Just got a note from the Technics team about a new direct-drive turntable, the SL-100C. This new ‘table falls in their “Premium” (aka, entry-level audiophile) line, alongside the recently-reviewed SL-1500 (check that review out here), but at a sub-$1,000 price. Both the SL-1500 and SL-100C lineages go back to the widely acclaimed and iconic SL-1200.
According to the note, the features will be very familiar to fans of their recent (and past) products:
- Coreless direct drive motor, achieving stable rotation that is free from cogging and has powerful torque
- S-shaped aluminum tonearm that is highly sensitive yet robust
- Two-layer platter with improved vibration-damping performance
- High-rigidity cabinet and high-damping insulator for thorough shut-out of vibrations, ensuring a smooth vinyl-tracking process
- Audio-Technica AT-VM95C pickup cartridge on-board for ease of setup
- Tonearm auto-lift for minimizing needle wear-out
What’s different? Well, for starters, the phono cartridge is different. It only comes in a rather nifty looking smooth black finish. Also, the SL-100c will not come with the built-in “phono equalizer” that the SL-1500c comes with — but that shouldn’t slow down the folks with a modern integrated amplifier or preamp, and should tickle the purists who will be bringing their own to the party. Aside from that the two tables look very similar, which makes this a solid offering.
So, if the SL-1500C has been tickling your tantalizing, this new offering may seal the deal.
We’ll be exploring the new offering in an upcoming review. We’re expecting great things! In the meantime, check out our past coverage of the Technics legends here:
- Technics SL-1210GAE and SL-1200G Turntable Comparison
- Technics SL-1210GAE Anniversary Turntable and Hana Umami Red Cartridge
- A first listen with the Technics SL-1500 and SL-1200MK7
- A review of the SL-1500C in an all-Technics C600 system
But if you’re in a hurry, or have some kind of uncontrollable compulsion, you can grab yours at AMAZON — shipping availability starts August 19th. 
I’m in Southern California and I ordered a SL-100C from Amazon UK back in late November of 2021. I received it on December 16th. The total cost, including tax and shipping at the time was US $1040.30.
I just checked Amazon and the total price (including taxes for my ZIP code) is $1,084.99. I feel good that I not only saved $44.69 but I got to enjoy it for 8 months before general U.S. availability.
Oops, typo there – I meant total $1094.99/saved $54.69.
As an “old school” Technics fan i noticed the lack of speed/strobe markings on the platter which is such an iconic Technics look, but i love the black finishes. No pitch control? Is it automatic/semi return? My tables: Technics SL-1300, SL-D303, Pioneer PL-516
Phil: Correct, there is no pitch control in the SL-100C, just like on the SL-1500C. The SL-100C is basically an SL-1500C without the built-in pre-amp stage. I have a tube pre-amp so I felt no need to buy an SL-1500C. The SL-100C was perfect for my needs at the time I got it.