A Vocal Track to Compare the Technics SL-1200G and the Continuum Caliburn With SAT Arm

[@jimbojet8728]

That surprised me, it was the Technics for me. I’m off to buy one. Thanks.

[@pauldow1648]

Both captivatingly beautiful. Fantastic. Sound is different but not objectionaly. The big rig had more romance.

[@jerryandlisa27]

Technics 1200G is amazing. I had the 1200gr first and really enjoyed it but after upgrading to the 1200g you can really admire the sound quality along with amazing quality in engineering.

[@dottorg7721]

The continuum is way more balanced and clear, more define, absolutely beautiful

[@mariocassar6087]

But, does the difference in price, equate to the difference in sound quality?

[@Coolwoo]

@@mariocassar6087 that’s review the cruelty of the truth of Diminishing returns for the true audiophiles!

[@marantz7783]

Amen Brother== 10 $ x's for 10% more --true in everything in Life-- usually, worth every penny , if you can afford it,. in the long run ( no, don henley , we will not pay you for that line!!)

[@mfr58]

I was surprised to hear a difference on my laptop, but given that constraint, I could still hear the expansiveness and natural quality of the continuum clearly, albeit with extra surface noise.

[@tudorrapeanu4842]

Not gonna get in to "more air, brighter" and what not. What I have noticed is she sounds more alive and happier... just happier.

[@ColocasiaCorm]

I think they sound more similar than different. What i mean is that the recording still dominates the sound.

[@analogsound]

I would love to hear the 1200G against a SP10 mk2. That would be a contest that will clearly show how Technics has progressed

[@johnshifi]

the Continuum is so much more a live , i can hear the music flows in more 3 dimension the Technics sounds just as clear but more flat .

[@christinearmington]

What an exquisite voice. And recording- airy, clear, detailed, even through my iPad. Wow. 😳🤩🥰🔥❤️🕊 Even deeper, more dimensional image with even more intimacy on the second! Amazing technology. 🥳🌀

[@ProjectOverseer]

It was this final review that convinced me to buy the SL1200G ... I even bought the music used in this demo lol I bought mine for 2k so not to bad. I've owned many cool turntables including Linn LP12 and various Rega incarnations, even an SL1200mkII/SL1210 mkII and I'm super pleased with my purchase. the SL1200G sounds very different. Detail, imaging, depth, and presentation is audiophile quality 👍

[@poetryonplastic]

What I would really want to hear is a comparison between the previous 1200 Mkwhatever and the new 1200G. It would most likely shut up all the commentators who think Technics is just upping their price for no reason.

[@Lemon8]

poetryonplastic Will never happen soon I'm sure for that same reason.

[@leehazlewoodism]

I've got a 1200G and it makes a 1200mk2 feel like a Vestax. My "big" turntable is about 3x the price of the Technics, when I have the chance I'm going to compare them.

[@utub1473]

@@leehazlewoodism Please report back.

[@leehazlewoodism]

@@utub1473 Haven't had chance yet. We've been having building work on the house and it's dragging on. Still loving the 1200G in my other system though.

[@Roscoeverdin5469]

@@leehazlewoodism I'm curious as well. Is the building done? It would be great to see a comparison.

[@anthonyanello1244]

I really like these comparisons Michael and appreciate the work that goes into creating them. I would love to see other tables in the mix- e.g. VPI Prime, Rega RP-8. Thanks again.

[@ruskreeder2434]

Her vocals have more body on the Continnum than on the Technics, as well as the low strings. There's simply more warmth. Also there's greater depth to the sound. I wouldn't have believed I would be able to hear much difference​, but there it was. There is the question about the tonearm/cartridge resonance point on each and how that might have affected the sound.

[@marcbegine]

Much bigger soundstage with the Continuum

[@davidmiller3128]

To my ear they were close. I did not hear an $8000 difference. Thank you for teaching me about this record. I must get one now.

[@rickyblair8802]

$8000 what, try about $100,000 difference

[@Tnapvrvideo]

I think the sound is close. In that regard, that is a big win for the Technics 1200G. I also think further cartridge experimentation with the Technics 1200G in pursuit of a 'best match' scenario would close the gap even more. The Continuum is the superior turntable. I cannot imagine anyone would think otherwise. However, this is an audible example of diminishing returns on display. I believe that the Technics 1200G with a best match cartridge placed in a system that someone really enjoys would be a fabulous edition with no reason to ever look for an upgrade. You will have a magnificent vinyl experience in your possession.

