When it comes to vintage turntables that are no longer in production, it is interesting to note that there is still a strong demand for it. What is more interesting, is that companies stop producting the vintage turntable as it can be costly and slow to produce. Hence, you will find it tough to find vintage turntables on e-commerce sites like Amazon or Best Buy. However, with the resurgence of marketplaces such as eBay, it is interesting to note that there are quite a few of such vintage turntables that you can find there. And one such turntable is the Technics SL 5300.
We have heard some good things about the Technics SL 5300, and perhaps it is with due respect that we provide readers with a complete review of the Technics SL 5300.
History Of The Technics SL 5300
The Technics SL 5300 direct drive turntable was first developed in 1979. Originally build for audiophiles back then, it is now commonly bought and kept as a collector’s item. However, that does not mean that the Technics SL 5300 is unable to produce sounds that matches the contemplary turntables. The sound that it produced is almost flawless due to the meahanics. Sadly, the turntable did not last long due to the introducion of CD players, which is touted as the turntable-killer. We all know that is not true now.
Quick Look At The Technics SL 5300
The Technics SL 5300 is a 2-speed direct drive turntable that has an extremely reliable and high performance electronic circuit that never fails to impress us. Together with the full-cycle detection frequency generator, you can really expect the entire turntable to wow you as much as it impressed us.
It does have the excellent quartz control, break and pitch fader and other features. These help to allow for a more superior rotational capabilities, something which is lacking in most modern turntables. In fact, the SL-1400 quartz system is well known to be an extremely useful system that helps to regulate sound and enrich it!
From what we have read from sources, the circuit has three different types of ICs that are integrated into the SL 5300. Indeed, the electronic circuit is the same one that is being produced for the SL-1400mk2 series of turntables.
Design and Build Quality
The Technics SL 5300 turntable is known for its exceptional build quality, which is evident from the moment you see it. The turntable is made with high-quality materials and features a sleek and elegant design that exudes sophistication.
The base of the turntable is made of solid aluminum, which provides excellent stability and helps to reduce unwanted vibrations. The platter is made of a die-cast aluminum alloy and is designed to minimize resonance and provide smooth rotation. The tonearm is also made of high-quality materials and is designed to deliver accurate tracking and precise playback.
Features and Performance
One of the standout features of the Technics SL 5300 turntable is its advanced electronic control system, which ensures accurate and stable rotation speed. As mentioned earlier, this turntable also features a quartz-locked phase control system that minimizes wow and flutter, resulting in superior sound quality.
The Technics SL 5300 turntable also features a high-quality cartridge and stylus, which are designed to deliver excellent sound quality and tracking performance. The cartridge is a moving magnet (MM) type, which is known for its high output and excellent tracking ability. The stylus is a high-performance diamond design that provides excellent fidelity and accuracy.
Ease of Use
Despite its advanced features and exceptional performance, the Technics SL 5300 turntable is remarkably easy to use. The turntable features a simple and intuitive control system that allows you to adjust the speed, tonearm, and other settings with ease.
The turntable also features a built-in cueing system that allows you to easily locate the start of a track and a pitch control system that allows you to adjust the pitch of the playback. Additionally, the turntable features a convenient auto-return system that automatically returns the tonearm to its resting position when playback is complete.
Here are the key specs of the SL-5300 turntable.
| Type | Fully Automatic |
| Drive | Direct |
| Motor | Brushless DC motor |
| Platter | 304mm aluminium die-cast |
| Speeds | 2 speeds (33 and 45rpm) |
| Pitch control | +-6% |
| Wow and Flutter | 0.025% WRMS |
| Rumble | -78DB |
| Tonearm | Universal, static balance type, tubular |
| Weight | 7.1Kg |
Here is a video about the review of the SL 5300 turntable.
Our Verdict
The Technics SL 5300 is one of the top range turntables back in the 70s, which was sadly discontinued due to the emergence of technologies. It is a pity, given that the sound produced has this very warm feeling to it. The signature deep sound resonates well in most systems, and it has certainly attracted the attention of many. Indeed, the Technics SL 5300 turntable is a high-end piece of audio equipment that offers exceptional performance and build quality. It’s a popular choice among audiophiles who are looking for a turntable that can deliver high-fidelity sound and precise playback.
If you are considering purchasing a vintage turntable, you can really consider getting this on eBay
