AT-LP120 vs SL-1200 Comparison (Part 1)

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CJ's Vinyl

CJ's Vinyl

Күн бұрын

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@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
*TO ALL VIEWERS:* PLEASE read the description first prior to commenting. At this point, I've decided to start cracking down harder on trolls that are just trying to create problems on my videos. There's a fine line between giving constructive criticism, and just trying to create trouble. Anyone who is wrongfully bringing content that doesn't pertain along with other abusive connotations, will have their comment deleted, and account permanently banned. I want people to enjoy my videos, but I won't tolerate lies through misdirection.
@silviopimentel7247
@silviopimentel7247 3 жыл бұрын
Wow I never thought turn tables had they're own sound 😳 im shopping for one now! But guess i really need to do research cause I knotice how much more brighter the sl-1200 clearer to i guess but I do like the warmth of the lp120 🤔 awe thank you so much for information i actually needed & was totally in dark about the subject. 👏👍
@sbkarajan
@sbkarajan 3 жыл бұрын
These two turntables look ridiculously the same... Can AudioTechnica do this? Legal perspective?
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 2 жыл бұрын
@@sbkarajan Good question! I have worked between my own copyright and trademarks and a design has to be properly trademarked as your mark. If Technics did this, they can make an exception that other companies have to pay them a certain percentage of royalties for each time AT sells a turntable with their design. If Technics did not properly handle that legally, then design becomes open domain if it's not owned or registered legally.
@jingbeizheng2137
@jingbeizheng2137 2 жыл бұрын
Hi! Do you mind to share which specific cartridge you used on these two turntables? ;)
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 2 жыл бұрын
@@jingbeizheng2137 Sure thing. It's the Nagaoka MP-110
@cjc363636
@cjc363636 6 ай бұрын
To my 58 year old ears, virtually identical, with maybe a slight fuller sound in the 1200. That's a hard 'maybe.' Thanks for the hard work in doing this demo!! You eliminated all but the motors spinning the vinyl, as best I can tell. Excellent A/B comparison!
@nicomeier8098
@nicomeier8098 6 жыл бұрын
Yes, there is a sound quality difference between the two, but it's not that huge and mainly on vocals and strings. Bottom for me is: AT is a good entry level turntable, provided a good quality cartridge and stylus are used.
@SPAZZOID100
@SPAZZOID100 6 жыл бұрын
Nico Meier Build quality is another story.
@Manu_Nayar
@Manu_Nayar Жыл бұрын
Same here
@spinalcrackerbox
@spinalcrackerbox 2 ай бұрын
The soundstage sounds significantly deeper, for lack of a better word when using the SL-1200. Of course, what value you place on that is entirely up to you.
@tefltoulouse
@tefltoulouse Жыл бұрын
Fascinating. You can almost hear the warmth and solidness of the chassis in the sound of the Technics. Didn't know the platter on the Technics was so good. Hats off.
@jnsmith9377
@jnsmith9377 4 жыл бұрын
I just want to say how much I appreciate your efforts on this channel as a whole! You put in a lot of time, and it doesn't cost us a thing! I only wish I had known about these videos earlier. You give a lot, even though not everyone will appreciate the honesty!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
You're one of the good eggs. Thank you so much for that support!
@jnsmith9377
@jnsmith9377 4 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl THANK YOU for all of your hard work!
@AP-sc8hz
@AP-sc8hz 4 жыл бұрын
There is something so satisfying seeing the vinyl spin on the platter
@Triadii
@Triadii 4 жыл бұрын
The 1200 sounds clearer but until I move out of my parents basement, I'll stick to the 120. Thanks for the great comparison.
@shaunkeram
@shaunkeram 2 жыл бұрын
U move out out I ain’t and I’m still tryna get a 1200
@austinhunt4260
@austinhunt4260 6 жыл бұрын
Also, this shouldn’t be surprising. If you buy anything at the entry-level price point and something else costs 4x more at the pro-level, there should be a notable difference. Otherwise it’s a sham. To me, a good question to consider is this: Is the SL1200 4x as good as the LP120, because it costs 4x as much. To me, the differences everyone cites here suggests subtleties, which probably, on their own, don’t justify the 400% increase. Which then suggests to my mind, that the LP120 is either a steal at $300 or the SL1200 is overpriced. Probably a combination. I’d still consider upgrading to the SL1200 simply out of appreciation for the masterpiece it is.
@bradscott3165
@bradscott3165 6 жыл бұрын
There are more ways to fix the problem. There's a two decade supply of middle range direct drive tables, like the sl3200/3300, various other iterations of the same basic parts. And you can buy these twenty five year old tables often for like 100 clams. They still work great, and there are many well known mods to apply to them (like lining the underside of the table with modeling clay) to give you some really high end quality for about the same price you'd pay retail for the AT table new.
@austinhunt4260
@austinhunt4260 6 жыл бұрын
Brad Scott, I appreciate the help.
