(Not a review of) the Technics SL-1500C turntable

This video is sponsored by Voxativ: voxativ.berlin/
Camera: Olaf von Voss | Editor: John Darko | Graphics: Jana Dagdagan
The iconic direct-drive turntable but stripped of its pitch fader and strobe, replaced by an internal phono stage and factory-fitted Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
More info:
www.turntablelab.com/products...
Also seen in this video...
Roon Nucleus+:
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Vinnie Rossi LIO:
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Klipsch Forte III:
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#audiophile #turntable #vinyl
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[@knockshinnoch1950]

I recently bought an SL-1500C and I love it, sturdy, classic design, no nonsense, straight forward, easy to set up, reliable and sounds great too. I had that problem with the early auto return lift before the end of the last track. I discovered there's a simple solution! One guy has posted a video showing how to fix it- he tracked down a service manual on line and takes you through the various steps- all very simple- to put the turntable into service mode and alter the setting. It appears there are two settings, the deck is set to 1 by default- setting to 2 fixes the problem. Like everything else it's easy when you know how!

[@equilibrium2147]

Great!

[@bollingbryant]

An open mind about the potential qualities of vinyl is reassuring. Thank you, John!

[@dean6816]

Glad to see Technics back in the game. I've got a 1210 with Rega arm upgrade for years and still going strong!

[@epi2045]

For not being a review... it’s a great review.😀

[@Supperconductor]

Awww, I love the strobe light, it’s hypnotic.

[@charleskatz2606]

Get a Michell Gyro and you'll truly be dunmbstruck (some say it gives them vertigo)

[@ralex3697]

Supperconductor Everybody must get stoned, Bobby Dylan

[@djsoulfilter]

I've had a Technics SL-1300 for many years. Upgraded to a Nagatron 185e cartridge and love it.

[@leevardy852]

Nice impressions non review JD. lovely focus transition @4:13 Well that just made my Monday a bit easier thank you!

[@mmdusa]

Thanks for the 'intro' to this TT. I was wondering when you were going to explain why you had the moderately priced 'Red' Ortofon on there. Tell Jana I will be getting my very own 'Audiophile' T-shirts very soon. Cheers!

[@damianzaninovich4900]

I’ve had this turntable for a few weeks and like it very much. The Ortofon red not so much if you want your LPs to sound reasonably quiet. I changed it out with a Denon 301mk 2 and I’m loving this combination going through a Denon PMA a100 integrated amp and Canto Vento 7 speakers. I’ve yet to play a record that doesn’t sound good with this pairing. I now know why people love Technics turntables.

[@JulAlxAU]

John, please keep reviewing future-fi stuff. Thanks mate.

[@gsherlock]

I owned a very modified Mk2 (now have a 1200 GR) a couple of years ago and much preferred it to the high end belt drive I owned at the same time, I'm so glad to see Technics back in the vinyl game, the motor units have so much potential for upgrading.

[@rickg8015]

Gavin Sherlock How would you compare your modified 1200Mk2 to the 1200GR in terms of SQ? Was the GR still a better performer overall even with all the mods to the Mk2? Thanks!

[@gsherlock]

@@rickg8015 I'm waiting on a few things for my GR (RCA cables, head shell) but as soon as I get it running I'll get back to you, the arm tube and bearings certainly seem engineered to a higher standard so we'll see if it translates to better sound, given that my Mk2 had an SME V arm fitted its gong to be interesting.

[@gsherlock]

@@rickg8015 Its taken time to get my system up and running but its now playing music. In stock form the GR is a much clearer sounding turntable than the stock Mk 2 and I think much of this comes down to the modifications in the arm, imaging and sound staging is much more precise. The modded SL1200 still sounds more open in the midrange and if I told you that the arm on the modded 1200 is an SME V you'll understand why. The motor units, even on the older 1200's are just so good in terms of being rock steady record spinners they just wipe the floor with a belt drive IMO. As it stands I could live with my GR out of the box, but a few years down the line I'll probably take the stock arm off and replace it with something else, the GR definitely has a lot of the older Technics sound in its DNA if you like that sort of vinyl playback (and I do).

[@S.L.1211]

Quality first impressions review. I enjoyed the video. Very nice looking turntable. For that price though, I’ll stick to my fully automatic direct drive 1981 technics turntable With all the bells and whistles that work perfectly.

[@HomeroGraco]

We've got a 1310 at home, it's fully automatic and has better features than this. I wonder if it sounds better too.

[@ryanray6215]

I bet it is made in amazing Japan too !

[@peterstudley1804]

@@ryanray6215 its made in Malaysia.

