When news first came last week that Panasonic was relaunching the iconic Technics turntable series, our styluses quivered with anticipation. This may be a new generation's chance to finally get a pair of Tech decks for their own, as well as an opportunity for those still clinging to their beloved 1200s (we don't blame you) to take a peek at what decades of technological progress has wrought. Information was scarce during the announcement, but now a series of gorgeous under-the-hood images of the tables have been released. Our hearts are a flutter at 78 rpm.

The photos come via Vinyl Factory, which also reports that the new Technics turntable models will feature improved direct drive motors and plenty of redesigned technology. Expect fewer vibrations, less clogging, minimal flutter and plenty of torque. Better motors mean a warmer hi-fi sound, and in an official press release Panasonic stressed that the new tables will bring out the "subtle nuances of musical expression engraved in the analog record grooves." Other confirmed specs include:

• Spindle motor control technology that switches the stator winding drive mode according to operating conditions to provide both high starting torque and high rotational stability

• Coreless stator design that eliminates cogging

• Twin rotors that reduce bearing load and minimize tiny rotational fluctuations (wow & flutter), while maintaining high torque

• Oil impregnated high-precision bearings that minimize unwanted vibrations during rotation

As more details arrive and we get closer to the new Tech's release date, we'll be sure to keep you posted. Until then, join us as we ogle those gorgeous steel slabs.