@bradscott3165
@bradscott3165 6 жыл бұрын
@@austinhunt4260 I never owned the AT table but I did own a middle range SL3200 and it was a magnificent piece of Japanese industrial art. Technics made very good stuff in the 70s and 80s. Panasonic, too. I loved my Panasonic boombox... Also, the AT LP120 appears to be belt drive. I'd hunt down a well cared for direct drive Technics SL-something from the late 70s/80s. (If I still cared about vinyl, which I don't. And I live right next door to a record shop, fancy that.) Anyway, ebay has the sl-3200 now for $199-$245, and at that they're a great value. Love the Pink Floyd while visiting this topic...
@progressiveguy9959
@progressiveguy9959 6 жыл бұрын
Brad Scott the LP-120 is a direct drive.
@allstar930
@allstar930 6 жыл бұрын
Decent 1200s are always available for no more than $700 which is nowhere near 4x as much as the Audio Technica.
@samuelgagnon
@samuelgagnon 2 жыл бұрын
Now that's a proper audio comparison here. Thank you so much for taking the time to edit that. Certainly not easy with all these cuts :P
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your kind, and grateful attitude. KZbin needs more people like you.
@skiddlybop8
@skiddlybop8 4 жыл бұрын
Great public service for us record fans, thank you! I am going to set the height of my Technics tone arm to height level 3, to getthe most out of my Ortofon cartridge. Stay safe and happy holidays to your family! Namaste.
@Fluteboy
@Fluteboy 6 жыл бұрын
I could hear greater stereo separation and sharper treble on the SL-1200.
@otaviosmartins1
@otaviosmartins1 4 жыл бұрын
Definitely
@FenskeMark
@FenskeMark 4 жыл бұрын
That's how I heard it as well
@itsanarse
@itsanarse 4 жыл бұрын
Definitely brighter!
@michaelo.4986
@michaelo.4986 4 жыл бұрын
Yeah i noticed too. But i think the Audio Technica is a little less exhausting to listen to
@jvandekant
@jvandekant 4 жыл бұрын
How are you listening to this youtube video?
@vukvukovic7064
@vukvukovic7064 2 жыл бұрын
I'm amazed how good audio-technica sounds for its price... very good turntable for the money!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 2 жыл бұрын
Make sure you finish watching the whole video, and then Part 2. I test a lot more than just sound.
@Acid4Blood
@Acid4Blood 3 жыл бұрын
Great video, we all know how good the Technics is but for the price the audio Technica is such a great turntable!!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 3 жыл бұрын
Nearly everyone who watches this video says the exact same thing before they've even watched Part 2 to make a statement like that. The LP120 is not as good as you think.
@Tunz909
@Tunz909 3 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl you are right.but really now.....the 1200 HAS to be better, look at what you have to pay!! I mean if it wasn't better wouldn't you be pissed off for all the money you are spending!?
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 3 жыл бұрын
@@Tunz909 _"but really now.....the 1200 HAS to be better"_
@Tunz909
@Tunz909 3 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl The 1200 has been the work horse of the professional audio community since the 70's! My point is that had you FOUND the LP-120 better, what would that do to the industry as a whole?? You , yourself spent more money on a USED 1200 than on a brand new 120....the only other comparison's I can make are with pianos and cars. I'm a musician and used to sell pianos. A Used Yamaha Baby grand would go for more than double what a brand new piano from China would go for. At least back when I was selling them in the late 90's. My wife and I bought a used Toyota with over 150k miles!! That car is still running with over 250k miles on it!! I get it, believe me I do. By having the 120 not start up with the defect, just should have cemented the logic, no? I have inherited the 120, it's been in storage since 2014. I still have the receipt, it's still in the original box and shrink wrap. The unit cost the buyer around 230 bucks. I'm debating now whether to sell it, trade it back to the company. Even take it to the company in Stow, Ohio unbox it there, and pay for them to fix these obvious defects. a.) anti-tracking defective b.) tone arm will not lie flush with the record c.) by passing the pre-amp function does not work properly. But I would then have to weight the cost to have them upgrade/fix...so..I dunno..I appreciate all your efforts to educate us new hobbyists.. Most of all the record players I had in the past were all in one units like a Crosley and others...so there is a big learning curve for me. Thanks for the education!!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 3 жыл бұрын
@@Tunz909 _"The 1200 has been the work horse of the professional audio community since the 70's"_ Exactly correct that's why I was confused when you used verbiage such as 'now' in your previous comment. The 1200 (as you know) is not only a powerful work horse since the 70's, but it's the only reason the mountains of 1200 imitation decks made from Audio Technica, Stanton, Pioneer, Numark, Reloop, Kuzmark, Gemini, etc. etc. all of those and more are because of the SL-1200 MK II design. As far as the Audio Technica as a whole, I never should have given AT as much of a chance as I did, and the first 30 seconds of my 'Part 2' video displays exactly why. You don't save money when you eventually have to send it out for repairs, or pay someone else to make modifications for you. It doesn't matter about money being saved when there are multiple issues not just one or two really bad ones with the LP120 and turntables like it. I wish I had more people deterring me from buying the LP120 because I ended up losing money on it in the long run, and I shouldn't have to go through all of that. When you have the experiences that I've had, you know it's no longer worth it. I was wrong to put any faith into that company and by purchasing a near mint SL-1200 for 600.00 I've had it for 3 years with no problems, and my MK5 is already 18 years old. It's the only sensible thing to do. If someone can't afford better turntables, then it's probably better to stay out of the hobby all together because the first priority is to take care of your records, followed by ensuring you get the most out of your Hi-Fi experience because otherwise there's no point to put yourself through it all if you're not going to experience it for what it is. At that point, you may as well just stick with CD's. The best decision my wife and I ever made was to stop kidding ourselves with imitation turntables, and just go for the real thing. Check back with me in 30 years and I know our SL-1200 will still be running strong.