[@jordan390a]

Wow...I picked up my SL-1401 for 20 bucks at a garage sale 2 years ago.....It's amazing...!!! It came with a vintage Shure cartridge with a Shure RS-6E stylus and a vintage carbon fibre brush from the UK....

[@adolphhernandez7615]

John, great review of the deck. Out of curiosity, what brush are you using? Cheers Adolph

[@kblack3970]

I'm am totally enjoying this turntable. I simply love clean clear music with separation, punch, and full dynamic range. I have a "budget" system compared to some but not cheap per my current situation and can't wait to hear a comparison to some of the digital formats you mentioned. I'm buying albums again experiencing that Wow factor as I initially remembered. Streaming simply feels 2 dimensional compared to vinyl now. Thank you

[@cool2rule2]

What I love most about Technics tables is that they are solid and easy to use with minimal fuss. No belts, easy to set up, detachable headshell for easy cartridge swaps, etc. For purist audiophiles this may be a turnoff, but I find that it lets me focus more on the music than on my gear. The 1500c sounds amazing with an Audio Technica VM540ML.

[@dmnddog7417]

Interesting. I'm currently using the VM540ML with my Audio Technica TT and I enjoy its sound reproduction. I've been seriously considering the SL1500C as the upgrade to my HiFi system, but I haven't seen anyone mention pairing it with the VM540ML or VM740ML.

[@noe3024]

@@dmnddog7417 I'm currently using an AT-440mla with my SL-1500C, and it is the best-sounding TT setup I have.

[@Vibrasonique]

Love it. I ve changed the 2m red for a nagakoa mp100 excellent setup with the built-in phono stage. Especially like the bass response and the soundstage

[@jasonwrites9186]

Your non-reviews are better than pretty much everyone else's review. I like comparisons, but I'm okay without them. I just want to know based on the reviewer's opinion if the product is worth the investment of time and money; that's exactly what I got here.

[@mikek.4211]

For the $500USD difference, buy the SL-1210GR. A better built table...and you have the added strobe and pretty lights to boot! The 1210 GR has more of the old school 1200 build to it. Nice a solid. And I like the pop up turntable light. Did I mention I like all the pretty lights?....and they are all blue? 😂🤣 but seriously, the 1210GR is a NOTICEABLE improvement in sound over the old 1200/1210 mk2’s. If you are debating, pay the extra $500. Worth it!

[@kaifa76]

Was it just an exemple or you’re currently using the VR Lio + Forte III?

[@LERobbo]

I bought this one having come from SL-1210Mk2 a long time ago. The feel of this turntable is great. It's minimalistic yet clearly related to the 12xx, I love using it for my daily vinyl trips. I have upgraded the stylus to 2M Blue as the Red was producing a bit too much splatter/sibilance on some records ; also the Blue sounds more balanced and warm to my ears, and better matches the blue LED on the 33/45 buttons 😛 My only comments on this fine unit would be the rather plastic/cheap looking rear connections panel, the somewhat clunky tonearm movement in azimuth (could be an anti-skating adjustment issue) and the start/stop button which does not have that same immensely satisfying haptic feedback the SL1210 had... Finally I disabled the auto-lift. I know it can be adjusted, but I'd rather be keeping an eye on my record anyway.

[@clemensschimmele6346]

I have to say, I did not expect Technics to mess up a feature like the automatic arm lift (which I think is quite handy) on a turntable as important as this. That feature works perfectly on my 44 years old Thorens.

[@adampoll4977]

When did you mug Lay Leno for his shirt? ;) Gotta love the build quality of an old-school SL-1210; pulled mine apart to reinstate the ground wire (it was an ex-DJ deck, so that had been hacked) and very few affordable TTs today would have anywhere near that level of build and dampening.

[@thechannel4874]

Do we know anything about the capacitance of the two different outputs?

[@DIRECTSOUNDVINYL]

Great review, i have the sl 1500c . I am very happy whit his. I changed the ortofon red by a Nagaoka mp110, better sound.

[@DarkoAudio]

Funny - I just put the MP110 on this evening.

[@xsslxssl]

I just love the Nagaoka MP-110. Open and clear, yet warm, sweet and sensitive, with bass for days. However, I had a very difficult time mounting the MP-110, to my Rega RP3, due to there being no VTA adjustment (shims needed). The Technics would have been very easy to work with re: VTA adjustment.

[@xsslxssl]

@@DarkoAudio What do you think, of this pairing?

