The New Reference: A Complete Review of Technics' SL-G700M2 SACD Player and SU-G700M2 Integrated Amplifier
Technics SL-G700M2 & SU-G700M2: The Perfect Hi-Fi Power Couple
A brand recognized by most for its audiophile and DJ turntables, Technics has a knack for making vinyl records spin, but what many might not know is they've also mastered the craft of amplifier and digital components–meet the SL-G700M2 SACD/Network Player and SU-G700M2 Integrated Stereo Amplifier. Since the inception of its first two-way speaker system in 1965, Technics has been quietly expanding and perfecting its collection of hi-fi components to include speakers, network audio amplifiers, network players, and integrated amps. Most recently, its second-generation of Grand Class digital components showcase the technological innovations and sheer performance of Technics products.
The SL-G700M2 SACD/Network Player is the successor to the SL-G700, a highly respected unit in the market, with various new digital and analog technologies implemented to improve the performance and sound. With the SL-G700M2 you get a swiss army knife: CD player with balanced outputs, DAC, media streaming player, and SACD player, all wrapped up into one component.
Combining the advanced technologies of the SU-R1000 Reference Class Amplifier with a refined power supply, the SU-G700M2 Stereo Integrated Amplifier is the missing piece in your audiophile setup. This high-performance amp features an integrated headphone amplifier, low-noise phono inputs, preamp outputs, and main inputs for easy compatibility with your existing audio gear.
Buy them together or separate, let's explore the technical performance of these high-quality digital components from Technics.
PROS
- SU-G700M2 support for turntables
- SL-G700M2=Kitchen Sink, highly capable
- Great units for home audio setups
CONS
- Units have headphone jacks but perform best as stereo units
About Technics
For half a century, Technics has stood at the forefront of high-fidelity audio innovation, crafting exceptional high-end audio components that define the pinnacle of sound reproduction. While renowned worldwide for their legendary Technics turntables, including the revolutionary SP-10 that introduced the direct drive turntable system, Technics' commitment to audio excellence extends across their entire portfolio. Their meticulously engineered amplifiers deliver pristine power and clarity, while their cutting-edge network players seamlessly bridge the digital and analog worlds. Complemented by their precision-crafted speakers and industry-leading turntables, Technics continues to uphold their legacy of superior sound quality and technological innovation, making them a cornerstone brand for discerning audiophiles and music professionals alike.
Technics is headquartered in Osaka, Japan, and is a division of Panasonic now. Older turntable models used to be manufactured in Japan, but since 2021, all production of Technics turntables has been done in Malaysia.
We had an opportunity to sit down with Technics' Business Development Manager for the US Bill Voss, and discuss all things Technics Turntables, amplifiers, and digital components. Check out the videos below and brand guides linked for an in-depth overview of Technics brand and product collection.
Top 7 Reasons Technics Turntables Stand Out Above the Rest
Design
The SL-G700M2 and SU-G700M2 are two units designed to work apart, but destined to be together. Technics' products are designed with synergy to work together and a lot of the design notes from these two components confirm that. Both units are sleek and adorned with just enough buttons and knobs to make them functional without being excessive.
SL-G700M2
The SL-G700M2 is sleek and modern-looking, yet incredibly retro. Technics steered away from the front panel touch screens we're used to seeing on most network players and opted for something straight out of the 1900s. There are some products that need a large touch screen to easily control the unit, but the SL-G700M2's functionality is so straightforward I don't feel like it needs it–and Technics obviously must agree. You can just tell it's very straightforward and easy to use.
You've got your Power On/Off button with a corresponding power indicator light. A 6.3mm headphone jack, USB-A port, and signal sensor for the remote control all on the lefthand side. Front and center sits the disc tray with the display screen to the right showcasing the input source, playback status, and track information. Just below the display are the disc tray controls, basic playback operation buttons (stop, pause, skip, search), input selector button, headphone volume button, and multi-control knob which switches the input source and adjusts the volume.
The outside of the SL-G700M2 is constructed with a 7mm hairline-finished aluminum front panel, aluminum side panels, and Technics engraved logo. Four heavyweight aluminum high-quality footers are visible and customers get a choice of a silver or black chassis finish. Personally, I really love the black finish. I'm not sure how you would describe the brushed look on the front panel but it almost looks etched.
Lift the cover off the SL-G700M2 and unveil a quad-section configuration with the chassis divided into four sections isolating the power supply, digital interface, analog circuitry, and disk drive section. By separating out the internals into multiple sections, Technics is able to achieve reduced mutual interference between independent substrates and enhanced rigidity. A robust three-layered drive mechanism mount structure minimizes vibrations transmitted to the outside, and a disc tray made of aluminum die cast ensures precise playback.
