SL-1200 Record Player FOR LESS! TECHNICS SL-1500C Turntable Review
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- čas přidán 13. 06. 2024
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► SL-1200 Record Player FOR LESS! The TECHNICS SL-1500C Turntable Review
Technics new SL-1500C direct-drive turntable is more than just a SL-1200 lookalike. At $1200 (USD), the SL-1500C may just be worth its asking price, not for its performance (which is fantastic), but rather for its ease of use and robust construction. Can this Technics turntable compete with more expensive record players? I lay out the details of Technics new record player in my latest review.
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Andrew Robinson well I have purchased one of these and very happy with it, I have changed the stylus to a 2M Blue and it's definitely an improvement, question is Andrew have you tried it withe the Funk Achromat? Also I see Funk have a new item the Houdini and wondered what you thoughts are on this.
OK so I just purchase the Funk Mat, and what a difference I did not think for one moment that it would make such a dramatic change for the better.
Today is 6/3/2022 - I've been saving money and suddenly I saved more than I thought..... SO! *I reviewed your Audio-Technica LP140 (again), The 1200GR, and The 1500C.... Price wise $500, $1,200, and $1,700
Great and insightful review as usual. Getting a turntable these days, having a dilemma between technics sl 1500c and dual cs 618q, how would you compare it, what would be your choice (got an impression you would give an advantage to Ortofon 2M blue cartridge?)
"INfamous" Sl-1200? Really? Also, as far as I know it was never originally built as a DJ turntable, it was adopted as one. 1200s still out-measure many modern "audiophile" decks due to the damping in the chassis, platter etc and the outstanding speed stability and torque. Very few decks that aren't going for ridiculous money are built to the standard these were.
Managed to acquire an SL-1210mk2 (the black one) a while back for a very good price which had suffered a decade or 2 of DJ abuse. Works like a swiss watch.
Opened it up to restore the ground wire (a common DJ mod is to ground via the phono leads for convenience - but if Technics made it with a separate ground wire, they did it for a good reason) and was amazed at how it's put together inside and all the mass and anti-resonance efforts. No wonder they decided to stop manufacture when the tooling wore out - they must have cost a bomb to make, which is now reflected in the price of the new lines.
BTW - love those orange covers on the JBLs :)
I love that you include your emotional connection to some gear you have had in the past (like the 1200) which influences the criteria you develop when considering new gear. How well that new gear can ellicit the feelings the old one did is a valid criterion in my opinion. Music is an emotional phenomenon, after all, and we do become emotionally drawn to the earliest gear that first elevated the sound to new heights beyond what was coming out of radios, and nowadays phones, etc. For some, it became the trigger for becoming an audiophile in search of audio perfection however we define it. But we never forget that early gear and how it made us feel. Of course specs matter, but many reviewers downplay or exclude their emotional attraction to gear (maybe in an effort to seem hyper-rational an maybe more unbiased?). You decribe the features and qualities of the gear that made you feel that way which to me is more powerful than a dry recitation on specs (which of course are important but not the sole reason some of us decide on a certain piece of gear). A great review!
P.S. My first "real" turntable was my 1978 Technics SL-1800, bought new when I was eighteen, which gratefully I still have and use daily. Ironically, because of long work hours, few expenses, and heavy research that first system was my best. Because of a life not staying in one place for long, I often did not have an audio system. But that turntable always rode to my new address in the passenger seat of the car, carefully wrapped in a blanket, never being moved by anyone but me. When I finally settled down and put a system together in my mid-fifties, my SL-1800 became the crown jewel of my system which I'd describe as "budget audiophile" due to a low income resulting from chronic health issues. Now sporting an Audio-Technica VMN40ML cartridge, and never having required a repair, I am still in love with that turntable and would be severely bummed if anything happened to it.
Another great review Andrew! I've always love the sound as well as the look and feel of Technics turntables. I used a couple Technics professional turntables in the 1980's - 90s when I worked in radio. Always wished I could take them home with me:)
Enjoy the music!
Probably the best tech review I've ever watched/heard! Your detailed way of analysis and creative descriptors is honestly unique. I just subscribed today and really look forward to exploring the rest of your content & future videos :-)
I appreciate it. Thank you for watching!
Yes I really like Andrew , sometimes I don’t agree with him but he is really a refreshing voice , probably because he has learnt from his past experiences-
I don't always agree with Andrew, but I like his style and he seems honest and not as swayed by commercial influences.
Great review Andrew. You did an excellent job of articulating the product characteristics and "place in the market" for this turn table. I've been hunting a SL-1200 Mark 3, or later, for years.
this is so well explained that I felt that I learned something not just about this turntable, but I learned a little bit more about hifi at the same time. One of the best reviews I have watched from anyone!