[@MrCatalysis101]

Given the chasm in price of the two turntables, we would surely expect a difference. I like how the 1200 sounds and would be more than happy with it, though I'm bound to say my SL1600 Mk2 is pretty remarkable too. That the Continuum is better is a given (smoother, yet with luscious detail), but seeing as it's out of the reach of most enthusiasts, self included, I'd rather focus on how well the Technics acquits itself in what is, to all intents and purposes, a totally unfair contest. Interesting though, so please let's have more.

[@nicolasprotonotarios132]

Michael, It is interesting that we can clearly hear differences with digital at 320kbps which is what youtube allows. I know it is a difficult question but how much of the difference is masked by the compression?

[@dsp1970]

Great Video Michael. Sounds wonderful! Big fan of your video's. Got back into records recently and wow what a difference from CD's!!

[@bobqualls257]

They both sound great to me.

[@Badassvidsz]

Agreed

[@ProjectOverseer]

The price difference doesn't sound to great though 😂

[@ProjectOverseer]

I own the Technics SL-1200G its a superb deck. I note the plastic lid wasn't removed whilst playing. Even if a silent i.e. no speakers playing direct feed from the preamp to an SSD is used, micro vibrations can have a negative effect on the lid which will magnify airborne as well as ground vibration from movement in the room and even traffic. The difference is minor, but there is a difference. Without the lid the turntable is very well dampened.

[@TheMentalblockrock]

You can't really tell over KZbin.

[@ProjectOverseer]

@@TheMentalblockrock You can download the uncompressed 24bit wav files John.

[@TheFRiNgEguitars]

Interesting observation here, according to my ears and perhaps my mood... and speakers: 1) contrary to the expected and often superior lowered noise floor of a high end turntable, the Continulum reveals more of the imperfections in the groove, perhaps etched from previous play, minor but it is there. This background "crackle" residual as I call it, is not as apparent on the Technics 1200G. Whether this contributes to a sense of more air and space is a matter of the characteristics of human hearing (less distraction) and personal preference. 2) There is actually more air and space by the Continulum, in particular the rather bright reverberation of the singer's voice, not as much heard on the 1200G The background noise residual may be distracting from that.. a better record (perhaps impossible to find) would reveal the superior resolution of the Continulum. 3) Natania's voice has more body and substance and detail on the Contiulum. I call this "vocal texture" much like the texture of a fabric, close up, we can see exactly how well it's made, the actual interweave of the strands. In sound production, "vocal texture" is the harmonic character of a voice, its subtle nuances, its unique identifiable signature... The voice is an amazing instrument as the beating of the reeds are largely a part of its quality, (and can be heard in better sounding hifi systems) plus the various resonant cavities, the natural talent (and acquired) the technic of singing, how to shape the throat and mouth... "vocal texture" is my own contrived term.

[@mmakshak]

I don't listen to scratches, and don't hear them, because I'm listening to music.

[@allstar930]

The Technics sounds a little brighter and the Continuum seems more neutral. Both are fantastic machines.

[@yippie6862]

OK, I hear the difference now. The Continuum has a more relaxed and natural presentation. There is more air, three dimensional space, and realism in the presentation. However, the Technics is not bad for the price.

[@jwdewdney6757]

not sure how you heard the 'three dimensional space' or any aspect of the possible refinement through a compressed file on youtube but hey...

[@jwdewdney6757]

agree with some of that though

[@portwill]

The spectrum is different, the upper mids are more prominent on the continuum, bass is more prominent on the Technics. This contributes to a more focused image on the continuum. The Technics performed really good!!

[@Ferrywijaya30]

Yippie excellent interpretation! That's what I heard too.

[@nunyabiz2016]

@@jwdewdney6757 I don't know how either but I heard it too.

[@U.Ort.]

Hi . I want to point out the following, for there to be objectivity between the two turntables they should have the same head and the same cartridge and the question is what do they have??

[@andyr8812]

Was the same pickup cartridge used on both turntables? I didn't hear any difference.

