$15.00 pandemic era Technics SL-1500 yard sale pick up here. I had it serviced and replaced the RCA cables and ground wire with new because the originals were damaged in a fire, some caps were also replaced. It works 100% today.
Picked up a SL-1600 for $50 at an estate sale last year primarily because it had a grado f3 cart, I was going to put it on my sl-1200 but I plugged it in and hooked it up to my marantz 2275 and it’s been there ever since the automatic start and stop still works flawlessly
I’ve had a few 1980s Technics, regretted selling them. I now own 2 Technics 1200s MK2 purchased brand new in 1999 & they are like brand new today, still have the original boxes with the manuals still in the envelopes, the rubber platter mats are still in the paper unused, complete with the extra weights for the back of the tonearm & the stylus hangover tools. Bulletproof turntables.
I LOVE the 1200 MKII It took me YEARS of hunting to find one, got it a a estate sale for $18 3 years ago it run performs great but 2 of the resistors get pretty hot and I am trying to track down the cause, they seem to be a common fail points because MOST of the 1200's I see online have a Bubble under the Platter on the plastic dust cover in THE SAME SPOT but NONE of the techs online EVER talk about what cause that failure gotta protect that revenue I guess
For those of you possibly looking at a new Technics, I bought an SL-1210 GR for about $450 off due to the GR2 coming out! If you see one in stock at a reputable online dealer, it doesn’t hurt to ask. I bought the second to last one at Sweetwater.
Fun video. I still have the SL-D2 bought new in 1980 and it's still in excellent conditions, even the matt is in great shape. The only issue is one hinge of the dust cover that has weakened and that prevents it from staying open on its own. The speed is accurate and it's never been serviced. It is a great table and built to last and even the specs are great. Plenty on eBay although prices are creeping up.
I still have my SL-1210 MK2 with the dust cover and everything, the box and manual. It works like new. I have an automatic SL-D2 for my room so I can fall asleep on my favourite record.
I recently grabbed my SL1950 from my parents house. I bought it brand new back in '78, and has not been used since the early 80's when I upgraded to a linn lp12. The cue lever was locked tight, the hinges busted, and the cartridge smashed. I removed the tone arm and cleaned the cue and applied the proper silicone grease. Recapped the control board with a kit from ebay. Lubed the main bearing with special oil. Replaced the cartridge and set it up using a printed chart off the net. Replaced the hinges, and polished the dust cover. It works just like new! Thing is, it's a real pain to play records compared to streaming. I have played maybe 15 records out of my collection of 300. Now it's sits here collecting dust. oh well
I bought a Technics SL1800 MK2 last year at an estate sale. Came with the Stanton 681EEE-S cartridge. Sounds amazing. It is similar to the 1200 MK2 but sits on a suspended chases.
I've only owned 2 turntables in my life, both were Technics, my first was a SL 220 in 1978.. never had an issue with either of them, except for replacing the rubber belt which ages out.. I think the only issue with the stackable turntable you demonstrated was it probably wasn't used for a long time, so like lots of these Technics turntables, the best thing you can do is use them often
I have a 1977 Technich SL-1710 as with a new elips Tonar Element/Cardrige/Needle but my daily driver is my 1974 Aristona 1312(Philips 312) with a new elips Tonar Element/Cardrige/Needle. The Technish has an after market light atached to the dust cover on the left side, probably for when the lights are down when people are in a romantic mood back in the day.
I’ve been running a 1978 Kenwood KD-500 for years and love it. Threw a Sumiko Moonstone on a Grace G-840 tonearms. The setup has been solid and sounds great. Funny thing how much they pulled from Technics.
I am an owner of a Technics SL-D202 that I bought new back in 1982 from Pacific Stereo. How do you rate this turntable? It's in perfect condition as I have taken very good care for it over the years.
Original owner of a SL 1100a/Shure V15 lll combo purchased in 1975 new for $350. Played extensively from date of purchase until mid 80’s when cassette/CD pushed it into the closet. Resurrected February this year as nostalgia kicked in and I rebuilt my two channel system…fired it up after close to four decades; ( after a couple of drops of long overdue oil that was stored under the platter from the factory) Runs as well and sounds as good as the day I pulled it from the box in 1975. When upgrade time comes, 1200 g for me. It’ll be worth every penny I blow on it. Technics TTs for life.
I have three technics changers. When playing lps , you have to be aware of the weight of the record, if it is to heavy it won’t drop it. I have a SL-d5, SL-3350 and SL-1950 ,
I must admit to tossing my SL-D2 in the dumpster back in the late 80s. Rather than giving up on my vinyl like nearly all of my friends had, I doubled down by purchasing a Linn table. Sadly, I literally couldn’t give my Technics away (others looked at me as if I was offering them a scratched copy of Tall Cool One). I consoled myself by purchasing plenty of cheap vinyl over the next few decades.
I have a 1989 Technics 1200mkll that sat in a garage in Phoenix for 10 years, mat ok as long as I've had it. I think the mat rot is a late 70's early 80's thing. Also have a 1950 that I serviced myself. I'll trust it with 3 records but not 6. Keep that 1950, really fun.
Great Sunday watch, it really is hard to beat the older Technics. Ill always buy a cheap Technics when I have the opportunity. Lets chip in and get Eric a soldering iron jk!
Still very happy with my SL-7, but recently I've purchased an Akai AP-306. Of course it's not a Technics but I think these Akai 's are quite underrated.
