Technics has introduced its latest addition to the Grand Class series of turntables, the Technics SL-1300G. This new model launched at IFA 2024, is a significant step forward in the company’s long-standing tradition of engineering excellence, aiming to deliver a turntable that combines advanced technology with precise sound reproduction.

The Technics SL-1300G is positioned at the top of Technics' Grand Class series, a range of turntables that caters to audiophiles seeking premium audio experiences. This series is one tier below the company’s elite Reference Class, which includes the high-end SL-1000R turntable priced at $20,000. The SL-1300G represents a more accessible, yet still premium, offering at $3,300.

This model builds on the foundation laid by the SL-1200GR2 (priced at $2,200 at Crutchfield), a popular turntable in the Grand Class series. While the SL-1200GR2 introduced several advancements, including the Delta Sigma Drive (ΔΣ-Drive) motor control, the SL-1300G takes these technologies further to achieve even greater accuracy in sound reproduction.

At the heart of the SL-1300G is the ΔΣ-Drive motor control system, a technology designed to reduce minute vibrations that can interfere with the platter’s rotation. This system leverages pulse-width modulation (PWM) technology to reduce motor harmonics, ensuring smoother and more precise playback.

The direct-drive motor, a hallmark of Technics’ turntables, is coreless and features a twin-rotor construction. This design reduces bearing load and virtually eliminates cogging, a common issue in direct-drive turntables where uneven rotation can degrade sound quality.

The platter itself is a significant improvement over previous models. It features a three-layer construction consisting of a brass top layer, a die-cast aluminum core, and a damping rubber bottom layer. This combination increases the platter's inertial mass, which is crucial for rotational stability.

According to Technics, the SL-1300G’s platter surpasses the rotational stability of the SP-10MK2, a model that has been a staple in broadcast stations for years. The heavy construction not only enhances stability but also contributes to reducing unwanted vibrations, which can distort the sound.

The SL-1300G’s chassis design reflects Technics’ focus on rigidity and vibration dampening. The turntable’s body is constructed from a combination of Bulk Moulding Compound (BMC) and aluminum die-cast materials, similar to those used in the company’s Reference Class models like the SL-1000R.

This two-layered body is designed to resist external vibrations that could affect the turntable’s performance. Additional reinforcing ribs have been added to key areas around the motor and tonearm to further reduce unwanted vibrations.

Supporting the chassis are silicone rubber insulators, which provide excellent vibration dampening and durability. These insulators are designed to ensure that the turntable remains stable even when placed on surfaces that are not entirely level, contributing to the overall sound quality.

One of the main features of the Technics SL-1300G is the attention to detail in its assembly. Each unit undergoes a precision balance adjustment at the factory, using high-precision equipment to ensure that the platter is perfectly balanced. This thorough process minimizes the risk of excess vibrations or noise during operation and should ensure that each turntable performs at its best. Once balanced, these turntables are marked with a “BALANCED” sticker, indicating their readiness for high-fidelity playback.

The SL-1300G also incorporates a high-speed switching power supply, similar to the one used in the flagship SL-1000R. This power supply operates at a frequency above 100 kHz, which helps reduce noise interference that can affect audio playback. It includes a noise detection device and an error amplifier that actively suppresses residual noise, providing clean and consistent power to the turntable’s components.

The tonearm of the SL-1300G maintains Technics’ traditional static-balance universal S-shape, crafted from lightweight and rigid aluminum. This tonearm uses a gimbal suspension system with high-precision bearings, which allows for accurate tracking of record grooves. Each tonearm is manually assembled by skilled artisans in Japan.

For connectivity, the SL-1300G features gold-plated phono terminals that allow for the use of detachable cables. This design choice not only offers flexibility in cable selection but also minimizes the risk of external noise interference. Internal metal shielding further reduces the potential for noise, contributing to a cleaner signal path.

The Technics SL-1300G turntable will be available in October 2024 at the company’s official website and Crutchfield and will cost $3,300.