[@ohjoy40]

Anyone with reasonably good listening skills should hear a marked improvement of the Continuum and SAT Arm. Its not even close. And it would even be a even larger improvement when played on a good system rather than the compressed audio from youtube. But yet people will discount there is a difference either because they cant justify the price difference or simply dont know what to listen for. Besides being able to hear more detail in the recording, better clarity of instruments, hall ambiance, air, delicacy you hear a greater range in her vocals. Although the SAT is not in my budget the few times I have heard it, it is an amazing tonearm. I was even skeptical it was that much better than some of the other state of the art arms I have heard. I was shocked how much more detail was coming from that tonearm It is now on my list of audio products that has pushed the state of the art in analog playback. Not many products have revolutionized analog playback like the SAT tonearm, the Aesthetix IO phono stage ( with upgraded tubes and dual power supplies ) the PC 1 ultimate and a few other outstanding cartridges. I'm not convinced I have heard huge turntable sonic improvements because there are still some older turntable designs that sound outstanding to me. People need to understand that small improvements in sound does come at a premium, but for those trying to get the best possible sound these costs can be justified if it gives the investor greater enjoyment and pleasure. Welcome to high end audio

[@mmakshak]

I would suggest that almost all people won't go the extra mile you went. Given that's the case, this 1200G will introduce people to actual music. This gives the position you're in a much better chance for more people joining you, rather than the way you want people to go.

[@TumpyFunket]

I like the mustard on his chin.

[@TumpyFunket]

Wow you are really insecure. Sorry to see that in anyone.

[@kierenmoore3236]

"Pardon me ... do you have any Grey Poupon .. ?!" ... XD

[@cormackeenan8175]

I thought it was egg on his chin, hence the expression, You can have a million dollars hifi system and not be able to wash your face.

[@theone3776]

@@cormackeenan8175 You made my day

[@dogpoundoatthetube7756]

Corned beef on rye with mustard, one of my favorites..

[@markfischer3626]

I have the Victoria de Los Angeles recording on both Vinyl and CD. I've also got the Kiri Te Kanawa recording on CD. Wonderful music. BTW, the language is Auvergnaise. They are an ancient people in the Midi area of France. Limosin is in this area. In the full set, some of the songs are in French.

[@andrewstewart8704]

Hi Michael, nice one. Both good but the SL-1200 was a bit peaky on the higher midrange. Must be some resonance in the tone arm?

[@ChrisMag100]

Definitely. I’ve compared a Kuzma arm on my Avid to a 1200GR. The difference is similar. The Kuzma is better, even using a cheap MM cart.

[@p57-elf]

Netania sings this song with such beauty..Where all female sopranos go wrong is there's no yodel.. This is the best you're going to hear this it has beauty and that alpine feel like it should.. Clearly the Continuum however the Dohmann with the SAT arm would be nipping at the heels :-)

[@asaprocky8195]

Both sound the same coming to me via KZbin on my 2009 Mac Pro (2008 edition) and Bose speakers. Ok.. so thee cheers for the SL-1200G .... with which cartridge? And thank you!

[@mikek.4211]

Just wondering if it was the exact same cartridge on both decks?

[@rickyblair8802]

No

[@stompinthom]

Ridiculous, people are making comments on the sound quality based upon a video recording (digital) which is uploaded to a website then streamed and played back probably through their computer speakers. Seriously...

[@MacXpert74]

It's not really that ridiculous. I opened two windows with this video to allow for a better a/b comparison. And listening through my Sennheiser HD595 I can clearly hear the differences. KZbin uses 192 kbps AAC compression. The amount of audio artifacts due to KZbin is fairly limited. The Continuum Caliburn table clearly is able to retrieve more detail from the record. It has better dynamics and allows for slightly better tracking. The high frequencies are also slightly better defined. However the Technics is not far behind at all. The differences are there, but they are fairly small really. It might be that the tone-arm / cartridge combination is not ideal for the Technics tone arm. On the positive side for the Technics, there doesn't appear to be any noticeable motor noise and in fact the whole noise level seemed slightly lower with the Technics. But this could be due to the cartridge not being able to retrieve as much information from the vinyl as on the Continuum Caliburn table.

[@glpilpi6209]

Pahmer Enterprises Yes the sound is compromised in the computer environment . Much better to be standing next to the equipment to hear it .

[@glpilpi6209]

Mike B Very nice , always liked Harbeths .

[@lannylippold1461]

I’d love to own the Technics 1200G but if I could afford the Caliburn, that would be my choice .... hands down. The strings were more present, the sound richer and more detailed. Sorry for all the haters our there that seem to know we are all wrong....ITunes loves you.

