out with the RT 85. I’ve been quite happy with the 81. My home theatre system is all Fluance too.
I have a Rega Planer 3 from the eighties and I love it never had a reason to change it
😉👍
I’ve had my RT 85 for over a year now no issues I love the ortphon blue but the red is decent too. I’ve only used the spin clean which does the job for me.
Ive been running a fluance rt81 for 5 years with zero issues but i did hear the odd story when researching. As time progresses im sure fluance will go on to be a great TT manufacturer
Hi I Have the Fluance RT-82 and if I update the platter to the Acrylic and Cartridge to the Ortofon Blue it would be the same as the RT-85 right?
Great video Frank. I switch my Ortofon 2M Blue out for the MP-110 and love the MP-110. To me it sounds better. Rock on!
For me the biggest issue with fluance is it's unavailability in germany (or europe i n general).. a while ago i was thinking about getting an rt85 but instead of round about 500 bucks i would have to pay 1200 bucks or something like that due to taxes and shipping.. so i got a really good deal on a Pro-Ject X1 which is absolutely brilliant and I couldn't be happier with it. Probably my endgame turntable.
Enjoyed the video Frank!! I do have the record back in the spin clean and that's about all I'm going to use to clean my records I can't afford the big expensive equipment...lol
I'd go for the Rega P1, after hearing hyvinyws comparison sound comparison, that inexpensive carbon cartridge beats the output of pricier cartridges attached to the Debut and Fluance, the overall engineering and how the tonarm and rest of the system work with the cartridge comes into play. The knock on the p1 is its pretty much set up to be non adjustable, so your better off springing for the P2 if you foresee wanting to upgrade the cartridge on a Rega. The Debut Pro/S and the U-turn theory or the Technics SL100C are the other options in that $1k range. Those all feel like more the lowest priced have "forever" tables, the under $500 new ones seem more like, "I'll try it for now until I upgrade" type tables.
I am on a budget but am looking at the Fluance 80 or the Elite. Are these players any good and is ther an advantage on buying one over the other?
Hi Frank regarding your turntable choices I have this weekend changed my 40 year old Rega Planar 3 with a new Rega planar 2 , I was a little unsure at first as the new one has the Rega Carbon cartridge as standard which here in the UK is only £35 but the 40 years of development between the 2 decks is really obvious , the new deck wins hands down just hope it lasts as long as the old one . Love your videos buddy from Rob in England 🇬🇧.
Those Regas look amazing.
That's a very interesting observation re: old 3 Vs new 2. I've never had a 2.
I have: an early planner 3 with the S shaped R200 tonearm, much modified planner 3/ rb300 tonearm, much modified RP3 and slightly modified RP6. All modifications were done out of curiousity for the fun of it.😉
Can you guess I like a Rega? 😉😂
Jim 🏴🙂
I had the Record Doctor on my Amazon list and my wife did some very extensive reading of the reviews, and one concern she had was that the moisture doesn't leave the machine quickly, and she saw pictures from owners showing mold on the inside, plus she thought that the build quality wasn't very good. I think that there was glue runs from the assembly on the inside, which obviously doesn't impact how it cleans, but she thought that for the money it should have been built better. She found an Etsy seller who had 3D printed jigs that were similar to the record vac, but you plug a wet/dry vac into it and it has a replaceable arm with a brush. I honestly haven't used it yet, mostly because I haven't really sorted out what solution I want to use for it, plus, I'm also kind of lazy when it comes to record cleaning. Most new vinyl I give a wipe with a carbon fiber brush, but I do have a growing pile of used records that do need cleaning, and I just need to block out some time to get through those.
I just like that vinyl appears to be on the up.
Have to say I was amazed how much a difference an Origin Live Cartridge Enabler made to an Ortofon 2M Red 🙂 😉
Jim 🏴🙂
Fan Boys out there for both. If you like yours, you like yours.
What cartridges are on each turntable? Your photos show an Ortofon 2m Blue on the Fluance and an Ortofon 2m Red on the Pro-Ject. I know these could be stock photos, but I’m still curious because the different cartridges would make a difference in the sound.
Hi Frank. You give some very good advice and reviews. If anyone owns a TT that's a belt drive there are several things that need to be addressed over time. My timeline is once a year at least.
One is cleaning and lubricating the platter/spindle bearing and/or thrust plate. Second is the belt will wear over the span of several years so it helps to replace it depending on usage of the TT. Obviously DD turntales negate either of these. I do own a belt drive though. Greg
My question, is there a noticeable differences between Carbon Aluminum tonearms on Pro Ject?
