Technics announces new additions to SL-1200 turntables range
The upgraded turntables use digital technology to improve analog performance
Technics is releasing two new additions to the popular SL-1200 turntable series: the SL-1200GR2 and SL-1210GR2, which share the same parts and performance but display silver and black finishes respectively.
The hi-fi heavyweight is heralding the products as the first stage of a new generation of direct drive turntables.
Technics pioneered the direct drive motor design over 50 years ago with its SP-10 turntable, and has been fine-tuning it to enhance sound quality ever since.
Read this next: The 12 best DJ turntables
The company's latest innovation simultaneously reduces vibrations and high harmonics, with Frank Balzuweit, Senior Product Manager at Technics Europe, celebrating the ΔΣ-Drive as the culmination of their goal "to take [direct drive technology] to the next level".
The ΔΣ-Drive implements delta sigma modulation, a 1-bit D/A conversion method, to boost rotational accuracy through motor vibration reduction. This is a significant improvement from the SL-1200GAE model, which Panasonic revived the Technics brand with in 2016. While the SL-1200GAE made strong steps towards greater rotational precision and lowering motor vibrations, the sine wave for motor control wasn't entirely accurate.
Read this next: Technics wins prestigious design award for its pricey SL-1200GAE
The Japanese brand has also honed in on its general power supply, with the new Multi-stage Silent Power Supply working at over 100kHz and providing high speed, low-noise power. The power supply adopts the noise cancelling circuit which achieves an exceptionally low noise floor.
In addition to these new features, the SL-1200GR series addresses its environmental impact. Turntable companies have taken different routes to reducing their carbon footprint, with attempts including a turntable casing made out of plastic waste. In a more conventional method, Technics has modified its packaging to ensure it is free of Expanded Polystyrene.
The SL-1200GR and SL-1210GR turntables will be available to pre-order from authorised Technics retailers at £1,799.
Tibor Heskett is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow him on Twitter