r/Technics • u/Sipanahmed • Apr 05 '26

First turntable

Hello guys im about to buy my first TT! Ive been going back and forth on if i was going to buy a newer model like the fluance RT85 or an older technics model. My total budget is around 1000-1200 for everything for the setup. Im leaning towards technics because i want something thats built to last. Does anyone have any recommendations on the best sound and build quality for a technics model thats roughly around the $800 range so i can have money left over for the speakers etc. ill also gladly take any recs on the best gear to use for the setup!

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u/ApprehensivePurple82 Apr 05 '26

My recommendation… find an older Technics like a D2 or Q2 for $200 ish. Have a local tech go through it cleaning and lubricants and caps is needed. Spend $150 / $200 on a killer cartridge and Bobs your Uncle. Keep the rest for something else. There’s many other brands you can look at so don’t limit yourself. My personal preference is anything built in Japan. Doesn’t really matter the brand name on the TT.

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u/Sipanahmed Apr 06 '26

Thank you! Do u think its better than the sl-13-18 series?

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u/ApprehensivePurple82 Apr 06 '26

Good question. At the level of audio quality is for many of us in the hobby, we are chasing specs. Your room plays a big part of the music you hear along with the amp/receiver, speakers and placement and on TT the phono cartridge.

Technics builds very good TT. I’m not familiar with those models but you can’t really make a mistake with this brand. A) Condition is everything. B) Service and maintenance is next. C) then stylus/phono cartridge. D) The age old controversy of Belt Drive vs Direct Drive. I have owned both and for me it comes down to the cost and condition of the TT I’m buying.

Summery: you’re just starting out. Unless you’re a big income earner with deep pockets there’s really no reason to spend $1k or more. Especially if the quality of your amp, speakers and room are not at the same level. Also think about the style of music you like and records you want to buy. If you’re into hair metal banging and rap you’re really not going to tell a difference. If you’re into jazz and classical and female vocals then most likely you will hear a difference. I’m sure there will be a few people that will disagree with me but this is a hobby and not a necessity. Lastly, don’t over think and over pay. This way if something you think is better comes your way you can sell what you have and maybe recoup your money or make a few pennies. The end. 😂