Introduction to Technics

Technics launched in 1965 as a brand for high-end loudspeakers. With the international sales of direct-drive turntables, the brand grew more popular. Shuichi Obata, an engineer at Matsushita (now Panasonic), invented the first direct-drive turntable. Matsushita released Obata's invention as the SP-10, the first professional direct-drive turntable, in 1969.

It got rid of belts in favour of a motor that drove the platter on which the record is placed. Direct drive turntables are a huge improvement over earlier belt-drive turntables, which aren't suited for turntablism since they have a slow pace start-up time and are prone to wear and tear and breakage due to the belt breaking from backspinning or scratching.

The brand discontinued in 2010, but revived shortly after in late 2014, mostly in response to rising market interest in high-end hi-fi and vinyl. The company came back with a line of amplifiers, speakers and mini hi-fi systems, but no turntables. Technics launched the SL-1200 G turntable on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the SL-1200.

In this guide, we'll be looking at: 

• Technics SL-1200MK7
• Technics SL-1200GR
• Technics SL-1200G
• Technics SL-1500C

Technics Turntable Range

Technics SL-1200MK7

The Technics SL-1200MK7 is a direct drive turntable designed for professional use, representing a new pinnacle in precision performance. 

What sets it apart is the coreless direct drive motor. This innovation retains the rotational accuracy and high torque characteristic of traditional direct drive motors, while effectively eliminating the root cause of cogging, which often leads to speed variations due to motor impulses. 

Every component of the SL-1200MK7 is engineered to optimize sonic performance, notably the S-shaped aluminum tonearm and the gimbal suspension system, both designed to enhance sound quality. The 2-layer platter incorporates advanced vibration dampening for improved audio fidelity. It offers the flexibility to fine-tune starting torque and brake speed, allowing for a fully customized performance experience.

Technical Specifications :

• Speeds: 33, 45, 78
• Pitch Control: ±8%, ±16%
• Torque: 1.8kg/cm
• Wow And Flutter: 0.025 %　W.R.M.S.
• Weight: 9.6 kg

Technics SL-1200GR

The Technics SL-1200GR, while being a record player, is the more budget-friendly option among the two SL-1200 models available.

While it is considered a 'simplified' version compared to the 1200G, "simplified" in Technics' terms equals a product that is impressively over-engineered rather than just being run-of-the-mill.

The defining feature of the 1200GR, which remains consistent with the original design, is the direct connection of the motor to the platter, eliminating the need for a belt drive and ensuring precise rotation at the required speed.

The construction of the 1200GR comprises a chassis crafted from BMC, complemented by an aluminum top section. While this aluminum section is cast, it retains a reassuringly solid feel. The S-shaped aluminum tonearm features a convenient detachable headshell system, simplifying cartridge changes.

On the right side of the turntable, you'll find a pitch slider along with a reset button for quick adjustments to zero. And on the left is a strobe light, which provides an at-a-glance reference for the turntable's rotational speed, as indicated by dots along its edge.

Two factors contribute to the SL-1200GR's exceptional performance. Firstly, it excels in pitch stability, maintaining a rock-solid consistency in platter rotation speed akin to digital precision. Secondly, it distinguishes itself with its sensational bass quality, characterized not by excessive volume but by a level of control, depth, and definition in the low-frequency range that surpasses many other devices, rendering them vague and insubstantial by comparison.

This turntable also impressively handles a broad range of music genres, from rock's raw power to the subtleties of acoustic and the most delicate vocal performances.

Technical Specifications :

• Speeds: 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm
• Pitch Control: ±8%, ±16%
• Torque: 2.2 kg/cm
• Wow And Flutter: 0.025 % W.R.M.S.
• Rumble:78 dB (IEC 98A weighted)
• Weight: 9.6 kg

Technics SL-1200G

The Technics SL-1200G made its debut in 2016, closely resembling the SL-1200GAE in both design and price point. However, it's important to note that this release marked a significant departure from the older 'table model, catering primarily to audiophiles rather than DJs.

One of the standout features of the SL-1200G is its coreless motor, which effectively eliminates cogging. This innovation ensures a more consistent and precise rotation.

In terms of construction, the tonearm of the SL-1200G is crafted from lightweight magnesium, for enhanced damping effects compared to the aluminum used in the standard model. Additionally, the traditional Technics gimbal suspension construction is employed to achieve high sensitivity in reproducing sound.

The rear panel of the SL-1200G is equipped with two RCA jacks, a ground lug, and an IEC connector. Notably, this deck introduces detachable, gold-plated phono audio cables and ground terminals, a departure from older Technics turntables that featured hard-wired cabling. This update simplifies cable replacement, addressing a previous inconvenience.

What truly sets the SL-1200G apart is its musicality. It excels in delivering a sweeter, smoother tonality, particularly in the midband. Additionally, it offers superior soundstaging and depth perspective compared to the previous generation model. These improvements collectively work to rectify the shortcomings of its predecessor, making it a noteworthy choice even when compared to more expensive superdecks. 

Technical Specifications :

• Speeds: 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm
• Pitch Control: ±8%, ±16%
• Torque: 3.3 kg/cm
• Wow And Flutter: 0.025% W.R.M.S. (JIS C5521)
• Rumble:78dB (IEC 98A Weighted)
• Weight: 18 kg

Technics SL-1500C

The Technics SL-1500C may appear unassuming at first glance, but beneath its simple exterior lies some pretty impressive technology. Notable features include a newly designed coreless direct-drive motor, a standout selling point, as well as a built-in phono stage and a robust tonearm.

The turntable shares a chassis size and shape reminiscent of the SL-1200 Series, albeit without the strobe or the sliding-pitch fader for speed adjustments. The tactile feedback from its buttons is satisfying, and the platter exhibits swift start and stop functions. The unit's shiny aluminum top plate rests atop a matte black body composed of ABS mixed with fiberglass, a construction choice aimed at enhancing rigidity, as asserted by Technics.

The adjustable feet also contribute to isolation quality. The tonearm mirrors the S-shape model found in the 1200 Series, offering adjustable height and an additional counterweight for compatibility with heavier cartridges and headshells.

On the rear panel, there is a switch to disable the auto tonearm lift feature, two sets of RCAs, and a switch to alternate between the built-in phono preamp and a direct phono-level output. While the phono stage is primarily intended for use with moving magnet cartridges, it should function effectively with high output moving coil cartridges should you decide to upgrade.

When it comes to audio performance, the SL-1500C impresses with its clean and precise presentation. It excels in delineating the leading and trailing edges of musical notes with remarkable precision. Furthermore, the turntable handles dynamic shifts with finesse, effortlessly accommodating both moments of intense crescendos and quieter, more nuanced passages.

Technical Specifications :

• Speeds: 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm
• Torque: 1.8 kg･cm
• Wow And Flutter: 0.025 % W.R.M.S.
• Weight: 9.9 kg