The sl-1950 is a great sounding table even if they only play one record at a time they are still worth it. I could never line up the mechanisms to have the Changer work and felt stoked that the auto return function worked. Maybe I'd have better luck now this was years ago
Great info.. How about Technics linier tracking recommendations, and pitfalls. So cool with discman capabilities. I carefully packed to move a few+ turntables, but under thought the great conditioned cover hinges. The gamble of storing/keeping classics.
A couple months ago I answered a a "neighborhood market place " ad on Facebook... for an sl B500 and 25 decent lp's for 180.00 he said it hums but the platter won't turn.... it came with all the extra spindles and changers " in the original bag sealed " and looked fresh out of the box...... one new belt later and she was good to go!!!! Only after did I find out how scarce the 45 changer was... I had only been concerned about the lp's at the time ended up with a " bonus ".... lol
Great video, I have been looking for a decent SL-D3 or D5 for a while now. Currently trying to fix my Optonica RP-5100 but cannot find a service manual or schematic - if you can help that would be fantastic.
Another thing I'd caution a potential buyer about is any of the Frequency Generator Servo line of turntables. These use a special 8-pin IC to set the motor speed, and they're getting pretty old now, and have become failure prone. When the IC fails, the motor can't set it's speed, so it doesn't run. I made the mistake of buying one on Facebook and doing a public meetup where I couldn't test it. Sure enough, I got it home and it didn't work. Unfortunately, no replacements are available, so these tables are becoming orphaned. This includes the SL-220 mentioned in this video. I think that's why the prices on this line of Technics turntables are dropping so quickly. Fortunately, it's easy to tell if a particular table has this tech as it will say Frequency Generator Servo right on the front, so it's easy to avoid them.
Thanks Kevin for another great video I have a pair of SL D2 technics tables love them very dependable...I even have one with unbroken cover the other does not have cover at all but I have a cloth cover on it
If you end up working on those Technics changers, it would be nice to have a follow-up on those or even like a vlog format I have never seen those in the wild. I've seen a bunch of other changers but not Technics I do think nowadays that Technics products (not just the TTs) come with a bit of a tax just like the Marantz tax My first Technics was a linear tracking one (SL-QL5), literally new in the box, people bought but then never get to use it. Now, I have a SL-Q303 and a SL-Q2 that needs a little bit of love (mostly cosmetics) Speaking of the dust covers hinges, one issue to add: something the part on the turntable that holds the hinge gets stuck and it will break the tab right away. It happened to my Q303. So, take the cover off, and try to work those parts to before opening the cover normally. It might save the hinge tabs. Also, not uncommon, sometimes the tonearm lock tab is broken. luckily, it's easy to replace and inexpensive Also, quick question regarding grease and oil 1. if the grease has dried up in the mechanism, what grease to you recommend? or it's not important any would do? 2. oil for DD motor, they say you need to put some special oil in the spindle every year or so to maintain the motor. they say you need a special oil for this, and KAD (who is specialized in SL-1200) sells one but it's a bit pricey. Can you use a fine oil just like a sewing machine oil? Thank you.
Trivia: Does the sl-3300 have those screws on the board to correct pitch that’s drifted over time. I’m a newb. I did solder in some new rca connectors on the turntable. Thats big for a guy like me. The discord. That’s probably where I should ask this type of question, but if anyone knows if I can get the thing spinning right without a lot of trouble. Thanks in advance
Technics had a lot of good machines! Used Technics, if in good shape, is an OK place to start spinning vinyl, IF you are a DIY person, or buy at a reputable shop with warranty/exchange policies and repair capability! There is a catch: My friend Peter from Turntable Treasures has a whole stash of linear trackers from many makers, mostly Technics. He usually does NOT sell them. Linear trackers are now unicorns, no longer made for good reasons He hates them, because they eventually break, or come in broken, and they can be nearly impossible to fix, with parts no longer made. A linear tracker going bonkers can really ruin a record, so general advise should be to avoid them. NEXT: I have a collection of "Dual" turntables, and know how to fix them. Some replies mention a "Duel". There is no such thing, and there is also no pistol or sword "duel" happening here!! The name is "Dual" and is pronounced "doo-ahl". Got it? I have a collection of Dual belters, and love the sound I get from them. Unlike others, I far prefer Dual's (doo-ahl, got it?) vintage belters over rimmers, because the rim-drive pucks wear down and are expensive to replace! Dual rimmers also had special plastic pieces for the automatic functions (they were all autos), that wear down. Once worn out of tolerance, or even cracked into little shards, these parts are a lost case and make the whole machine unuseable. Anywho, if you need a new rim-drive puck, when yours is slipping, the ONLY place on this planet I know of to get them is here: audiovault.ca/shop/ and no, I have no relationship to them.
I bought this Technics SL-B2 on marketplace for $95 with the original dust cover and unbroken hinges. There were numerous scratches on the acrylic, but after 3+ hours polishing it with a rotary buffer it looks fresh off the 1978 assembly line: th-cam.com/video/ekw8-UUpCWI/w-d-xo.html
I have a Yamaha 600 model an it is grounded to receiver an sounds fine till I turn it up , the speakers woof in an woof out really fast does any one know what the issue is , new stylus an all and it still does it , an will skip Doesn’t him tho or any make any sounds except music an that skip
Why why why do Americans insist on calling objects by different names? Technics is pronounced TEC_ NICS and Not TEC_neeks, and also NISSAN is NISS_AN and not NEE=SON, and so it goes on. It makes it sound like you are talking about a totally different product.