On the back panel you'll find the collection of inputs and outputs. You've got analog audio output terminals, two wireless LAN antennas, a digital optical input and output, as well as a digital coaxial input and output. A USB-B terminal, USB-A terminal, LAN terminal, system terminal, and AC IN terminal. Included with the SL-G700M2 is a remote control with just about as many buttons as the old DirecTV remotes, allowing you full control of the unit without leaving the couch.
Connectivity-wise, the SL-G700M2 can be configured to a router using a LAN cable or wirelessly via the built-in Wi-Fi. Those interested in going the wireless route via the LAN antenna must download the Google Home App or Apple Home App to set up a connection. With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, users can easily stream music over the network by using the Technics Audio Center App. More on that in the Features & Technology section.
SU-G700M2
The SU-G700M2's design is eye-catching with a large window on the front panel showcasing the peak power meter. Enclosed in the meter section is the LAPC indicator and remote control signal sensor. Arguably the coolest part about the unit's design, the meter displays the output level, but does not work while the light is turned off or when connected to headphones. Compared to the SL-G700M2, the SU-G700M2 is taller and larger.
It's got the same aesthetic as the SL-G700M2 with four heavyweight aluminum feet, two chassis finish options, and discretely engraved logo. When you look beyond the meter you'll find a large volume knob, power on/off button with a corresponding power indicator light, and 6.3mm headphone jack. The SU-G700M2 does feature a display screen, which is just big enough to display input source and not much else. Next to it sits the dedicated input selector knob.
On the back panel you'll find a USB-B terminal, a pair of optical digital inputs, coaxial digital inputs, speaker output terminals, PHONO EARTH terminals, analog audio inputs, LINE1 analog inputs, LINE2/MAIN IN analog inputs, LINE OUT analog audio outputs, PRE OUT analog audio output terminals. Also on the back panel is a USB-A update terminal, system terminal, and AC IN terminal. Just like the SL-G700M2, the SU-G700M2 comes with a remote control adorned with buttons.
Sound
As a highly-capable network player, the Technics SL-G700M2 is the perfect unit for audiophiles with a large music collection–physical and digital formats. Whether we like to believe it or not, CDs have regained popularity over the last few years. If you own a CD player but haven't used it in quite some time, chances are you could benefit from a new one. Those of you who are regular CD listeners, is your CD player separate from the component you use to stream music? Have you thought about upgrading? An all-in-one unit like the SL-G700M2 awards you the luxury of streaming your digital music library and enjoying your collection of CDs with great precision and sonic accuracy.
The Technics SL-G700M2 supports playback of the high-quality audio disc format, Super Audio CD (SACD). For further sound quality enhancement, listeners can turn on Pure Disc Playback mode, which shuts off the networking portion of the unit, and can be disabled when streaming. Additionally, the SL-G700M2 supports MQA files and MQA-CDs. So blow the dust off your CD collection and throw away your old boombox to make room for the SL-G700M2. You'll enjoy your CDs like never before–accurately, clearly, and full of musicality. But you can't have every CD–where would you possibly put them? Thus enters the convenience of streaming.
With built-in Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, you can easily integrate the SL-G700M2 into your lifestyle, streaming from popular music services like Spotify, Qobuz, Deezer, and Roon. Wired listening is available through the USB-B port to access a network audio server or PC for playback of high-resolution sound sources.
Don't let the super cool meters fool you, the Technics SU-G700M2 is more than just a pretty face. Best with loudspeakers, but great with headphones too, the SU-G700M2 will deliver you a sound quality that's transparent with great energy, low distortion, and dynamic power. Arguably one of the SU-G700M2's best features is the low-noise phono input that works with MC and MM cartridges. Here at the office we've got the SU-G700M2 hooked up to the Technics SL-1200G-S Turntable and Focal Sopra No.2 Loudspeakers. We thoroughly enjoy using the SU-G700M2 for vinyl listening sessions.
In our interview with Technics' Bill Voss, he clued us in on a little secret that astounds those who listen to the SU-G700M2. Vinyl listeners will die on a hill to tell you that analog sounds better than digital, so you can only imagine their surprise when they find out the SU-G700M2 converts analog signals to digital through a 24/96 ADC (Analog to Digital Conversion). And vinyl pursuits will be the first to say that 24/96 conversion can easily resolve the dynamic range and frequency response of a vinyl recording–but when it's done right like it is in the SU-G700M2, you won't experience any loss. You'll enjoy an extremely pure and dynamic sound, regardless of whether the sound is analog or digital.