@juandv930722
@juandv930722 5 жыл бұрын
if you use a decent pair of headphone (sennhieser hd25) you can clearly tell the difference, but that LP120 sound terrific for the price I have to agree 100% on that.
@multiversechorus
@multiversechorus 4 жыл бұрын
Even with my eyes closed I can tell a difference.
4 жыл бұрын
@@artiznl If you cant hear de difference in the treble you have hearing problems, asuming you are hearing this over a good pair of headphones.
@AmbientWanderer
@AmbientWanderer 3 жыл бұрын
@ exactly. i'm currently using a pair of cheap JBL earphones and i can still clearly hear the difference. especially from 3:04 to 3:08
@rich_t
@rich_t 3 жыл бұрын
Listening through a pair of Sennheiser HD650s and its definitely easy to tell them apart. The SL 1200 is the clear winner, as it should be.
@Martin-wb8bc
@Martin-wb8bc 3 жыл бұрын
@@rich_t with a price tag that high, it better be leagues ahead.
4 жыл бұрын
Its so obvious that the Technics has much more definition, channel separation and much cristal treble...
@sleepsmoothsounds
@sleepsmoothsounds 4 жыл бұрын
The error is the interal audio texhnica preamp just remove at pre amp and then start again the test .
4 жыл бұрын
No true bypass on the LP120. Disconnect that abortion of a preamp and try again. Ground shunts so you can't get off the circuit without going into the table.
@thehouserocker
@thehouserocker 4 жыл бұрын
@ If you're tech savvy you can simply open up the Audio Technica and take the wires from the tonearm and solder them directly to the RCA cables, that's the way it is on the Technics and hence why the sound is a bit better since it goes straight to your preamp!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
@@thehouserocker The point is that you shouldn't have to. I've replaced and soldered capacitors and flux flow transistors inside of vintage receivers, so I guess that would be considered "tech savvy" but that's for 45 year-old equipment so it's expected. The moment the consumer purchases a brand-new product, then has to put in the time to open it back up, and start making modifications, means that the manufacturer provided them with an inferior product. You should watch Part 2 of this video. Removing the internal preamp, or re-routing tonearm wires are the least of your problems when it comes to the LP120.
@jamescollins6085
@jamescollins6085 4 жыл бұрын
@@sleepsmoothsounds Does the switch on the back not actually fully disable the preamp?
@MattHayesVinyl
@MattHayesVinyl 6 жыл бұрын
These types of tests are always made tricky by KZbin's audio compression but I agree that the SL-1200 sounded cleaner. And I say that as an owner of an LP120. I like the LP120 a lot. Actually, for the price I think it's a terrific turntable. But as others have said, you get what you pay for and the SL-1200 is definitely a step up.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
Completely agreed!
@machielste1
@machielste1 6 жыл бұрын
As far as I know , youtube is 256kb AAC , which is extremely hard to discern from lossless, if it's even possible.
@toneyisaiah408
@toneyisaiah408 5 жыл бұрын
Absolutely correct.
@wordragon
@wordragon 2 жыл бұрын
The 1200 in this comparison is closer to the correct speed and more consistently playing it at that speed. It shocks me that the difference bothers me. It might be a curse...
@Slothdeman
@Slothdeman 2 жыл бұрын
I have the LP-120. Might sell it and put that money towards a second hand 1200. They are quite reasonably priced second hand! Just gotta find a good one. The LP120 is not a crap turntable though! It's excellent. But I would prefer technics to match the rest of my setup.
@jnthepassenger347
@jnthepassenger347 2 жыл бұрын
The 1200 is definitely the better turntable of the two. It's far more crisp, sharp and it reproduces mono records WAY better, as demonstrated by your Ella Fitzgerald test. However the 120 is an insanely good turntable for the price. It just depends on what you want or need from a TT.
@shaddoty
@shaddoty Жыл бұрын
The 120 sound about as good as the 1200 if you remove the preamp circuit, but the tonearm is far better on the 1200
@tonycolbourne7694
@tonycolbourne7694 5 жыл бұрын
Technics has purer sound and more depth imo. 👍
@quentendeclercq4792
@quentendeclercq4792 4 жыл бұрын
Depends on the carteidge
@paulcunning5159
@paulcunning5159 4 жыл бұрын
Tony Colbourne but is it almost $900 worth of clarity?
@JayWerx
@JayWerx 6 жыл бұрын
My 1200s are 25 yrs old and still work great. Let’s see we’re the 120 is after 20 yrs of abuse.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
I can tell you exactly where the LP120 is going. Right back to Audio Technica for repairs because my Start/Stop button decided to give out. Nothing happened either, it's been carefully put in storage. I'm so glad we've upgraded to the Technics SL-1200.
@obatron1
@obatron1 6 жыл бұрын
One of the reasons I’ll never sell my 1200s. Over a decade of hard use as a DJ and they still run strong like the day I bought them. Now I get to enjoy them as a casual listener and beat maker.
