Hitachi HT-L70

The Hitachi HT-L70 is a compact, direct-drive, fully automatic turntable with linear tracking, released around 1982. It retailed for approximately £180, positioning it as a competitor to the Technics SL-7.

Here's a detailed technical description:

• Type: 2-speed, quartz-controlled direct drive, fully automatic

• Platter: 300mm aluminum alloy diecast

• Motor: Brushless, slotless, coreless DC servo motor ("Unitorque")

• Speeds: 33 and 45rpm

• Speed change: Electronic change over

• Signal to noise ratio: 78dB

• Wow and flutter: 0.025% WRMS

• Tonearm: Dynamic balance type, linear tracking tonearm with an effective length of 95mm

• Cartridge: Hitachi MT-70 MM cartridge with T4P mount

• Tracking force: 1.25g (recommended)

• Dimensions: 315 x 83 x 315mm

• Weight: 5kg

• Power Consumption: 8-10W

Key features of the HT-L70 include:

• Automatic Track Selection and Programmable Repeat: The "Auto DPRS" (Digital Random Program Selector) system allows users to select and play tracks in a random order, with a digital display showing the selected track.

• Linear Tracking: The tonearm uses a linear tracking system with a short effective length (95mm), driven by a separate motor and guided by optical sensors to minimize tracking error.

• Compact Design: The HT-L70 has a small footprint (315mm square).

The Hitachi HT-L70 is noted for its advanced features, such as automatic track selection, and its compact design, which set it apart from traditional turntables of the time.