Technics SL-1200/1210 GR2 turntable

After the unexpected success in 2017 with its Technics SL 1200 G turntable, the Technics/Panasonic group is now offering a more affordable version of this "best buy".

The new Technics SL-1200 GR2 turntable (and 1210 GR2 for the black version) bears an uncanny resemblance to the legend and the manufacturer's high-end model. At first glance, an untrained music lover would be hard-pressed to differentiate between the two products. However, there must be differences to justify the price gap of over 2,000 euros between these two turntables.

TECHNICS SL 1200 GR2 / 1210 GR2: BASE AND PLATTER

Thus, we find the chassis of the "big sister" but simplified, thinner, and made of a simpler molded structure in a single layer. This is evident on the scales as the Technics SL-1200 GR2 has lost almost 6.5 kg! Rest assured, it still remains massive and very rigid at 11.5 kg... This plinth rests on four damped feet, borrowed from the famous "MK2" of the 1990s. The great rigidity of the SL-1200GR2 model comes from the use of a two-layer structure that solidly assembles the BMC and the die-cast aluminum chassis.

The platter is made of die-cast aluminum to offer maximum rigidity and limit resonances and vibrations. To increase inertia, the shape of the die-cast aluminum part has been optimized by 3D simulation. With a weight of 2.5 kg (with the rubber mat), the SL-1200GR2 platter is 0.8 kg heavier than that of the SL-1200MK5. The underside of the platter also has reinforcing ribs that improve rigidity. The increased contact surface with the rubber increases damping twice as much as the SL-1200MK5 model.

TECHNICS SL 1200 GR2 / 1210 GR2: MOTOR AND DRIVE

We find a drive based on a magnetic mechanism (without belt), called direct drive. A magnetic field induced by coils drives the 2.5 kg platter which features a circular magnet in its center. It inherits the same design philosophy as the original motor of the SL-1200 but with several notable improvements. It is coreless, surface-oriented, and with a unique rotor. This eliminates any form of magnetic friction.

The use of a high-speed switching power supply ensures stable power supply and reduces ripple and buzzing. This eliminates the need for a large transformer and mitigates the mechanical vibrations that result.

A switching frequency higher than 100 kHz limits the effect of noise on the bandwidth. This new technology combines a noise detection device with an error amplifier. It detects residual noise in the power supply and applies a reverse-phase current to suppress the noise components. This eliminates low-frequency noise more effectively than a regulator.

Although the torque is reduced compared to the "G" model, it remains impressive at 2.2 kg/cm and does not prevent the platter from reaching a speed of 33 ⅓ rpm in 0.7 s! There are few variations in rotation, and it remains stable at 0.01%.

The signal-to-noise ratio is also excellent, displaying -78 dB.

Of course, it offers speed control (pitch), allowing adjustment of rotation speed from -8% to +16%. This function seems only intended for professional use (mixing, DJing).

TECHNICS SL 1200 GR2 / 1210 GR2: TONEARM

We find an aluminum "S"-shaped tonearm with a removable cartridge mount. It is easy to set up and of course offers all necessary adjustments from tracking force to anti-skating and VTA.

This arm follows the rotation of the record and offers great tracking precision. This new version inherited the traditional arm of the SL 1200 with its gimbal pivot, equipped with high-precision bearings, as on the SL-1200G model.

An auxiliary weight is provided with this turntable, allowing it to be compatible with all cartridges weighing between 5 and 17g.

TECHNICS SL 1200 GR2 / 1210 GR2: TESTING AND LISTENING

Having owned two Technics SL 1200 MK2 turntables in the late 1980s, I must admit there is a moment of emotion and nostalgia when unpacking this turntable. And I must not be the only one, as Matsushita announces more than 3 million units sold since 1972! The "GR" is very close to the original "made in Japan" model, even if it seems a little better manufactured and finished.

We paired it with a high-end MM cartridge (Ortofon 2M Black) and an entry-level MC cartridge (Ortofon Quintet Blue).

Contrary to many prejudices, the sound reproduction is not surgical and ultra-analytical. The overall sound is rather balanced and even very neutral. The dynamics are clear, and the tempo is very pronounced.

The soundstage remains very credible and relatively precise, although it is not the most spectacular in this segment. From the first percussion notes, you can't help but tap your foot! Certainly, perhaps this Technics SL 1200 GR2 is less agile on works requiring nuance and subtlety. Its belt-driven competitors seem to better reproduce the articulations of bows or strings. But this is not necessarily what we ask of a turntable like the SL 1200! We expect from it deep, tense, articulated, and fast bass; precise and without harshness highs; or even a present and neutral midrange! And that's what it delivers!

Of course, you will have understood: for those who do not want compromises, there is the Technics SL 1200 G. But the Technics SL 1200 GR2 turntable makes this legendary turntable accessible and, above all, offers performance and musicality quite close to the high-end model, and much superior to models from the 1980s/1990s.

Highly recommended for all those who have dreamed of it, and who want an ultra-performing direct drive turntable for Hi-Fi or professional use.