First good turntable I had was a Marantz, it had the issue with the up and down buttons. Replaced with a Technics SL-D5, solid linear turntable. I now have a Technics SL-Q1, linear turntable. I had to replace the tonearm drive belt, works great! Also own a Pioneer PL-518 and a Sansui SR-232. They have all had to have some maintenance when I bought them, but all working and sounding great now! If I knew how to work on turntables when I was younger I’d have kept the Marantz, it was a nice turntable too. I regret selling it for $5. in a garage sale. But back then, I was believing the CD hype that records were dead. I love my CD’s too, but I have always loved vinyl!
Same here. I have 4 vintage turntables and the one I use most is my SL-1900. It was my father's table but I probably used it more than him back in the 70s and 80s. I have done normal maintenance on it and it still works perfectly.
I have my original Technics SL-D2 with an AT155LC cartridge. My youngest musician son was able to find a nice D2 for his system and he loves it. Technics turntables indeed.
I have a Technics SL-D2 direct drive that I bought new back when it was new. Works fine, and I've played a lot of records over the years. One issue: it doesn't know when to stop. At the end of an album, or any other time, after it lifts up and returns to the cradle, it trips into repeating the record. I press the Start button again. Same thing. Lifts up, returns, then goes back to the record. I often have to repeat pressing the button several times before it will lift up, go back, rest on the cradle so the table stops spinning. I could just lift it up manually with the lever and return it, but I want to be able to walk away and have it end the playing automatically when it's done. Do you think this is a simple counterbalance weight issue that I can try adjusting on my own? Should I ask in Discord? My analog audio repair guy, Frank, at Audio-Tronics in Cherry Hill, NJ, is great, and a 90 minute drive from home. What are your thoughts? Love your videos! Very informative, real and honest presentation. Thank you for each and every video you do!
I have read the reviews about Discord, and now I'm not eager to go there. Most say that recent changes have made it "buggy" and hard to use the UI. Others say they use it to talk to their friends. Still more info tells me it's not targeted to audio equipment, but is more general, like talking about gaming. So, no, I'm not going to deal with Discord. However, if you, or anyone reading this who happens to be knowledgeable, you're welcome to tell me YOUR thoughts on what is causing the issue I'm having of my Technics SL D-2 tonearm continually lifting up to replay an album again and again instead of just staying resting in the cradle once it returns and stopping. While we're at it, my Marantz receiver keeps abruptly losing the right channel if the volume knob is turned up about half way. That is a volume I like. But at the repair shop, my guy can't turn it up more than a quarter of the way because it is way too loud. It doesn't cut out. He says I need more efficient speakers. Maybe so, but actually my KLH 900Bs should be fine. I need to get this repaired too, if the reason why this is happening can be found. Meanwhile, I'm using a Kenwood KVR-A70R receiver that I found at a Goodwill and works fine. I can turn it up super loud and it doesn't cut out. I hope that no one is annoyed with this long reply. Again, love the videos from Skylabs! Happy listening experiences, everyone!
Technics has always been a great value. I started with a SL-23 back in the 70’s and the reliability got me hooked on them. I love the linear trackers. My living room set-up includes a recapped SL-10 with the original moving coil EPS-310. The linear trackers aren’t for everyone, you should be prepared to do the tech work to make them functional. Overall, I have been lucky to own both ends of the Technics line and many in between.
Agree. I have an SL-7, an SL-QL15 and an SL-L1. All great, though the SL-7 is my favourite. Built like a tank and I found someone in the UK who 3d prints the wedge stands for it, so it looks fantastic. They all needed work, but it was all basic mechanical and cartridge stuff. Happily the electronics have behaved themselves so far.
My biggest regret was getting rid of my Linear tracker back when styluses were IMPOSSIBLE to find if i had known there we would be able to buy BRAND NEW stylus for LONG DEAD Carts from GOOD manufacturers i would have SEARIOUSLY held on to it
I own a few Technics tables The SL-2000, SL-Q3 & the SL-1200 mkII. The automatic start for 7” records tends to act up when startup occurs. Other than that they all work well.
Ihave the D-2 nice turntsble...semisuto...but I owm a 1200MK2 too and Pioneer 500...D2 with an ortfon xart...pioneer with ortofpn blue...MK2 with MC cart...❤
Somehow I had not seen this video! I am happy to share my 1979 Technics SL-3300 still works perfectly. They were very well built. Mine has never been serviced. Love it. It was fun watching this video. Thanks. In my bucket list, come to Iowa sometime and visit your store. Big fan.
He is 100% correct regarding the 1980s Technics tts. They just work. They're easy to repair and parts are abundant and most importantly the sound is on point and clean
Just picked up a SL-D2 for $35. But it has the broken hinges and another common failure is the tone are level. Trying to find one is not easy. Also had the mat issue.
I love Technics. My primary deck is my near mint SL-1600 MK2, then I have a SL-D2 in another room. Yes, the D2 is a workhorse. I have owned that one for 34 years. I also have a SL-J3 linear tracking deck but it has a problem where it started suddenly running at like 100 rpm!. Not sure what the heck caused that. And I also have a belt drive Technics that I keep trying to sell in yard sales for super cheap, but nobody wants a belt drive deck.
I have a Technics SL-210 which is the manual version of the SL-220 that someone gave me for free years ago because the motor didn’t work. I kept it in my attic and used the headshell for another turntable. A couple years ago I decided to see what it would take to get it running again. Turns out all it needed was a bit of oil in the capstan. Once I did that it ran with a rock-solid speed. I’d try that to see if it fixes the motor on that SL-220. Just drop some oil down the capstan shaft (no need to disassemble anything) and turn it manually to work it down into the motor. Do that until it finally runs on its own. The oil I used is Super Lube 51010.