Features & Technology
Technics is no stranger to sharing the wealth, incorporating what we like to call "trickle-down technology" from some of their best-in-class models to the more affordable units. The SU-G700M2 and SL-G700M2 are loaded with innovative Technics' tech that lend to their exceptional performance and sound quality.
SL-G700M2 Features:
- Premium high-precision coherent D/A Converter
- Coherent Processing Technology
- Multi-stage silent power supply
- Current injection active noise canceling
- Ability to play a wide variety of music sources including Super Audio CD, MQA
- Housing & chassis support high-quality sound
SU-G700M2 Features
- Exquisite, Grand-Class D amplification with full-digital core amplifier technologies
- Natural, detailed sound with load adaptive phase calibration (LAPC)
- Vintage and modern connections with low distortion and a wide frequency range
- Gorgeous, sculptural body with sleek, hairline-brushed aluminum cabinet
SL-G700M2 Technology
High Precision Coherent D/A Converter with Coherent Processing Technology
The Technics SL-G700M2 is equipped with a high-precision coherent D/A converter that converts digital to analog signals with outstanding accuracy using coherent processing, dual ESS ES9026PRO chips in a monaural configuration, and a custom discrete amplifier circuit. The coherent processing function has been added for those using the SL-G700M2 with other non-Technics products. Working similar to the LAPC technology, coherent processing enhances impulse signal accuracy by reducing amplitude and phase deviations in D/A conversion for signals up to 192kHz PCM. The result? Purer, clearer sound imaging. DSD signals like those from SACDs bypass this processing function and go directly to the DAC.
The dual ESS ES9026PRO DAC is uniquely placed in a symmetrical setup with independent transmission structures to reduce interference and capture the finest sound details. The filter circuit after the D/A conversion uses an amplifier circuit with a unique discrete configuration instead of an operational amplifier. This gives the SL-G700M2 even higher responsiveness.
Multi-Stage Silent Power Supply
The SL-G700M2 features a multi-stage silent power supply providing noise suppression in three stages: High-speed switching power supply, low-noise regulator, and current injection active noise canceling. The SL-G700M2 uses a high-speed switching power supply of approximately 300 kHz, also used for the analogue circuits of the SU-R1000 reference-class integrated amplifier. By increasing the switching frequency, the interference of noise on the music playback bandwidth is reduced and a highly responsive power supply is achieved.
The low-noise regulator also provides low noise at high level and stable power supply are realised with the fine tuning of circuit patterns. Current injection active noise canceling removes unwanted noise components by applying an inverse phase current to the detected noise.
Technics Audio Center App: Stream Music & Manage Settings
As a highly-capable network player, the SL-G700M2 is supports many music streaming services from Google Chromecast-enabled apps, as well as Apple AirPlay 2. With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, you can easily connect your phone to the SL-G700M2 and stream music from Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, and more.
Technics' intuitive control app, Technics Audio Center, is the steering wheel of the SL-G700M2, giving users access to major music streaming services, internet radio, and personal libraries. Key features of the app include power and setup control, customizable audio settings, Space Tune, and multi-speaker linking for stereo playback with paired SC-C50S or SC-30s.
SU-G700M2 Technology
Three-Section Configuration
The SU-G700M2 uses a three-section construction with partitions installed between each circuit block. This eliminates interference between circuit blocks, achieving clear sound quality. In addition to the three-section construction, the SU-G700M2 comes with a bottom chassis featuring a two-layer construction with 1.2-mm-thick and 2-mm-thick steel plates, a top panel made of a 1.6-mm-thick steel plate and a 7-mm-thick aluminium front panel for improved vibration damping.
Improved Headphone Amplifier
The SU-G700M2 uses a Class AA headphone amplifier with separate circuits for voltage amplification and current amplification of the audio signal. The voltage is amplified by a high-grade operational amplifier, the current is amplified by an operational amplifier with high current-supply capability, and the high-grade PWM signal output from the JENO Engine is converted to analogue with high precision, thus enabling headphones to be ideally driven. The SU-G700M2 drives a vast range of headphones, making it perfect for your everyday use headphones. Dead quiet with headphones and IEMs too.
LAPC
LAPC optimizes sound by adapting to speaker impedance–which varies in frequency. Not to be mistaken with room correction or room equalization, LAPC's goal is to measure the correct frequency amplitude phase characteristics of the connected loudspeakers so the SU-G700M2 can drive them efficiently. An optional function on the SU-G700M2, users simply push a button to start the measurement and the SU-G700M2 will emit tones into the left and right loudspeakers for approximately 90 seconds. Once the measurement has been recorded, the LAPC algorithm performs correction to the ideal impulse response through digital signal processing. With the frequency characteristics of amplitude and phase response flattened, you'll enjoy a precise, spatially rich sound.