@Grimwriggler
@Grimwriggler 4 жыл бұрын
My Garrard 401 is 54 years old and sounding superb . they just don't make equipment to last these days
@haihuachen2627
@haihuachen2627 4 жыл бұрын
@@Grimwriggler My Technics SL-1100 is 46 years old, I think Thorens TD 124 or EMT more durable, just like 301 / 401.
@djbhe
@djbhe 4 жыл бұрын
My 1200's are 26 years old. My first pair was stolen in 1993.
@sxair2285
@sxair2285 4 жыл бұрын
Question: Had you removed the preamp switch board in the AT-LP120 before the test?
@djbryanladd
@djbryanladd 6 жыл бұрын
Have you ever did a comparison with the preamp removed?
@gavinhardy75
@gavinhardy75 2 жыл бұрын
I have the later 120x. Admittedly the build and weight isn’t comparable to the Technics, yet on a good stable surface it’s more than good in my opinion. I upgraded the stock stylus to a microline one the next payday after buying the AT and I’m more than impressed with the sound. I’m listening to this via open back monitor headphones and a TEAC headphone amp/dac and I believe the AT120 gets a lot right compared with it’s pricier competition. The anti skate works on mine although I have to set it at 1.5 despite tracking force of 2g. I still don’t regret my purchase even after seeing this informative video.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 2 жыл бұрын
I love how nearly everyone ignores the fact that this is Part 1, indicating that there's a Part 2, but that doesn't seem to mean anything. Part 2 is far more informative than Part 1......especially the first 20 seconds.
@gavinhardy75
@gavinhardy75 2 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl I saw both parts. I should have stated in my original comment that I’ve owned the turntable for two years and none of the faults have developed. My comment regarding liking the sound of my AT was appropriately left on video part 1
@richmck007
@richmck007 4 жыл бұрын
Interesting analysis and testing.👍🏼 The guitar track you first played and the bells ringing were definitely clearer where treble and midrange is concerned The Ella F sounded the same on both decks, to me. As with the track after the Bells ringing in my ears... Although there seemed to be more depth with the LP120. That slice of rock was definitely using more treble again on the SL1200. The track after that sounded almost the same on both...to me. Now I have had two SL1200 mark ii and mark i decks in my home since 1986 and have listened to them using different cartridges and stylus over the years. I believe this is where the difference lays with sound going to your Amp, then out of your branded speakers. So, in reality, to me unless we take the time to look at the latter I mentioned, we are not including all the stats. Build quality is as you say, no doubts. The SL1200 is heavy, construction and materials are serious and the weight is substantial that the deck has everlasting sturdiness. I have had no problems s over the years with mines and I have used Shute, Stanton, Concord, Ortofon and Audio Technica. My favorite was the elliptical stylus made by Stanton but that company stopped making it for some reason. In the world of deejaying it was the go to stylus in the 80s to mid 90s. You could never scratch a vinyl disc no matter how much you spin back the vinyl. Technics SL1200 i and ii come with ground cables, and short at that. That is my only beef with this turntable. The newer models are highly overpriced and in reality, you do not need to break the bank to get the latest Technics 1200 mark “whatever”
@manilavinyl5680
@manilavinyl5680 4 жыл бұрын
Wonderful review! With this, I came to a conclusion that even if they are similar in appearance, there's really nothing to compare. :-) Both have their own feature to make each product unique.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
Did you watch this video all the way to the end? Have you also seen Part 2 of this video yet?
@k2apache60
@k2apache60 3 жыл бұрын
Up close it's pretty obvious, the AT looks like what it is, plastic.
@gamingguy9006
@gamingguy9006 Жыл бұрын
@k2apache60 both of them use plastic
@MINECRAFTandSEB
@MINECRAFTandSEB 5 ай бұрын
​@@gamingguy9006The Technics has an entire (sorbothane?) rubber base, and die cast aluminum top plate with an internal aluminum plate (that is thick af). The only plastic I saw in my teardown is the main board and motor cover under the platter, and this is very solid thick high quality plastic.
@KittchenSink
@KittchenSink 4 жыл бұрын
Technics every time. Never settle for modern day imitations kiddies
@jamescollins6085
@jamescollins6085 4 жыл бұрын
It's a brilliant device, but I struggle to justify paying so much for an up to 40 year old turntable with no warranty. I'd rather spend that amount on a Rega or Pro-ject. The LP120 looks like a decent beginner turntable, though.
@arjednb
@arjednb 5 жыл бұрын
Happy SL-1200 MK2 owner here. Thanks for this. Nice comparison.
@johnwallace3215
@johnwallace3215 5 жыл бұрын
Where did you buy your sl 1200?
@bikdav
@bikdav 6 жыл бұрын
It was impossible for me to tell the difference in sound quality. My big question is resistance to "foot falls" and speaker acoustic feedback. Did you check any of those along the way?
@vetmanvandernaam
@vetmanvandernaam 4 жыл бұрын
I listened to the music but I didnt check the video and it sounds pretty much the same
@unfinishedtelevision8080
@unfinishedtelevision8080 6 жыл бұрын
It's nice that you upgraded but you were thrilled with the Audio-Technica when you got it and rightly so. It and its predecessor have served this channel very well.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
You couldn't be more correct about how thrilled we were, but since then we were very displeased with Audio Technica. There's more beyond what I've demonstrated here that I'll be releasing soon in part 2.