I have three technics changers. When playing lps , you have to be aware of the weight of the record, if it is to heavy it won’t drop it. I have a SL-d5, SL-3350 and SL-1950 ,
Just a note regarding the sweaty rubber mat....that sounds gross, but working for a company that manufactured vinyl outdoor decks there was a similar thing that happened when you put a rubber backed outdoor mat on the deck material. The reaction between the vinyl and rubber caused some of the plasticizer in the rubber to coat and stain the decking and left that gooey mess you described. Since decks are exposed to lots of heat and sun, that creates a nice oven under the rubber mat for the gunk to form. I never thought a turntable mat could suffer the same fate.
So, I found a SL-230 at a garage sale last year for basically free, took it home and thus began my journey into vintage audio. I went ahead and disassembled the deck and got all of the automatic functions working, including the repeat function. Based on this success, I felt emboldened to start looking at vintage receivers. Since then, it has become an obsession and I've refurbished a few other turntables as well as a number of receivers. I am now in the process of building out a home hi-fi listening room for some of my favorite pieces. This journey led to me finding Skylabs Audio. Kevin, you do a great job on these videos and I really appreciate your commitment. To everyone, get out and support Skylabs Audio. I've personally purchased a number of t-shirts, not that I needed any more, but just to show my support to Kevin and the entire team! Keep up the good work!
I've had Technics turntables in the past and I've been pleased with them. However, I'm not letting go of my Empire troubadour turntable. It has both eye and ear appeal and is built like the Rock of Gibraltar. (I might have wished that Empire's cartridges were a worthy match to their turntable, though.)
I bought 4 Technics 1200's in 1997-ish. Two of those I have used ever since, two are perfectly set in the box. A buddy of mine worked at "the good guys " chain and gave me discount, I worked my a** off to buy thous. I am going to give them to my son :)
That "oil" may actually be uncured vinyl chloride. Slightly toxic and it always leaches from old PVC and similar plastics that were not manufactured properly. Similar poor manufacturing is why belts, foam rubber, all the soft stuff rots.
I used to sell hi-fi. Back in the day the SL-23 was pretty much what you got with any low to mid priced system. They sold at least 10 to 1 of all other brands combined. An industry "football", everybody sold them so you couldn't make any money selling them. Average price was about $100.00 (no cartridge) One of the best things about them was they stayed sold, and never came back defective.
I have several vintage techniques turntables. The only one that doesn't have broken dust cover tabs is the one that I bought brand new in the 90s. However, I have some that still have nubbins of tabs left in them. Just enough so they would sort of stay in if you didn't move it. I was able to drill tiny holes through the clip into the cover and hold the cover in place with a tiny screw. That method has worked great and I plan to fix several others that way. You just have to make sure to remove the screws before trying to rip off the desk cover.
The first audio component I bought, was a SL1600MK2. I was 14 and it was 1989. Paid 175$. Bought it out of The Oregonian classifieds. The owner came and picked me up in his El Camino to come to his house and check it out. THAT wouldn't happen these days 😅😅
I'm still using my SL-Q3 that I got in 1981 on Okinawa, Japan when I was in the Marines.
$15.00 pandemic era Technics SL-1500 yard sale pick up here. I had it serviced and replaced the RCA cables and ground wire with new because the originals were damaged in a fire, some caps were also replaced. It works 100% today.
I have my dad’s Technics sl-5300 from 1979, the year I was born, and it runs perfect!
Picked up a SL-1600 for $50 at an estate sale last year primarily because it had a grado f3 cart, I was going to put it on my sl-1200 but I plugged it in and hooked it up to my marantz 2275 and it’s been there ever since the automatic start and stop still works flawlessly
I’ve had a few 1980s Technics, regretted selling them. I now own 2 Technics 1200s MK2 purchased brand new in 1999 & they are like brand new today, still have the original boxes with the manuals still in the envelopes, the rubber platter mats are still in the paper unused, complete with the extra weights for the back of the tonearm & the stylus hangover tools. Bulletproof turntables.
I LOVE the 1200 MKII It took me YEARS of hunting to find one, got it a a estate sale for $18 3 years ago it run performs great but 2 of the resistors get pretty hot and I am trying to track down the cause, they seem to be a common fail points because MOST of the 1200's I see online have a Bubble under the Platter on the plastic dust cover in THE SAME SPOT but NONE of the techs online EVER talk about what cause that failure gotta protect that revenue I guess
For those of you possibly looking at a new Technics, I bought an SL-1210 GR for about $450 off due to the GR2 coming out! If you see one in stock at a reputable online dealer, it doesn’t hurt to ask. I bought the second to last one at Sweetwater.
Technics is the Toyota of turntables, solid, popular and reliable.
That's a good description.
And the SL1200s are the Land Cruisers.
Fun video. I still have the SL-D2 bought new in 1980 and it's still in excellent conditions, even the matt is in great shape. The only issue is one hinge of the dust cover that has weakened and that prevents it from staying open on its own. The speed is accurate and it's never been serviced. It is a great table and built to last and even the specs are great. Plenty on eBay although prices are creeping up.
Thanks for sharing!
@@skylabsaudio You're very welcome, I just wish you were closer, I live on Long Island, and I'd be paying visits quite often to your great store.
I love my SL-2000! I've had many Technics turntables over the years.
I still have my SL-1210 MK2 with the dust cover and everything, the box and manual. It works like new. I have an automatic SL-D2 for my room so I can fall asleep on my favourite record.
Great stuff here!! I had a SL-D2!! I wish I had never let it go!! I would be interested getting another!! I'll have to call you!!