[@barrybrennan2135]

Here's something audiophiles don't care to admit - the 1200 series (especially the G) and its variants are pretty much at the pinnacle of vinyl replay. And at a keen price. Come at me bros.

[@kenwuk]

Barry, I agree. I have one myself in my Naim system. They’re built like battleships. Love my 1210 🍻

[@richardsinger01]

You wish...

[@unabashedindividualist6232]

@@ianjohnhorwood2605 thats why they don’t run for decades.. oh wait...

[@JoeOrber]

@@ianjohnhorwood2605 wait, have you opened them all up and compared them? Do you have a degree in electronic engineering and experience with PCB design and assembly? Facts please

[@PBlaik]

I recently bought a SL1500C and agree with your comments John. I'm very curious if you noticed a significant difference in the 2M Black with the built in Phono Stage? When this stylus is a little more used I'd consider the 2M Bronze or 2M Black as a replacement, but using the built in phono stage I'm not sure it is worth the extra money?

[@KevinKlehr]

I bought this turntable after watching this (non review) and several others. John mentions the cue lever to raise and lower the tonearm as not being great. I agree but after having the 1500C for a couple of months I've discovered that if you flick the cue lever down, it's not as rigid, and the tonearm comes in for a smooth landing on the record. So the cue lever is good, you just need time to stumble on it's duel mechanism.

[@stevenvolckaert8419]

Hi John! I own a SL-1210MK2 that I bought new around 15 years ago. My DJ years are over now, and I've been very happy with its performance as a HiFi turntable (I've fitted a Funk Firm Achromat and an Ortofon 2M Blue paired with a Rega Fono MM Mk3 phono preamp). I'm wondering whether the SL-1500C would be interesting for me: Would you consider the SL-1500C an upgrade - sonically speaking - over the SL-1210MK2 original?

[@miguelbarrio]

Wondering if you could compare this table to the two red ones you talked about recently.

[@JulAlxAU]

John and his brush! ;-)

[@twelvebears1971]

Hi John. I found this interesting. Have you ever listened to a modesty upgraded SL1210 ? I’m curious which offers the best performance for the money?

[@figo3924]

Hi John, have you tried this turntable with any other cartridge than 2MR & 2MB? I'm planing to upgrade my 2MR to a Nagaoka MP-500 but I'm afraid I'll loose output volume due to I'll swap from a cartridge of 5.5mV output (2MR) to a 3mV (MP-500), and there is no info about the Phono Stage Specs besides the Gain 37dB, which makes a little bit hard to make assumptions about how it's going to perform with the new cartridge.

[@DarkoAudio]

The Nagaoka MP110 works very well on this 'table...but that's all I've tried.

[@figo3924]

@@DarkoAudio Thx man!!!!! MP-110 is 5mV so I assume if there is any difference will be negligible, I'll keep researching...

[@utub1473]

More on this turntable please!

[@kappino]

With these kinds of “new” turntables I’ll keep staying on my “old” Thorens TD 160 MK I 👍🏻

[@markphilpot4981]

I am not a fan of entry level tables anyway, but you make this sound as if this may fit the bill. 999 euros may be nothing to some, but it is a lot to others. This isn’t high end anyway so I can get off before I say any more. It isn’t my money nor my ears. Let someone find it fits their budget and their ears. That is what matters. You have to satisfy yourself on this. It is up to you and no one else has to like it! Good job John with what was actually a brief review! I would like to see a real review on a Real 101 Merrill-Williams turntable. That review is one your jaw shall drop on!😊👍🏻

[@alparslanesmer4251]

If Technics has its own line output, it must mean it should have a really great preamp inside.

[@ronniecramer1252]

Just to get back into my old vinyl collection , I purchased a used Technics SL D2 for $140.00 I don't know how old it is, but it works perfectly. I'm using a Schiit Audio Mani preamp , and added a Hana EH high output MC cartridge. [ used $300] I think the combo sounds great. I really like the auto return and shutoff.

[@driesanalog4187]

thanks a lot. a 1200G without the DJ stuff would be nice!

[@LaTVdeFreddy]

Hi What is the difference between sl 1500 and 1500c?

[@srmitch9260]

What are your thoughts on the Audio-Technica LP5x ? It seems to be very similar in design to this Technics table but it’s obviously cheaper however I wondered if you think the increase in price is worth it over the AT table

[@kukko83]

My advice is to NOT go for the LP5X! I bought one today, and it's already packaged to be returned tomorrow. There's nothing wrong with the thing. It works, but I was hugely disappointed by the hollow plasticky feel of the unit. It just feels cheap as anything. A cheaply put together, Chinese copy of another tt. It played fine at low volumes I guess but raising the volume even a bit, and the microphone effect raised it's ugly head. The hollow, plastic body started resonating, and the music went to shit. I was the victim of (paid?) reviews that praised the thing, but I should have known better. Don't do it! Right now I'm kinda wondering the same thing as you. Will doubling my budget get me my moneys worth.