You aren't alone on this one. I sold mine for a few bucks in college and regretted it ever since - until I snagged this. Won't be selling this bad boy. Great video!
Been a technics fan since 1976!! Thanks for the great review and personal comments! The price alone for this would enrage the audio technica people!! They prefer to disassemble and try to improve the lack of quality parts and engineering while I prefer to doing a needle drop and enjoying my technics!!
Thank you for the review. I bought the SL-1500C a few years ago and am very satisfied. I did upgrade the cartridge from the 2M Red to the 2M Blue and it made a huge difference in the sound. I am now using the 2M Bronze and love it as well, but the difference between it and the 2M Blue is not as significant as the upgrade from the Red to the Blue. I do look forward to all your postings. Keep up the great work.
are you still using the built in pre?
What's the sound difference between red and blue? 😊
I've had one of these for nearly a year now, and would echo everything you say. I fitted upgraded leads, and a blue Ortofon stylus which made quite a difference. All in all, a very good and easy to use turntable.
Im still burnin my Technics sl 3300 i bought in 78. My first and only table i have ever owned.
Although that model would not have been my first choice even back then it does say a lot about Technics build quality. (Among others I do own a SL-1210 Mk5 and a SL-7 to this day and they, too, have both been running for decades without ANY issues whatsoever.) You really can't go much wrong with a half-decently cared for Technics TT.
Found this in 2023 while looking for a new turntable and having the 1500C on my list of choices. Your thorough and passionate review convinced me to double-plus my budget and buy this turntable. I hope in the interim since you made this video you were finally able to obtain one for yourself!
I enjoyed the presentation and it pretty much summed up how I feel about this turntable. I'm not a fan of the 2M Red so installed something I prefer from scratch but overall I just love this 1500C. I picked the silver colourway.
It's worth noting that even the lower end SL-series direct drive turntables are extremely robust. I got into vinyl a month ago by picking up a used SL-D33 which came out in 1979-1981-ish off of craigslist untested and with one belt to fix the automatic tonearm mechanism and a replacement stylus, this thing is working amazingly. I'm extremely happy with how it performs and how it still runs after all this time.
thanks for the quality review! Very helpful!
1200G all the way. I grew up around the 1200 too. My aunt had one in the 80's. I remember the smell of the rubber platter mat, the strobe, the dots on the edge that danced as the platter rotated, and that S arm coasting up and down on the record never missing a tune. Once that arm dropped and the small pops could be heard as the stylus found it's groove, it was partly time and Cerveza time. That Marantz reciever and it's glow with VU meters, that Panasonic/Technics 8 Track with it's meter, and last those wood Marantz speakers and the smell of the foam grilles and paper cone. I had to be 2 or so. Just a Hi-fi toddler. 🍼 Now I'm floating the idea of completing the circle and getting my own magical 🦄.
Closed my eyes and briefly thought you were reviewing a vintage Merlot from the vineyards of a distant town in France.....
Was thinking EXACTLY the same.
I'm a more of a Shiraz and SL1200MK2 guy
I know, he sounds often like a wine connisuier lol
@@swdgeldenhuys just a tint of dryness .. just a hint ..
Probably been mentioned already but with so many variables in the chain, the weakest link here seems to be the cartridge...The 2M red is a fine cartridge but I can’t imagine anyone spending $1200 on this table but hobbling it with that cart. I would’ve loved it if this review provided a little more perspective by swapping out the Ortofon with a few other cartridges, like the Nagaoka MP-200, to get a clearer picture of what this table is capable of or what it’s real characteristics are.
Yes the Red is limited - grainy highs and not that much detail is what I found. However, it's pleasant enough with a nice big 3-D soundstage. And it was not broken in, perhaps the crispy highs would be tamed a bit after some more run. Not as bad as I thought based on some unflattering things I'd read about the Red, but then I put on my Ortofon Blue cart and it was next level. Also, the Sumiko Moonstone is a terrific performer on this deck. I'm going to look at the KAB damper and tonearm wrapping as mods that maybe can coax a little more performance performance out of the 1500c.
Yes, I agree. I think most of what Andrew describes he hears is due more to the cartridge, stylus type and/or alignment, than to the turntable itself.
I put a Ortofon Black on it and it's Awesome , working with my Marantz 2275..I also have a 1200mk2, so not new to this, so glad they put that Auto Lifter Function on it
I've been reading reviews on CARTS the last couple of weeks.
