Key Features
The SL-B202 uses Technics’ FG servo belt-drive system, with a DC motor whose speed is regulated by a Hall-effect sensor monitoring rotation via the drive belt, giving quartz-turntable-like speed stability without the cost of a direct-drive mechanism. The tonearm is a low-mass, S-shaped tubular design with a static-balance counterweight and detachable headshell, making cartridge changes straightforward, and the deck’s semi-automatic operation means the platter begins rotating as the arm is moved towards the record, with an adjustable end-of-record return to protect the stylus and vinyl at the end of a side. A 6% pitch control allows fine speed adjustment for both 33⅓ and 45rpm, useful when matching pitch to other sources, and an illuminated stroboscope built into the platter edge allows accurate visual speed verification under mains lighting.
This example is fitted with a vintage Audio-Technica moving-magnet cartridge rather than the Technics EPC-U25 originally supplied with the SL-B202. The specific model and stylus condition of the fitted cartridge have not been confirmed, and as with any vintage cartridge of unknown history, we would recommend a fresh stylus before regular use.
Technical Specifications
(Source: Vinyl Engine, Technics SL-B202 manual library, cross-referenced against the closely related Technics SL-B21/SL-B205 specification sheets, which share the same platform and tonearm)
- Type: Semi-automatic, belt-drive turntable
- Platter: 304mm aluminium die-cast
- Speeds: 33⅓ and 45rpm
- Pitch Control: 6%
- Wow & Flutter: 0.045% WRMS
- Rumble: -70dB
- Tonearm: Universal S-shaped, static balance type, tubular, detachable headshell
- Effective Length: 230mm
- Overhang: 15mm
- Offset Angle: 22 degrees
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 106 x 375mm
- Weight: 4.2kg
- Cartridge (fitted): Vintage Audio-Technica moving-magnet type; specific model and stylus condition unconfirmed
- Country of Origin: Made in Japan
Why Buy From Us
With over 40 years of experience in the Hi-Fi industry, we are well placed to assess and test equipment of this type. Every item we list is fully inspected and tested before sale — this unit was checked and lightly serviced by Andrew in our workshop.
When you buy from us you can expect:
- Full inspection and testing prior to listing — not simply a visual check
- A 3-month guarantee on every item we sell
- Transparent descriptions with no omissions
- Professional packaging to ensure safe delivery
- After-sales support available by phone or email should you have any questions
Summary
A neat, semi-automatic vintage Technics turntable in excellent condition for its age, lightly serviced and ready to enjoy, fitted with a vintage Audio-Technica cartridge. This is a single-unit listing. Please feel free to get in touch with any questions prior to purchase.