I couldn't tell myself. I have aluminum version.
I have the fluance rt85 with the acrylic platter and I love it.I also have the audio technica 120 and enjoy it to.plus about 5 various technics turntables I think I’m set on turntable’s for the rest of my life 😂😂
I also have the Debut Carbon, but the motor is becoming noisier, and I have not used it a lot. I will be looking at a Direct Drive going forward.
having used a lower-level ProJect, i found it to be a bit limiting. for a beginner, the Fluance can be the gateway drug because of the detachable headshell, allowing the user ease of cartridge changing and swapping. the W&F specs are good and won't be a distraction. better specs can come later when the enthusiast realizes it IS worth the extra cost to get refinement. changing cartridges on a captive arm is a chore that i abhor and would discourage any fledgling music lover.
i do love my SpinClean and found it to be essential and cost-effective. i wish i had one decades sooner than i did. i had a record doctor in the late 90s and it failed by having the fan impellers break off inside the glued-together box that formed it and then the impellers weren't user replaceable due to the fact that it was PRESSED ON and the motor was also glued in place. the sellers (Audio Advisor) said they would fix it for $100 but i would have to pay freight one way. i discarded it and manually washed my records after that but that was also unsatisfying.
as you have discovered, ultrasonic cleaning is the way to go and i recently got a Degritter to replace my SpinClean and am quite happy with it so far.
the fireplace in the same room as my records....distance, of course, would obviate the idea of heat damage but i am concerned about the smoke particulates that will eventually make their way onto the records. for that reason, i would recommend another room for record storage.
that's my story and i'm sticking to it.
...hifitommy
Was wondering this.. A rare 45 i have had for years of the ROLLING STONES.. Somehow now as a small chip.. Thankfully it is before the music starts.. But with a fully automatic turntable afraid to use it due to when the arm drops onto the record.. I know how to repair skips / pops but never came across a chipped record.. Any ideas?? Any products?? Thanks and take care.. Mark..
I've had my RT-85 for close to a year and I listen a few times a week. I'll have to see how it lasts in the long term.
If I had a choice of a new turntable, it would be the Fluance. But for now, I'll stick to my mid-80's Denon DP-62L with an Ortofon MC. As far as the runout grooves on LPs (and for CDs, too), I have found the macro lens on my phone pretty handy. Since it is designed for close up photos, YMMV. Cheers, sir.
I've owned the Ortofon Blue and the Nagaoka 110 and your recommendations are spot on. I preferred the Blue on my system. Couldn't hear the detail in the 110 vs the Blue.
Thank you for an interesting video. I like both these brands of turntables. I think Fluance offers most for the money and I have a very good impression of it. Both brands are good. Have nice day everyone.
So awhile back I bought a Beatles album off of FB. It looked great so when the lady said she had another Beatles album she’d sell me for $10 I said sure. I was in a bit of a hurry so I didn’t check out the second album. When I got home I found that it must’ve been close to some heat source as one edge was bent up (or down depending on the side). I was totally bummed as the rest of the album was clean. After trying to figure out if it was salvageable I decided to throw it in a frame since 1. You would have to skip the first song because of the condition and 2. Only one side would be “playable”. I guess what I’m warning of is to be careful of your vinyl being in any vicinity of a heat source as I’m sure this album had to been placed near one because of the weird bend that it created.
Another thing to be careful of for heat is top shelf in closets. In the early 80's, in my first apartment, that fairly good size. All my records on that top shelf, in the closet. We'll it gets pretty hot here. I lost my 200 plus record collection to warpage. Never did that again. I now have a 2000 plus record collection. They now all share the air conditioning as I do.
Nice video! I have the RT85 from about two years and I'm happy with it. My question: After 1000 hours of using the Ortofon 2M Blue, can I replace it with the next cartridge, 2 M Bronze? (for Black probably not...too expensive to install in on RT85). Thank you!
I have never tried the Bronze, but I hear great things.
I love my debut Carbon Evo - very happy with it.
Can’t comment on the RT-85 (not available in OZ not compatible with our power supply)
I've been eyeing the RT-85, but I'm curious to see if Fluance will be making a new model with an accessible pitch control, or even an actual semi-auto shutoff. The "auto stop" feature it currently has seems to be a little flawed.
I always wondered which table was better, I’ve had some experience with Pro-Ject myself. Where does U-Turn fit into this shoot out, is it in the same league?