[@RUfromthe40s]

Only the look, the turntable itself is much better, the AT version is very poor compared to the technics but if it sounds good to ones ears it´s ok , but mechanically speaking are worlds appart

[@ballisonfargo]

The lift off point can't be adjusted? It can on my 40yo SL-1900.

[@RUfromthe40s]

the best afordable turntable today, the SL-1200GR is more refined but in sound it´s basically the same but i install the black 2m stylus from ortofon with golden letters ,i don´t know the diference but i asked for a better stylus and a friend of mine who owns the hi-fi store install this stylus ,and sounds great with my hybrid amplifier from magnat also those speakers that look old from magnat but sound good as an option also bought some klipsh towers in black with bronze colour woofers, i was still using material from mid 70´s and some from the 90´s(decks), i wanted something new, regards

[@dougg1075]

Short and sweet.. neat

[@anotherhabit]

Interesting take on the 1500. I was looking at a 1210 as an option but also project x1 also seems to be a possibility. Hopefully the sol by schiit can come along at the right price So confusing what to do.

[@gaza4543]

Thanks for your insights but I’m still torn between this and the 1200gr. But I’m sure the wallet over heart will win in the end. But glad to hear you think the table can take a 2m black. Leaving plenty of room for upgrades.

[@tellthemborissentyou]

I have been thinking about putting an Ortofon 2M red or 2M Blue on my turntable. I bought a Thorens TD-203 6 months ago which was a shop demonstrator so marked down in price. Do you think a 2M Blue is a worthwhile upgrade or should I try the Nagaoka MP-110 that some people seem to love? I won't get to try these out due to where I live so any advice anyone has would be great. Thanks John P.

[@JoeOrber]

I have several cartridges and the Nagaoka MP-110 is one of my favorites so far, I already ordered 3 replacement styli so that it'll be always awesome for years to come

[@Bruno-bg4uh]

Does anyone know of what material the upperside is made of ? Thx

[@MurgenTemplar]

Got mine today, went from Rega RP1 to SL-1500C. NAD BEE with Mission 763 (old faithfulls) speakers. Combination sounds great, better the RP1 did.

[@helgar791]

The proper way to use an Audioquest record cleaner or any such dust remover is to place the brush onto the spinning record, first tilting toward one line set of brushes to collect the dirt then tilting toward the other and slowly sliding the brush off of the record. By moving the brush to the label the dust will slowly migrate back onto the record or, when placing it back into the sleeve, redistribute itself onto the record. All records were cut at a SRA of 89 degrees (a slight tilt forward). That is a good starting point. After giving it that slight tilt one then should set the VTA by ear. This though is a fine review of a mid level product.

[@miguelbarrio]

Thx Darko. This looks like a nice piece. When you say “better than Roon into a DAC”, do you mean a cheap DAC or a great one? Michael Fremer played an amazing vinyl setup last week here in NY that I would deem sounds better than ANY digital source - TechDAS Airforce 3 + SAT arm + Lyra Etna + D’Agostino phono pre - I was blown away (top-notch pressings had something to do with that of course). But that’s ~$100k worth of vinyl setup alone!!! So I am thinking what is the cost of a vinyl setup that would get close to that...

[@ShellstaTube]

I did a simple fix on a Lenco L90 with similar arm lift issues. I don't know if it's the same mechanism on the Technics but the Lenco uses a photocell. A case of altering (cut/tape) where the cell is obscured.

[@stephenprice4121]

Thanks for the non-review insights John. Have you tried the SL-1500C directly into your LS50Ws?

[@DarkoAudio]

I haven't.

[@IliyaOsnovikov]

Does it also lift tonearm with the STOP button?

[@DarkoAudio]

No.

[@DJWerkz]

First thing I would do is tell the dealer to remove the 2M Red lol

[@QoraxAudio]

The tonearm of the 1500C is exactly the same as the one on the MK7, right?

[@utub1473]

I believe so... don’t quote me on that tho

[@QoraxAudio]

@@utub1473 hmmh looks like I didn't know the difference back then. VTA adjustment is different on the MK7. Helical tower on the MK7, while this one has a push/pull VTA tower.

