Technics SL DL1 (1981)

A direct-drive, fully automatic turntable with linear tracking arm, released in March 1981

Overview

The Technics SL-DL1 is a linear tracking full auto player, released in March 1981. Its dynamic balance linear tracking arm moves straight across the record, which keeps tracking error within ±0.1°. A microcomputer detects the record size and sets 33 1/3 rpm for LPs or 45 rpm for singles. You can also pick the speed by hand. It takes a plug-in MM stereo cartridge and uses a direct-drive system with a brushless DC motor built into the platter.

Specifications

Drive system	Direct drive
Drive motor	Brushless DC motor
Control system	B. F. G. Servo
Turntable/Platter	300 mm aluminum die-cast
Number of revolutions	33 1/3, 45 rpm, Auto Select (Manual Allowed)
Fine adjustment of rotational speed	10%
Wow flutter	0.025%W.R.M.S(JIS C5521) 0.012% W. R. M. S (Rotating Part Only)
Signal-to-noise ratio	78dB(IEC98A weighted)
Tone Arm Format	Dynamic balance type linear tracking arm
Tone Arm Gimbal	Gimbal suspension bearing structure
Effective arm length	105mm
Tracking error angle	Within ± 0.1 °
Arm effective mass	9g (including cartridge)
Arm resonance frequency	12Hz
Arm drive motor	DC Motor
Cartridge Type	Plug-in connector, MM stereo cartridge
Cartridge Dead weight	6.0g
Applicable cartridge weight	3.5 ~ 8.5 g
Stylus pressure adjustment range	0 ~ 3 g
Exchange needle options	EPS-24CS(¥2,800) EPS-23CS(¥3,500) EPS-23ES(¥6,500) EPS-22ES(¥7,500) EPS-202ED(¥10,000)
Power	100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz
Power consumption	18W
External dimensions	Width 430x Height 88x Depth 350 mm
Weight	7.1kg

Design

The arm rides on a 4-point gimbal suspension bearing structure, with a slide bearing low-friction path for travel. A DC motor moves it, and an optical sensor near the stylus tip detects deflection, so the force on the arm stays near zero. The D.D. motor combines the rotor and platter in one piece. The cabinet uses TNRC material for vibration isolation. The cartridge connects through a proprietary plug-in system. A microcomputer runs the whole full auto cycle, including 2-speed search for cueing.

Market

The SL-DL1 was priced at ¥59,800 in Japan at launch and listed for $280 USD in 1983. Used units turn up for sale, one of them listed at £179.00, and replacement parts like belts and styli are available from specialty vendors. Known problems are tone arm tracking failure, speed instability, and hum in both channels during playback.

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