@unfinishedtelevision8080
@unfinishedtelevision8080 6 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl Look forward to it!
@chrisjames483
@chrisjames483 Жыл бұрын
I like the LP better
@eklektikTechno
@eklektikTechno 5 ай бұрын
I take it you have never seen the 1200’s 40 yrs of DJ work it’s done 😁
@raymiehershey1430
@raymiehershey1430 Жыл бұрын
1200 definitely has a tighter sound with better definition but the Audio technica is a great starter turntable. Auido technica carried the turntable industry through a time when nobody cared about records.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl Жыл бұрын
Keep in mind this is only *Part 1* and the first 30 seconds of *Part 2* is the most important part of the whole video.
@barrywatts803
@barrywatts803 6 жыл бұрын
Me and a friend in the 90s used to balance the tone arm on the technics and let it bob up and down. This would do that for about 5 or 6 minutes. Just the quality of the technics. Japanese made what can I say. So iconic the technics. Still geak out over my pair to this day. And they still work like new!!!
@dariomendoza175
@dariomendoza175 Жыл бұрын
WOW!! this is amazing review and comparison. I am making a decision if whether or not is a good option to invest some money on equipment and I am now more clear that it is a good decision. However I will go with the cheaper one which is a good option considering price. Thank you.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl Жыл бұрын
Well, you're correct on one thing, the LP120 is definitely cheaper I did everything I could to warn people in Part 2 of this comparison, but people are so fast to throw their money away without watching the rest of the reviews.
@aeyb701
@aeyb701 4 жыл бұрын
Lotta work in making this video..thanks.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much for that recognition. That support is what keeps me going.
@allenpolaski
@allenpolaski 6 жыл бұрын
Without a doubt vocals are so much better on the Technics. I especially noticed on the Gregory Alan Isakov track. Obviously build quality is hands down better.
@unpluggedlamp
@unpluggedlamp 8 ай бұрын
I own an ATPL120 (pre USB model) with the preamp bypass mod done to it and an SL-1200 MK2. With the mod done to the ATPL120 it sounds really good. The SL-1200 of course sounds a little better. I got my technics for $300 out the door and my PL120 for $150. Sound wise they both sound great. MOD IS NEEDED 100% for better sound quality on the PL120. The difference really is in the construction. My 1200 feels like a goddamn tank. Top is heavy aluminum and the base is a heavy rubber. It’s very isolated unlike the ATPL120. Mods I made to my AT were adding a 3mm rubber slipmat and a leather slipmat under that, preamp bypass mod, and a better cartridge. That’s it.. and it sounds great. The thing is the Technics will probably out live me and eventually the AT will fail. I’ve read that they really aren’t meant to last very long because of how cheaply they’re made. Anyway if you’re on a budget pick up a cheap PL120 and mod it. I personally preferred this model to the USB model because I couldn’t stand seeing the letters USB on a turntable which should be all analog lol. If you have a little more dough to spend I’d FOR SURE go with the 1200. You’ll never need another turntable for as long as you live.
@Diaz.Subsistence
@Diaz.Subsistence 4 жыл бұрын
Could you please also test the SL-1210MK7 vs. AT-LP140XP
@jodsterjamster8678
@jodsterjamster8678 3 жыл бұрын
Harder to hear the difference in a video as opposed to being in person - a bit unfair since they are priced significantly different as the AT is about a third of the price of the Technics. For that I would pick the AT as you can buy a lot more vinyl with the money you save not to mention you could put together a reasonable little audio system with that extra money.
@bareknuckles2u
@bareknuckles2u 4 жыл бұрын
The trick is to look at something else while this is playing and try to notice any difference while the Pink Floyd song is playing. Try not to see which table is playing. I am not saying anything about consumer decisions. If you want better build quality, it's obvious which is better. But the sound is so close, especially if you just listen and don't watch. Again, consumer decisions: to each their own.
@scippatorediemozion1
@scippatorediemozion1 4 ай бұрын
that’s a great comparison, i cannot find anything wrong here!great job CJ
@markmalasics8413
@markmalasics8413 5 жыл бұрын
I've always had a good laugh at people who make turn-table comparisons using only music. How about throwing on some audio test LPs, use a scope or digital sound analyzing software and compare the results? This eliminates the "I THINK X sounds better", opinions, brand bias, etc.
@tadeovilla
@tadeovilla 4 жыл бұрын
MARK MALASICS ok, go and do the video. We will wait
@davidjgomm
@davidjgomm 4 жыл бұрын
Most people listen to music. All you have to do is blind testing.
@YoshiTamahara
@YoshiTamahara 4 жыл бұрын
MARK MALASICS Brand bias huh? So what's yours? Crosley? I wish I could say I get a good laugh from idiots that don't read titles, ignore text on thumbnails, never read descriptions, and consider watching the entire videos before commenting. Unfortunately that's not funny because you're another shining example of the severely ignorant and lazy. All talk as they say. Try watching past the 7:51 point of the video and then *Part 2* maybe reconsider that joke of a comment.
