Technics SL-1300G: the new luxury turntable for just under 3000 €

09 Sep by Marcus Schmahl |

3,4 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 3 Minutes

Technics SL-1300G is the new hi-fi turntable from Technics. · Source: Technics

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Technics SL-1300G is the name of a new turntable that is aimed more at the vinyl-obsessed hi-fi fan than the DJ. The turntable is the new luxury model from Technics, which is reflected in both the technology and the price.

Technics SL-1300G is the new high-end turntable for vinyl fans

The new Technics SL-1300G aims to be the new ‘de facto standard for grand class hi-fi turntables’ and offers brand new technology. This includes ΔΣ drive technology, which was first introduced in the SL-1200GR2. It promises to eliminate even the slightest motor vibration and uses PWM signal generation with delta-sigma modulation, as used in Technics’ all-digital amplifiers. You don’t need to understand this in detail, but in a casual conversation with other vinyl lovers, this kind of information can get you off the hook.

The Technics SL-1300G doesn’t just rely on this, however, but also brings two other concepts into play. The new turntable’s motor is an iron coreless motor with a double rotor/single stator and delivers a higher drive force than simpler variants. According to Technics, this results in even smoother running.

SL-1300G black · Source: Technics
SL-1300G silver · Source: Technics

Work has also been made to improve the vibration characteristics of the drive unit. On the turntable, this is achieved by a new reinforcement for the motor’s coil carrier board. The result is less mechanical vibration during rotation.

But that’s not all: the more powerful motor also comes with a more solid platter. This also ensures that mechanical vibrations are reduced when playing records. Three layers are used: die-cast aluminium forms the base, followed by a layer of 2 mm brass, and finally heavy rubber under the platter.

SL-1300G black · Source: Technics
SL-1300G silver · Source: Technics
Technics SL-1300G · Source: Technics

In the new turntable, an optical encoder takes care of speed detection for the rotation control system – resulting in high speed precision. The power supply is also new and inspired by the SL-1000R. It combines a multi-stage silent power supply with a noise suppression circuit.

And more technical details

Are you still with me? OK, then you’re a high-end geek, and now you’re going to get some more information.

The chassis is made from two layers of die-cast aluminium and BMC (Bulk Moulding Compound). This makes it very resistant to vibration. In the Technics SL-1300G, the thickness of the lower chassis has been increased; this greater ‘rigidity’ also ensures improved vibration damping. A newly developed ribbed structure between the motor and tonearm keeps motor vibrations away from the tonearm.

The chassis has been completely reworked. · Source: Technics
The connections of the Technics · Source: Technics

Despite all this innovation, the Technics SL-1300G remains traditional in one respect: the aluminium tonearm is still S-shaped and benefits from all the optimised features. Damping feet also protect against external vibrations.

Frank Balzuweit, Senior Product Manager at Technics Europe, is of course enthusiastic about the new Technics turntable:

“By using this groundbreaking drive technology, called ΔΣ-Drive, in combination with a sophisticated iron coreless motor, we were extremely impressed with the sonic impact of such a strategy during our development process. The elimination of tiny motor vibrations and the sonic benefits of ΔΣ-Drive technology are proof that we have found the ultimate motor control technology, the benefits of which can be transferred to our large turntable models for the ultimate analogue vinyl experience. The SL-1300G is our latest coup, proving that Technics’ expertise in turntables is truly unique.”