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Technics SL-1400 / SL-1700 MK1 vs Pioneer PL-115D

J

jijo76

New Member
Before I post my question I want to thank to everyone in this forum as I have learned a lot from it.

I have a Pioneer PL-115D in decent condition which I have experimented with several cartridges/stilys options (nothing super expensive < $100). I think I'm in a decent spot with it.

Of course now I'm curious about what am I missing...so I was looking on ebay and see some Technics SL 1400 and 1700 MK1s (I really like the style) and I'm tempted but they are not exactly cheap.

I think I know most of the differences in spec - direct drive etc. What should I expect? Is there going to be a major sound difference or should I focus my resources on better cartridges/stylus for the Pioneer (which I also like by the way). Are the Technics mentioned worth the $300-$400?

I realize that opinions are personal, but curious to hear your thoughts.
 
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The 1600 - 1800's are the better versions of the 1300 - 1500. $300 - $400 is pretty high for the MK1's, that's usually what the MK2's go for since they're more desirable having quartz lock. The drive system being servo locked instead of quartz means the speed of the 'decks tends to fluctuate a little during play, so you could start perfectly on speed but by the end of a record the dots may be advancing forward a little on the strobe, they also have an issue with the speed control potentiometers but that's easily fixed with a shot of contact cleaner. 'Decks like the fully manual 1500 (Which I have) and the 1800 are great blank canvases to be modded with better tonearms and such.
 
Thanks guys - helpful info! Can you comment on your opinion of difference in sounds between the Technics and the belt driven Pioneer? I'm not looking to start a religious debate, just your opinion, especially if you have direct personal observations.
 
jijo76 said:
Thanks guys - helpful info! Can you comment on your opinion of difference in sounds between the Technics and the belt driven Pioneer? I'm not looking to start a religious debate, just your opinion, especially if you have direct personal observations.
Click to expand...

The base of the Technic SL-1700 can easily be adjusted to eliminated most if not all footfall .

The direct drive is far superior in overall sound reproduction. :thumbsup:

Technics SL-1700

Wow and flutter: 0.025% WRMS

Rumble: -73dB (mk1)

Pioneer PL-115D

Wow and flutter: 0.07% WRMS

Signal to noise ratio: more than 50db
 
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