@AmbientWanderer
@AmbientWanderer 2 жыл бұрын
LOl scopes and measurements are only relevant when something is being produced . What really matters is the final result and how it sounds during playback with music
@Davidevgen
@Davidevgen 5 жыл бұрын
listening to the two they both sound very similar to one another. i would say the sl-1200 has the edge over the other as there is slightly better treble. but i also noticed if im not watching the video i don't really notice a difference.
@Tunz909
@Tunz909 3 жыл бұрын
I concur.......slightly better treble.
@Alan-tr5uj
@Alan-tr5uj 6 жыл бұрын
The LP120 Preamp clips the highest frequencies- remove that and it gets alot better. It's no SL-1200 though
@QS-si3cq
@QS-si3cq 4 жыл бұрын
Alan Sasek *a lot. It's two words.
@Thekidisalright
@Thekidisalright Жыл бұрын
There is definitely a difference in sound and build quality but given the SL-1200-MK7 is 4 times the retail price of the LP120XUSB I am not sure if the difference is worth the price difference though
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl Жыл бұрын
Do you always make a final decision when only watching videos labeled *Part 1* ? There's a part 2 to this, and you should watch it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/amqydIiNf7iCn5o
@robertboman5604
@robertboman5604 6 жыл бұрын
1200s were built for DJs. They can be abused and used over and over. No one can come close the the build quality. You can also replace every part of the 1200s.
@danchaplin134
@danchaplin134 6 жыл бұрын
Amen 🙏
@nilswegner2881
@nilswegner2881 6 жыл бұрын
I have to disagree with you... The sl1200 was built to be a hifi player and djs only discovered that it's great for every abuse you can throw at it. Of course technics now builds them for djs but it's intended use in the first years of its existence was hifi.
@TranceCore3
@TranceCore3 6 жыл бұрын
you can replace the parts of the LP120 as well.
@Hellseeker1979
@Hellseeker1979 5 жыл бұрын
1200 is not for dj 1210 mk 2 is for dj
@glock36me
@glock36me Жыл бұрын
I can definitely hear the difference, the SL-1200's vocal clairity, mids, and highs are enhanced compared to the LP120. I have the newer Audio Technica AT-LP140XP in black with the Audio Technia AT-VM95ML (Nude Microlinear) cartridge. Im using the phono input on my Onkyo TX-NR6100 and this setup sounds amazing to me. I'm really curious how much better the SL-1200 sounds compared to my current setup....
@fruit_smoovie
@fruit_smoovie 4 жыл бұрын
The LP120 actually doesn't sound bad, but the Pink Floyd track in particular definitely showed that the SL1200 has a wider sound stage and was just clearer overall. I know the LP120 has a built in preamp that causes issues even when bypassing it, so maybe it's because of that.
@alberto3028
@alberto3028 3 жыл бұрын
yes, it is
@famfunk1526
@famfunk1526 2 жыл бұрын
G
@stevenchampion8137
@stevenchampion8137 6 жыл бұрын
Technics / Panasonic - simply genius. So glad I have three Mk2 1210s in good nick ... only gutted that I no longer have my pair of 1200s.
@keithaw4204
@keithaw4204 3 жыл бұрын
It’s a little hard to tell. I’m sure in person, it’d be more night and day between the two turntables, but I could hear a difference even listening on my phone. The sound on the Technics was fuller, bigger, wider, and sounded really good with the first and fourth tracks being acoustic guitar. It’s cool that they’re both going into the Mani and use same headshell and cart. You did the A/B comparison correctly to be fair. I agree, the Technics won! I have a Technics SL 1100a and blows my mind almost every time I spin a record. The “beast” is 50 years old! It’ll probably last another 50! I have no idea how long the Audio Technica will last. It sucks that they can’t make a good turntable- they know how to make great carts. Anyways, cool video!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 3 жыл бұрын
You should watch Part 2 to find out how long the LP120 lasts.
@jakecollins4391
@jakecollins4391 4 жыл бұрын
Beyond the shadow of a doubt, the SL-1200 *HANDS DOWN* amplifies better vocals! When I opened my eyes during the sound test I was right to see the Technics playing every time! Listen to 6:23 on the LP120, and then hear an undeniable difference in his voice at 6:37 when on the SL-1200.
@abdelkaderelbachir3059
@abdelkaderelbachir3059 4 жыл бұрын
I really can't tell the difference both of them sound incredible
@TheBoomerPlace
@TheBoomerPlace 6 жыл бұрын
The SL is slightly more open, detailed and brighter. But the price of a used one is ridiculous when you can purchase a new better tt for the same price. The LP sound was very close. A little tonal tweaking and you’d be good to go.
@mickinleywins69
@mickinleywins69 4 жыл бұрын
The one and only Technics will always reign supreme! It is the original after all.
@Avatar610
@Avatar610 5 жыл бұрын
Let me put it to you this way: if were a Fortune 500 corporate executive, I'd get the Technics, bot I'm not. Besides, I've heard a LOT of great things about the 120, as a moderately priced turntable it does a great job! I've had mine for over six months and there's no complaints. I can save up for a heavier counter weight and an ORTOFON stylus to pump up performance if need be, and the music would be just as good as what comes from the more expensive turntable!