Not to mention, Pro-Ject has quite a few upgrade options. Love my EVO! Ditch the felt mat and get the cork/rubber one instead as it is better sounding and cleaner.
I have the pro-ject debut carbon evo with a sumiko moonstone stylus and it's all kinds of awesome. I'm planning on it being my forever turntable.
I have an 85 that I picked up second hand from a guy about a year and a half ago and it's in my main "listening room" and it's a good TT...No issues, no real complaints. And like you, I'm no audiofile, just a music loving tech guy.. However... In my dining room I have my old Dual 604 with a Shure M95 hooked up to my Onkyo Bookshelf stereo and let me tell you.. I love that damn TT. So.. Yeah.. Not sure where I was going with this but that's my story...
Would you better have a Project evo or a Rega 6 turntable
Rega p2 for me. Cartridge upgrade in the future. Glass platter is super smooth.
Hey Frank. I have noticed the ending guitar solo in Comfortable Numb reminds me of Maggot Brain. I don't know if this is a case of Maggot Brain as an influence, a common thread in blues rooting, or just my own crazy idea.
Your thoughts ?
Hi Frank. In terms of cartridges I’m currently using the Audio Technica VM95. Great successor to the AT95 but has the added bonus of being able to interchange stylus types on the same cartridge. I’ve currently got an elliptical stylus fitted but going to upgrade to the micro line soon! Great video. Cheers!
I LOVE my White RT-85. Bang for the buck, you cannot go wrong. As for “warm” sound, that is a personal opinion and comes down to way more than just what the cartridge does. Losing speed is more a belt and dust issue. Appreciate your opinion, but..
Hi really need new bookshelves speakers for my fluance RT85 withfluance Pa10. Recommendations? Should I get a seperate amp to improve speaker sound?
Depends on budget... in the long run I would suggest a separate amp, for sure. I don't have a ton of experience with powered speakers, but I do use some Edifiers which I love. Great value.
@@Channel33RPM appreciate it! Really enjoy you videos
The Carbon Evo has some excellent upgrades. I personally really like the Sumiko Rainier a lot and don't like the 2M Red that comes with the original Carbon. Bought the Rainier for my son's original Carbon and thought it totally transformed it. It seems to be in the Nagaoka vein, if I understand correctly. Personal preference, of course.
I have the RT-85. Love the sound of the Ortofon Blue but I've been having tone arm dropping issues, barely 5 months in. Not sure I'd buy one again.
Might try slight adjustment with Philips screw on tone arm lift, it adjusts tone arm drop and height.
I do have an RT81 and have been thinking about upgrading. But my dilemma is this: I have my dads Technics SL-D20. It does have a few issues and thinking about trying to get it fixed. Just don’t want throw a bunch of money at it and find out I should have just bought a new one.
Frank the Rega planar 1 is also a good table. Good pick on the Project!
The Rega is great! I included it in a video I did late last year on recommended turntables.
@@Channel33RPM
I missed that one ☝️ let me check it out.
Thanks for the video Frank. Very happy with my Audio Technica LP5X with the red ortofon catridge, although I may try the blue soon. Spin cleaner for me based on cost, but my local record shop offers the Vac method for a small fee per record. Keep on spinnin !!
I have had zero problems with Fluance RT82. My only regret is wishing I had originally purchased the Fluance RT85 instead of later upgrading the RT82 into an RT85 (platter and cartridge). If I were ever to replace this turntable, I think I would consider a direct-drive turntable just to try something different.
I'm a little confused. Does the turntable really make that much of a difference to the playing of your records? Or is it the cartridge/stylus? Wouldn't a better quality cartridge/stylus on a lower priced turntable be just as effective as that same cartridge/stylus combo on a higher priced turntable?
not necessarily. a more expensive TT will likely have a better motor (more consistent/accurate speeds), a heavier/better plinth and/or an acrylic platter (reduction of sound artifacts), etc. a better cartridge will help a cheaper TT sound better but not all the way to the level of a more expensive, higher quality unit.
Can the Denon 400 dp compete with these guys?
Alao..can't find the HummingGuru anywhere!
Love my Pro-Ject T1
Interesting video Frank. Good topic!