The 3 that I have found most interesting are: Otofone 2m-Black, DENON 103, and Nagaoka MP-200. The Denon requires another pre-amp since it's a MC Cart, but I hear it's one of the BEST Ever made. The Nagaoka MP-200 has a Boren Cantilever (sp) that sounds $100s of Dollars less that most others with the same metals used. The 2m-Black maybe better than the 1st 2 Carts, but is it really, or is that is a POPULAR Brand with a Good Reputation costing a few Hundred more than it really is worth?
..... anyway, I stuck my 2 cents in because you were the 1st person who has mentioned Nagaoka!
Cartridges sound different ……. not necessarily better!
The way I would describe the bass response of this turntable and cartridge, having one myself, is tight... you can hear the individual strokes of a kettle drum on a symphony recording, or the tightness in the note structures in bass cords on a bass guitar in any Jazz, Blues of Rock performance, which I find pleasing, because it doesn't overdrive the rest of the soundstage.
I'm glad that the 2 Sl1210mk2 i bought for djing 18 years ago are still around in prestige condition. i always knew once they stopped making them that if they come back it won't be the same.
watched your exceptional review last week. Bought this turntable yesterday. Totally stoke with my decision to upgrade from my old Rega P1. Thanks for your help Andrew! Can't wait to spin my collection through!
Hey mate, just wondering how you find this one compared to the P1 after a few months, I also have a P1 and am considering upgrading.
This just threw a wrench into my choice for next turn table.
I love this guy he's pretty darn good at his job of discernment on stereo Systems
Thank you so much! We appreciate you watching.
Excellent presentation, Andrew is gifted. I’m going to buy one by the way !
I love my Technics SL-1300. Bought it used for $40. It's often overlooked because everybody wants a 1200 deck. The 1300 is also built like a tank!
Brian Matthews Agreed! I have a 1300 (full auto) and 1400 (semi-auto) that I bought very cheaply and they are amazing beasts! Arm return at the end of a record is a real feature, and you’re not giving up an iota of sound or build quality to get it with these.
Just like to say thanks for this video. I had been looking at the 1500 for a while and your review helped me decide to purchase one.
What a great table. My model came from Turntable Lab with the 2M Blue upgrade.
I immediately got the lack of warmth but exchange the stock rubber mat with a rubber/cork composite mat that added warmth and did not sacrifice the energy.
I’m looking forward to getting to know it even more…
Thanks again,
Scott
I'm already aware how awesome the SL-1500C looks and sounds and am ready to pop over to Bay Bloor to get one when I saw your review. I was hoping you would, but you didn't touch on at all about that one other big elephant of a difference it has with the SL-1200: the auto-lifter system (must-have in hifi IMHO, not so in a DJ situation). What I know so far is there is an option to enable/disable it. Other than that I'd like to know, 1. if enabled, after the stylus has reached the record end and it lifts, does it stay in that place (and you have to manually put it back in the cradle) or does it go back to the rest position automatically? 2. After it lifts, does the platter also stop spinning or do you have to hit the start/stop/cue button for it to? Here in Toronto ON, Canada, the SL-1500C is CAD$200 more expensive than a current-production SL-1200 MK7 and every bit of info anywhere helps. Is it worth spending that much more because of the auto-lifter system, for one?? It's surprising how clueless actual sellers are (that I have inquired from so far) about how the wretched auto-lift works. Thank you for the review and thank you for reading this comment.
Happy with my sl 1500c, great turntable
Great review guy! ... I might add that the 'drawbacks' you mention (less bass, rolled off highs) are mainly due to the low level 2M Red cart and the built-in preamp, as well as the headshell, it's wires and the stock RCA interconnects. These items can make or break the sound of a turntable... I have the 1200GR with the Schiit Mani preamp, Nagaoka MP-200 cart, Lintz headshell wires, a Jelco heasdhell, and quality low capacitance RCA interconnects and it sounds like a different turntable. Simply brilliant! It doesn't have to cost a lot to maximize the sound of the Technics family of turntables. Their potential goes way beyond what's provided in the box.
I thought the thick RCA cables that comes with the Technics SL-1200GR are great? I have a 1210GR, Schiit Mani, Nagaoka MP-110 and i think they sound great. I will upgrade the cart to MP-200 sometime in the future.
@@Livewire91 they are okay
@@sargeantsalt9081 Ok, i was thinking of buying Cordial RCA cables between the turntable and premap. All the rest of my cables are from Cordial. Is there a difference really between stock Technics rca cable and cordial? Thoughts?
Thank You Andrew, will be buying this SL1500 C. Very good & honest review. Happy Christmas to you & the misses.
Enjoy it! Love Technics.
Still using my SL1900 with nagaoka mp110 and hyde platter mat. Sound's superb. Plugged into Tisbury Audio phono amp and speakers set up according to RSP, rational speaker placement. RSP made the greatest improvement overall and the use of concertmeister basio isolation pods are amazing.
