Technics SL-BL3 (1983–1984)
A fully automatic belt-drive turntable with linear tracking, produced by Technics for the mid-1980s audiophile market.
Overview
The Technics SL-BL3 is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable featuring linear tracking technology, part of Technics' linear tracking series. Manufactured from 1983 to 1984, it was designed as a precision analog playback system with advanced features for its time. The turntable includes a dynamic balance type linear tracking tonearm, a 300mm aluminium die-cast platter, and a DC servo motor for stable rotation. It supports 33 and 45rpm records and incorporates pitch control and a stroboscope for accurate speed calibration.
Specifications
| Type | fully automatic record player |
| Drive method | belt drive |
| Motor | DC servo |
| Platter | 300mm aluminium die-cast |
| Speeds | 33 and 45rpm |
| Wow and flutter | 0.045% wrms |
| Signal to noise ratio | 70dB |
| Tonearm | dynamic balance type, linear tracking |
| Effective length | 105mm |
| Effective mass | 9g (including cartridge) |
| Dimensions | 430 x 88 x 340mm |
| Weight | 4.4kg |
Design
The SL-BL3 uses a frequency generator servo system to maintain precise speed control. Its linear tracking tonearm minimizes record wear and distortion by aligning the stylus tangentially to the groove. The turntable features pitch control and a built-in stroboscope for visual speed adjustment, enhancing playback accuracy.
Market
Originally priced at $235.00, the SL-BL3 has appeared in recent listings on platforms like Reverb and eBay, with some units noted as serviced. Owner reports indicate it performs well but may exhibit common issues associated with linear tracking mechanisms, though specific failure modes are not detailed.
eBay Listings
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