[@rustypipe]

What a hifi reviewed it 5 out of 5 plus some other articles I’ve read had a very positive comments. Maybe upgrade cart to Blue for even better sound? How does it compare to mk7 sound wise I would love to know.

[@VVMNL]

My SL-1500C has a armlift that doesn’t even stay up! How was that with this test device, I do see that the arm lift is adjusted very high, even the slightest touch of the lever drops the needle on the record.

[@TemujinScott80]

You can adjust the arm lift feature to not lift too soon. There’s a instructional video.

[@rotaks1]

I am going to have to decide between this and the Pioneer PLX 1000. Will see. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@DarkoAudio]

The Pioneer doesn't come with a cart or phono stage though, right?

[@utub1473]

Pioneer is said to be riddled with issues. Apparently too good to be true

[@pierremartinez297]

I have the Pioneer PLX 1000, no issues at all.

[@sheepbaba]

Hi John, Cool intro. I was wondering if it had twice inertial mass of SP10mk2 (hard to imagine) as stated by premium-sound-uk eBay seller. Sorry to be pointy-outy but may I ask why you pull your carbon brush into the label thus collecting finger grease that we avoid when not touching the playing surfaces? I saw some young buck on youtube advising people to do this and hit the spindle to discharge static. As simple way to discharge static without ruining the brush would be to touch the spindle with another hand... May as well play with the bristles after eating a buttered crumpet... ;)

[@niallms83]

Hi John. In Australia this table isn't available and as such would need to be purchased from the UK at around $1700-1800 AUD. With that money I could also get a Rega Planar 3 with a Neo PSU, Nagaoka MP-110 and Cambridge Audio Duo phono stage. I'm trying to decide but was hoping to get your input. Thanks!

[@stephenmcknight7474]

That's it John good old vinyl hard to beat. You have landed. Lol

[@austerthegreat]

Auto return lift point in most turntables is adjustable, so you should be able to do that to this TT too to prevent the lifting too early.

[@DarkoAudio]

Nothing in the manual about it.

[@austerthegreat]

@@DarkoAudio It's not usually a user adjustment - it's probably in the service manual. Look for a small hole near the tonearm base on the top or the bottom. Alternately, you could call their service center and ask them to fix it

[@austerthegreat]

www.vinylengine.com/library/technics/sl-1500c.shtml Download the service manual from here, check out section 7.2 (looks like it has electronic adjustment compared to the mechanical ones most TT's have)

[@lifesjustanillusion246]

A 2m red cartridge can be interchanged with a 2m blue.if you have a 2m black it can be switched with a bronze..

[@andremelandray7102]

direct drive?

[@ememe1412]

Only thing about the current Technics is i hope they can make the tonearms upgradeable in future so maybe a G magnesium arm can be fitted to a 1500c. (I have an audiomods on a SL150 at the moment...) Also, even though this has a 78rpm function, without pitch control, it wont be universal. The old shellacs can vary from the 78 its supposed to be.

[@krsp420]

Have a vintage table that you cant turn the auto return off and it drives me crazy

[@mitsioner]

After watching this video, I decided to get me one of these. Everything you said is true, however I still ended up sending it back for a full refund. The platter was warped, the on / off button didn't work correctly and the overall feel was just off. It's nice plastic, but still plastic. Honestly, for 600 euro's I would probably have kept it, but for a 1000 I'd rather just get a vintage one in NM condition.

[@torontotomtom]

Pros and cons, estimated value, advice to the potential buyer... this is a review.

[@tremot7143]

It's neat package, but a hard (but fair) price point. At two, three or four times entry level prices of Pioneer and Audio Technica, this one is not for novices or young people on a budget nor audiophiles/(bedroom) DJs. I'm sure it sounds lovely and it is convenient to have a one-stop solution but most HiFi enthousiasts will lean towards Rega & Pro-Ject while DJ's and others will get some second-hand MK2/MK5 with an Ortofon Concorde slapped on. I personally opted for a mint MK2 with an Ortofon OM30 Super and a Schiit Mani for just under a grand. Sounds great, looks the part, upgradable, and reliable as can be.

[@musicman8270]

I went with the Planar 3, had it about a month. A bit better than the technics, which I have listened to for some time

[@DarkoAudio]

Context for other readers: the Rega Planar 3 sells for an RRP of €799 and comes with no cartridge or phono stage.

[@inko123]

Just ordered this tonight! My Fluance-RT83 started acting funny all of sudden. All of my records are skipping throughout for some reason. I've had the TT for almost 6 months with no issues. No matter how I adjust the antiskate, or balance the tonearm the skipping will not go away. So I decided to get this and be done for awhile. Anyone else have a Fluance TT that's experiencing these issues?

