Platine vinyle Technics SL-100 C

Following the success of the SL-1500 C, Technics returns with a new direct drive turntable that is more affordable, simpler and aimed at "audiophiles": the Technics SL-100 C.

Technics SL-100 C: features

At first glance, this new Technics SL-100 C looks just like the Technics SL-1500 C.

Broadly, it is an SL-1200 stripped of its speed "pitch" control, and therefore of the strobe and the stylus illumination LED. No great loss, since these "gadgets" are entirely geared toward DJ use, which the SL-100 C is not designed for.

It does keep the traditional square "Start/Stop" button, flanked by two 33 and 45 rpm speed switches. Pressing both at once switches to 78 rpm.

More surprising, the SL-100 C comes with a semi-automatic function: once the tonearm reaches the end of the record, it lifts on its own.

Technics SL-100 C: chassis

The upper chassis is entirely die-cast aluminium, which eliminates all vibration. The lower plinth uses an ABS plastic material blended with fibreglass.

The chassis rests on four feet fitted with a spring and sorbothane, offering excellent damping characteristics.

Technics SL-100 C: platter and drive

Drive comes from the coreless, single-rotor direct drive motor of the SL-1200 GR. It delivers highly regular and very precise rotation. This motor optimally controls the platter's inertia.

The double-layer die-cast aluminium platter is damped by a rubber coating that eliminates unwanted resonances.

Technics SL-100 C: tonearm and cartridge

You get the legendary "S"-shaped tonearm dear to the Japanese brand. It uses the same gimbal suspension and the same high-precision bearings as the SL-1200 models.

It can accept almost any phono cartridge weighing between 6 and 16 g (excluding headshell). As standard, the arm comes fitted with an Audio-Technica AT-VM95C MM cartridge.

Technics states that reliability has been further improved by the addition of a detachable phono cable, which was a recurring point of failure on previous series.

Technics SL-100 C: testing and listening

The sound is faithful to what a Technics direct drive turntable delivers.

You get the excellent balance and the very fine clarity of the Technics SL-1500 C, along with good dynamics and excellent impact in the low end.

Of course, like its bigger sisters, we see it as better suited to so-called "modern" music than to classical. Its belt drive competitors do better on nuance and articulation.

This new Technics SL-100 C turntable is clearly designed for music lovers nostalgic for the iconic SL-1200s. It is beautifully built and fully satisfies that eighties nostalgia.

The Technics SL-100 C offers remarkable value for money.

FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Technics SL-100 C turntable

How does the SL-100 C differ from the SL-1500 C?

Visually they are almost indistinguishable, but the SL-100 C drops the pitch control, the strobe and the diamond-lighting LED, "gadgets" dedicated to DJ use for which this more audiophile turntable is not intended. 

Does this turntable have a semi-automatic function?

Yes, surprisingly for aturntable of this style: once the tonearm reaches the end of the record, it lifts automatically, which brings real everyday convenience.

Which cartridge and speeds does it offer?

It ships with an Audio-Technica AT-VM95C MM cartridge and offers 33, 45 and 78 rpm. Its S-shaped arm accepts cartridges from 6 to 16 g.

Is it aimed at Hi-Fi or DJ use?

It is designed for Hi-Fi listening, with excellent balance and fine bass impact, leaning towards modern music. The phono cable is now removable, improving reliability.