I have an SL-Q300 that I bought from dads buddy 6 years ago. Still love it!!!
Thanks for this video. This confirms what I thought of the product. I'm getting mine in a few days. The black version. I'll fit my A-T VM740ml on it.
I have been looking at this Technics SL-1500C and the similarly priced Dual CS 618Q. Which one would you prefer between those two? Seeing as you've tested them both. Visually, I like the look of both of them for different reasons, sound quality seems close enough. How about the tactile experience between them?
This is one of my options to upgrade my setup. I love the fact that includes a phone preamp and the auto lift is a plu, the look is great but it looks empty at the same time.
beautiful.
i own a 1200 from 1993. Its great, but i never intended to use it as a dj.
id like 1500, and i think it will be my next tt.
Another confirmation to keep my vintage technics direct drive turntable
They do seem to be built to last. Thanks for watching!
Great review. I presently use my much loved 1981 Technics SL1610Mk 2 Quartz which though very rare is in essence a home version of the SL1210. I recently saw and heard a demo of the new 1500c and was very impressed! Its nice to see Technics back doing what they did so well in the 70's. making quality Hi Fi. p.s. your Technics Amp looks awesome!
Thank you and thank you for watching. Sadly I returned the amp and turntable because my review period had ended. I miss them both terribly already.
I've got a sl-1610 as well...except the original version, not MKII.
It's precise, built like a tank but has the auto features I want.
I put Zu cables and a Nagaoka mp-150 cartridge on it and it puts a smile on my face everytime I use it.
Technics built/builds fine tt's!
You are mainly describing the sound of the Ortofon Red, my first modern cartridge. I have since moved to a Benz Micro Gold MC and much more musical. I have a SL1200
You are right. I have this combination and it’s great but that cartridge is the weak link. I realized this after switching it out for a Denon 301 mk2. Record noise is in the background now and every LP I play is highly listenable.
The bouquet of Red’ .. ha ha .. 😂🤣😂 I’ll have a 12’ with a gold concord on the side please
I like your reviews, very honest!
Thank you.
Andrew, great video! I'm seriously considering one. Would it make sense to buy a budget amplifier/speakers with this table? Would mid-level speaker and integrated amplifier make sense if one is willing to spend on the SL-1200
The 1200 was never designed to be a DJ table, DJs merely adopted it. It was an audiophile table when it came out, but through the 90s and 2000s DJs were the only thing keeping turntable sales alive, which is why Technics didnt do any major redesigns.
Great fact I didn’t know. I can’t tell you the countless videos of DJ’s referring to the 1200 as the DJ’s table.
How is a 1200 mk2 not a DJ turntable it has pitch control on it?
@@nomadwcd8877 Pitch control is useful for many people not just DJ's. If you're a singer/musician you might adjust the pitch to make it spot on for A440 tuning. You can then hear the music at the correct pitch which is very important for ear training, transcribing solos, and many other use cases. Many years ago, I had a Dual turntable + Ortofon cartridge combo, and it had pitch control. This was not a DJ turntable at all, and this feature, found on some turntables, was around way before DJ's started doing their thing with the Technics 1200's. The DJ's clever as they are, just used the 1200's to their fullest advantage, and the rest is history as they say!
As usual partly right. The mk1 was a home turntable for serious listening. DJs picked up on it. On the back of this the mk2 was made more DJ friendly and quickly became the ubiquitous 'DJ Turntable' spawning many wannabees over the decades. Technics other TTs after the 80s were pretty much meh so the 1200 series were really their top of the line home turntable too. In the 90s snobbery came and 'audiophiles' pretty much decided DD was for amateurs. Technics have pretty much smashed that theory with the new generation of Turntables and I'm pleased to say that I own two of the range.
@Andrew Robinson , have you used a SL1200GR? I'm trying to decide between the two, and the 1200 is still made in Japan, where the 1500C is made in Malaysia.
Andrew, great video thanks! Have you had the chance to check the Marantz M-CR612 (Melody X) ? Also I would lobe to know your input on the SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers. Keep it up and stay safe! thanks.
Love the turntable, what do you think about a 1700 Mk2 My turntable was stolen and I am desperately looking to replace it with something that is good and still affordable
When I had a belt-driven Technics turntable, I found have a pitch control was helpful in adjusting the speed because after a while, that 'belt' (glorified rubber band) would start to stretch and cause variations in playing speed. So, between the pitch control and the strobe, I could make minor adjustments to playing speed when necessary.
I have one. Andrew is totally on point with the sound. My complaints on this table are that it's a little microphone-ish, though not terrible. It's probably the cost saving materials used in the body construction. But it's not bad, especially with the very nice internal preamp. The cue lever is garbage, and I wish they hadn't cut costs there, but this table is really nice overall.
