Technics SL-B3 (1979–1980)
A fully automatic belt-drive turntable from Technics, produced around 1979-1980. It has servo-controlled speed regulation and a 304mm aluminium alloy platter.
Overview
The Technics SL-B3 is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable made by Technics around 1979-1980. A servo motor controls the speed, and the platter is 304mm aluminium alloy. It plays 33 and 45 rpm and has a static balance tonearm. The tonearm movement and speed selection are automatic, so it runs hands-free.
Specifications
| Type | fully automatic |
| Drive method | belt-drive |
| Platter | 304mm aluminium alloy |
| Speeds | 33 and 45rpm |
| Motor | servo |
| Tonearm | static balance |
Design
The SL-B3 uses a Frequency Generator Servo system for precise speed control, which keeps playback stable.
Market
Some units have sold for $80 or 388лв. There are reports of full functionality after servicing, which may include belt replacement, lubrication, and alignment. Common problems are servo motor malfunctions, automatic tonearm misalignment, and speed instability during playback.
Market Value
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ TECHNICS SL-B3 Nov 2026 │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ High $300 Latest $299 │ │ Median $177 Trend — │ │ Low $50 Volume ~4/mo │ ├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤ │ $300 ┤ │ │ │ . . .│ │ │. . . │ │ $193 ┤ . .. . . . │ │ │ . . . │ │ │ . . . │ │ │ . . . . │ │ $50 ┤ . . . . . │ │ ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ vol │▄ ▄▄ ▄▄▄ ▄ █▄█ ▄ ▄ ▄ ▄ ▄ ▄█ ▄ ▄ █ ▄ ▄ ▄│ │ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│ │ 2026-01 2026-05 2026-08│ └──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
eBay completed sales. Excludes accessories, parts, and non-working units. Hover points for details.
eBay Listings
Recently sold on eBay: $70–$275 (median $177, based on 27 completed sales, past 12 months)
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