OVERVIEW
After months of hype and pre-release pictures circulating the internet, the SL-DZ1200 has finally arrived. We first got a chance to use these in at the winter NAMM show, and it was immediately apparent that Technics had released a piece of equipment as powerful and dominating as their world standard SL-1200 turntable. The 1200 has been THE vinyl turntable for over 25 years because of its precise functionality, extreme durability and classy design. Now the SL-DZ1200 has done the same thing for the CD market.

FEATURES
In terms of features, the SL-DZ1200 rises above anything else currently on the CD market. To begin with, the unit feels exactly like a Technics 1200 vinyl turntable. It features similar metal components and stands on miniature Technics feet. The platter is direct drive with Technics' trademark silver strobe lights on the side. An independent slip surface (with grooves) lies on top of the platter, so the whole thing feels very natural. Scratching and all platter manipulations work with the precision you'd expect, and the more complex functions like sampling, looping and cue points are simply laid out and easy to understand. Another important feature is the fact that the SL-DZ1200 has separate inputs for both CDs and SD Memory Cards, and it can read CD, MP3 and AAC formats.

OUR OPINION
In much the same way as the SL-1200 has ruled the turntable market with a double-edged sword of unmatched function and looks, the SL-DZ1200 is both the most technologically advanced CD player on the market and also one of the most beautiful pieces of equipment we've ever seen. Upgrades will be made available directly from the Technics website, and as smart card technology advances, this player should have an even greater edge over the competition. Highest recommendation. All orders will also receive a 32MB SD Memory Card and SD Jukebox 4.0 Software, FREE from Technics.

- direct drive platter with strobe spots, and independent slip surface
- separate drives for CDs and SD Memory Cards
- 4 pitch control settings: +/-8, +/-16, +/-33, +/-50
- pitch lock/key control (adjust speed without effecting pitch)
- 4 cue points can be stored in memory, and activated by cue pads
- 4 audio segments can be stored in memory, and activated by sample pads
- central LCD displays remaining track time, BPM, play modes, and more
- forward/reverse switch
- "freewheel" play turns off platter motor
- headphone output with volume control
- platter brake adjustment
- outputs: 2 RCA or coaxial digital
- "control" output allows connection to other Technics SL-DZ1200s or mixers with CD controls
- dimensions: 4.5" x 12.5" x 13"

• manufacturer's website

reviewed by the mgmnt