JENO Engine
Jitter is a common nuisance in high-quality audio gear that we're always trying to chase away, and manufacturers like Technics will go the extra mile to ensure an optimized digital signal. Technics' JENO Engine is implemented in the SU-G700M2 to do just that, eliminating any kind of jitter over the entire audible frequency range. Working in tandem with a high-precision PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) conversion circuit, the pair optimize noise-shaping speed, degree, and quantization number, data is converted to PWM signals without loss. The result? A natural, finely detailed sound that picks up on even the most delicate music nuances.
Advanced Silent Power Supply
The SU-G700M2 employs the same advanced power supply technology from the reference-class SU-R1000 Amplifier, enhancing speaker drive power and energy with a high-speed 400kHz switching frequency that stabilizes voltage and reduces modulation noise. The power supply is equipped with GaN, FET, and SiC SBD in the output stage, delivering the most efficient power transmission output to loudspeakers. he result is a low-noise and high-response power supply that maximizes the performance of the SU-G700M2.
Dragon Audio Cables
A great digital audio component requires great audio cables and our Dragon Audio Cables are just what you need to set up and integrate the SL-G700M2 and SU-G700M2 into your audiophile setup.
For the SL-G700M2 and SU-G700M2, we recommend starting off with our Black Dragon Power Cable. This cable is dead quiet and rejects all EMI and RFI interference. Our Bronze Dragon Network Cable will provide a stable and reliable wired network connection to the SL-G700M2. Use the Bronze Dragon Premium Interconnect Cables to connect the two components to existing gear in your setup. With great bass control, our Bronze Dragon Premium Interconnect Cables offer a balanced and musical sound, allowing you to enjoy a wonderfully full presentation. Lastly, our Black Dragon Speaker Cable is our recommendation for connecting the SU-G700M2 to a pair of speakers.
Our HiFi Audio Dragon Cables bring out more of what you love in your music and audio gear. If you love your headphones but wish they had a bit more top-end sparkle - a Silver Dragon Headphone Cable would be a great option. If your USB cables keep dying - as many stock cables do - then check out our quality USB Audio Cables. We say time and time again that materials matter, and our audio cables and custom geometries actually help to bring out those desired properties in your gear and music. We make tons of custom options for our customers so that you can get the right HiFi Audio cable for your exact needs. If you have any questions feel free to Contact Us and we'll be more than happy to help.Enter some text...
Verdict
Together, the Technics SL-G700M2 Network/SACD Player and Technics SU-G700M2 Integrated Amplifier are a force to be reckoned with. The synergy of the two components is evident from the moment you connect them–not to mention how great they pair with one of Technics Turntables. Pop your favorite CD into the SL-G700M2, send that digital signal to the SU-G700M2, and enjoy the pristine digital bitstream over your favorite loudspeakers. The SL-G700M2 combines the functionality of a DAC, music streamer, headphone amplifier, and CD/SACD Player into one component, and for the price it's beyond worth it. Buying all of these functions as separate components would not only cost a fortune, and they'll most likely be by different brands. There are those who will argue that separates sound better than an all-in-one component, but for those looking to save on space and get more bang for your buck, should consider the SL-G700M2.
The SU-G700M2 is the perfect amplifier for anyone with a large collection of audio gear. Whether you've got a pair of loudspeakers craving an efficient amplifier, or a turntable needing a phono preamp, the SU-G700M2 will deliver. Not to mention, the preamp outputs and main inputs allow you to use the SU-G700M2 in a two-channel home audio system. With LAPC technology to optimize your loudspeaker performance, the SU-G700M2 will deliver a natural, transparent sound signature and impressive dynamic range. Use one of our Black Dragon Speaker Cables to connect the amp to your favorite speakers and start listening to your favorite music with great clarity and musicality.
