TECHNICS SL-1300G NEW GENERATION GRAND CLASS TURNTABLE LAUNCHES

Technics has announced the release of its latest turntable, the Technics SL-1300G, which builds on the company’s long-standing tradition of high-quality audio engineering.

TECHNICS SL-1300G TURNTABLE

The new model introduces advanced technologies aimed at achieving precise sound reproduction, with a focus on minimising vibrations and enhancing rotational accuracy. The SL-1300G is designed for audiophiles seeking “a refined listening experience”.

MOTOR

At the core of the SL-1300G is the newly developed ΔΣ-Drive motor drive system, which improves rotational precision and suppresses unwanted vibrations. By leveraging pulse-width modulation (PWM) technology, the ΔΣ-Drive reduces motor harmonics, ensuring a smoother and more accurate playback experience. The use of a coreless direct-drive motor further eliminates cogging, a common issue in turntable motors that can cause uneven rotation. This motor design, combined with a twin-rotor construction, reduces bearing load and minimises vibrations, contributing to enhanced sound quality.

PLATTER

The turntable’s platter features a three-layered construction, comprising brass and aluminium die-cast materials, with a damping rubber layer applied to the entire rear surface to prevent unnecessary resonance. This design increases the platter’s inertial mass, offering rotational stability that surpasses the SP-10MK2, a model widely used in broadcast stations. The SL-1300G’s platter also boasts more than double the inertial mass of Technics’ popular SL-1200MK5.

TECHNICS SL-1300G CHASSIS

In terms of structural design, the SL-1300G uses a high-rigidity chassis, similar to that found in Technics’ Reference Class SL-1000R and SP-10R turntables. A two-layered body construction combining BMC (Bulk Moulding Compound) and aluminium die-cast materials helps to improve rigidity and vibration damping. Additional reinforcing ribs have been added to the motor and tonearm areas to further reduce unwanted vibrations.

BALANCING

One of the key features of the SL-1300G is its precision balance adjustment, which is performed at the factory. Each turntable is individually tested using specialised high-precision equipment to ensure that the platter is perfectly balanced, reducing the risk of excess vibrations or noise during operation. Once balanced, turntables are marked with a “BALANCED” sticker.

POWER SUPPLY

The SL-1300G also incorporates a high-speed switching power supply, designed to provide stable power with reduced ripple and humming. This system, which operates at a frequency above 100 kHz, minimises the impact of noise on audio playback. The power supply features a noise detection device and error amplifier that actively eliminates residual noise, ensuring clean and consistent power delivery to the turntable’s components.

TECHNICS SL-1300G TONEARM

The tonearm, an essential element for accurate tracking of records, retains Technics’ traditional static-balance universal S-shape. Crafted from lightweight and rigid aluminium, the tonearm employs a gimbal suspension system with high-precision bearings. Each tonearm is manually assembled by skilled artisans in Japan, ensuring high sensitivity and precise tracing of record grooves. An auxiliary weight is included to accommodate various pickup cartridges.

VIBRATION CONTROL

To support the chassis, the SL-1300G utilises silicone rubber insulators, which offer strong vibration damping properties and long-lasting durability. The turntable also features gold-plated phono terminals for detachable cables, along with internal metal shielding to minimise external noise interference.

ECO FRIENDLY PACKAGING

In keeping with environmental considerations, Technics has made strides in the packaging design for the SL-1300G. The company has replaced traditional styrene foam cushioning with corrugated cardboard, reducing the use of plastic by approximately 70%. This shift towards eco-friendly packaging materials reflects Technics’ commitment to addressing environmental concerns, such as the reduction of marine plastics.

TECHNICS SL-1300G TURNTABLE SPECS

Turntable Section

Drive Method Direct Drive

Motor Brushless DC motor

Turntable Speeds 33-1/3, 45 and 78* rpm

* The turntable speed will be 78.26 rpm when set to 78 rpm.

Pitch Adjustment Range ±8% and ±16%

Starting Torque 0.32 N・m (3.3kgf・cm) (2.86 lbf-in)

Build-up Characteristics 0.7 s. from standstill to 33- 1/3 rpm

Braking system Electronic brake

Wow and Flutter 0.025%　W.R.M.S.

Turntable Platter Aluminium diecast, Brass and Rubber

Diameter：332mm (13-5/64″)

Weight：Approx. 3.6kg (7-15/16lbs) (Including a rubber sheet)

Tonearm Section

Type Static Balance

Effective Length 230mm

Overhang 15mm

Tracking Error Angle

Within 2° 32’　(at the outer groove of 30cm(12″) record)

Within 0° 32’　(at the inner groove of 30cm(12″) record)

Offset Angle 22°

Arm Height Adjustment Range 0 – 6mm

Stylus Pressure Adjustment Range 0 – 4g (Direct Reading)

Headshell weight Approx. 7.6g

Applicable Cartridge Weight Range (without auxiliary weight) 5.6 – 12.0g 14.3 – 20.7g (including head shell)

(with small auxiliary weight) 10.0 – 16.4g 18.7 – 25.1g (including head shell)

(with big auxiliary weight) 14.3 – 19.8g

23.0 – 28.5g (including head shell)

Cartridge Mounting Dimension 12.7 mm (1/2″) interval

Head Shell Terminal Lug 1.2mmφ 4-pin terminal lug

Terminals

Audio Output

PHONO (Pin Jack) x 1

EARTH TERMINAL x 1

General

Power Supply

AC220-240 V, 50/60 Hz

Power Consumption

For UK

10 W (ON)

0.3 W (OFF)

For other countries

10 W (Power ON)

0.3 W (Power OFF)

Dimensions (W x H x D)

453 x 173 x 372 mm

Weight

Approx. 13.0kg

TECHNICS SL-1300G TURNTABLE PRICE

£2799

HiFi PiG Says: The new Technics SL-1300G confirms the brand’s commitment to audiophiles as well as DJs.