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Technics Turntables - SkyFi Knowledge Base

We understand picking a Technics turntable can be a bit daunting, especially since all their model numbers are only slightly different, and there have been so many versions over the years.

This guide is intended to reduce the time it takes to make a decision. We also highlighted the accessories that are worth the investment, as well as a guide for picking the right phono cartridge.  

Overview of current audiophile models:

SL-1000R  $19,990 - Top dog in the Technics world, separate power supply, 88 lb of solid aluminum.  10" Magnesium Tonearm.

SL-1200G $4,299 - The sweet spot for Technics and possibly the best table under $10k. 9" Magnesium Tonearm, brass top platter and 40 lbs of aluminum.  Also available as SL12010G which is black. 

SL-1200GR2 $2,199 - The one to get if you can't swing the G.  80% as good but substantially better engineered and more technically competent than anything out there.  9" Aluminum Tonearm, Aluminum Die Cast Platter and 20 lb mass.  Also available as SL12010GR2 which is black. 

SL-1300G $3299.99 - Just released, this is the one many audiophiles have been waiting for. Essentially a GR2 but with the upgraded motor and platter from the G.  

SL-1500C $1,299 - Entry level yet very sophisticated and capable.  Built in phono preamp, direct drive motor and included Ortofon Red cartridge which is fine if you're new to the hobby.  Can ben improved greatly with better cartridge. 

Other current models include special editions like the Lamborghini  and DJ models such as the SL-1200MK7 available from pro-audio dealers. 

Early models like the SL-1200MK2 are still cherished by aficionados starting in the late 70s which were produced in huge quantities.  

Featured on all Technics models:

  • Direct Drive Motor Technology. No silly belts that fail over time.
  • Removable Head Shells. Allows quick replacement and interchange of cartridges. 
  • Legendary "S" Style Tonearms, super robust and easy to setup. 

None of the above tables include a cartridge except for the SL1500C.  You will need a preamp or integrated amp capable of phono input.  Most can support MM (Moving Magnet) cartridges and higher end ones can also support MC (Moving Coil).  If yours system does not support phono you can just ad a dedicated phono preamp. 

Purchasing:

To get started simply pick a model that is in your price range and go to the appropriate listing out our website where you will be presented with recommended cartridge options and calibration methods.  

Due to high demand and huge success of these tables, some models often go into backorder, specially the SL1200G and sometimes the GR2.  To get one you simply purchase a configuration and we reserve one for you out of our allocation, typically not more than a few months away.  SL-1000R are made to order with a 6 month lead-time but we usually stock one or two. 

These backlogs are nation wide so chances are if we dont have one in stock, nobody does.  We pre-order big quantities from Technics to stay ahead of it but there is a manufacturing capacity limit. 

OUR FAVORITE VIDEOS

Review of the SL-1200G - Our Pick

Review of the SL-1200GR2 and Comparison to the SL-1200G

The SL-1000R

The Budget Friendly SL-1500C (Available in Black, Silver, and White)

 Vibration Torturing the SL-1200G and SL-1500C

Testing a $17,500 Cartridge on a $1300 SL-1500C (!!)

Making of the SL-1200G

SkyFi Custom Plinth Video:

 The Super Rare SL-1200GLD

 Final Setup Instructions - if you purchased from us:

 How to Install the Little Fwend Automatic Tonearm Lifter:

How to Pick a Sumiko Phono Cartridge:

OUR FAVORITE ACCESSORIES

Recommended Audio Cable for ALL Technics 'tables - Kimber TAK-CU:

 

Recommended Power Cable - Kimber PK-14:

 

Little Fwend Automatic Tonearm Lifter

Additional Technics OEM Headshell:

Best Cartridges for the SL-1200G:

Best Cartridges for SL-1200GR2:

Best Cartridges for the SL-1500C

Best Cartridges for the SL-1000R:

Best Mono Cartridge for all of the above:

 

CALIBRATION

There are 2 cartridge mounting options available from SkyFi.

1.  "Basic Mounting and Instructions $0". For those that either dont want a cartridge or want basic installation.  We will install cartridge on the head shell, make basic adjustment to the combo and provide instructions how to easily complete the process.  This can be one of our cartridges or one supplied by the customer.

2. "12 Step Premium installation $390".  A highly detailed and refined process done in our specialized jig, taking 12 steps to precisely calibrate the cartridge which is purchased from us or supplied by the customer. 

 

 12 Step Premium Calibration

  • Fully unpack, assemble and calibrate on your turntable.  
  • Mount and calibrate cartridge taking into account:
    •  Head shell selection for optimal compliance
    • Mat thickness
    • Calibration method including Bearwald, Stevenson or Loefgren most suited for your record collection.
  • Inspect and photograph stylus using our high power microscope and provide pictures

Steps:

  1. Level Turntable 
  2. Test 33, 45 and 78 RPM to ensure within spec
  3. Set OVERHANG using Feickert protractor and gauge
  4. Set exact TRACKING FORCE with digital gauge
  5. Set VTA with gauge block or digital microscope. Set lifter height.
  6. Set ZENITH using Feickert protractor or WallyTractor
  7. Test for channel orientation L/R using test record
  8. Test for proper phasing using test record
  9. Set Anti-Skate
  10. Set Azimuth using Fozgometer or UPL Analyzer
  11. Confirm TRACKABILITY with test record torture tracks. Provide photo of scope readout.
  12. Measure and record compliance and adjust head shell mass as needed. 

Turntable will ship with head shell and counter weight removed.  We will provide a digital scale to set tracking force along with instructions.  Total setup time should be no more than 15 minutes on arrival.  See video link above. 

We will also provide a printout detailed results, recommended specs and pictures.

CALIBRATION TEST RIG

SOME OF THE TOOLS USED

Leveling the Turntable

 SETTING THE MACHINE LEVEL

 

CONFIRMING SPEEDS

SETTING THE APPROPRIATE RECORD HEIGHT BEFORE VTA

CALCULATING TOTAL SYSTEM WEIGHT

FORMULA FOR CALCULATING COMPLIANCE

INSPECTING AND DOCUMENTING CARTRIDGE HEALTH

 

 SETTING THE OVERHANG WITH FEICKERT

SETTING THE TRACKING FORCE

SETTING THE VTA (VISUAL VERSION)

MEASURING STYLUS RAKE ANGLE

ADJUSTING THE ZENITH 

TESTING AZIMUTH WITHT FOZGOMETER

UPL ANALYZER USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH FOZGOMETER TO MAXIMIZE STEREO SEPARATION 

TESTING TRACKING ABILITY

TEST RIG IN ACTION

DOCUMENTATION FOR CLIENT

CRITICAL LISTENING FOR L/R, PHASING AND QUALITY

SECURING THE HEAD SHELL FOR SHIPPING

CARFULL PACKING AND INSTRUCTIONS

CARFULL PACKING AND INSTRUCTIONS 

 NOTABLE 3RD PARTY REVIEWS

SL-1200G by Stereophile - Class A Recommended 2023

SL-1200GR2 By Analogue Planet

SL-1500C by WhatHiFI

SL-1000R by Absolute Sound

 

Phono Preamps to Consider 

ENTRY LEVEL - Project Phono Box DS3 $499

GREAT VALUE - ProJect Tube Box DS3 $1099

AMERICAN MADE - McIntosh MP100 $2000

BEST AND MOST FLEXIBLE - MoFi Masterphono $5995

We also stock a bunch of pre-owned phono preamps HERE