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Description

The Technics SL-1700MK2 Quartz Lock Direct Drive Automatic Turntable is a classic piece of DJ gear that perfectly combines vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. Designed for both audiophiles and aspiring DJs, this turntable is celebrated for its Quartz Lock technology, which ensures precise and consistent playback speed, making it a reliable choice for any vinyl enthusiast. Its direct drive system offers exceptional torque and speed stability, providing smooth and accurate performance every time.

This turntable comes equipped with an automatic tonearm return feature, allowing for hassle-free operation and less wear on your vinyl records. Plus, the adjustable tracking force and anti-skate adjustments make it versatile enough to handle a wide range of cartridges, giving you the flexibility to customize your sound. The SL-1700MK2 also features a robust aluminum die-cast platter, contributing to its solid construction and vibration resistance, ensuring that your records play without interference or distortion.

Whether you're spinning at home or performing live, the Technics SL-1700MK2 delivers a seamless blend of professional-grade performance and user-friendly features that cater to both seasoned DJs and newcomers to the vinyl scene.

Key Features:

  • Quartz Lock technology for precise speed control
  • Direct drive system for enhanced torque and speed stability
  • Automatic tonearm return for ease of use
  • Adjustable tracking force and anti-skate settings
  • Robust aluminum die-cast platter for reduced vibration and distortion
  • Compatible with a wide range of cartridges

Product specs

Brand Technics
Model SL-1700MK2 Quartz Lock Direct Drive Automatic Turntable
Year 1979 - 1981
Made In Japan
Categories Turntables

FAQs

Does the Technics SL-1700MK2 turntable have an automatic return feature?

Yes, the Technics SL-1700MK2 features an automatic return mechanism that lifts the tonearm and returns it to its resting position at the end of a record, enhancing convenience and protecting your vinyl.

What type of drive system does the Technics SL-1700MK2 use?

The Technics SL-1700MK2 utilizes a quartz lock direct drive system, providing precise speed stability and reducing wow and flutter for high-fidelity audio playback.

Can the Technics SL-1700MK2 be used for DJing?

While primarily designed for home listening, the Technics SL-1700MK2's direct drive system offers stable rotation, making it suitable for light DJ use, though it lacks some features like pitch control preferred by professional DJs.

What are the main connectivity options for the Technics SL-1700MK2?

The Technics SL-1700MK2 features standard RCA outputs for connecting to amplifiers or receivers, allowing integration with most home audio systems.

Is the Technics SL-1700MK2 compatible with modern audio equipment?

Yes, the Technics SL-1700MK2 can connect to modern audio equipment via its RCA outputs, but you may need a phono preamp if your amplifier or receiver lacks a dedicated phono input.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Technics SL-1700MK2 Quartz Lock Direct Drive Automatic Turntable.

Features and functionality

  • The SL-1700MK2 boasts a quartz lock for speed stability and a suspended platter, enhancing sound quality significantly over some modern alternatives.

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  • The SL-1700MK2 includes a damped subchassis suspension, a feature not commonly found in most direct drive turntables, offering superior shock absorption.

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Build quality

  • Owners appreciate the electronic arm cuing and auto-return features, distinguishing it from the purely manual SL-1200.

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  • The SL-1700MK2 has a cast aluminum chassis, enhancing its durability and reducing resonance compared to models made with Bulk Mold Compound.

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  • Some owners note that modifications, such as a red switch for motor control, may indicate previous DJ use or subpar repair work.

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Comparisons

  • The SL-1700MK2 shares the same tone arm and motor as the SL-1200 but includes extra benefits like VTA adjustment, not typical in DJ tables.

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  • The SL-1800 MKI, without the Quartz Lock motor, is preferred by some for its aesthetic despite lacking sought-after features of the MKII series.

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Mods and upgrades

  • KAB upgrades, such as the arm fluid dampening system, are compatible due to the shared arm design with the SL-1200 series.

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  • Owners recommend using a Shure M44 cartridge for an excellent sound quality experience, especially effective for 70s rock music.

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Use cases and applications

  • The SL-1700MK2's semi-automatic operation is preferred by audiophiles who value ease of use without sacrificing sound quality.

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Value and pricing

  • Vintage Technics models like the SL-1700MK2 offer superior sound quality at a fraction of the cost of comparable modern units.

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  • An SL-1700MK2 in good condition can be sold for around $500, with Facebook Marketplace suggested as an effective selling platform.

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  • At $100, some owners see potential in the SL-1700MK2, though expect possible issues due to its age or past modifications.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Common issue includes the tonearm mechanism drive belt breaking, but it’s easily replaceable, ensuring continued functionality of the tonearm features.

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  • Plastic scratch remover like Meguiars ScratchX or Novus is recommended for maintaining the dust cover, with detailed steps like wet sanding using 2,000 to 4,000 grit sandpapers.

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User experience

  • The Technics 2700 cartridge is mentioned as being present on one unit, suggesting the need to verify cartridge condition for optimal performance.

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