Q. I have been reading through your audio equipment recommendations and I like the looks of the Cambridge Audio AXR100 receiver for my Dynaco A-25 speakers and Velodyne subwoofer. For a turntable I was considering the Fluance RT81 or the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB "improved by LP Gear" with the Vessel A3SE cartridge. However, they both have built-in phono preamps, which I wouldn't need, and neither of them has a cueing lever or auto shutoff. The Music Hall Classic is a possibility, but is $698 with the cartridge upgrade, and it has a built-in phono preamp as well. What do you recommend?
—W.T., Minnetonka, Minnesota
A. The Cambridge Audio AXR100 is a solid receiver choice and a good match to your speakers and subwoofer. As for the turntables, the Fluance RT-81 and Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB both have cueing levers, and the RT81 has automatic shutoff to stop the platter from turning at the end of the record. The AT-LP120-USB has been discontinued and the replacement is not as nice as its predecessor, so I recommend you go with the $249.99 Fluance RT81 if your budget is $250. The RT81 really is the class act among $250 turntables these days, and it is remarkable and commendable that Fluance has held the line on the price since its introduction several years ago. The only demerit I give the RT81 is for the tonearm and cuing lever, which lack a substantial feel. The turntable more than makes up for it with its fine sound and the classy-looking walnut wood base, which looks shiny, rich and deep.