[@Kyle-pz7os]

well, since we are listening to both this way, there are still discernible differences, its not like im in the room with one and listening to the other through youtube.

[@TheJazzyVaudevillian]

Michael, Are you sure the 24/96 downloadable files (on your website) of this vocal recording are labeled correctly? After listening to those files I still prefer the sound of the B file which is supposedly the Technics. I find it interesting and mildly bothersome that I prefer the sound of the less expensive phonograph.

[@DJGroove]

The music in the second turntable sounds more authentic, more natural...

[@Rich6Brew]

Along with all the natural pops and clicks of the gramophone record.

[@silvanodezaiacomo6016]

But the price different???

[@thevintagehifiambassador8524]

more treble, more vivace, better in allterms, less boxy sound, let her voice walk through the air :-). Is there any price difference?

[@leehazlewoodism]

@@thevintagehifiambassador8524 I believe the second turntable may be a dollar or two more expensive. The difference between the two is pretty apparent playing back in a system that cost a little more than the first turntable/cart combination.

[@Hot_guy267]

@@leehazlewoodism ha ha ha... One dollar or two more? The second turntable has a $600,000 price tag.

[@Chunksville]

excellent choice that turntable of yours is so special thanks for uploading loving the videos

[@chrissyman77]

I can hear a clear difference! no question the the Caliburn has a more natural tonal balance, especially in her voice, just sweeter + a noticeably wider soundstage, having said that the Technics is a mighty fine turntable at the price and is probably a bit of a bargain, I'm wondering what it sounds like with an sme iv or v on it as soundhifi have done?

[@richardshippful]

The Caliburn to me brought out much more total detail and a full sound E.G. more of the instruments, the Technics was very bright, but seemed to leave the instruments behind.

[@alvidrez7956]

Wondering if the technics tonearm could use dampening fluid to get a warmer sound . Either way it still sounds great .

[@metaljoe9088]

Technics for me. Great hifi without costing you arms and legs for a placebo effect.

[@davidtomsett]

The Continuum/SAT/Lyra combo brings out far more detail and nuances of her voice. It has greater dynamic range as well. This, over the internet via my AKG headphones, IS recognizable. IMHO.

[@LoneWolf-kn5hv]

I first learned of the existence of this recording/LP through your video. I don't know how this original pressing sounds compared to the one I recently acquired (England 1972 VSD 713/14) - and taking into account my completely different setup - but the sound and performance is great. This has certainly become one of my favorite recordings (in general, and of these songs in particular). Thank you!

[@danashay]

Woof. Your very expensive TT really never fails to impress. For most of us, it is completely unattainable. Thank you for the demo. I personally have entertained the technics for my next TT, among just a couple of semi affordable units. Could you ID the cartridges please? You are a real piece of work Mikey, thanks for your, well, everything. Please carry on!!

[@dippin1523]

something I noticed is Micheal does not use a washer when screwing the cartridge to the tonearm. i tried this as I have been using a washer under screw forever. what a difference. something that simple makes that much of a difference.

[@jonking7276]

What capacitance and resistance settings are used with these two tests, and what interconnects did you use from the tables to the preamp? These things can have a significant effect on the output

[@ryanolinski7163]

I wish I could get my old Dual 1218's background that quiet but, on my studio monitors at this low bit rate I can't hear the difference.

[@hdibart]

The 2nd play ,whether or not it was really the Continuum, was "thinner " and "shallower"

[@TheJazzyVaudevillian]

Although both players sound wonderful, I preferred the sound of the Technics SL-1200G because the vocal had a more centered, more open, pure and precise tonal quality exceeding those same tonal characteristics of the Continuum Caliburn in comparison. Don't misunderstand what I've written here. IMO, both are superb players which sound magnificent but the Technics was a little more to my liking.

[@devrajbanerji9039]

i'm struggling to hear what you have heard.

[@TheJazzyVaudevillian]

I listened a third time and came to the same conclusion plus the Continuum Caliburn has overall a slightly duller fidelity as if (figuratively speaking) there was a piece of material covering the microphones when the music was recorded whereas the Technics fidelity is clearer. Also the singer and the orchestra sound like they are further away from the microphone from the Continuum Caliburn as compared to the sound of the Technics which gives the impression of being closer to the microphone. Please understand these are not dramatic differences but to my ears they are slightly noticeable differences.