Thanks!
so many of the youtubers ravin about project debut evo ignore the motor noise,the off-center platter and the high rumble factor. dunno why. couldnt come across it on any review but found plenty of owners complaining about it. aparrently some of these basic deal-breaker design flaws have been there for a while. i traded it in for another debut carbon evo. same problems. found those customer reviews online, and since my $60 BPC sony, except for the cartridge, was outperforming my $600 pro-ject carbon evo gave up and got a rega. realized with that debut evo i as paying $600 for a sumiko ranier, which gets the credit for the good sonics comin out of the pro-ject. traded it in for a rega that worls properly.
I see Funkadelic. Keep the Funk alive
Nice one frank,, Ive matched carts. With arms mostly, ( compliance and mass) but still found many variables within these guide lines to suit my ear,, digging my new T shirt,, 🎃 🎃🎃🎃🎃
Great video.
You said you do have an RT85, how long have you had it and have you had any problems with it? It’s what I plan on buying but watching this video does have me a little nervous. Probably will still do it, I think.
2 years and no major problems. The speed isn't as as steady as it was new. I changed the belt and the issue persists. Still trying to figure that one out.
I may be in the minority, but I lean towards a Sony or Pioneer type from the 70's/80's turntable that's under $100 or under $50. I feel if I buy a 100's or thousands turntable, I'd have to equal that with vinyl and purge some rougher LPs that might cause damage.
I'm with you on this one....picked up a perfect vintage Hitachi PS-48 from 1976 for my spare room....so good was the look and sound that I parted with my Rega 3...no comparison👍🤘
i´M interested getting th Rega Planar P1 or the audio technica at-lpw40wn can anybody help me
I almost bought a Fluance but opted for a Music Hall MMF 1.5 mainly due to electronic pitch control and the 78 rpm feature. Yes it has an AT cart branded as a Melody but I bought an upgrade stylus from LP Gear. Sounds good to me. The turntable itself cost about the same as a Fluance.
I think Music Hall and Project are made in the same factory... or maybe I heard wrong.
I think you`re right. I was reading Music Hall`s web site that their products are manufactured in the Czech Republic.
Hi Frank, I would go with the EVO as it can be upgraded in a number of ways. Better still for more money the EVO Pro or the new EVO Pro S would be better still and can also be upgraded.
£449 for the EVO plus £699 for the Pro and £799 for the Pro S.
I am a member of the Reddit Turntable Group and the American members are always banging on about how the Fluance Turntables are so great. Some of the Fluance are available in the UK, but they don't get much push here.
EVO is great... that model didn't exist when I bought my DC, unfortunately.
@@Channel33RPM Yea, they are forever expanding and never seem to stop. They also have a newer version of the X2 with balanced XLR outputs plus the Vinyl NRS Box S3 which helps decrackke vinyl.
How long will a Project EVO last that's a good question
That I don't know... My Project DC has been going for about 10 years with no issues.
My take on this as a recovering audiophile of 50 years. Pro-Ject table. Hard to beat this OEM for so many. While I don't think much of the platter, the CF arm is better than the (excellent) Fluance. My MMF-7 (Roy Hall design and Pro-Ject built) has been humming along for 15+ years. Budget cart, Nagaoka bests carts at twice the price. I have an MP-150 that I swap out with an AT 0C9XML and Ortofon 2M Black on my Technics SL1200G, and it wants for nothing. _However,_ I'm not sure about their higher end models. I've had 2 MP-300's, 2 different vendors both with left channel issues (yes, I swapped headshell cable and it switched sides). Hmm. As far as cleaners, I've had the first gen Record Doctor, and now have the anniversary issue (better than low-priced version). Chose it over the Pro-Ject cleaner because longevity and _downward_ vacuum. I'm not at all convinced of the HumminGuru's build quality, nor believe it has a proper cavitation process. I think it's a motorized spin-clean with light carbonation. RD also has a track record. Considering my hardware investment and number of LP's, I'll probably spring for a proper ultrasonic cleaner at some point. But the record doctor does a great job - and noticeable!
Greta vid as always. Can you tell me what the vinyl sleeves are that I always see TH-camrs using where you can see the record in the back, i.e. it’s stored outside of the cardboard sleeve?
Vinyl Storage Solutions Dual Pocket Sleeves. Check those out!
I prefer the Hummin Guru over the spin clean myself , spin clean does an ok job but doesn’t get in the grooves that well 🤷🏻♂️
You know where I sit. I bought the Fluance first, as it slays on the spec/feature set, but my Pro-Ject is just the better table, from my experience. I still happily recommend the Fluance for value for money, but the Pro-Ject (after some upgrades) is far better, imho.
I agree with you.
@@Channel33RPM Thanks again, for the advice. Zero regrets.