I'm in love! I had a Pioneer PL-12d when I was a kid. Loved it. But now I have money but still the same attitude. I just want value. I love the he describes his turntable like it was a super wine. Don't know if I will pay this kind of money but I love to hear his case. Thank you.
Great video thank you. I'm getting back into vinyl after after too many years away and was pretty sure I was leaning toward a Pro-Ject Debut Pro S or maybe a Rega Planar 3 until I came across this video. Of the three which would you recommend?
Great review ! As a young audiophile (circa 1980's), I always admired many of Technics tables, particularly when comparing it against the likes of Rega, Ariston, stc, -that were better (most of the time), yet the Technics SLB-200 (belt) series era offerings always sounded musical, enjoyable in a very economical, easy-to-use package that also provided many years of trouble-free operation.
It therefore surprises me not that today's SL-1500C (reviewed here) is as impressive as many respected reviewer's today claim, as some of Technics older/more expensive as the legendary SL-1200 -and higher-end offerings (SL-10?) were capable of excellent SQ.
I think it time to 'dust-off' some of the the retained 150 albums from 2003/4. I never thought the day would come when I'd consider spinning them ever again. And yet, this SL-1500C shall find a home here.
I'm confident the experience shall serve as a time-machine -catapulting listener's into a largely by-gone era. AND, if it proves to better CD/Streaming SQ (as it clearly bettered CD-sound back in 1990), that would be remarkable indeed. I'll take mine in (classic) silver !
pj
Did you purchase the Technics SL 1500c? If so how do you like it?
Great review! I now bought the SL-100C, which is the same table but without the phono stage.
Another great review. And, thanks to your excellent reviews, I've upgraded my system recently to include the Yamaha RN-2000 and KEF R11 Metas; you were 100% correct about both. Now, on to upgrading my TT from the Fluance rt 85. I'm curious if you would recommend this Technics SL-1500C as is, or with an upgraded Orotfon cartridge, such as the Blue, Bronze or even, dare I ask, Black (as you have done with your AT TT). Or, would simply adding a Bronze or Black to the Fluance produce an equivalent result (sonically and quality) for a bit less $?
Please advise, as I've discovered that your sensibilities seem closely matched to mine. Many thanks in advance.
How do you find the reverb back to the table with your speakers being so close? Normally speakers should be at least 6 feet apart. Are you finding it is sensitive and creating distortion?
If I were to get this turntable would I get better sound with the built in pre amp through a regular input on my Onkyo 8020 receiver OR turning off pre amp and doing through phono? Apparently the Sn ratio on phono input is 80 and 100 on others if that matters.
Hi Andrew. Thank you for your reviews. I am in a market for a turntable and I am watching all your videos. I would like to ask for your advice. I have a short list of turntables but unfortunately I am not able to test and listen all. I am curios if you would recommend this SL-1500C over Pro-Ject Debut Pro or Pro S (I can have the Pro S at the same price as Pro) and Rega Planar 3. Or should I go for the LP140X and spend the difference on preamps and cartridges?
Loved your review .
Thank you kindly. I appreciate you taking the time to watch. Be well!
Honestly though all the technics tables sold today can be used as audiophile tables. Even the 1200mk7 can be used as an audiophile table. All these turntables produce audiophile sound!
if its a 1200 its t4 biznis. put a good cart and stylus on it and you wont get a better sounding table... for the $ anyways.
Thank you for this Eric. I was looking at that model and was curious if it would be great for an audiophile/simple vinyl lover such as myself. I see a lot of reviews from DJ’s (of course) - and wanted to know if they are suitable for an audiophile
Technics SL1200 MK2 turntable, Ortofon 2M Bronze, acrylic mat, Rega MM MK3 phono stage, 150 Watt Philips PA 1200B Amp, Klipsch Forte originals... Sounds amazing, I'm very happy...
The mk7 can be upgraded with a KabUsa glass platter and thin technics rubber mat, isanoe feet, a better power cord, and high quality phono interconnect low on capacitance. Throw on a shure m97xe cartridge with the stabilizer brush and you are all set. Mine sits on a butcher block acoustics walnut platform for even more resistance to vibration. To me, the mk7 is a bargain and a high quality turntable. No loose tonearm bearings, the tonearm is silky smooth. The cueing lever is also high quality as the stylus drops to record surface nice and slow and gentle, as it should. It plays 78's as well. For $999 it's great. I'm also no DJ, I'm an audiophile with with way too many turntables. My main turntable is an Avid ingenium belt drive. I bought the mk7 because it was reasonably priced compared to the 1200 gr and g...and honestly, it's the only game in town for a relatively cheap direct drive, not a vast amount of options out there. From what I've researched, the 1200 gr is slightly heavier, shares the same tonearm, and has a bit more torque. Honestly, the difference in price is not justified when it comes down to only how it sounds. I'm sure the mk7 and the gr sound very similar. You get the better tonearm and less plastic in the 4k G model...too much money for me, unless i sell off some tables.
great video. what is your opinion about ONKYO CP 1050 ?