Featured Products
Related Videos
Technics SL-G700M2, SU-G700M2: High-End Features at Mid-Fi Prices
Top Audiophile Headphones of 2024: Entry to Endgame
Manley Labs Oasis Phono Preamp: American-Made Excellence
What's in the Box
SL-G700M2
-AC Power Supply Cord (1)
-System connection cable (1)
-Analog audio cable (1)
-Remote control (1)
-Batteries for remote control (2)
SU-G700M2
-AC Power Supply Cord (1)
-Remote control (1)
-Batteries for remote control (2)
Specifications
Technics SL-G700M2
Disc Compatibility: Super Audio CD (2 ch area only), CD, CD-R, CD-RW
Disc Format: Super Audio CD, CD-DA
Frequency Response: Super Audio CD: 2Hz-50kHz (-3dB); CD: 2Hz-20kHz (-3dB)
Dynamic Range (IHF-A): Super Audio CD: Balanced 110dB (IHF-A), Unbalanced 110dB (IHF-A); CD: Balanced 98dB (IHF-A), Unbalanced 98dB (IHF-A)
Signal-to-noise Ratio (IHF-A): Super Audio CD: Balanced 121dB, Unbalanced 118dB; CD: Balanced 121dB, Unbalanced 118dB
THD+N: Super Audio CD: 0.0006% (1kHz, 0 dB); CD: 0.0015% (1kHz, 0 dB)
Digital Input Terminal: Coaxial Digital x 1, Optical Digital x 1, USB-A x 2 (Front/Rear), USB-B x 1
Analogue Output Terminal: BALANCED x 1, UNBALANCED x 1 Support Variable Level Output
Digital Output Terminal: Coaxial Digital x 1, Optical Digital x 1
System Port: System Control (3.5mm Jack)
Headphone Output: Yes (6.3mm, 110mV, 32 ohms VOL MAX)
USB-A/USB-B (back) Support Codex (WAV): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz/16, 24, 32 bit)
USB-A/USB-B (back) Support Codec (FLAC): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz/16, 24 bit)
USB-A/USB-B (bakc) Support Codec (DSD): Yes (2.8MHz, 5.6MHz, 11.2MHz)
USB-A/USB-B (bakc) Support Codec (AIFF): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz/16, 24, 32 bit)
USB-A/USB-B (bakc) Support Codec (ALAC): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz/16, 24 bit)
USB-A/USB-B (bakc) Support Codec (AAC): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz / 16-320 kbps)
USB-A/USB-B (bakc) Support Codec (MP3): Yes (32, 44.1, 48 kHz / 16-320 kbps)
Network Playback Support Codec (WAV): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz / 16, 24, 32 bit)
Network Playback Support Codec (FLAC): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz / 16, 24 bit)
Network Playback Support Codec (DSD): Yes (2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz)
Network Playback Support Codec (AIFF): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz / 16, 24, 32 bit)
Network Playback Support Codec (ALAC): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz / 16, 24, 32 bit)
Network Playback Support Codec (AAC): Yes (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz / 16-320 kbps)
Network Playback Support Codec (MP3): Yes (32, 44.1, 48 kHz / 16-320 kbps)
Ethernet Interface: LAN (100 Base-TX / 10 Base-T)
Wi-Fi: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz Band
Bluetooth (Support Codec): Yes (AAC, SBC)
Power Supply: AC 220-240 V, 50 Hz / 60 Hz
Power Consumption/Standby: 45W/ 2W(Network Standby On)
Dimensions (W x H x D): 16.9 x 3.9 x 16 in
Weight: Approx. 27 lb
Technics SU-G700M2
FTC Output Power: 70W + 70W (1kHz, THD 0.5%, 8 ohms, 20 kHz LPF); 140W + 140W (1kHz THD 0.5%, 4 ohms 20kHz LPF)
Load Impedance: 4 ohms - 16 ohms
Frequency Response:
PHONO (MM): 20Hz-20kHz (RIAA DEVIATION ± 1dB, 8 ohms)
PHONO (MC): 20Hz-20kHz (RIAA DEVIATION ± 1dB, 8 ohms)
LINE: 5Hz-80kHz (-3dB, 8 ohms)
DIGITAL: Hz-80kHz (-3dB, 8 ohms)
Input Sensitivity/Input Impedance:
PHONO (MM): 2.5mV/47kΩ
PHONO (MC): 300uV/100Ω
LINE: 200mV/22kΩ
Analogue Input Terminal: LINE x 2 (LINE1, LINE2/MAIN IN) PHONO (MM/MC) x1
Digital Input Terminal: Optical digital x 2 (OPT1, OPT2); Coaxial digital x 2 (COAX1, COAX2); USB-B x 1 (PC)
Analogue Output Terminal: LINE OUT x1 (LINE OUT); PRE OUT x 1 (PRE OUT)
Headphone Output: Stereo 6.3mm
PC (USB-B): USB 2.0 high-speed; USB Audio Class 2.0, Asynchronous mode
Support Codec: PCM (32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz/16, 24, 32 bit); DSD (2.8MHz, 5.6MHz, 11.2MHz)
DSD Control Mode: ASIO Native Mode, DoP Mode
Power Supply: AC 120V, 60Hz
Power Consumption: 95W
Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 148 x 428mm (16-15/16 x 5-13/16 x 16-27/32 inch)
Weight: Approx. 12.7kg (28 lbs)