[@JoeOrber]

Did you check if the problem is the stylus? You might just need a replacement. It's a clear sign specially if it starts all of a sudden and won't go away, unless the tonearm bearings wore down but that's less probable

[@45calypso]

Didn't the strobe light predate DJ Decks?

[@jondubb35]

absolutely 100%. Strobe is necessary to be able to dial perfect speed.

[@unabashedindividualist6232]

@@jondubb35 These tables are clocked and spin dead nuts accurately. Most people only ever mess with the speed fader if they’re curious, they’re Dj’ing and making beats.. or the odd record that was cut at the wrong speed. No need for a strobe in 99.9% of situations for a living room listener.

[@emokidsparade8126]

Farts ‘n Sharts i bought the 1200mk7 instead of the 1500c, and i like the pop-up light for use at home. i tend to use dim lighting for mood when listening to records and that light feature helps when i want to cue the record to a differnt track. for me, the strobe light is just eye candy and i don’t mind it.

[@pegun]

Damn, was hoping you'd compare this to your Rega Planar 2 with Zu/DL-103 Mk2

[@DarkoAudio]

I did. Look for the backstory link in the description box

[@pegun]

Ahh thanks for pointing that out, I've totally missed it.

[@m3n9111]

How about the Audio Technica LP7 and LP5.. wish you would make a "Not A Review" of those as they are the top of the line of AT's home audio turntables.. Thanks for the great "not a review"!

[@utub1473]

LP5 has antiskating issues and lacks a height adjustment. The only problem with the LP7 that I know about is the belt needs yearly replacing. Compared to other belts such as the Rega’s that last 3-5 years

[@Kwippy]

With their low end turntables unlike this one, Technics knows that their turntables don't always spin at the correct speed and so they come with strobe lights and fine speed or pitch adjustment to allow manual checking and correcting. The bonus is their low end decks is you can change the pitch of the music to your taste and are not forced to listen to music the way the artists intend you to.

[@gaza4543]

Dont really get the "for the price" comments for the price you get what seems like a good/excellent phono amp and a decent cart included. Comparing to a lot on the market its a no brainer and is a lot better built.

[@meckanicall]

Hi I agree the cartridge combination and built in phono stage works well, it's also very free from noise. HOWEVER, I have several high quality separate phono preamps that I wanted to use or compare, but surprisingly the DIRECT output from the other set of RCA sockets is NOT direct and is somehow still connected with the built in preamp even though the switch has been slid across to the left as meant to be. This results in some very odd interference sound in the background. Please note this IS NOT normal mains hum! I wonder if you could be so kind as to connect your turntable to an external PHONO preamp and see if you get a similar noisy output when there is no disc playing. What is really weird is that the noise still there even with the turntable unpowered. By the way, this occurs with 3x different external phono preamps and different phono interconnects so is definitely created by the turntable. Very much appreciate it if you could let me know if you have this noise. I now wish I had bought the SL1000c turntable which does not have the complexity of the built in preamp and must be wired directly out to the sockets. Best regards...Les

[@michaelb9479]

I'm unclear which outputs you're referring to as "the other set of RCA sockets." If using external phono preamp you should be using the phono output, since your external preamp is acting as phono input. Rather than being "direct" the line out terminals seem intended for using with the onboard preamp to connect to device without a phono input.

[@johnsweda2999]

Is it a double edged sword. ? Looks like what techniques have done is designed the phono stage to work with that cartridge and tweet the phono stage to match the cartridge, now that's great with that cartridge and it might work with the other ortofons but using a different make of cartridge could give you bad results you need to try it

[@DarkoAudio]

Installed a Nagaoka last night and its sounds even better (more detail, separation, punch) than the Ortofon!

[@johnsweda2999]

@@DarkoAudio ok interesting does it have any presets for the phono stage.? Be nice to see the phono stage what's making this sounds so good. I'm assuming it has a rumble filter built in u don't know the cut-off frequency. which cartridge one did you use mp-500

[@jamespingel8730]

TBH I'd pick up a used Technics table (again). I have a vintage SL-D3 and cannot praise it enough. Tossed an AT-140LC on it before those got super expensive. Mine was built in 1974 and I opened it up to oil the motor and damp it with some cork just for peace of mind, but it worked perfectly before that. Used the spare cork and cut myself a turntable mat and some isolation dots I can run if I want it really clean. Total price was about $250 US, and that's with half the cost going to the needle. Other vintage technics are fine too, but the SL-D3 will give you auto-cuing and auto lift for one-button operation (and mine goes right up to the label before lifting), you get the strobe and a tiny little pitch wheel (good enough to adjust the speed for different record weights). Unless I find myself way more into vinyl in the future I don't see myself ever needing more.