I recently grabbed my SL1950 from my parents house. I bought it brand new back in '78, and has not been used since the early 80's when I upgraded to a linn lp12. The cue lever was locked tight, the hinges busted, and the cartridge smashed. I removed the tone arm and cleaned the cue and applied the proper silicone grease. Recapped the control board with a kit from ebay. Lubed the main bearing with special oil. Replaced the cartridge and set it up using a printed chart off the net. Replaced the hinges, and polished the dust cover. It works just like new! Thing is, it's a real pain to play records compared to streaming. I have played maybe 15 records out of my collection of 300. Now it's sits here collecting dust. oh well
I bought a Technics SL1800 MK2 last year at an estate sale. Came with the Stanton 681EEE-S cartridge. Sounds amazing. It is similar to the 1200 MK2 but sits on a suspended chases.
I have Technics sl bd20 I've had it for quite a few years haven't had too many problems with it and I still enjoy it
I've only owned 2 turntables in my life, both were Technics, my first was a SL 220 in 1978.. never had an issue with either of them, except for replacing the rubber belt which ages out.. I think the only issue with the stackable turntable you demonstrated was it probably wasn't used for a long time, so like lots of these Technics turntables, the best thing you can do is use them often
As always, I agree! Thanks for watching!
Still have my old SL BD20 P Mount that still works as it did when I bought it several decades ago.
I have a 1977 Technich SL-1710 as with a new elips Tonar Element/Cardrige/Needle but my daily driver is my 1974 Aristona 1312(Philips 312) with a new elips Tonar Element/Cardrige/Needle. The Technish has an after market light atached to the dust cover on the left side, probably for when the lights are down when people are in a romantic mood back in the day.
I’ve been running a 1978 Kenwood KD-500 for years and love it. Threw a Sumiko Moonstone on a Grace G-840 tonearms.
The setup has been solid and sounds great. Funny thing how much they pulled from Technics.
D2 my favourite nice weight look and function even someone as inept as me can refurbish to great playing form
What about the MCS “technics” turntables
I am an owner of a Technics SL-D202 that I bought new back in 1982 from Pacific Stereo. How do you rate this turntable? It's in perfect condition as I have taken very good care for it over the years.
Original owner of a SL 1100a/Shure V15 lll combo purchased in 1975 new for $350. Played extensively from date of purchase until mid 80’s when cassette/CD pushed it into the closet. Resurrected February this year as nostalgia kicked in and I rebuilt my two channel system…fired it up after close to four decades; ( after a couple of drops of long overdue oil that was stored under the platter from the factory) Runs as well and sounds as good as the day I pulled it from the box in 1975. When upgrade time comes, 1200 g for me. It’ll be worth every penny I blow on it. Technics TTs for life.
I have a SL1650 changer, works great sounds great!
I have three technics changers. When playing lps , you have to be aware of the weight of the record, if it is to heavy it won’t drop it. I have a SL-d5, SL-3350 and SL-1950 ,
I must admit to tossing my SL-D2 in the dumpster back in the late 80s. Rather than giving up on my vinyl like nearly all of my friends had, I doubled down by purchasing a Linn table. Sadly, I literally couldn’t give my Technics away (others looked at me as if I was offering them a scratched copy of Tall Cool One). I consoled myself by purchasing plenty of cheap vinyl over the next few decades.
Very informative video, your best by far.
Wow, thanks!
Can't go wrong with a q lock technics. Holy grail is the sp10. Dual 1219 is and always be favorite vintage table.
I have a 1989 Technics 1200mkll that sat in a garage in Phoenix for 10 years, mat ok as long as I've had it. I think the mat rot is a late 70's early 80's thing. Also have a 1950 that I serviced myself. I'll trust it with 3 records but not 6. Keep that 1950, really fun.
Great video guys!!
Great Sunday watch, it really is hard to beat the older Technics. Ill always buy a cheap Technics when I have the opportunity. Lets chip in and get Eric a soldering iron jk!
Lol, agree!
Still very happy with my SL-7, but recently I've purchased an Akai AP-306. Of course it's not a Technics but I think these Akai 's are quite underrated.
SL-D2 is reliable I have one that I'm keeping in stand by....because it always works ,still can't remember how i got it.
The sl-1950 is a great sounding table even if they only play one record at a time they are still worth it. I could never line up the mechanisms to have the Changer work and felt stoked that the auto return function worked. Maybe I'd have better luck now this was years ago
😂😂 laughing when you stacked. That was fun
Great info.. How about Technics linier tracking recommendations, and pitfalls. So cool with discman capabilities. I carefully packed to move a few+ turntables, but under thought the great conditioned cover hinges. The gamble of storing/keeping classics.
Thxs Kevin good info....
Love the videos. Could you do one on the linear tracking tables out there. Pro and cons.
Rob is the "Tall Cool One".
Lol, yes he is!
A couple months ago I answered a a "neighborhood market place " ad on Facebook... for an sl B500 and 25 decent lp's for 180.00 he said it hums but the platter won't turn.... it came with all the extra spindles and changers " in the original bag sealed " and looked fresh out of the box...... one new belt later and she was good to go!!!! Only after did I find out how scarce the 45 changer was... I had only been concerned about the lp's at the time ended up with a " bonus ".... lol
Great video, I have been looking for a decent SL-D3 or D5 for a while now. Currently trying to fix my Optonica RP-5100 but cannot find a service manual or schematic - if you can help that would be fantastic.
