Audiophiles know that the best audio is only obtainable from vinyl records. With vinyl records, you can record music in higher quality and CD players just don’t have that option.
That’s why professional musicians and DJs often prefer to work with a vinyl turntable. But the tough part is finding a good turntable in the first place. Yeah, many models of Technics players are called SL, but it so happened that the SL1200 and the Technics SL1300 compare the most, although the SL1300 does not attract as much attention.
About the Technics SL1200
The Technics SL1200 was subject to about 10 modifications throughout its long production process. Although many manufacturers tried to rival this record player, the Technics SL1200 models and the Technics SL1210 models remain the most popular.
The 1200 modern is the reincarnation the Technics legend player, which was the origin of the culture of DJs. One thing was very special about the first 1200 – it had a direct platter drive. This allowed you to change the record however you like.
Analog, more advanced
Technics SL1200 was the first turntable. It was released in 1972. The transport mechanism includes a direct servo motor and an EPA120 tonearm. The Technics SL1200 player came without a tonearm and was also available as the Technics SL1200.
Technics SL1200 is a high-torque player with good feedback resistance. It also features a large torque. The required speed can be achieved after starting from the spot in less than one second.
The Technics SL1200, which is the current model, was made for audiophiles. It costs $800 (for a used version), It has a great sound quality and can be used to play music for DJs. It’s a simple vintage vinyl record player that can be used at home with a good speaker system and an amplifier.
Technics SL1210 is nearly identical to the original model. However, it does have minor differences. This is due to the presence of a voltage selector and the fact that the case is usually black.
Specifications of Technics SL1200:
- Type: Record Player
- Drive method: Direct drive
- Motor: Brushless DC motor
- Control method: Servo
- Playback speed – 33 revolutions per minute (electronic speed switching)
- Tonearm length – 230 mm, tonearm weight – 12 g
- Body and disc materials – aluminum
- Disc weight – 1.7 kg, disc diameter – 330 mm
- Detonation – 0.03% WRMS
- Rumble (rumble): 70 dB
- Tonearm: universal, 220 mm long
- Overhang: 14 mm
- Needle pressure adjustment: from 0 to 4 g
- Dimensions: 453 x 366 x 180 mm
- Weight: 10 kg
There are no advanced technologies in the player like phonocorrection, tone compensation and other unnecessary things. This product is specifically made for people with good taste in music who want to take their listening experience to the next level. People who don’t use EQs, phono-correctors, tone-compensators are missing out on a whole new world of sound.
About the Technics SL1300
Production of the Technics SL1300 vinyl player started in Japan in 1975. It cost approximately $1,200. Based on the SL1200, the SL-1300 vinyl player is similar to that model. Technics SL1300 vinyl players have an automatic control but can also be operated manually.
The record player features a direct drive that is powered by direct current. It also has two rotation speeds, and a quartz stabilization DD disk control system. This system was created during the development of the SP-10mkII flagship model.
Analog, more advanced
Technics SL1300 has a digital indicator to show the speed of rotation. An electronic brake mechanism allows for smooth, without jerks, stopping of the support disc quickly. The obvious benefits of simplifying parts and equipment are not only the most reliable and accurate, but also the most stylish and compact.
The player is mounted on a balanced main chassis that features highly efficient shock absorbers. These absorber provide stability from both internal and external resonances. Cast aluminum is used to make the case for the player. It is resistant to environmental changes.
Specifications of the Technics SL1300:
- Type: Fully automatic Record Player
- Playback mode: Manual, semi-automatic, automatic
- Drive: Direct drive, quartz stabilization
- Motor: Brushless DC motor of low speed
- Rotation speeds of the support disc: 33.3 rpm and 45 rpm
- Speed adjustment: 20%
- Diameter of the support disc: 330 mm, weight: 2.5 kg
- Tonearm: S-shaped, effective tonearm length: 230 mm
- Offset angle: 21.5 degrees, overhanging (protruding): 15 mm
- Detonation: ± 0.035%
- Rumble: -73 dB
- Outputs: RCA
- Power consumption: 13 W
- Width: 453 mm, height: 145 mm, depth: 384 mm
- Weight: 11.8 kg
The Sl-1300 vinyl record player is a home DJ system rather than one for professional use.
Conclusion
If you were to tell me now that I could choose from any model in the SL-1200 line or SL-1300 lines, I would most likely choose the SL-1200 model. While I can see all the advantages to both turntables, the charm and history of the SL-1200 is too tempting for me. The SL-1300’s more affordable price can make it a more realistic choice for many people.
You should also consider replacing parts when talking about vintage turntables. The cost of repairing the SL-1200 could be as high as buying a new turntable. This won’t be a problem with the SL-1300.
FAQ for Technics SL1200 vs SL1300
What are the differences between Technics SL1200 and SL1300?
The Technics SL1200 is a more affordable turntable. The SL1200 is a direct drive turntable, which means that the motor is built into the platter. The SL1200 has a metal body and weighs about 18 kg, which makes it heavier than the SL 1300.
The SL1300 is also a direct drive turntable but it weighs only 8 kg and has an aluminum body with rubber feet to make sure that it doesn’t move around on the table when you are using it.
Which turntable Technics SL1200 or SL1300 is better for DJing?
The Technics SL 1300 has some of the best features in a DJ turntable. It’s expensive, but it’s worth it if you want to invest in your passion for DJing.
What are the advantages of Technics SL1200 vs SL1300?
Technics SL1200 vs SL1300 are two turntables that are manufactured by the Japanese company Technics. They are designed for DJing and have a lot of similarities. The main the advantages the Technics SL1210 has a pitch control, while the Technics SL1300 does not.
How much does a Technics SL1200 cost?
Technics SL1200 is a legendary turntable that has been manufactured by the Japanese company, Technics. It is considered to be the best turntable in the world and it is still being used in many studios and clubs.
The price of a Technics SL1200 depends on where you purchase it from. The price ranges between $1000 to $2000.
How much does a Technics SL1300 cost?
The Technics SL1300 was introduced in 1972 and was the first turntable to feature a direct-drive motor.
It is still considered one of the best turntables on the market today due to its high-quality performance and durability.
A Technics SL1300 costs around $1000.