Technics SL-1300G, Silver

The Technics SL-1300G is a Grand Class direct-drive turntable that combines the coreless motor with ΔΣ-drive control, a heavy brass-aluminium platter, and an automatic tonearm lift in an elegant housing.

In short: the comfortable Grand Class variant – audiophile direct drive that politely lifts the tonearm itself at the end of the record.

Why the SL-1300G?

Because it combines two things that rarely come together: Grand Class engineering and everyday comfort. It uses the heavy, well-damped platter of the larger SL-1200G and the refined ΔΣ-drive motor control of the GR2 – a clever mix. Add the auto-lifter, which automatically raises the tonearm at the end of the record. No scratching in the run-out groove if you happen to doze off or leave the room. Technology that thinks along with you.

What you'll hear

A calm, well-ordered sound with substance. The heavy platter and precise drive provide stability, the bass has foundation, and the soundstage is cleanly layered. The SL-1300G sounds mature and relaxed without ever becoming boring – and the auto-lift takes the worry off your hands at the end, without you noticing anything of it while listening.

Who's the SL-1300G for? (and who isn't it for – let's be direct)

Let's be honest: the SL-1300G is for anyone who wants Grand Class sound but appreciates the comfort of an auto-lift – an excellent first turntable as well as a last one. What you should know: a cartridge isn't included, and a phono stage is needed separately (or built into the amplifier). If you absolutely want the magnesium tonearm of the SL-1200G, you'll pay a bit more for it; if you want to start fully automatically and hear vinyl right away, look at the SL-1500C.

Our verdict

The SL-1300G is one of the most well-rounded solutions in the Grand Class: audiophile, comfortable, and wonderfully uncomplicated. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we mount the matching cartridge, align it properly, and advise you on the rest of the system – so both sound and comfort are right from the start.

Specifications

• Type: direct-drive turntable (Grand Class) with auto-lifter
• Drive: coreless direct drive with ΔΣ-drive control
• Speeds: 33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm
• Comfort: automatic tonearm lift at the end of the record
• Tonearm: statically balanced S-shaped tonearm (aluminium), removable headshell
• Platter: brass-aluminium die-cast, three-layer, approx. 3.6 kg
• Cartridge: not included (choose separately)
• Output: phono output (RCA) + ground cable; separate phono preamp required
• Dimensions (W × H × D): approx. 453 × 173 × 372 mm
• Weight: approx. 18 kg
• Included: turntable, headshell, counterweights, platter, RCA cable, ground cable, dust cover, manual

Frequently asked questions

What exactly does the auto-lifter do?
The auto-lifter automatically raises the tonearm off the run-out groove at the end of the record, protecting both stylus and groove. The platter doesn't necessarily stop – it's about protecting the stylus and record if you're not at the turntable right then. Convenient and reassuring at the same time.

What's the difference between the SL-1300G and the SL-1200G?
The SL-1300G combines the heavy platter of the SL-1200G with the ΔΣ-drive control and adds the auto-lift – but uses an aluminium instead of a magnesium tonearm. So you get plenty of Grand Class substance plus comfort, while the flagship model goes one step further with the tonearm.

Is a cartridge included?
No. The SL-1300G comes without a cartridge, so you can choose your system freely. The removable headshell makes mounting and later swaps easier. We're happy to talk through with you which MM or MC cartridge suits your music and your budget.

Why buy the SL-1300G from HD Zürisee?
Because we turn a good turntable into a properly set-up one. Our technician Mauri mounts and aligns the cartridge, we advise on phono stage, amplifier, and placement, and deliver ready to play on request. Just get in touch – by phone (+41 44 680 22 00), email, or WhatsApp.

Goes well with

A good match: the right cartridge, a phono preamp, an integrated amplifier, and floorstanding speakers at eye level – we'll put together the matching system for you.