Technics is a Japanese audio brand established by Matsushita Electric (now Panasonic Corporation) in 1965. Famous for pioneering direct-drive turntable technology with the SP-10 (1970) and the legendary SL-1200 series (1972), which became the industry standard for DJ equipment and influenced hip hop, turntablism, and electronic music culture. The brand was discontinued in 2010 but relaunched in 2014 due to renewed interest in vinyl and high-end audio. Currently produces premium turntables, amplifiers, speakers, and hi-fi systems under Panasonic ownership, maintaining its reputation for quality analog and digital audio equipment.