Turntables, Arms & Cartridges

The ‘G’ may be new, but the ‘SL-1300’ name has an extensive history within the Technics range. The original SL-1300 model was introduced in 1975 and was part of a four-strong series of direct-drive decks. The SL-1500 was manual, the SL-1400 semi-automatic and the SL-1300 fully auto. There was also an SL-1350, based on the SL-1300 but with a six record autochange facility using special spindles. Black versions of the first three models were offered as the SL-1310, SL-1410 and SL-1510, although the partnering SL-1350 and SL-1360 models were in both silver and black!

Above: The original SL-1300 model was introduced in 1975

In 1977, the SL-1350 was dropped but the remaining three models were updated to Mk2 status with sleeker plinths, touch controls and quartz-locked motors. These lasted until 1978 when they were superseded by the Mk2 SL-1600 (fully auto), SL-1700 (semi-auto) and SL-1800 (manual) models. In practice these were very similar to the SL-1300/1400/1500 and their Mk1 versions actually overlapped the Mk2 SL-1300/1400/1500 range. No wonder those Technics brochures [inset pic] were often a little confusing! Both Mk1 and Mk2 versions of the old SL-1300 are fine performers and well worth seeking out, but the modern SL-1300G takes things to a whole new level.