Technics SL-DL5

A direct-drive, fully automatic turntable with linear tracking and microcomputer control, .

Overview

The Technics SL-DL5 is a high-end linear-tracking turntable made by Technics. It's a fully automatic direct-drive model with a dynamically balanced linear tracking tonearm controlled by a microcomputer. All operations are consolidated into four keys, and it automatically detects record size and rotation speed, performing auto lead-in. The unit features a dial scale to confirm arm travel position and uses a plug-in MM stereo cartridge with an all-laminate core magnetic circuit. Known for excellent basic performance, operability, and reliability, it was designed for precision playback in a slim form factor.

Specifications

Drive systemDirect drive
Drive motorBrushless DC motor, two phase, full-wave, flat-faced, slotless DC motor
Control systemFG servocontrol
Turntable30 cm Aluminum Die-cast, 300mm aluminium die-cast
Number of revolutions33 1/3, 45 rpm, Auto Select (Manual Allowed)
Wow flutter0.025%W.R.M.S(JIS C5521) 0.012% W. R. M. S (Rotating Part Only)
Signal-to-noise ratio78dB(IEC98A weighted)
Tone Arm FormatDynamic balance type linear tracking arm
Tone Arm bearing structureGimbal suspension bearing structure
Effective arm length105mm
Tracking error angleWithin ± 0.1 °
Arm effective mass9g (including cartridge)
Arm resonance frequency12Hz
Arm drive motorDC Motor
Cartridge TypePlug-in connector, MM stereo cartridge
Cartridge Dead weight6.0g
Exchange needle models/pricesEPS-24CS(¥2,800) EPS-23CS(¥3,500) EPS-23ES(¥6,500) EPS-22ES(¥7,500) EPS-202ED(¥10,000)
Power100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz
Power consumption9.8W
External dimensionsWidth 430x Height 88x Depth 323 mm
Weight5.0kg

Design

The SL-DL5 features an integral rotor/platter and a dynamically balanced linear tracking tonearm managed by a microcomputer. The design consolidates all operations into four keys for simple use. The cartridge uses a plug-in connector type MM design with an all-laminate core for the magnetic circuit, and the tonearm includes a dial scale to monitor travel position.

Reception

The SL-DL5 is noted for its excellent basic performance, operability in a slim body, and exceptional reliability. It has been discussed by users for applications such as mastering records to tape.

Market

Service and user manuals are available for download or purchase, and a recap kit for capacitors and speed repair is commercially available. Recent market listings show units sold for €425.50 EUR, $129.99, or listed at $125 with cartridge, while others have been offered for as low as $25.

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