Holy smokes !!! A mega members only video ❤❤
Sorry for the confusion. We made this one available to members an hour early ;)
I love my SL-M2
Another thing I'd caution a potential buyer about is any of the Frequency Generator Servo line of turntables. These use a special 8-pin IC to set the motor speed, and they're getting pretty old now, and have become failure prone. When the IC fails, the motor can't set it's speed, so it doesn't run.
I made the mistake of buying one on Facebook and doing a public meetup where I couldn't test it. Sure enough, I got it home and it didn't work.
Unfortunately, no replacements are available, so these tables are becoming orphaned. This includes the SL-220 mentioned in this video. I think that's why the prices on this line of Technics turntables are dropping so quickly.
Fortunately, it's easy to tell if a particular table has this tech as it will say Frequency Generator Servo right on the front, so it's easy to avoid them.
Vinyl rocks!
Love the channel, wondered if you ever come across Dual turntables ?
Thanks Kevin for another great video
I have a pair of SL D2 technics tables love them very dependable...I even have one with unbroken cover the other does not have cover at all but I have a cloth cover on it
Thanks for sharing
What turn tables and receiver do you have to sell? Please advise
It's Hot Out There Reminder. Your records want to stay cool too! They warp and melt!
Have you ever done any work or comments on a CARRERA T-120 linear turntable, fully automatic?
If you end up working on those Technics changers, it would be nice to have a follow-up on those or even like a vlog format
I have never seen those in the wild. I've seen a bunch of other changers but not Technics
I do think nowadays that Technics products (not just the TTs) come with a bit of a tax just like the Marantz tax
My first Technics was a linear tracking one (SL-QL5), literally new in the box, people bought but then never get to use it.
Now, I have a SL-Q303 and a SL-Q2 that needs a little bit of love (mostly cosmetics)
Speaking of the dust covers hinges, one issue to add: something the part on the turntable that holds the hinge gets stuck and it will break the tab right away. It happened to my Q303. So, take the cover off, and try to work those parts to before opening the cover normally. It might save the hinge tabs.
Also, not uncommon, sometimes the tonearm lock tab is broken. luckily, it's easy to replace and inexpensive
Also, quick question regarding grease and oil
1. if the grease has dried up in the mechanism, what grease to you recommend? or it's not important any would do?
2. oil for DD motor, they say you need to put some special oil in the spindle every year or so to maintain the motor.
they say you need a special oil for this, and KAD (who is specialized in SL-1200) sells one but it's a bit pricey.
Can you use a fine oil just like a sewing machine oil?
Thank you.
We use sewing machine oil 90% of the time
@@skylabsaudio thank you, that's what I was thinking but I'd rather make sure. Sewing machine oil works well with R2R decks too
Trivia: Does the sl-3300 have those screws on the board to correct pitch that’s drifted over time.
I’m a newb. I did solder in some new rca connectors on the turntable. Thats big for a guy like me.
The discord. That’s probably where I should ask this type of question, but if anyone knows if I can get the thing spinning right without a lot of trouble. Thanks in advance
Great show !!!👍👍👍
Glad you enjoyed it
Definitely gonna be a fun one
Technics had a lot of good machines! Used Technics, if in good shape, is an OK place to start spinning vinyl, IF you are a DIY person, or buy at a reputable shop with warranty/exchange policies and repair capability!
There is a catch:
My friend Peter from Turntable Treasures has a whole stash of linear trackers from many makers, mostly Technics. He usually does NOT sell them. Linear trackers are now unicorns, no longer made for good reasons He hates them, because they eventually break, or come in broken, and they can be nearly impossible to fix, with parts no longer made. A linear tracker going bonkers can really ruin a record, so general advise should be to avoid them.
NEXT:
I have a collection of "Dual" turntables, and know how to fix them.
Some replies mention a "Duel". There is no such thing, and there is also no pistol or sword "duel" happening here!!
The name is "Dual" and is pronounced "doo-ahl". Got it? I have a collection of Dual belters, and love the sound I get from them. Unlike others, I far prefer Dual's (doo-ahl, got it?) vintage belters over rimmers, because the rim-drive pucks wear down and are expensive to replace! Dual rimmers also had special plastic pieces for the automatic functions (they were all autos), that wear down. Once worn out of tolerance, or even cracked into little shards, these parts are a lost case and make the whole machine unuseable. Anywho, if you need a new rim-drive puck, when yours is slipping, the ONLY place on this planet I know of to get them is here: audiovault.ca/shop/ and no, I have no relationship to them.
Fun!
I bought this Technics SL-B2 on marketplace for $95 with the original dust cover and unbroken hinges. There were numerous scratches on the acrylic, but after 3+ hours polishing it with a rotary buffer it looks fresh off the 1978 assembly line:
th-cam.com/video/ekw8-UUpCWI/w-d-xo.html
I never buy direct drive TTs, used, as they are a horror story to fix ergo really expensive. Belts all the way.
I'm here because of the news feature you just did.
All my kit Goodmans/Tascam/Sherwood/Technics came out of other people's trash.
BRING BACK THE MAN-IN-CHAIR T-SHIRTS!!!!!! Please...
Most of the vintage Technics turntables annihilate any of the new sub $500 tables.
I have a Yamaha 600 model an it is grounded to receiver an sounds fine till I turn it up , the speakers woof in an woof out really fast does any one know what the issue is , new stylus an all and it still does it , an will skip Doesn’t him tho or any make any sounds except music an that skip
Post pictures of your set up on our discord channel. Sounds like an isolation issue to me.