I love Technics I love 1500c.A vintage turntable made today's build like a tank
and looks amazing next to my MARANTZ 1060...or my Luxman L31....my new Yamaha S 701.what else.A turntable for modern and vintage equipment. Amazing review.I love the way that you connect the past with the future.This is 1500c .Ortofon red....phono amplifier...and 78rpm...removable rca?what else.?
I believe that the design is from 1501 or 1401.well done Technics.
Hi Andrew! You actually pushed me into buying the SU-G700 and I thank you for it. Now I'm considering this turntable actually. Would you say the built in phono stage in the turntable is better than the built in phono stage in the amp? I use the phono stage in the amp now for my Rega and I absolutely love it.
This is a very good question and one that I, for one, had for some time. Surprised that Andrew didn't respond to it! I can give you my take on this, but I consider him the God and he can correct me if I'm wrong. I own SL-1500C thanks to Andrew's review and am very pleased with it. 1500C has an excellent built-in pre-amp as far as I see, but for someone like you owning the SU-G700 you have every reason to look down upon any built-in preamps and bypass them to utilize your own gear instead. I definitely would if I owned SU-G700 or R1000. I'd also replace the cart with a higher-end model such as "Ortofon 2m-Black".
Thanks again to Andrew and his wife. They both have excellent taste and vision + experience which enables them to recommend good audio devices saving people like me a lot of time.
Thanks a lot! I'm between Technics sl-1500c and Dual 618q. Both have strong and weak points. What would be your advice given every day listening using active speakers? And what device is more robust and durable in long term?
Hey Andrew,
Love your channel. I realize this does not have anything to do with the 1200’s (although I do own one and love it!) but I was wondering your thoughts on Elac speakers and as a company overall? I was always a klipsch fan, then did a lot of research on Andrew Jones and what he brought to the table. I was the original debut b6’s. No one believes me when I show them the two little guys making all that noise! Anyway just wandering if you’d be interested in reviewing any of the newer elac products?
Love what you are doing and can’t wait to keep watching. Thanks
I had an Audio- Technical's table I purchased many years ago, in fact I think it was made in Japan. It had a cheap cartridge and I had it paired with a Marantz 2230 vintage amp and a pair of Vintage Fisher speakers. The detail I heard from that relatively inexpensive system was better than I get from components ten times the cost. I kick myself for ever getting rid of those pieces of equipment. The biggest issue I had with them was cosmetics and difficulty finding someone who could repair vintage Marantz.
Hi Andrew, Thanks for the review - it was very informative. Quick question - do you think the 1500c would benefit from 2M blue cartridge?
Yes.
Andrew Robinson I will second that, very affordable and quick upgrade all you need is the stylus not the full cartridge.
I can't be sure because I've never owned the 1500c, but I bet it would benefit from an "upgrade" to a $40 AT-95e. I have an Ortofon Super OM body with an OM10 and an OM20 stylus that I think sound better than the 2M Red on the tables I've heard it on and I would choose the AT-95e or the newer version of it the AT-VM95e over both. Just like the 2M series you have a ton of options up to a fine-line with the AT-VM95** series.
@@nelsonbeck1631 I have a SL-1500c and I have replaced the Stylus on the Ortofon Cartridge to a 2M Blue, you do not need to replace the cartridge to do this, the sound is much better as the midrage is fuller and more open. bass is tighter as well. You need to take in to cosideration that the phone stage in the TT is made around the Ortofon Cartridge.
Sounds like the symbols and drums on "when the Levee breaks" must explode even more possibly on the 1500 presently using audiotechnica 160. Seems decent.
Would you buy a 1200 instead of the 1500-C just to complete the look or are the extra features of the 1200 overkill for home use? I mean I worked a pair of 1200’s every night for eight years so I know what that deck can do. I’m just not sure I could bring the 1500-C into the house without feeling like it was incomplete. I know, like you, I got spoiled by a those 1200’s.