[@Mikishots]

Devraj Banerji I'm struggling to tell if he even knows wtf he just said.

[@devrajbanerji9039]

yes the continuum is richer and deeper but more musical (the technics is like chardonnay)

[@TheJazzyVaudevillian]

I know you are the expert but I am finding difficult to agree with you on this particular matter. I listened to the video again (4th time) but this time I skipped between short segments of the musical part of the video for more immediate comparisons. I found the two players to be equal in musicality and of the two phonographs and specifically regarding depth, the Cellos were more distinct and they seemed to have a deeper tonality on the lower notes by way of the Technics. Across the frequency range, the Technics was more distinct but only by a narrow margin. The Continuum was ever so very slightly more veiled in it's production of sound. The headphones I have play down to 8 Hz. I know the human ear supposedly can't hear that low but there are overtones that can be felt and in a sense "heard". I do not own nor have I ever heard either of these players in person. I am making the aforementioned judgments solely from listening to this video.

[@deadweight6090]

When it come's down to the KING OF AUDIO you my friend are the KING.Peace!

[@michaelkaplan22b]

This is, indeed, an extraordinary recording by the great Seymour Solomon. Both samples sound good, but I am listening on my MacBook Pro using Apple earbuds. Not your most critical listening system. Serious music lovers, though, should try to get a copy of the 4-track reel-to-reel version, which is simply breathtaking.

[@vinylcity1599]

would the "record clamp" make a difference? I think maybe so.

[@armanddimeo6575]

The Continuum sounds more musical, dare I say it, more analog. The Technics sounds thin, somewhat mechanical, and more "digital." This demo confirms my preference for belt drive turntables.

[@mmakshak]

But this direct-drive technology has eliminated my main criticism of direct-drives, and that was it wasn't music. It sounds like music now, for the first time for me.

[@johnsweda2999]

I think it's more down to the crappy arm on the Technics a funk firm SME or Basis, would improve it a lot. I'd like to know how it's mounted inside can't see any pictures of it disassembled the whole table

[@mmakshak]

The Technics arm might not be as bad as you imply. I think the direct-drive technology improvement is the main attribute of the 1200G, as it now allows music to be played-unlike previous direct-drives. This was the main criticism audiophiles had about direct-drives-maybe called lack of detail. KZbin has demonstrations of the 1200G with different cartridges. See what you think.

[@unanonymous4655]

I keep hearing two words in my head listening to this comparison: Diminishing returns

[@TheMentalblockrock]

because You can't really tell over KZbin.

[@poetryonplastic]

There's an "edge" and slight grain to the loudest parts on the Technics recording that bothers me a bit.

[@dirtyths]

What I seem to notice the most is the soundstage that feels more stable and accurate with the Continuum, in depth specially, and also a bit smoother. The G is great too though.

[@ML-rm3vk]

What a voice words cannot describe her voice great video

[@mesri3]

Thanks for bringing this charming song to us. I listened to the whole album and there are gems in there. Now I can't wait to get my hands on the LP. Here is the translation I found ... Damn sweet! The spinner When I was a little girl I tended the sheep. Lirou lirou lirou … Lirou la diri tou tou la lara. I had a little staff and I called a shepherd to me. Lirou lirou, etc. For looking after my sheep he asked me for a kiss. Lirou lirou, etc. And I, not one to be mean, Gave him two instead of one. Lirou lirou, etc.

[@joybrucebruce3377]

I wonder how much of the difference is related to inexact mounting.ie no matter how good it's mounted it's going to be inexact due to inability of humans to measure as good as specs.

[@RandyShirley]

I'm very impressed with the Technics. It comes MUCH closer to the reference rig than I would have imagined. I had 2 Technics SL-1200 MKII that I used in my night club and I took one home to compare on my audiophile system, which at the time, was a Linn Sondek and a Souther Straight Tracking arm. THAT SL-1200 sounded horrible. They have made great strides in the performance of the new SL-1200!

[@Ty_N_KC]

My grandfather (who i never met) managed Jenkins music company in KC wayyyyy back in the day. He had a record out called Markles Miracles... would love to find one. He passed away almost 43yrs ago when i was 2 weeks old. Really enjoying your vids big dog. Thanks for making them.