Why why why do Americans insist on calling objects by different names? Technics is pronounced TEC_ NICS and Not TEC_neeks, and also NISSAN is NISS_AN and not NEE=SON, and so it goes on. It makes it sound like you are talking about a totally different product.
Likewise.
I kept my SL D2 from 1980. That table with a Shure V-15 type 4 was an absolute sonic bang for buck combo.
SL-D2 is a great tt
Great video I have still have my Technics SLD2 from new and it works great also have a Phillips 212 electronic that I purchased new that still works
I still have my SL-1800. Love it. Direct Drive, fully manual Turn Table...
I paid $20 for a complete Technics SL-D3 at a garage sale a couple months ago - sounds great!
Picked up a SL D2 for 50 bucks with lid in tact. Have had it for several years and plays great.
First good turntable I had was a Marantz, it had the issue with the up and down buttons. Replaced with a Technics SL-D5, solid linear turntable. I now have a Technics SL-Q1, linear turntable. I had to replace the tonearm drive belt, works great! Also own a Pioneer PL-518 and a Sansui SR-232. They have all had to have some maintenance when I bought them, but all working and sounding great now! If I knew how to work on turntables when I was younger I’d have kept the Marantz, it was a nice turntable too. I regret selling it for $5. in a garage sale. But back then, I was believing the CD hype that records were dead. I love my CD’s too, but I have always loved vinyl!
Still kicking myself in the butt for leaving my SL-D2 w/ Grado Zf1 behind when I moved back in 2000.
I own 5 vintage turntables, from Thorens to Duel. My daily player is my Technics SL -1900.
Love it!
Same here. I have 4 vintage turntables and the one I use most is my SL-1900. It was my father's table but I probably used it more than him back in the 70s and 80s. I have done normal maintenance on it and it still works perfectly.
Good choice!
Have had an SL-1900 since I bought it new in 1978. Never a reason to buy anything else.
I have my original Technics SL-D2 with an AT155LC cartridge. My youngest musician son was able to find a nice D2 for his system and he loves it. Technics turntables indeed.
I have a Technics SL-D2 direct drive that I bought new back when it was new. Works fine, and I've played a lot of records over the years. One issue: it doesn't know when to stop. At the end of an album, or any other time, after it lifts up and returns to the cradle, it trips into repeating the record. I press the Start button again. Same thing. Lifts up, returns, then goes back to the record. I often have to repeat pressing the button several times before it will lift up, go back, rest on the cradle so the table stops spinning. I could just lift it up manually with the lever and return it, but I want to be able to walk away and have it end the playing automatically when it's done. Do you think this is a simple counterbalance weight issue that I can try adjusting on my own? Should I ask in Discord? My analog audio repair guy, Frank, at Audio-Tronics in Cherry Hill, NJ, is great, and a 90 minute drive from home. What are your thoughts?
Love your videos! Very informative, real and honest presentation. Thank you for each and every video you do!
Thanks Barry. Definitely ask in our Discord. You can do eet!
I have read the reviews about Discord, and now I'm not eager to go there. Most say that recent changes have made it "buggy" and hard to use the UI. Others say they use it to talk to their friends. Still more info tells me it's not targeted to audio equipment, but is more general, like talking about gaming. So, no, I'm not going to deal with Discord. However, if you, or anyone reading this who happens to be knowledgeable, you're welcome to tell me YOUR thoughts on what is causing the issue I'm having of my Technics SL D-2 tonearm continually lifting up to replay an album again and again instead of just staying resting in the cradle once it returns and stopping.
While we're at it, my Marantz receiver keeps abruptly losing the right channel if the volume knob is turned up about half way. That is a volume I like. But at the repair shop, my guy can't turn it up more than a quarter of the way because it is way too loud. It doesn't cut out. He says I need more efficient speakers. Maybe so, but actually my KLH 900Bs should be fine. I need to get this repaired too, if the reason why this is happening can be found.
Meanwhile, I'm using a Kenwood KVR-A70R receiver that I found at a Goodwill and works fine. I can turn it up super loud and it doesn't cut out.
I hope that no one is annoyed with this long reply. Again, love the videos from Skylabs! Happy listening experiences, everyone!
Technics has always been a great value. I started with a SL-23 back in the 70’s and the reliability got me hooked on them. I love the linear trackers. My living room set-up includes a recapped SL-10 with the original moving coil EPS-310. The linear trackers aren’t for everyone, you should be prepared to do the tech work to make them functional. Overall, I have been lucky to own both ends of the Technics line and many in between.
Couldn't agree more!
Agree. I have an SL-7, an SL-QL15 and an SL-L1. All great, though the SL-7 is my favourite. Built like a tank and I found someone in the UK who 3d prints the wedge stands for it, so it looks fantastic. They all needed work, but it was all basic mechanical and cartridge stuff. Happily the electronics have behaved themselves so far.
My biggest regret was getting rid of my Linear tracker back when styluses were IMPOSSIBLE to find if i had known there we would be able to buy BRAND NEW stylus for LONG DEAD Carts from GOOD manufacturers i would have SEARIOUSLY held on to it
I have an SL-1100A that I inherited. The only thing I've done to it is change the needle.
I own a few Technics tables
The SL-2000, SL-Q3 & the SL-1200 mkII. The automatic start for 7” records tends to act up when startup occurs.
Other than that they all work well.
Ihave the D-2 nice turntsble...semisuto...but I owm a 1200MK2 too and Pioneer 500...D2 with an ortfon xart...pioneer with ortofpn blue...MK2 with MC cart...❤
Craigslist: Technics SL B2 and 2 Bose 201 speakers, $45.00. Now have seven Technic tables.... (stop me)
How does the Technics SL-D3 compare with the SL-D2? I just recently picked up a D3, interested to know your thoughts!
