TECHNICS SL1200 [History]

Technics DJ turntables, also known as the Technics SL-1200 series, have had a significant impact on the history of DJing and music production.

The first Technics turntable, the SL-1100, was released in 1972. It was designed for professional use in clubs and discos, and quickly became the industry standard. The SL-1200 was introduced a few years later in 1978, and featured a number of improvements such as a stronger motor, a more durable build, and a pitch control that allowed DJs to match the speed of one record to another.

One of the most important features of the Technics turntables was their direct drive motor, which allowed DJs to scratch and manipulate records with greater precision and control. This, along with the turntable’s high-torque motor and durable build, made the SL-1200 series a favorite among DJs and hip hop producers.

The Technics SL-1200 played a crucial role in the development of hip hop culture in the 1970s and 1980s. DJs such as Grandmaster Flash, Afrika Bambaataa and Frankie Knuckles used the turntable to create new sounds by scratching and manipulating records. This technique known as ‘turntablism’ become a key element of hip hop music and culture.

In 2010, Panasonic, the parent company of Technics, announced that they would be discontinuing the SL-1200 series. However, due to popular demand, they reintroduced the turntable in 2016, with the release of the SL-1200G and SL-1200GR.

Today, the Technics SL-1200 series is still widely considered to be the best DJ turntable on the market. Its precision, durability, and versatility make it a favorite among DJs, producers, and audiophiles. It continues to be used in clubs, radio stations and music production studios around the world, and its legacy and impact on music culture is undeniable.