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Technics SL-1700 Direct Drive Automatic Turntable

Technics SL-1700 Direct Drive Automatic Turntable

$139.99 Price Tier: Standard

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Page last updated Jun 26, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 26, 2026.

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Price

$139.99 3 available Used

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Average Price: $140

Standard/Professional

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Turntables category, Technics SL-1700 Direct Drive Automatic Turntable is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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The Technics SL-1700 Direct Drive Automatic Turntable is a staple for both vinyl enthusiasts and professional DJs alike, known for its precision and durability. This turntable combines direct-drive technology with an automatic tonearm for seamless playback and minimal wear on your records. Unlike belt-driven models, the SL-1700 offers a consistent speed and quick start-up, making it ideal for both casual listening sessions and energetic DJ sets.

This model is equipped with a vibration-resistant base and a robust platter to ensure an immaculate audio experience. The automatic function allows for hassle-free operation, automatically returning the tonearm to its rest position at the end of a record. With a sleek design that complements any setup, the SL-1700 is more than just an audio device—it's a centerpiece for your sound system.

Key Features:

Direct-drive motor for consistent speed and quick start-up
Automatic tonearm operation for ease of use
Vibration-resistant base to minimize interference
Robust platter ensuring stable playback
Sleek and stylish design suitable for any setup

Product specs

Brand	Technics
Model	SL-1700 Direct Drive Automatic Turntable
Year	1979 - 1981
Made In	Japan
Categories	Turntables

FAQs

Is the Technics SL-1700 suitable for DJ use?: Yes, the Technics SL-1700's direct drive mechanism makes it ideal for DJ use, allowing for precise control and scratching without belt slippage.
What are the main features of the Technics SL-1700 turntable?: The Technics SL-1700 features a direct drive system, automatic return, and anti-skate adjustment, providing reliable performance and ease of use for vinyl enthusiasts.
Does the Technics SL-1700 have adjustable pitch control?: Yes, the Technics SL-1700 includes adjustable pitch control, allowing users to finely tune the playback speed for precise pitch adjustments.
How does the automatic function work on the Technics SL-1700?: The Technics SL-1700's automatic function returns the tonearm to its resting position at the end of a record, enhancing convenience and protecting your vinyl.
What type of cartridge is compatible with the Technics SL-1700?: The Technics SL-1700 is compatible with standard half-inch mount cartridges, offering flexibility in choosing the right cartridge for your sound preferences.

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Technics SL-1700 Direct Drive Automatic Turntable.

Features and functionality

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The SL-1700 has a direct drive system with servo control, requiring manual speed adjustments, unlike quartz-locked models which maintain speed automatically.
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The turntable automatically returns the tonearm to the pedestal after playing, enhancing convenience for users.
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Setup and maintenance

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Owners recommend applying 500,000 cst viscosity silicone oil to the cueing lever if it drops too quickly, due to leaked oil.
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Owners recommend checking for cracks in the small plastic part of the cuing mechanism, as this can cause failure.
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Speed controls may require cleaning and relubrication due to old grease buildup.
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The cueing issue is often due to a broken or disintegrated tonearm drive belt; a 31mm x 1.5mm square belt or similarly sized O-ring can fix it.
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The auto-return malfunction may be resolved by replacing the belt, as a broken belt affects all cueing and auto functions.
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Mods and upgrades

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Users have paired the SL-1700 with Ortofon Red cartridges and swapped to Ortofon headshells for improved performance.
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Replacing non-original stop control knobs with original parts is reported as an easy fix.
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Users recommend applying Deoxit to the pitch control pot to address any sticky or inconsistent pitch adjustments.
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Build quality

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The SL-1700's older Technics headshell is praised for its ease of cartridge mounting and better compatibility compared to newer styles.
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Ensure the turntable feet are undamaged, as this can affect stability and vibration dampening.
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User experience

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The SL-1700 is noted for its durability, likened to being "built like a tank," and is often described as a lifelong investment with minimal maintenance.
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An owner found that purchasing a turntable without a cartridge requires an additional $100 investment for a new cartridge like the AT-VM95E/H.
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Value and pricing

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Buyers have found units in similar condition for $60, suggesting a need to assess condition and completeness before purchase.
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A price of $200 for a Technics SL-1700MK2 is considered a good deal despite cueing and auto-return issues, especially if these are resolved with simple part replacements.
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