Technics Nagaoka Cartridge SL-1200G

The Technics SL-1200G combined with the Nagaoka MP-500H cartridge

Direct Drive Turntable System SL-1200G

Ironless direct drive motor

With conventional analog turntables, various factors can affect the sound quality: For example, minimal tempo vibrations during rotation and irregular rotation (so-called pole jerking). The SL-1200G uses a newly developed direct drive motor without an iron core, which prevents cogging. The twin rotor design reduces the load on the engine bearing while maintaining high torque. In addition, minimal vibrations during rotation are reduced. These properties allow the warm, extraordinarily detailed sound of an analog record to unfold.

High precision motor control

The SL-1200G shines with a high starting torque and outstanding synchronization. This is made possible both by using motor control technologies that have been perfected during the development of Blu-ray players and by switching the drive mode depending on the current motor position.

Triple layer platter

The platter consists of a three-layer construction: a layer of brass, which is firmly screwed to a layer of die-cast aluminum, and an underside coating of a vibration-damping rubber compound. This ensures high rigidity and vibration-free rotation. This achieves a level of smoothness and inertia that even surpasses the SP-10MK2 - the turntable standard of the past, which was used by many radio stations worldwide. In addition, this platter is more than twice the weight of the SL-1200MK5.

High-precision fine balancing

Uneven weight distribution on the platter creates vibrations and noise during rotation, which degrades the audio signal. For this reason, the turntable of each individual device is finely balanced after assembly using special, high-precision devices. Only then does the turntable receive its "award": a sticker on the underside with the inscription 'BALANCED'.

Highly sensitive tonearm

The tonearm is made of lightweight magnesium with a high damping effect. The material properties are improved by cold drawing and the necessary precision is achieved. High sensitivity to initial movement is also achieved using traditional Technics gimbals, in which the horizontal and vertical axes of rotation intersect at a central point, and precision bearings with a tailored housing.

Four-layer chassis construction

The classic three-layer chassis construction of the SL-1210Mk5 made of die-cast aluminium, BMC and heavy-weight rubber is joined by a brushed, 10 mm thick cover plate made of the purest aluminum on the SL-1200G. This four-layer composite construction combines high rigidity with outstanding feel.

High quality connections

The gold-plated, machined brass phono and ground terminals prevent degradation in sound quality and allow for easy connection and disconnection of cables. The metal shielding in the housing also reduces the effect of external interference.

NAGAOKA MP-500H CARTRIDGE

The MP-500H cartridge with head shell is the flagship model from Nagaoka's MP series. The sound is reproduced wonderfully. The bass range is precise. Basses and trebles are presented clearly and finely.

The MP-500H pickup is the top model of the series. Another highlight, the line contact finish, achieves high-frequency reproduction, little distortion and excellent depth gradation. Of course, the tonearm offers all the features of the cheaper models. An all-round great scanner for the analytically oriented listener.

Technical specifications

• Principle: MP - High Output (for the MM input)
• Weight: 8.0g
• Height: 18mm
• Needle cut: Line Contact
• Needle carrier: boron
• Frequency response: 20 - 25,000 Hz
• Output Voltage (1kHz, 5cm/sec): 3.0mV
• Channel Separation (1kHz): >27dB
• Channel balance (1kHz): < 1.0 dB
• Needle compliance: 22 µm/mN
• Recommended tracking force: 16 mN (13-18 mN)
• Recommended termination resistance: 47 kOhm
• Recommended termination capacitance: 150 - 200 pF
• Replacement needle: JN-P500