Grant FamiltonSummary
Technics SL-1300G Turntable
GRANT FAMILTON gets to audition a truly special Grand Class turntable from Technics and decides that it would be the ideal Xmas present to himself.
$5499
The Technics SL-1300G is part of the Technics Grand Class Turntable range and grand it is. Technics consumers and reviewers requested a more refined, more hi-fi styling of the impressive and hugely popular SL-1200 range, and Technics duly delivered with options in either black or silver. This new model incorporates some of the best features from the 1000 and 1200 ranges.
In 1970 Technics revealed its first-generation direct drive motor and, fast-forwarding nearly 50 years, in 2016 introduced its first coreless motor. By removing the iron core, it potentially provides a more even rotation. The SL-1300G employs the 4th generation development of this motor. The construction of the twin-rotor high torque motor reduces bearing load and limits vibrations along with the coil mounting reinforcement pattern which was adopted from the Reference Class SL-1000R.
Features
The SL-1300G also incorporates the Delta-Sigma Drive from last year’s SL-1200GR2. This more precise motor driver control system is supplied by a multi-stage silent power supply. A controller expertly creates an accurate signal for the drive system to correct rotational discrepancies and facilitate smoother rotations. This should in turn provide a rich and more accurate production of any recording.
The new platter comprises a three-layer construction. The main body is constructed of aluminium and the upper surface consists of 2mm thick brass which looks fantastic and a shame to cover over. The bottom surface is covered with rigid deadening rubber which will further dampen vibrations and resonance.
The SL-1300G cabinet body is constructed with two layers: The top is a die-cast aluminium chassis and this sits on top of a BMC (bulk moulding compound) base. They are both supported on four high-damping silicon insulators which provide even further high vibration dampening. I think we can agree that eliminating vibrations is high on Technics’ hit list and each SL-1300G is perfectly balanced after assembly.
On the top plate of the SL-1300G, you will find the power button above the start/stop button. There are speed buttons for 33.3 and 45, and if you press them at the same time you will be able to spin your 78s.
The tonearm features Technics’ S-shape design, suspension gimbal and high-precision bearings, all of which are constructed by Technics’ highly skilled artisans. I was also kindly provided with an Ortofon 2M Black cartridge for the review and was excited to try this combination out.
Unboxing and listening
On unboxing, I was pleased to see perfectly compartmentalised cardboard packaging material and not the usual bad-for-the-environment styrene foam. Once unboxed and placed in position I did find connecting the RCA outputs and earth a little difficult. However, on returning to the enclosed information sheets Technics has included a ‘how to connect your cables’ diagram. Many thanks!
I connected the turntable to my iFi Zen Air Phono preamplifier expecting this mismatch to limit the potential performance of the turntable. I needn’t have worried; the Technics pedigree accommodates even the most modest of equipment. (I did imagine the sonic joy that would doubtless have transpired by pairing the SL-1300G with the fabulous PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube Phono Preamplifier I reviewed earlier in the year. That combination might indeed have taken the cake.)
After connecting the 2M cartridge and performing a quick calibration I sat down to take in Slo Mo, the latest album from Fat Freddy’s Drop. I will admit to instantly producing my “what now?” face and promptly proceeded to turn the system up, a good thing in my book. The first track ‘Avengers’ starts with a funky rhythm and the drums snap satisfyingly. When the horn section began it was easy to pick out the different instruments and the track filled my room with a vibrant energy from my Harbeth Compact 7’s. The soundstage was wide and captivating. Another new favourite from the Slo Mo album is ‘Next Stop’. The SL-1300G was able to bring the summertime vibes via the valves in my Yarland amplifier. The performance was portrayed in a way that drew me in and convinced me that the outside world can take care of itself for just a moment!
I ventured onto Daft Punk’s final album Random Access Memories and with the first track ‘Give Life Back to Music’ I felt the fluidity of the track and the handclaps heightened the natural rhythms. I enjoyed the crispness of the glass waterfall effect and found the SL-1300G lets your mind wander. I also enjoyed track 12, ‘Doin’ It Right’. The SL-1300G had no problem producing the required deep bounce while still maintaining detail and precision. The bass was clear, the drums were clearer and the whole experience was hugely harmonious.
Having auditioned the SL-1300G successfully with electronic music I put Metallica’s self-titled album on the platter for a dose of hard. I was looking for the same energy as my Rega and Pro-Ject set portrays. ‘Enter Sandman’ sounded more spacious, a little eerie and a little more menacing, a darker sound than my Rega. ‘Nothing Else Matters’ sounds more orchestral, the SL-1300G bringing the string arrangement more to the fore. I just wish the brilliant bass playing from Jason Newsted was tuned up more in the mix, but that’s the engineer’s problem, not Technics!
Final words
Technics has listened to its consumers and created a turntable that incorporates its leading technologies with new hi-fi stylings. I had a hugely enjoyable time with the SL-1300G, which looks and sounds fantastic. Do I really have to send it back? Maybe Mrs Familton would like a nice new shiny turntable for Christmas. Just maybe?