@k2apache60
@k2apache60 3 жыл бұрын
Where's the LMAO emoji?
@austinhunt4260
@austinhunt4260 6 жыл бұрын
Great comparison; thanks CJs. I’m jumping into vinyl through the LP120 (was going to be a RT81 if Fluance shipped to Switzerland for a reasonable price). Pretty sure if vinyl hooks me, then I’ll upgrade to a SL1200. It sounds superior in both clarity and crispness. Even seemed to have slightly more faithful pitch at some points.
@oliveratienza5020
@oliveratienza5020 3 жыл бұрын
After all this years, TECHNICS still rules! (Based on sound clarity, brilliance, depth.) But for the price, I think the AT 120 is a good alternative.
@arthurbernales1776
@arthurbernales1776 4 жыл бұрын
I think that the sound quality depends mostly on the type of stylus/cartridge that your using.Now the question here is which of the two is durable?
@Tunz909
@Tunz909 3 жыл бұрын
uhmmm interesting.....so I'm wondering now, if you put a cheaper stylus/cartridge in the 1200...and did a 'blindfold" test one might not notice the slight difference that we do now? well from what we all read the 1200 is the work horse
@spaceiswater6539
@spaceiswater6539 6 жыл бұрын
The Technics sounds cleaner also.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
@•‿• ...and sometimes the owners of these decks just know the difference, especially in person.
@offroad5594
@offroad5594 6 жыл бұрын
As others have mentioned the price difference is substantial today between the two. Yes you can buy a used vintage SL1200 but I would advise you know how to work on them and have a good source for parts when needed as for any vintage gear. The AT 120 is a great table if you set it up correctly and take care of it.
@robsemail
@robsemail 3 жыл бұрын
If the reason you’re not buying a used 1200 is because you don’t know how to work on them and don’t know where to get the parts which aren’t made anymore (a VERY good reason in my opinion), then price is probably not your first consideration. That being the case, check out the Reloop RP7000 Mk2 before you choose the Audio Technica LP120x. The Reloop is FAR superior and much closer to the Technics in performance and audio quality, at an excellent price.
@Tunz909
@Tunz909 3 жыл бұрын
@@robsemail Good info, thanks!
@modernsoul6590
@modernsoul6590 2 жыл бұрын
I have 2 1200 mk ii’s I purchased in 1991 still going strong. My friends fell of the back of a car and still worked.
@Thekidisalright
@Thekidisalright Жыл бұрын
@@modernsoul6590I hope your friends are okay.
@BOUNDWRESTLER
@BOUNDWRESTLER 6 жыл бұрын
I own an Audio Technica 120--it is highly regarded and had plenty of great reviews. Purchased it in 2017 and could not be happier with it. I completely enjoy playing my LPs and listening to them on my "budget" system. You do not have to spend thousands of dollars to get great quality sound.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
Agreed with the not paying thousands of dollars for a turntable part! We only initially paid an extra 300.00 on top of the cost of our LP120 to get the Technics SL-1200. No one is arguing that the LP120 sounds poor, it's that the SL-1200 is better.
@SuperWarren83
@SuperWarren83 6 жыл бұрын
As you have used the same styly/Cartridge ,there should be no detectable difference,that said,wow/flutter (very bad)may be detected,one would n need to know,is the AT Belt or Direct drive?
@jamescarter3196
@jamescarter3196 6 жыл бұрын
There is a lot more to the sound of a turntable than only the cartridge, as in the video he showed parts of each table where acoustic sound 'accumulates', and can be picked up by the cartridge. The tonearm itself affects the sound.
@naitranaitra8196
@naitranaitra8196 6 жыл бұрын
infact the at lp120 looks like it is tracking more stable, check the light going forward every couple of turns.
@number1cherfan
@number1cherfan 5 жыл бұрын
AT is direct drive
@keith989079
@keith989079 6 жыл бұрын
Excellent comparison. Thank you for posting this.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your gratitude!
@patdthomas
@patdthomas 5 жыл бұрын
I found it interesting that Audio Technica was founded by Hideo Matsushita and Panasonic (Technics) by Konosuke Matsushita.
@Tunz909
@Tunz909 3 жыл бұрын
Interesting:-) But 1200 is MADE in Japan, think the LP-120 is made in a country named CHINA
@jasoncrouzat7509
@jasoncrouzat7509 6 жыл бұрын
Nice to see that the younger generation is getting back into vinyl I'd still text the sl 1200 better build quality and it'll last you a lifetime
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
And I love hearing myself still referred to as the younger generation at age 36. I started collecting my LP's and singles in 2003.
@cubdukat
@cubdukat 6 жыл бұрын
I think The SL-1200 had the edge, but not by as much as I thought it would. In fact, during the opening chimes of "Time," they actually came pretty close to each other, but on everything else, the deficit of the 120's preamp makes itself known. There was a slightly noticeable mid-to high-mid suck-out that wasn't there on the 1200. It wasn't necessarily objectionable, but it didn't sound like the 120 was performing up to its full potential, like there was more it could have been doing sonically. Still, I don't suspect the 120's issues aren't something a little more quality control might not fix, but it seems like Audio-Technica is either indifferent or unwilling to do it. I wonder just how much effort it took for them to allegedly fix the anti-skate problem (I actually haven't been able to confirm it, so I take back what I said on a different post).