[@radionicpowers5938]

SO that store WAS the "Music Exchange" in Kansas City ... thanks for buying a record from that shop

[@yippie6862]

The Technics is a little thinner and brighter. It also has a slightly more homogenized, forced and frantic sound to it. With all that being said there is still something I like about the Technics. More "Alive" maybe or exciting?

[@Channel-cm7yc]

Yippie I can agree with you on this!

[@Goforitmanager]

Agreed.

[@metaljoe9088]

Yippie because they are using different cartridges

[@yippie6862]

Why do you say that? I think he used the same cartridge.

[@Channel-cm7yc]

Yes it is guy use your eyes too! Please for the love god don't give Mikey an aneurism. How could comparing these tables make any possible sense if things weren't on an equal footing?

[@handsomefingers]

My impression is that Technics leans toward a crowd-pleasing sound, crisp, bright, and fresh, a lot more than the other one which sounds darker and deeper.

[@TheCookofthehouse]

I couldn't tell the difference between both turntables. What I can tell you is that both are at such a high level that, to me, there is no audible difference. At least listening to the recorded sound in the internet. I don't know if I were sitting in the same room where the turntables are and listening to both once again I would be able to discern any difference between them. Even in this mp4 sound, I can tell you that the system you have is as good with one or the other. Thanks for showing us the alternatives to the best of the best?

[@raymondegers6664]

3:06 5:35 3:56 6:26

[@classicrock7890]

We are not going to hear the true differences on KZbin but while the Continuum is clearly better and a more realistic and relaxed presentation, I can see some preferring the more immediate approach of the Technics. Irrespective of the vast price difference I think one is hearing much of the typical direct drive v belt drive presentation difference. I am getting a similar difference at a lower price point between Pioneer PLX1000 and Michell Orbe / SME 309. The Orbe does make a fair stab at what the Continuum can do at a real world price. Would like to hear the Technics SL1200G against the Michell Orbe as in a similar price range.

[@BarakaPDub]

Nice Mofi collection behind you ;) Much like Impulse records or early era Columbias, the spine makes them instantly recognizable. The Caliburn's control is clearly evident here in the playback much like the video you posted yesterday. I'm sure you have run the Feickert app on both tables? It would be interesting to see the data from both posted side by side.

[@edgardomartinez7449]

BarakaPDub so truth bro

[@Geerladenlad]

Did you use the same cartridge for both turntables?

[@jked7463]

Is the same cartridge on both?

[@njronray99]

Are you set up same cartridges on both player?

[@SKarlsson]

Technics- $2000. Continuum Caliburn- $65,000. No, they shouldn't sound close.

[@SKarlsson]

I thought this was the newer less expensive model shown at CES. Regardless, still shouldn't sound close.

[@chrissyman77]

Holger Karlsson I think the Continuum is more $100,000?

[@michaelsmullen9891]

They both have the same cartridge/stylus, why shouldn't they sound similar?

[@dippin1523]

the Continum is 160,000.00 with arm near 200,000.00

[@Badassvidsz]

Now you guys mentioned it somewhere in a magazine read that Continum costs near by 1.123.345,87 the platter only + 876.999,87 the tone arm and + 432.199,85 the cartridge ..seriously

[@coattodidolore9574]

Who knows what support use Fremer under his technics ? I need one for my techinics too. It works

[@lastcaress83]

Have you tried the manual torque gain adjustment on the 1200g? I've read that turning it to about 1/5th of full improves note decay, sustain, and overtones.

[@lastcaress83]

Thanks Michael! I get why you would say that, I mean, how much time could be devoted to a review if you tweak every little thing. However, the manual mode is meant to be user adjustable, a bit like saying you're not going to align a cartridge, adjust VTA, VTF, azimuth, etc, no? Where do you draw the line? Couldn't you just view it as another unique feature of the 1200g worthy of review? Has a DD turntable EVER come across your desk with user adjustable torque?

[@MrJohnadamsgilmour]

lastcaress83 I'm. In agreement here. If the adjustment exists and can readily improve the sound it should be tweaked with to get the full potential of either turntable.

