What To Know
- Assemble the platter and belt by aligning the belt with the motor pulley and placing the platter on top.
- Set the tracking force by rotating the dial on the counterweight to the recommended value for your cartridge.
- Place the turntable on a level surface and use the adjustable feet to ensure the plinth is perfectly level.
Embark on an auditory odyssey with the Fluance RT81 turntable, a symphony of precision engineering and sonic excellence. This guide will meticulously walk you through the process of setting up your RT81, ensuring an optimal listening experience that will tantalize your ears.
1. Unboxing and Assembly
With anticipation, unbox your Fluance RT81 and carefully remove all components. Assemble the platter and belt by aligning the belt with the motor pulley and placing the platter on top.
2. Cartridge Installation
The RT81 comes pre-installed with an Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge. If you wish to use a different cartridge, follow these steps:
- Loosen the headshell screws and remove the cartridge.
- Align the new cartridge with the headshell and carefully tighten the screws.
- Set the tracking force and anti-skating according to the cartridge manufacturer’s specifications.
3. Counterweight and Tracking Force Adjustment
- Slide the counterweight onto the tonearm and rotate it until the tonearm is balanced horizontally.
- Set the tracking force by rotating the dial on the counterweight to the recommended value for your cartridge.
4. Anti-Skating Adjustment
- Adjust the anti-skating force to match the tracking force. This ensures the stylus tracks the record groove accurately.
5. Belt Tension
- Check the belt tension by gently pulling on it. It should have a slight amount of slack but not be too loose.
- Adjust the belt tension by moving the motor assembly slightly.
6. Plinth Leveling
- Place the turntable on a level surface and use the adjustable feet to ensure the plinth is perfectly level.
- This ensures proper record tracking and minimizes vibrations.
7. Connecting to Amplifier
- Connect the turntable’s RCA output cables to the phono input of your amplifier.
- Ensure the grounding wire is connected to the amplifier’s grounding terminal.
8. Stylus Care
- Clean the stylus regularly using a stylus brush or cleaning fluid.
- This extends the stylus life and maintains optimal sound quality.
9. Enjoying the Music
- Place a record on the platter and gently lower the tonearm.
- Press the start button and immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of your vinyl collection.
Troubleshooting Tips
Turntable Not Spinning
- Check if the power is connected properly.
- Ensure the belt is correctly installed and tensioned.
- Contact Fluance customer support for further assistance.
Humming Sound
- Ground the turntable properly by connecting the grounding wire.
- Check the RCA cables for any loose connections.
- Try using a different power outlet.
Skipping or Jumping Records
- Adjust the tracking force and anti-skating settings.
- Check if the record is warped or damaged.
- Clean the stylus and record surface.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
What type of cartridge does the Fluance RT81 use?
The RT81 comes pre-installed with an Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge.
How often should I clean the stylus?
It is recommended to clean the stylus after every 10-15 hours of use.
Can I use the Fluance RT81 with a different amplifier?
Yes, the RT81 can be used with any amplifier that has a phono input.
How do I adjust the belt tension?
Move the motor assembly slightly to adjust the belt tension.
What is the recommended tracking force for the Fluance RT81?
The recommended tracking force for the RT81 with the AT95E cartridge is 2 grams.