Technics SL-1350 Semi-Automatic Turntable with New Sumiko Cartridge

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General:
This Technics SL-1350 is a nice alternative for those that like the SL-1200 but need semi automatic operation. It actually shares some components with the SL-1200.

If you have a history of breaking cartridges or have shaky hands, this model will ease your concerns. It has the ability to autoplay and repeat a record up to 5 times. There's also a knob that lets you select how many times you'd like, and a slider that starts the playing automatically.

The SL-1350 is nicely built and super reliable as it only needed cleaning and calibration when it arrived despite its age. It's a direct-drive unit meaning there are no belts or gears that wear out. It uses a direct motor that spins the platter.

We fitted a brand new Sumiko Moonstone MM (Moving-Magnet) cartridge, a perfect match for this price range and calibrated it so it tracks perfectly.

The design and construction robustness allows us to ship this 'table assembled and ready to play with just 5 minutes worth of unpacking.

Condition is good with some signs of use including light blemishes to corners. There is a cover without hinges included. We don't recommend playing a record with a cover in place so it should not be an issue.

The owner's manual is also included along with a technics branded headshell. 

It's always a good sign when a product appears on The Vintage Knob website! Click here to view some history on this 'table on their site

Brand Background:
At Technics we understand that the listening experience is not purely about technology but the magical and emotional relationship between people and music. We want people to experience music as it was originally intended and enable them to feel the emotional impact that enthuses and delights them. With a combination of our love of music and the vast high-end audio experience of the Technics team, we stand committed to building a brand that provides the ultimate emotive musical experience by music lovers, for music lovers.

Ownership:
Unknown

Connections:
RCA cables with ground, captive power cord.

General Sound:
Neutral sound with little to no coloration

Cosmetic Condition:
7/10 = Good. One or two minor scratches. Well Maintained.. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:
Exactly as pictured and described above.

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.Specs:
Type
Direct Drive auto-changer Turntable

Turntable
33cm Aluminum Die-cast

Motor
Ultra-low speed electronic commutator motor

Number of revolutions
33-1/3, 45 RPM

Rotational frequency switching system
Electronic control system

Rotational speed adjustment range
10%, each rotation speed independently adjustable

Wow flutter
0.04% (W. R. M.S., JIS / C5221)

Signal-to-noise ratio
58 dB (IEC179B)
70 dB (DIN45539B)

Bootup
Normal operation at 1/2 rotation (33 1/3 RPM)

Tonearm
Universal S-shaped Pipe Arm

Needle Pressure
Direct Reading Type
Static Balance Type

Gimbal suspension system
Anti-skating force control device With Oil Dump Type Queuing

Needle pressure adjustment range
0 ~ 3g

Cartridge Weight
5g ~ 11g

Dimensions:
Width 17.83" (453mm) Height 7.83" (199mm) Depth 14.41" (366mm)

Weight:
20 lbs.

Approximate Age:
1980

Testing Process:

First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings.  We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range.  There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum.  We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure.  On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then asses the platter speed by using one of several methods, the most accuse is a playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency out put with a frequency counter or oscilloscope.  We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure its within spec.  We do this for all speeds available for that particular model.  Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on table drive design.  Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment.  We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure its properly lubricated keeping in mind that some don't require lubrication at all.

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism, replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change and low mechanical noise.

When fitting a new cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the arm design.  We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:

• Pivot to spindle adjustment

• Tracing force

• Anti-skate

• Tonearm height

• Lifter height

• VTA

• Azimuth

• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.