[@elosevilla]

I touch that adjustment and I dare to say the Factory settings are perfect, on it, the strength and solid constant movement of the super-heavy platter is AWESOME. I lowered it in "Manual Mode" to 1/5 to be able to correct the vynils to beatmatching, and the feeling it´s closer to the old 1200 MK2....AWESOME WORK IN THE TECHNICS CREW

[@stevesus3295]

Note. It is not possible to judge the ambiance, sound quality such as frequency, accuracy, etc. of the cuts being played because the sound I am hearing is the result of MP3 compression. What I looked for was wow, rumble, distortion introduced by the light weight turn table vs the heavy platter - things like that. To really judge, I'd have to either hear the comparison live or via 192/24 files.

[@mmakshak]

Trust me, I've listened to Mikey's table at your rate, but without the SAT arm, and they are extremely good.

[@spittindatruthaboutrecords9421]

is it me or does the technics arm seem to have trouble when the singer goes really high? i just dont like the sound of that arm after hearing the SAT arm

[@snelganex]

sounds like its resonating, te arm mode gets exited, perhaps, quite a lot of energy in that voice

[@fraukapitaen7]

Thanks for the comparison - and for putting the high-resolution files for comparing on the website. Also thanks for hinting me to this record! Just ordered a copy; going to listen to the Japanese pressing of French songs sung by a Soviet soprano singer recorded in Europe by a US American label... on my German turn table through a Japanese amp and English speakers... good audio knows no borders :D Thanks again, ~ Michael

[@martinvegas1327]

What's the difference in sound between the 1210GR and the 1200G?

[@AustenitizedRecords]

Will you ever be able to compare the sl1200g vs the sl1200gr? I wonder how much difference there is with the "budget" model. I have been looking at vpi prime scouts and the sl1200gr. They are both within a reasonable price of each other. But i dont have anyware to audition any of the new technics stuff yet. I think guitar center can special order them but they are not able to mount a cartridge and demo one for you. I think guitar center thinks they are DJ tables.

[@maynardewm]

It sounds like there’s quite a bit of sibilance. Is that just this particular vinyl? Or maybe a config issue?

[@ryanolinski7163]

When vinyl sounds good it sounds really good. Strangely my turntable has bad days, but most of the time it sings and I'm just using a Dual 1218 and a V15 III.

[@nitrocar3075]

The second one is sounding more spacious and opening and lively.

[@pjsanantonio]

Can you do a comparison of the new Denon VL12 Prime turntable and the Technics? I'd like to get your professional opinion on the VL12. I recently purchased one (not for DJ use) and I think it sounds amazing.

[@Lasse3]

The wide open soundstage, the accoustica of the ambiance, the ease of presentation of the difficult vocal reproduction. The 1200G didn't come close. I was expecting a much smaller difference, but the difference was worlds apart it turned out. Can't wait to listen to my cheapo sl1500C

[@mmakshak]

Yes, it didn't come close, but a first for me is that I probably could live with the 1200G. Finally, a direct-drive that sounds like music(i.e. you don't have to add any parts to make it a song.).

[@janedoe8533]

What the hell is wrong with my iPhone 4, I can't hear the difference between the two.

[@ibakedit5850]

Assessing this via youtube is difficult. Could you tell us which you think is better, and if the price difference of the more expensive one makes it that more justified or is the difference really drastic, please? I can't detect much of a difference even through my high quality comp speakers.

[@IvoCoric]

Please tell me the second one was technics ... :)

[@ingenfestbrems]

Same pickup? If not, what's the point

[@frogman6641]

The Caliburn is clearly more musical and I happened to pick it correctly in the original comparo although I was hoping I was wrong as I own an original (but modified) SL1200. Now can you do a comparison with the Caliburn and the Technics complete with a record clamp, the same tonearm and the same turntable support stand? Please? I suspect the results would be a lot closer. And then remove those silly "Pocan" and rubber layers from the base of the Technics, place it on 3 springs instead and prepared to be amazed...

[@thanhnguyen-xi8fq]

I heard this on my Mac book pro 15, on my karaoke system (air streamed to Rotel 1580 DAC -> A&H Qu Pac Mixer->DBX PA2 actives Xover->Crown CDI300x4 biamped -> JBL VTX F15 speakers, and on my stereo system ( -> Luxman D-06 DAC->Accuphase E460-> Haberth C7ES speakers)...and they all tell the same story. the Continuum sound much better. The voice is so warm, clear and sweet. The Technics sound much colder and clinical...However, if I have listened the Technics alone, its not that bad. On the side note, I tried to hear the difference between the stock mat and the "highly acclaimed" Funk Firm Achromat on the same systems of mine, but I could not, just a hair line difference at most, while other people said they heard "big" difference.

