Slave To The Lack Of Rhythm

FOR Well built; plenty of useful

AGAINST Timing, dynamics

Sometimes it’s difficult to see how something once so good has gone so badly wrong. Even analysing each particular decision with the benefit of hindsight, pinpointing the one key moment that led to the decline isn’t always straightforward.

The outlook for the Roberts RT100 isn’t quite that bleak, but it is difficult to comprehend quite how such a well armed and generally well built turntable could fall this short of the leading pack.

There is a built-in phono stage, the use of which is optional, and a USB connection for digital conversion. Both of these are features we’re becoming used to at this entry-level price, offering the kind of convenience that suits the market well.

Speed is selected via a push button on the plinth – simply press down for 45rpm or leave up for your albums.

Thoughtful construction

We are impressed by how well the RT100 has been engineered: the main bearing is snug, there’s little give to the tone arm and – a pleasant surprise for an entry-level deck – Roberts has gone to the trouble of decoupling the motor.