Hi Andrew thanks for the review. Very clear and concise. I’ve been eyeing one of these up for the longest time. You mentioned you did some listening with outboard pre, could you elaborate a little as to how muddy the sound. And what you feel you would have to spend to better or match the pre. Say if I wanted to use a mc cart in the future? And on the subjects of carts did you any others like higher up blue and black? Thanks
The internal phonostage (if memory serves me) is MM only. I used the built-in phonostage on the Technics integrated amp, as well as a Pro-Ject phono box and Emotiva phono preamp. The phono pre built in to the 1500C is identical to the one found in the Technics integrated amp, so no real change in sound there. The other two phono stages sounded good, but not different enough or "better" to warrant me not using the built-in stage -if that makes sense.
@@robinsonbrand Thank Andrew! sorry for the slow reply!
You Mister just made me want to buy one after watching several reviews.
Thank you for your thoughts!
Curious, would the SL 1200 MK2 or MK7 platter fit the SL 1500C?
My ground wire is too short from vinyl to amp. Now i could use a pre amp but then it wont work with the phono input on my amp. I could also get a cable with double-sided cable lug but it doesnt fit my Technics FG servo SL-BD22D Turntable (it has a round ground wire input)
Any suggestions? Thx
Nice TT the 1200 is very good and definitely audiophile as well. The bass is deep and clean sounding
Stellar video loved it.
The warmth is overated vinyl in 2019 can be so much cleaner and punchier.
Really liked this. I wish you could have compared it with some other tables. I know it’s challenging as there are many.
Great review as usual Andrew. Awesome looking turntable, not a bad price tag also. The SL1200 is still the model for me, because I still have use for the pitch control. I have vinyl from the 1970's, and 1980's that the record companies didn't press at exactly at 33 1/3. For example I have some Foghat records where Dave Peverett's voice sounds way to high at 33 1/3. Pitch control minus helps a lot. For people purchasing new vinyl I am sure they could just go with the 1500c.
I sorry I like the thorenz TD 160 ,Dual 1228.Is totally better
Andrew, love the review. I like you had a 1210 MK2 for my personal record listening, when CD’s where at there peck I sold it for penny’s on the dollar. I have always regretted selling it, but on the bright side I kept my record collection. For the last five years I have been using a Project Debut Carbon with extras, acrylic plater, speed box, Q-up and the MP150 as the cartridge. When Technics restarted producing there world famous turntable’s again I did wish that they would make one without all the DJ bells and whistles, pitch control etc. Andrew, I have my sight set on my own 1500C. What HiFi also has this turntable as one of it’s finalist as turntable of the year, it just has to dethrone the king Rega’s P3.
I don't think there is ever one sole product that is the "best", it's all about what works for you and what you want to use/listen to. Listen to them both and decide for yourself which is right for you.
Great review, as always. I think the 1200MK2 is the *best* bang for your buck, if you are able to find one locally in your area. Classic, reliable and built to last - you simply can't go wrong.
i agree but first try to find a home turntable ,it´s better in sound quality and it does all functions one needs at home no wider ptich, just the speed needed no lights for dark enviroments,all that comes with a professional turntable ,but i think it matters the higher sound quality ,i myself had two SL-1200mkII for 35 years but at home i had from technics a SP-1 and a SL-1000MKII which were far better in sound and in saving the vinyl ,no destroyed records after 10 years of use or one new years eve, about new years eve that´s when i discovered that a record filled with noises if somewater droped on top of it , like a buble all noises went away. I discovered that because one night at 00.05 of the new year i had put to play this in early 80´s ,the longest song i could remenber high and drunk, i put hurricane from bob dylan but after a few minuts i notice the sound was very clean and the record allthough it sounded well it had some noises, that´s when i went for the room where the turntables were and a buble of champaign was on top of the record with it still playing, i thought i had discovered something new like "guys ,if onedrops a litle champaign ona noisy record ,all noises disappear" but i wasn´t thinking my brain was doing other stuff, less record sound more femaleshape around . Try other technics turntables and you´ll be amazed but today all are expensive, locally one can find a 2nd hand turntable for a cheap price and well kept , this before checking new material for big amounts of money
Well done review. I like how you are doing these hardware reviews. Looking forward to the next ones. How about a review of bluetooth vs wifi streaming or different bluetooth streamers with built in DAC's?
Appreciate you watching! I will look into your suggestion for a future video.
Please, Bluetooth with vinyl is like mp3 to CDs. Stop it.
Just get a Schiit phono stage or use the built in phono stage.
Andrew, I loved your review and this table had moved up to the consideration stage.
You should do a review of the reloop turn 5.
If we were discussing the sound quality between the 1500c and the Fluance rt 85 is there a discernible/ demonstrable difference between the two. Are you getting $700 more in sound quality, performance etc.. in the 1500c?
Hi Just have question for you about this turntable. How is the power button of this table ?? Just got the same table and the power button is missing presses now and then. The power button on this table does not feel very reliable ?? I can somehow understand it has some delay because it is logic controlled (does not respond to very fast presses) but it feels kinda irrational, all the other buttons work and respond like a charm. Someone else was talking about this same thing in reddit. Does it need a somekind of power down and up cycle ???