I love my technics SL 1600 fully automatic it’s a beast
I adore my SL-1600 Mk2, too. The weight, the look & the sound. It performs flawlessly.
Somehow I had not seen this video! I am happy to share my 1979 Technics SL-3300 still works perfectly. They were very well built. Mine has never been serviced. Love it. It was fun watching this video. Thanks. In my bucket list, come to Iowa sometime and visit your store. Big fan.
I have SL3300 as well fully functional and I love it❤️❤️❤️
He is 100% correct regarding the 1980s Technics tts.
They just work.
They're easy to repair and parts are abundant and most importantly the sound is on point and clean
Just picked up a SL-D2 for $35. But it has the broken hinges and another common failure is the tone are level. Trying to find one is not easy. Also had the mat issue.
I have the SL 1900 which I only use semi automatic.
I love Technics. My primary deck is my near mint SL-1600 MK2, then I have a SL-D2 in another room. Yes, the D2 is a workhorse. I have owned that one for 34 years. I also have a SL-J3 linear tracking deck but it has a problem where it started suddenly running at like 100 rpm!. Not sure what the heck caused that. And I also have a belt drive Technics that I keep trying to sell in yard sales for super cheap, but nobody wants a belt drive deck.
So I can't go wrong with a Technics turntable!
I have a Technics SL-210 which is the manual version of the SL-220 that someone gave me for free years ago because the motor didn’t work. I kept it in my attic and used the headshell for another turntable. A couple years ago I decided to see what it would take to get it running again. Turns out all it needed was a bit of oil in the capstan. Once I did that it ran with a rock-solid speed. I’d try that to see if it fixes the motor on that SL-220. Just drop some oil down the capstan shaft (no need to disassemble anything) and turn it manually to work it down into the motor. Do that until it finally runs on its own. The oil I used is Super Lube 51010.
I have three technics changers. When playing lps , you have to be aware of the weight of the record, if it is to heavy it won’t drop it. I have a SL-d5, SL-3350 and SL-1950 ,
Just a note regarding the sweaty rubber mat....that sounds gross, but working for a company that manufactured vinyl outdoor decks there was a similar thing that happened when you put a rubber backed outdoor mat on the deck material. The reaction between the vinyl and rubber caused some of the plasticizer in the rubber to coat and stain the decking and left that gooey mess you described. Since decks are exposed to lots of heat and sun, that creates a nice oven under the rubber mat for the gunk to form. I never thought a turntable mat could suffer the same fate.
Plenty of old turntables that have been stored in non-cooled garages are coming out of hiding these days and have been for some time now.
Technics cassette decks have stood the test of time too!
So, I found a SL-230 at a garage sale last year for basically free, took it home and thus began my journey into vintage audio. I went ahead and disassembled the deck and got all of the automatic functions working, including the repeat function. Based on this success, I felt emboldened to start looking at vintage receivers. Since then, it has become an obsession and I've refurbished a few other turntables as well as a number of receivers. I am now in the process of building out a home hi-fi listening room for some of my favorite pieces.
This journey led to me finding Skylabs Audio. Kevin, you do a great job on these videos and I really appreciate your commitment. To everyone, get out and support Skylabs Audio. I've personally purchased a number of t-shirts, not that I needed any more, but just to show my support to Kevin and the entire team! Keep up the good work!
I've had Technics turntables in the past and I've been pleased with them. However, I'm not letting go of my Empire troubadour turntable. It has both eye and ear appeal and is built like the Rock of Gibraltar. (I might have wished that Empire's cartridges were a worthy match to their turntable, though.)
100% credit for the video.
I have no problem with Technics, just a Dual guy. Own 10 tables. The drop spindles look like the ones on my Duals.
We all have our thing! :)
I bought 4 Technics 1200's in 1997-ish. Two of those I have used ever since, two are perfectly set in the box. A buddy of mine worked at "the good guys " chain and gave me discount, I worked my a** off to buy thous. I am going to give them to my son :)
That "oil" may actually be uncured vinyl chloride. Slightly toxic and it always leaches from old PVC and similar plastics that were not manufactured properly.
Similar poor manufacturing is why belts, foam rubber, all the soft stuff rots.
SL-23 is probably Technics' best belt-drive table. The D1/D2/D3 are indestructible.
I used to sell hi-fi. Back in the day the SL-23 was pretty much what you got with any low to mid priced system. They sold at least 10 to 1 of all other brands combined. An industry "football", everybody sold them so you couldn't make any money selling them. Average price was about $100.00 (no cartridge) One of the best things about them was they stayed sold, and never came back defective.
I have several vintage techniques turntables. The only one that doesn't have broken dust cover tabs is the one that I bought brand new in the 90s.
However, I have some that still have nubbins of tabs left in them. Just enough so they would sort of stay in if you didn't move it. I was able to drill tiny holes through the clip into the cover and hold the cover in place with a tiny screw.
That method has worked great and I plan to fix several others that way.
You just have to make sure to remove the screws before trying to rip off the desk cover.
The first audio component I bought, was a SL1600MK2. I was 14 and it was 1989. Paid 175$. Bought it out of The Oregonian classifieds. The owner came and picked me up in his El Camino to come to his house and check it out. THAT wouldn't happen these days 😅😅
Wow. Now that's a motivated seller!
My favorite is the SL-Q3 I have several of them, dead reliable,, spot on accurate speed and well built.
The SL-220 was $284.10 CAD in 1977. I might still have the bill. It still works great.