[@classicrock7890]

The fact that a low end Ortofon and onboard stage even beats digital downloads says a lot. If you must have a Technics I would say get at least a GR (made in Japan). It isn't a lot more. The Pioneer PLX 1000 is a heavier built for less money and likely not a lot worse apart from having Hanpin origins.

[@gaza4543]

Really if all your doing is paying a premium for the "made in japan" label then its not really that much better, i think you'd be hard pressed to hear a difference between the 2 given equal phono pre's and with a little adjustment (1500c), eg better head shell better mat and better cart im sure the differences are minute . Espscaily as most will go and buy the cheapest of the cheap phono pre for the 1200gr. both are quite capable and both deserving of of better pre's just the 1500c will get you up and running. This machine must be eating into the sales of the 1200gr. Not to mention to some the 1500c looks better.

[@IliyaOsnovikov]

What's the PLX 1000 Wow and flatter spec?

[@bobskie321]

Can't they just use a velocity switch like a typical record changer from the 1970's so that it can finish playing the song very close to the record label?

[@mcdowelljj1]

The 2M styli are all interchangeable,but the red and blue share the same body,while the black and bronze share the more expensive refined cart.you can stick the black on red cart but you won’t be getting the full blown experience.a bit like drinking your chianti out of a paper cup.i have both red and blue,both good,but blue definitely more detailed.as a footnote,you can also stick an OM on a 2M body..just remember to adjust your tracking force,as they track 1.5-1.7g

[@DarkoAudio]

Thanks -- that's useful info. I have my Red and Black on separate headshells.

[@mcdowelljj1]

John Darko would love to hear the black or bronze.i’m currently running my Rega Planar 3 with a Nag MP 110 with Schiit Mani into a NAD c370.also,for what it’s worth,i think perennial giant killer,the AT95e is worth a mention.you can’t do better for £40..far better than the Carbon,which is a rebadged Audio Technica

[@DJShoji]

I thought automatic tonearm lift feature is one of the selling point of this turntable. Isn't there a way to adjust the auto lift trigger point? I have an old Technics semi-auto turntable (actually MCS - Technics OEM model that JC Penny used to sell!), but doesn't have this issue.

[@unabashedindividualist6232]

The auto lift isn’t a problem unless you have a record cut really deep like he demonstrated. I’d leave it on for casual listening as it’ll protect the cart from unnecessary wear and tear if I’m busy cleaning or in another room.

[@IliyaOsnovikov]

Agree.

[@bernhardadam4700]

Hi the Auto Lift is adjustable. In Service Mode you can choose between 2 positions. Sadly its set to the outer position. If you set ist to Position one, than you have no Problems with strange vinyls. :-)

[@ShellstaTube]

Pro-Ject do some well/better featured turntabes and/or provide options for less €$£.

[@user-mo9mt6yu8y]

1000euros for plastic buttons.

[@Vlad.The.Drac.]

1000 Euros for awesome sound, quality and durability.

[@SteveAbrahall]

One level love the ideal of vinyl - there was something about the sound quality - but the care and maintenance, the levels of dust - minor scratches, cleaning etc ... drove me mad as a hatter... CD for me thank you... :-)

[@Stringbean421]

@Steve,.. Duh,..seriously,..I wish people would stop with the so-called care and maintenance thing. CDs can be just as vulnerable if not taken care of properly. It on'y takes a few seconds to wipe the stylus free of a ball of fluff and a quick wipe-over of the record itself. Done!! Vinly rocks!!

[@yorkemar]

This is good considering it has cart. and preamp. The GR however is a much better turntable for not that much more due to its much more solid base construction.

[@DarkoAudio]

Price context for other readers. The 1500C sells for €999: The 1200GR sells for €1499. The latter sells for 50% more than the former.

[@micheallancton8984]

Omg please do a review on the reloop turn 5 its 800 dollars (US) and comes with the 2m red but no preamp so it's "moving coil" friendly you'd be an honest to god lifesaver if you review it because I'm not sure if I buy the turn 5 or sl 1500c

[@anonymerzyniker9183]

CytruzErizonit punctuation is overrated?

[@felipecottacardoso]

Great non-review! But I don't think you can upgrade from the red to the bkack.... AFAIK you can only upgrade from the 2m red to the 2m blue. If you want to get to the bronze or black you need to replace the whole cartridge.

