Customer Reviews

Technics SL-BD22 Stereo Audio Turntable

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Operation of this turntable is smooth with regards to accurate pitch and speed adjustment and the auto-return tone arm mechanism is flawless.

However, the downfall of this Technics turntable is an annoying audible static -like intermittent noise heard on quiet passages of music. I made absolute sure the ground wire was well secured and I even tested this 'table on another stereo system and still the annoying noise was present. Apparently, it may be something inherent in between the belt-motor and the output wiring. I tested another Technics table of the same model number and, yup, you guessed it...that same noise is there. It could have something to do with a design flaw or something that is just inherent with a non-direct drive frequency generated turntable...On a consumer electronics web-site another owner/reviewer of the SL-BD22 had the same exact problem ! So, it could be very much a problematic theme with regards to the designing of the table motor mechanism.

After this experience, I upgraded to the Technics SL-1200M3D. WOW ! A major world of difference. It didn't come cheap but the quality and durability is something to behold and so what if it's not an automatic (one less thing to break down) !

The SL-BD22 is basically a no frills 'table and will play records nicely. BUT, if yours comes with a static or humming sound no matter how much adjusting you do, it's a possibility it could be that design flaw...

As an owner of two of these SL-BD22's, one of which I have had for over ten years, I can honestly say this turntable is one of the best moderately priced, belt-driven turntables out there. As turntable fans know, Technics is among the best out there today. I bought my first as an open-boxed buy at Sears ten years ago and have not had a problem with it since. There is nothing that feels cheap about this table, unlike other lower-priced brands. The tonearm is weighted at the factory, with the ideal tracking force of 1.25 grams. Keep that in mind when you go to buy a cartridge, as it does not come with one. I have not heard any buzzing or static, as stated by other reviewers. Just make sure you hook up the ground properly. The pitch adjustment is nice, but really not needed for home use. Don't expect to mix or scratch, as this is belt-driven. Just a side note: The second one I bought I found at a garage sale. The previous owner said that the speed was not accurate, as it was not steady. I determined it was the motor, ordered it from Panasonic's website, installed it, and it works like new.

All in all, this is a great turntable and I would reccomend it to anyone who was looking for a good, home-use turntable.

I recently acquired a Technics SL-BD22 turntable used. It replaced a mid-1970's Dual 1237 belt driven table that finally gave up and begged to be retired. Looking for an affordable replacement and being familiar with Technics reputation for fine quality turntables, I naturally turned to eBay.

I'll be honest - I gambled on the SL-BD22 auction and couldn't be happier. I'd read a couple reviews in advance that detailed a "swishing" or static noise separate from the standard needle on vinyl sound. I haven't heard the sounds described. My unit plays perfectly and is silent during quiet musical passages or breaks between songs. One recommendation that may have helped is to upgrade the needle cartridge. Mine came with a low grade Audio Technica cartridge which was quickly switched out.

This table is a gem. It's not fancy and does not have the bells and whistles that some may require in a turntable. Still, it seems to be a reliable component for a great value. I paid $66 in an online auction. I highly recommend it.

I purchased the turntable as it was the same as the one I had for nearly 20 years, and the original that I purchased in the early 90's finally wore out. I saw the advertisement on Amazon.com for the same item, used, and so I thought it was worth the purchase. All was fine with receiving it, but the turntable did not "turn". I contacted the seller and he returned a portion of the purchase price in order that I could get it fixed. Luckily, after calling around, I found a "gem" of a music technican in Pawtucket, RI, and he was able to fix it for a very reasonable price. There was a little work involved in resolving the issue, but I guess in purchasing a used item sometimes there are quirks in the process. I tested it, and it now works like "another gem". Overall, I would say, near complete satisfaction.

Alan Dennen