[@mmakshak]

I think Technics say the mat on their turntable sounds the best.

[@erikmolnar6585]

I hear alot more of the dirt in the grooves on the 2nd turntable. I like the Technics better. But I love Technics turntables so I might be biased

[@DarrenGlen]

i cant help thinking that the sound difference that everyone is reviewing here is the vastly two different carts and little (if nothing) to do with the TTs. I mean the Technics looks like its running a MM Ortofon OM30 or something and the Continuum is running a MC...yes i can hear the obvious difference in sound but it sounds like the difference between MM and MC and nothing more....

[@MrAngelescu]

Actually the Technics is sporting the same cartridge as the Continuum , Lyra Etna .

[@TheFibtastic]

I can hear a difference and prefer the Caliburn but it's not by a huge margin. The Technics is good enough that I would think with some time finding a cart more optimized to it's strengths that it could end up being a tossup when compared system to system instead of turntable to turntable. That is, a cart/turntable combination that isn't apples to apples... but rather idealized to idealized.

[@dippin1523]

I agree, The lyra plays to the caliburn strengths, maybe a higher end ortofon on the the technics would even the score a bit

[@anoxicfiltrationplenums]

They sound different from each other but none of the tables are objectionable . It now becomes a matter of taste and the cost for what you’re really getting for you money.

[@metaljoe9088]

May i ask, are those 2 tables uses the same cart and needle? Are they both hooked to the same system? If they use different cart and stylus well difinitely they will sound different. Cause if they do used the same cart and stylus with identical system i see no reason for them to sound different. I tried it with my friends, same everything except for the tables, one is a cheap but decent jvc tablle from the 80s and the other one is a very expensive table, none of them can tell the difference. They produce the same sound. So i sold my expensive table a bought a vintage denon dp62L, never been happier.

[@michaelsmullen9891]

Technics sounds brighter, with greater imagery and initially more exciting. The other one dare I say it sounded tamer, more controlled, where the Technics would sometimes get carried away on the high end the Continuum Caliburn showed more discipline and probably would be less fatiguing after a long listening session. This is only distinguishable from this back to back comparison and knowing the differences between them I would go for the Technics because the added brightness it has can easily be lowered by a different cartridge or it might be something completely different with another type of music.

[@repairfreak]

I agree with your assessment, the Technics does sound a bit brighter. Both sounded fantastic however. I know this is a G model. I have a older SL1200MK2 with black Technics Headshell fitted with a Shure M44-7 cartridge and original N44-7 Styli. I’m looking for a professionals opinion on this cartridge/styli, and also if the would be a better choice for a cartridge/styli combo. I’m mainly a Classic Rock guy and love tonal accuracy to the original source material.

[@mcgjohn22]

would be something to hear the 1200G with the SAT arm mounted to it.

[@mmakshak]

I'm just happy that a direct-drive turntable(i.e. the 1200G) is finally playing music. I would think this turntable would be a standard to which other turntables could be compared to see what improvements could be had at what cost.

[@mmakshak]

I think most of the improvements in the 1200G verses their earlier 1200s has to do with the direct-drive technology. It's not hunting for the correct speed all the time now. That hunting interrupts actual music, and it's not how performers do their music.

[@canonlon311]

My guess was that the first sample is the Technics turntable. The second sample is more 'natural' and 'emotive'' sounding. The first sample is 'lively' and 'edgey'. Both are impressive.

[@TheGamingsoundwave]

Ed White he said he didn't mess with anything this time around

[@DjPhaseFour]

I don't think he messed with anything the first time around either.

[@davidbalentine2110]

I can tell the difference over my iPhone. It has a rather modest speaker. I’ll bet the difference is way more pronounced in person. Beautiful. Love to hear it in person. Oh, yeah... the Continuum is the better of the two.

[@robertjermantowicz7487]

Thank you Mike for doing a vocal track comparison! I think the Caliburn sounds smoother and more detailed - though by necessity I am limited to hearing this on my android phone (Kyocera HydroWave). On site listening I'm sure highlights even more the difference between a $2k TT and a $100k TT! With analog playback spending more does usually give improved sound. Just don't expect miracles at the low price end - though with careful matching of TT's, tonearms and cartridges excellent results can be achieved! And don't forget the phono stage!