You dreamed of it –
and Technics made it happen!
Since the major comeback of vinyl records in the early 2000s, the range of available turntables has steadily grown, at every price point. Ingenious machines of stunning beauty and remarkable quality are now available to the delight of well-heeled audiophiles. However, when it comes to shopping for a turntable under the $1,000 mark, things get a bit more complicated. In this price category, one has to learn to accept compromises, which are often quite obvious. If it’s not the tonearm that suffers, it’s the cheap-looking platter or the inadequate dust cover. I even found myself wishing Technics would take on the challenge of creating an affordable, well-designed turntable with carefully balanced compromises. And it seems my wish has been granted, since Technics has released two new affordable models — the SL-40CBT and the SL-50C — which I’ve had the chance to test for you. Without further ado, let’s dive into the Technics SL-50C to see whether it rises to the challenge.
When it comes to turntable design, Technics is certainly no beginner. The Japanese company has unparalleled expertise in the field and the budget needed to successfully carry out projects like the new SL-40CBT and SL-50C. However, because Technics has accustomed us to a certain level of quality, designing more affordable models without too many compromises no doubt posed a challenge. Yet during the 1970s, Technics completely dominated the budget turntable market, especially with the SL-D2 model, which sold in the hundreds of thousands.
For this new series, Technics chose to offer two models with slightly different features. First, the SL-40CBT, which includes a Bluetooth circuit that allows the signal read by the turntable to be transmitted to any Bluetooth-compatible device. The SL-40CBT comes equipped with Audio-Technica’s entry-level AT-VM95C cartridge and a phono preamplifier specifically tuned for that cartridge. This model targets listeners seeking maximum connectivity flexibility, and it will surely find its fans.
The SL-50C, which is the subject of this review, differs from its little sister by omitting Bluetooth, but in return includes a better cartridge — the Ortofon 2M Red. It also offers the ability to play 78-rpm discs. Both models come in three colour options: terracotta, grey, or black. Let’s now take a look at the technical details hidden beneath this attractive chassis
Technical Description
The Technics SL-50C is first and foremost a direct-drive turntable, meaning the motor’s central shaft is the same as the platter’s. There is no belt to replace after a few years. Since Technics has mastered this technology for many years, its implementation here is impressive for the price.
The reasonably heavy metal platter contains a substantial magnet that ensures movement in conjunction with flat coil windings mounted inside the turntable. The three available speeds start instantly and are remarkably stable and solid —something we haven’t seen in this price range for a very long time.
The tonearm is of good quality and is inspired by the classic Technics tonearms seen throughout the years. This lighter version seems well made, with tight, well-assembled bearings that show no play. As usual for this manufacturer, it comes with a removable cartridge. As mentioned earlier, the SL-50C includes a phono preamplifier perfectly calibrated for the supplied Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
On the back of the unit, you can select via a small button between the two pairs of outputs — with or without phono preamplification. The turntable’s chassis consists of a well-finished particle-board top plate and a thick plastic underside.
Everything rests on four feet equipped with small suspensions, providing a certain level of isolation. Since the turntable’s power supply circuitry is of good quality and located inside the unit, it simply uses a standard power cord with a C7 connector. No annoying wall-wart transformer dangling behind the equipment — something we truly appreciate!
Unboxing and Setup
Unboxing and setting up the SL-50C is a breeze, thanks to an absolutely impeccable, very thorough instruction manual — truly a model example. The turntable comes with all the accessories needed for operation, and the package is complete. Only the felt-coated cardboard mat left me slightly perplexed, though it works well enough. At least it doesn’t stick to the record when lifting it off.
Because the SL-50C features two pairs of RCA connectors, you can install the cables of your choice, making it easy to upgrade the supplied cable. The turntable also comes with a transparent acrylic dust cover that — surprisingly — stays in place even when positioned halfway open. One could hardly ask for more; this SL-50C is a joy to use daily. From the ultra-precise cueing lever to the removable cartridge to the instantly starting platter, this turntable restores a level of user-friendliness that was once the norm.
A Well-Balanced Package
I began listening tests using the supplied Ortofon 2M Red cartridge along with the built-in phono stage. From the very first notes, it’s clear that the sound has been expertly balanced to offer a clever mix of clarity and warmth — surprisingly good for the price. On Hey Nineteen by Steely Dan, the presentation is dynamic, fairly clear, and maintains a strong sense of rhythm and tempo. The backing vocals in the chorus are impressively detailed — especially for an entry-level turntable.
But what most sets the SL-50C apart from other models in its price range is its speed stability. This comes as no surprise, given that it’s an intrinsic advantage of direct drive. What a pleasure to finally find an affordable turntable with rotation that is strong and stable, immediately enhancing the listening experience. For proof, listen to Gust of Wind by Pharrell Williams. It makes you want to dance — full of energy and punch. This highly addictive swing is reminiscent of the legendary Technics SL-1200 and gives a strong sense of déjà-vu.
Strong Update Potential
Next, I had a bit of fun testing how the SL-50C responds to a higher-end cartridge and a better phono stage. I paired it with the Goldring 1042 and used the phono stage in my Naim Supernait 3 instead of the built-in one. I also replaced the mat with a cork model and added a Michell record clamp. Unsurprisingly, the sound improved significantly, with better openness, more detail, and a noticeably lower noise floor. This confirms the quality of the tonearm and the turntable itself. Although the included cartridge and phono stage are good, the SL-50C has plenty of room to grow and will reward upgrades.
Conclusion
The Technics SL-50C turntable is almost certain to be a commercial success. It truly has everything going for it, setting a new standard in this price category for user friendliness, stability, speed, and long-term reliability. Thanks to its direct drive, you’ll avoid belt changes, and its removable cartridge will make cartridge maintenance easier. Its sound is very appealing, and it will be an excellent platform for future upgrades. This is a turntable that seems to have fulfilled the wishes of many music lovers —now it’s your turn to enjoy it.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Price: $ 999.99
Warranty: 2 years, parts and labour
Manufacturer/Distributor : Technics Canada, https://www.technics.com/ca/
Médiagraphie
Steely Dan, Gold, MCA, MCA-5324
Pharrell Williams, Girl, Columbia, 8843-05727-1
