Tom’s Guide Verdict
The Fluance Ri71 are an extremely solid package.
They have a slick look, with those AMT tweeters adding a modern twist to their wooden chassis.
They are positively affordable and given their versatility and style, I think theyre an excellent soundbar alternative.
If you want to listen to music as much as you watch movies, its a no brainer.
Theyre even well-priced compared to other powered speakers.
Audio Engines A5+ cost around the same as well, but they lack the HDMI port.
Beyond the build, the speakers look good too well, to some.
The cabinets themselves are attractive, with three different color options.
I like this walnut option that Ive got here.
Its a high-quality veneer over the MDF cabinet, and it looks and feels great.
Theres some nice subtle shaping as well, rather than just a big wooden cuboid.
Theres also a compact remote control in the box for more granular control.
it’s possible for you to also swap the powered speaker channel between left and right.
The controller is a nice unit.
The rubberized buttons are clicky and positive as well, so youll never wonder if a press registered.
If youre near the speaker, youve got a couple of options as well.
Below that, just above the inputs on the rear of the speaker, youll find two dials.
Those change the bass and treble levels although be careful.
The input is digital, so the dials turn freely.
There is no stopper when you reach the top level.
The final control is a power switch next to the power input socket.
It would be nice if there was some way to control the speaker on my phone, however.
First is the HDMI ARC port, which hooks up to the TV for much better TV audio.
Beyond the HDMI port theres an RCA connector although its not a phono input.
Thats it for the physical connections, but theres also a Bluetooth 5.0 connection that serves wireless duties.
Just remember that thebest iPhonesdont support aptX.
From there you find the speakers in your companion devices tweaks; and youre done.
Then theres the wireless elephant in the room theres no WiFi.
Perhaps this is a feature for a more expensive and more premium model in the line.
Stereo separation is going to be better just by virtue of the two channels being much further apart.
Then theres the size of the drivers.
Soundbars have to fit under a TV, so its much harder to fit decently sized drivers inside.
There are some big benefits to the design of the Ri71 in terms of driver tech as well.
It does add a problem, however.
They can get a little honky at louder volumes.
However, it’s something to watch out for if you like toreallycrank the volume.
Spiritboxs latest, Fara Morgana, brings some irresistible crunch and body to proceedings, with devilishly distorted guitars.
Spiritboxs latest,Fara Morgana,brings some irresistible crunch and body to proceedings, with devilishly distorted guitars.
Its a great, heavy musical experience and it shows some well-judged tuning.
Meanwhile, Highway SuperstarsGentle Breezelulls you into an 80s-themed slumber beneath a pop-art palm tree.
The digital drums are perfectly effective, with that signature thud.
How does it stack up against a soundbar?
Watching the opening scene of “Top Gun Maverick” revealed some excellent detail, and track separation.
Thanks to that excellent musical prowess,Danger Zonewas thick and meaty just how youd want it.
Stereo placement is good as well.
Fluance Ri71 review: Verdict
Theres no amount of soundbar competition at this price.
Thats a solid soundbar for the price, and features surround and a subwoofer in the box.