I am wondering what you are describing in the sound has more to do with the cartridge than the table itself? I have an old Philips GA212 which has the Ortofon 2M Blue mounted to it and it has a very lively sound especially on acoustic instruments which sound like they are in the room with you.
Having it mounted on a good turntable does make a difference, and I'd love to have a SL-1500C, however cannot justify the price when I already have over a dozen turntables. Maybe if my 1976 SL-1500 dies (which is probably unlikely).
How does the 1500 compare to the Fluance RT85, a table that you said you were keeping for your own because you loved it so much?
I wonder if I could use my VM540ML cartridge mounted on an AT-HS10BK headshell with this turntable.
When it comes to usability and quality,the SL-1600MK2 adds a solid portion comfort to that.
Which is imho still the deck with the best price/quality ratio Technics ever sold.
Like you I had a SL-1200MK2 back in my younger days and was sorry that I sold it on Ebay when I had kind of gotten away from vinyl. I was thinking about the REGA Planer 3 but will probably settle for the 1500C in Black. Nice review by the way.
Thank you very much Andrew for your vivid presentation….!!!
Should I buy it and replace my Project 2…?
Greetings from Vienna
Michel Golabaigne
Very interesting and brilliant review, but of course there is no hard and fast rule that it must be used with the provided cartridge which is a major contributor to its overall sound.
So is the historic SL-10 close n play turntable still desirable or Collectible?
I have a SL-1200G for 2 years now and recently I have heard the 1500C in real life.
I can tell you: the 1200G sounds even more analytical, the attack of cymbals you described are even more present on the 1200G.
But in the end, the cartridge determines how it sounds for the biggest part and the 2M Red has a bit sharp treble on recommended load (220pF).
How I always describe the Technics sound is like: It sounds like pro-audio lab equipment, analytical, clean and accurate.
Something that isn't a typical product attribute audiophiles look for, so it surprises me that these (and the 1200G/GR) turntables are considered "audiophile products".
But you're comparing a $4000 turntable to a $1200 table, so I expect the SL-1200G to be a least a little better! I really wonder how the SL-1500 compares to the SL-1200GR, sound wise, with the same cartridge.
@@wd3574 Yes that would be interesting, especially with the internal preamp of the 1500C turned off, so that both the 1500C and 1200GR use the same external phono preamp.
my friends selling a Technics sl-3200 table, 1978. has a AUDIO TECHNICA LAB XI-E CARTRIDGE. not sure on the stylus. would you know much about this cartridge quality and quality of this turntable. should it be replaced with a modern one. what brand and model would you suggest.
Another nice job, Andrew. Technics is doing some interesting things, both at (relatively) modest price points, and at the upper end. I'm looking forward to your review of the SP-10R. Yeah, baby!
Thanks!
Speaking of the SP10 check out Guttenberg from this morning. Dayum.
Great Job, Will this connect to a pair of LS50 Wireless?
Great Review !!
Just purchased one of these bad boys, today. I've noticed a lot of people online are using the rubber slip mat given my Technics. I currently have a Hudson HI FI Acrylic slip mat, with my older turntable. Do any of you use the rubber mat? If so, do you prefer it?
Thanks for this review, Andrew. I know it's an oldie, but it made my decision on purchasing this turntable. Cheers.
I am absolutely loving what's coming from Technics these days - their products remain very true to the company's heritage without resting on their laurels one bit. They work tirelessly to improve and deliver on outstand sound at even better values and it really comes together well in their final packages. This SL-1500C paired with the SU-G700 and the Buchardt S400s just seem like the perfect little setup for my needs and ears, and I can't wait to install them in my setup (in the near future)! Thanks a bunch, your videos are on point!
I have always thought the SL1200 was a mechanical powerhouse but a tiny bit thin-sounding table. I also have felt the Ortofon 2M Red to be a bit rolled off on the top end. I have not demoed the 1500C but I suspect that if you ran the Ortofon 2M Blue or the Nagaoka MP-110, at a minimum, you would have a totally different experience. Either way, the 1500C looks to be a great table for the price. Thanks Andrew.
Great Review! really cleared up alot, but created more questions for me. Currently have the Denon 300f with blue cartridge(4 months old) and not satisfied yet. I need More because I am missing something. Also looking at the Thorens Fully auto turntable..
It’s simply one of the best Turntables money can buy and paired with the 700 receiver... man!
I know right!! I'm lusting after both.
I like the way that it doesn't sound too warm,because in my personal music taste when the music sounds too warm it sounds like 'faded or bad recorded music.