Panasonic is reviving Technics' legendary DJ turntables
Ask DJs about their favorite turntables and they'll frequently swear by Technics' SL-1200 -- even though it hasn't been made since 2007, the super-reliable deck is still the gold standard for vinyl spinners. If you're one of those enthusiasts, you'll be glad to hear that Panasonic is bringing Technics turntables back as part of a larger revival for the audio brand. Many of the details are still under wraps, but the turntable set will have a new direct-drive motor that should improve the audio quality. The gear won't show up until some point during Panasonic's next fiscal year (sometime between April 2016 and March 2017), but more development time is likely a good thing. After all, the SL-1200 thrives precisely because its makers were careful to preserve elements that worked well -- a rushed product could easily hurt more than it helps.
Check out all the news from Berlin at our IFA 2015 hub.
That's not the only Technics-badged device making a debut today, either. Panasonic has unveiled a trio of devices geared toward the home audio crowd. The highlight is arguably the EAH-T700, a set of closed-back headphones with large 50mm main drivers and 14mm "super-tweeters" that theoretically give you a very wide sound range. There's also the Grand Class G30 series, which includes both a "reference-class" amp and a networked music server, as well as the Ottava Premium Class C500 HiFi system and black C700 speakers. While you'll have to wait for release dates and prices, it's evident that Panasonic is paying more than lip service to the Technics name.
[Image credit: SSPL/Getty Images]
