Technics SL-Q3

So I took a q-tip and rubbing alcohol and cleaned off all of the old gunk, which by the way was just keeping this from moving at all, or very reluctan...

This is a really nice Technics turntable. I really like these models. It's a nice heavy direct drive

My happy stack for Vinyl on the left:. \- Fully serviced and cleaned Technics SL-Q3 with AT-VM95ML cartridge and stylus. \- NOS Rotel RA-1520 (only remote control was missing from the box.

Hence its abysmal speed stability spec. If you want a fully auto turntable that is a good step above the Denon... you have to buy used. For example, look around for a Technics SL-Q3, SL-Q303, or SL-5300.

The advantage, though, is P-mount is \*much\* easier to adjust: essentially there is no adjustment necessary at all. 🙂. You could also look for some other nice Technics direct drive models, most are really good. Personally I like the older models best, such as SL-Q2, SL-Q3 and SL-D2 or SL-D3.

It might be a better idea to upgrade to a Direct Drive Technics. These are very reliable and a number of models exist, some with a universal 1/2″ cartridge mount or some a P-mount (T4P) similar to the cartridge in your current turntable. Some good models:. 1/2″ mount: SL-Q2, SL-Q3, SL-D2, SL-D3, SL-1600, SL-1700, SL-1301 and SL-1301 MkII etc.

I’ve had several vintage turntables (still own 3) and have used (but never owned) some more modern mid-range turntables, and the Technics SL-Q3 is my favorite turntable out of the lot. I still have a couple of vintage Pioneer decks (PL-518 and PL-560), but they don’t feel as good as the Technics. I know it’s not considered a premium deck, but it’s the most solid and precise-feeling turntable I’ve used. It was pretty dirty when I got it, but I cleaned and lubricated it and it’s been absolutely flawless…even came with a nice AT155LC cartridge that sounds amazing.

Disadvantage of the P-mount T4P system: a lot less choice in cartridges, although there do exist some good modern ones and some excellent vintage ones. Personally, I would look for a Technics Direct Drive with the 'normal' half-inch mount. For example: SL-Q2 and SL-Q3, SL-1300/1310, SL-1700, SL-1900 etc.