[@DarkoAudio]

Per another comment, I have Red and Black on separate headshells. Sorry for the confusion.

[@MacVeneti]

900 euros is a high end turntable and fetures mentioned on your video I have them on my flusnce Rt84 same cartridge at the price tag of 480 euros .

[@metalbearuk]

I bought the Technics after being disappointed with a Fluance RT85, there's no comparison, the Technics knocks the Fluance out of the park.

[@mrpositronia]

That's a nice surprise, as the 2M Red is not really the best performer out there. Just goes to show what you can do when you match components carefully.

[@DIRECTSOUNDVINYL]

On my sl 1500c, Nagaoka mp110 is better .

[@mrpositronia]

@@DIRECTSOUNDVINYL the 110 is better than a lot of cartridges, but they don't always get fitted as standard on most turntables.

[@ralex3697]

DIRECT SOUND VINYL Absolutely, swap that red out asap

[@thomaspouskas210]

go buy a reloop rp-7000mkii and leave this double price piece of carbage,,,,,,,,,,,, the coolest advise i can tell you and remember my words...... the best direct drive now!!!! the king

[@rickg8015]

Thanks John.. I wish you had the 1200GR so you could compare the delta between it and the 1500C using an external phono stage.. Oh, BTW, Technics was really pronounced by the Japanese company as Techneeks. But like you, I grew up pronouncing it as Technix..

[@ShellstaTube]

I likely say Devialet, Focal and Bang & Olufsen wrongly. Heard one bloke call it De-violet 😀. Oh - and Paradigm with a hard g is amusing.

[@brianwicks5491]

I thought the Ortofon OM2 red and blue share the same cart body but to go up a notch to the bronze and black you needed the better catridge body just changing the stylus doesn't work? I would say the OM2 red was a token gesture from Technics and would put at least the OM2 blue, Nagaoka NP110 or Goldring 1006 on it. People refer to the SL1500c as entry level at Nine hundred UK pounds I would disagree, A Rega PL.1 @ £250 I would call entry level!

[@JoeOrber]

The Nagaoka MP-110 should be the entry level at this price point, it's not a super expensive cartridge but it sounds fantastic! Some people don't like it because they think the tall Ortofon 2M "look cooler" than a small yellow brick, but I prefer the sound and actually like the looks of the Nagaoka better, especially when fitted on a Nagaoka headshell too, that's style!

[@NickP333]

That’s interesting that you think the phono stage and cart work together and sound good. I bet you may have even thought, Ugh, I’ve gotta remove the phono stage and replace the cart at first. It’s just good to know that wasn’t the case. I trust your opinion, and would most likely think similarly. I dig the fact you have the ability to use the phono interconnects of your own choosing too.

[@z-mackdos6echo311]

Just so you know, the turntable shown is not the one you can purchase in the US. I prefer the solid black like the one you have. It ironic, because when it comes to stereo components in the US it’s the opposite. You can’t get the chrome looking gear but only the black models. What’s up with that? It looks as though the plinth is not a solid piece of material, because it sounds as though it’s hollow. Now we have a different definition of entry level which is usually tied to it price point. I would consider anything priced under 500 is entry level, and above that is consider a serious person about the audio gear being bought. Granted by your standard above the 1g price is no longer entry level. I feel a high quality cartridge installed properly will enhance the audio quality on a decent turntable at a 300 price point and above. The grooves on vinyl produced in the US is pretty much standardized, so you can leave the automatic tonearm return engaged. I’ve had only one album that ever went beyond that set limitation and that was a Michael Jackson one. The title I can’t seem to recall. But outside of the US it is probably more common. Since this wasn’t a review I must assume it was in the category of an unboxing to show what it’s features are. But you didn’t mention whether it was direct or belt driven disc platter, nor the number of RPM speeds it has.

[@RUfromthe40s]

i think it´s not well said ,it´s not a entry level it´s a good and alrady expensive turntable , as you said a entry level turntable is normally much cheaper but with good sound , the AT that looks like the SL-1200MK****** it´s a nice turntable for beginers but the auto-return it´s missing

[@estebannemo1957]

No flashing disco lights. Drag.

[@cjsvinyl]

A way to save money without actually saving money. 1000 euros, so...somewhere around 1,100 US? In my opinion that's too much for a turntable of this caliber. Maybe I'm spoiled by my SL-1200. If you want all DJ components removed, and have the automatic tonearm mechanism, then just go with a vintage SL-1700. The automatic return on that one actually works. I'm really not sure what Technics was thinking with this release, but it's not worth that price tag. Good review!