Technics SL-1300G Turntable Review
Technics continues its turntable offensive. The new SL-1300G has a subtle appearance, leaning more towards sophistication rather than flashiness, but it excels in technology, mechanics, and sound quality.
Since its relaunch in 2016, Technics’ turntable lineup has significantly expanded to six models priced between $1,000 and $21,000, neatly segmented. The core concept, almost legendary, remains consistent: a newly developed coreless direct drive mounted in a composite housing, digitally controlled, drives a low-resonance platter. This is paired with an S-shaped tonearm with a detachable headshell and adjustable height. The difference lies in the level of effort put into each model.
The latest addition to this iconic lineup is the SL-1300G, available in silver or black, without a cartridge but always including a dust cover. This model sits between the SL-1200GR2, introduced about a year ago for approximately $2,000, and the SL-1200G, priced at nearly $4,500. The limited GAE version of the latter marked the brand’s analog resurgence eight years ago.
“HiFi Design” Sets the Tone
Unlike its DJ-styled siblings, the SL-1300G belongs to Technics’ “Grand Class” lineup and features a refined “HiFi Design.” The iconic strobe markings and the 50Hz blue light on the platter’s edge are absent. It forgoes a pitch adjustment slider on the right, requiring neither markings nor a prominent power switch, replaced by a flush-mounted button on the thick aluminum top plate. Without a pop-up light for dim discos, it embraces simplicity. Even the single puck recess is omitted. From the minimalist “Technics” logo to the understated chassis, the SL-1300G exudes refined elegance while avoiding flashy “tech bling.”
IN THE REALM OF TECHNICS TURNTABLES, THE SL-1300G HAS A DISTINCT POSITION.
However, it retains the large start/stop button on the left, which quickly starts or stops the 3.6 kg platter. Two smaller buttons allow speed selection. Pressing them together enables a 78 RPM mode for shellac records.
The SL-1300G is aimed at purist vinyl enthusiasts who prefer playing records over tinkering with their turntable. To ensure excellent performance, it features a 2mm brass plate atop a three-layer platter that includes an aluminum base and a dampening rubber layer. A “Balanced” sticker confirms its precise calibration. The dual-layer chassis combines an aluminum die-cast top and a reinforced plastic base made from glass fiber-reinforced BMC.
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Second Turntable of Its Generation
The core of the SL-1300G is its direct drive system, a technology refined by Technics over decades. Currently, only two models represent the fourth generation of Technics’ direct-drive systems launched in 2023: the SL-1200GR2 and the SL-1300G.
The SL-1300G features a heavier, more stable platter and a dual-rotor drive with higher torque. The enhanced precision is attributed to improved control systems, including the “Delta-Sigma Drive,” which minimizes motor signal distortion using precise digital timing and a noise-reducing power supply. Together, these technologies reduce vibrations and enhance sound quality.
The SL-1300G is a turntable designed for serious audiophiles. Its design prioritizes precision, simplicity, and sound quality, offering a compelling upgrade over the SL-1200GR2 for those who value refined performance.
TECHNICS SL-1300G Specs
- Product Type / Price Range: Turntable / $1,500 to $3,000
- Website: www.technics.com
- Dimensions (W x H x D in cm): 45.5 x 17.5 x 37
- Weight (kg): 13
- Distributor / Contact Number: Panasonic Marketing Europe / +49 40 85490
- Turntable Type / Drive System: Manual, Direct Drive
- Bluetooth / Connections: No / RCA
- Integrated Phono Preamp / Cartridge Included: No / No
Performance (60%)
- Sound Quality: Very Good (9.8/10)
- Explicitly defined and cohesive sound with smooth timing
Measurements (15%)
- Rumble: Very Low
- Speed Deviation (%): Very Low (0.06%)
- Score: Very Good (9.8/10)
Features (10%)
- Dust Cover Included: Yes
- Build Quality: Very Clean
- Replaceable Tonearm Cable: Yes
- Speeds (RPM): 33, 45, 78
- Speed Fine Adjustment / Automatic Regulation: Yes, very precise, automatic digital control
- Foot Vibration Dampening: Yes
- Overall Features Score: Very Good (9.7/10)
Operation & Handling (10%)
- Speed Selection: Very Easy (via buttons)
- Manual Quality: Very Good, richly illustrated
- Plug and Play: No
- Adjustable Settings: Tonearm Height, Foot Height
- Removable Headshell: Yes
- Overall Handling Score: Good (8.9/10)
Service & Environmental Factors (5%)
- Warranty (Years): 2
- Packaging: Innovative, secure cardboard-based packaging
- Power Consumption (Standby / Idle in Watts): Very Low (5.8)
- Hard Power Switch: No
- Overall Service Score: Satisfactory (7.3/10)
Verdict
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