Technics, the legendary Japanese hi-fi brand behind some of the most iconic turntables ever made, just dropped two new models that audiophiles didn’t see coming. The SL-40CBT and SL-50C turntables pack classic Technics DNA iron-coreless motors and S-shaped tonearms, but at a price that lands well under the brand’s usual four-digit gear.
SL-40CBT adds Bluetooth for a modern vinyl setup
The SL-40CBT is built with today’s vinyl listener in mind. It includes a switchable moving-magnet phono preamp, which means you can plug it straight into powered speakers, no separate amp needed. Even better, it supports Bluetooth streaming, so you can spin records wirelessly to your favorite headphones or speakers.
This model comes fitted with an Audio-Technica AT-VM95C cartridge and plays 33 and 45 RPM records. If you’re upgrading from a budget deck or getting into vinyl for the first time, this one is plug-and-play ready.
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SL-50C keeps it traditional, with a better cartridge
While it shares the same sleek design and $899 price tag, the SL-50C skips Bluetooth and the built-in preamp. Instead, it’s made for purists. You’ll need an external phono preamp or a hi-fi amp, but in return, you get a higher-end Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, known for its warm, dynamic sound.
Another perk: it plays 78 RPM records, making it a better choice for collectors with older or niche vinyl formats.
Shared design, different goals
Both turntables use MDF wood construction instead of aluminum, giving them a minimalist aesthetic that blends better with modern interiors. Technics is offering them in three finishes:
- Light grey
- Charcoal
- Terracotta
Each color matches the SC-CX700 active speaker line, making it easy to build a unified audio setup.
A surprising shift from Technics
Technics is no stranger to elite turntables; their $25,000 SL100R is a favorite among ultra-high-end collectors. But the SL-40CBT and SL-50C show that the brand hasn’t forgotten how to make accessible gear for everyday listeners. These are the cheapest direct-drive models in their lineup right now, and they don’t cut corners to get there.
You can grab either model starting this September through Technics and authorized retailers.
