Technics SL-1800

Name: Technics SL-1800
Brand: Technics
SKU: 639656b19f72479b37739df6
Rating: 2.8 (13 reviews)

Based on 13 reviews

The Looria Grade (A - F) accounts for multiple factors, including sentiment, helpfulness, and more. Learn about our sources and ranking.

#131 most mentioned

Reddit · r/turntables

Great reliability and durability

Optimal sound quality with a new cartridge

Recommended by multiple reviewers

Can be purchased used for a good deal

Not recommended to purchase a model with missing or broken parts

May require some maintenance over time

May not be the best option for those looking for a brand new turntable with modern features

Verdict

The Technics SL-1800 is a highly recommended vintage turntable model, known for its reliability and durability. It is suggested to purchase a new cartridge, such as the Audio Technica VM750SH, for optimal sound quality. It is also recommended to purchase a used model from reputable sources, such as eBay, or consider other vintage direct drive models from brands like Marantz, Sansui, and Thorens. The SL-1600 and SL-1200-1800 mk 1 or 2 are also highly regarded models. It is advised to avoid purchasing a model with missing or broken parts, as replacement parts may be difficult to find.

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Top reviews

Technics SL-1800 Turntable Restored

Oh yeah one of the things that I forgot to mention is when I got the turntable that tone arm when you dropped it it went like a rock.

Technics SL-1800 Turntable

You're just welcome to buy that one also. But I want to show you that this record player is working perfectly.

Positive

Vintage Electronics N More

1 year ago

youtube.com

Cartridge Recommendations please

I just recently mounted an Audio Technica VM750SH on my vintage Technics SL-1800. It sounds fantastic and can be bought 100% brand new for around $400 after tax. It comes with a decent Shibata stylus.

Positive

Audio_aficionado

3 years ago

reddit.com/r/turntables

Buying a used turntable

A vintage Technics table is a great choice. The SL-1800 is a good model, however, the one in your link is missing the counterweight and the mount for it has been broke off. Unless you get lucky finding a replacement tonearm cheap, I wouldn't go for that one. If you are buying at auction, note the "for parts" condition - you can assume those will need significant repair.

Negative

zero_volts

3 years ago

reddit.com/r/turntables

Has the vintage market dried up somewhat?

Yeah, I lucked out 6 years ago when I got my Technics SL-1800 on eBay for $180 in perfect working condition. One new stylus later and it was the best turntable I had ever heard. Now, it has an AT VM750SH cartridge and still working great with barely any maintenance.

Positive

Audio_aficionado

3 years ago

reddit.com/r/turntables

Is it worth upgrading to a cartridge that costs as much as my turntable?

I think it's worth it. The AT95 cartridge is a good bang for the buck. A ML stylus will make it perform the best it can. I know my situation isn't the same as yours, but I put a new AT VM750SH on my Technics SL-1800 that I bought for $180.

Positive

Audio_aficionado

3 years ago

reddit.com/r/turntables

Recommendations for my first record player

You could also look for a used Technics SL series turntable, like an SL-1200 to SL-1800. They are typically very reliable with minimal fuss. You can get some real good used stuff for a good deal. Just have to see what's out there.

Positive

Audio_aficionado

2 years ago

reddit.com/r/turntables

Technics SL-DD3 Advice

Technics sl direct drives cannot be beat unless you’re looking at new t/ts that cost north of £500. My sl-1800 is a champ!

Positive

Curiouslycurious101

3 years ago

reddit.com/r/turntables

Price Check for Starter TT

Also try looking at the used stuff on eBay, that's where I got my Technics SL-1800. The Fluance RT82 is arguably a very good choice as well for a starter table. Marantz, Technics, Sansui, Thorens from the mid 70's to early 80's are some that come to my mind for something to look for. I spent $180 for my Technics a few years ago.

Positive

Audio_aficionado

3 years ago

reddit.com/r/turntables

What record player would you recommend 1200 or below a great quality sound and warm?

I really like my Technics SL-1800 mk1. It sounds amazing when paired with the Audio Technica AT-VM750SH cartidge.

Positive

Audio_aficionado

2 years ago

reddit.com/r/turntables

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