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
I agree with that. I think they could too. I feel if Audio Technica put in the time and effort to make other changes to their internal wiring as well, this will most likely boost the cost. The LP120 uses normal wires for their tonearm connections, whereas the SL-1200 uses oxygen-free carbon fiber wiring. Now, the Mark V came out November 1st of 2002, so I don't exactly know how old our turntable is. Not because the seller didn't know, but because I didn't ask due to their exemplary description of it, including its appearance. My guess is that the wiring inside of the tonearm could stand to be replaced. Or, maybe it's only 5 years old and they're still going strong. Either way, before some upgraded parts were ordered, the initial price of this turntable was only 500.00 which was one of the biggest reasons I went with it. All of that to say, I don't think we should hold our breath when it comes to Audio Technica. I think they cut corners for a reason, which is why their products (while decent) are still inexpensive and sub-par. All the more reason to sell them and save some money to buy a used Technics. At least now, our newest turntable works exactly as it's supposed to, and with everyone online talking about how their Mark II's are still going strong after 40 years, I have a feeling the Mark V is going to last us for the long haul.
@MasterLink343
@MasterLink343 6 жыл бұрын
I appreciate everything you're doing CJ!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
I'm glad you do. I've been getting hatred that is completely misconceived and unwarranted on this video to the point that I'm just done with the haters, and I'm deleting them. People like you that understand what I'm trying to do makes it all worth it.
@cubdukat
@cubdukat 5 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl Looks like they may have leaned on the people who make the table for them like Pioneer did with the PLX-500. Supposedly they've sort of moved its replacement, the 120x, downmarket. They improved the preamp and antiskate, but they took away the tonearm height adjustment. If you want something close to the 1200, they want to steer you towards the 140x. To be completely honest, though, I don't even know if they're using the same OEM manufacturer as before. Nothing on Hanpin's website corresponds to any model they currently make.
@joseluisruiz3789
@joseluisruiz3789 2 жыл бұрын
I'm looking for a good record player to listed to music but also to sample into my Roland SP404MKII for my other channel and I was gonna go with the LP120 but that SL1200 sounded way more clearer then the AT. I know there's a big price difference between both. I'm thinking of going work the new 50th anniversary edition. should I get the SL-1200M7L? or go with the LP120? also I believe I'll be in need of some sort of phono adapter to have it converted to line out? thanks for your help, this is my first time going for this but I want to get something good that will last.
@honestaquarian1
@honestaquarian1 4 жыл бұрын
I own two Technics 1200 MKII's. One in each of my systems. Here is now the ideal way to hear a difference since the audio winds up being compressed MP3 format. I BARELY noticed any difference between the two. The Audio Technica sounded very slightly softer than the Technics (and only sometimes)
@Tunz909
@Tunz909 3 жыл бұрын
yes the softer sound in the LP 120..or a slight louder sound in the 1200...during the Fitzgerald tune it was hardly noticeable at all.
@util2
@util2 4 жыл бұрын
We have high definition digital audio technology and we still listen to vinyl discs with annoying noises and partial fidelty due to RIAA, mechanical and electronical limitations. Pretending to ear differences between the two turntables by a KZbin file is absurd. In the best case the audio is compressed in a AAC 192Kbps file. @Cj's Vinyl Could you perform an easy test? Power on the SL-1200 but stop the plate. Put the stylus on the vinyl and listen at high volume. Can you ear the vibration (hum) of the internal transformer of the SL-1200?
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
There's nothing pretentious about it when it comes to my reasoning with choosing vinyl records. From a physics standpoint, frequency is in fact more dynamic than bitrate. Not my opinion, only scientific facts. From a personal standpoint, I choose vinyl because it reduces my stress and anxiety levels. I'm a very tactile person, and as such, I need that interaction that I can only get from my turntable and receiver. I cannot hear any hum from my transformers, because all of the transformers have been replaced with industrial-strength parts. Maybe in another 25 years I'll hear something from the receiver, but that's it.
@bryanladdproductions6184
@bryanladdproductions6184 6 жыл бұрын
It almost sounds like the days of cassettes, when Dolby was selected, the air was missing.
@neonhomer
@neonhomer 4 жыл бұрын
In reference to the platter: wouldn't a little Dynamat on the outer ring help absorb the ringing? Same would go for the body of the machine. As for the light.. add a heavier spring.... I'm considering an LP120 for my first turntable...
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
You and everyone else that praises cheap plastic are going to do whatever you want, you have my videos, so you already know my thoughts, although you've only seen Part 1. Maybe you should watch Part 2 to get an even deeper insight.
@neonhomer
@neonhomer 4 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl you're right. I have not watched part 2 yet. I also don't have $600 plus for a Technics table..
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
@@neonhomer Why the rush? Why not take your time to weigh more options? I regret not doing more research when my wife and I returned to the hobby. Yes, Audio Technica sounds good, but that doesn't mean people should be supporting a company that says, "No problem! We'll get you all taken care of, just fill out this form, remove these parts, reference this work number, send it out to us, and we'll fix it."
@neonhomer
@neonhomer 4 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl was at a local record store and they had two SL-1200 Mk3 tables... one was $495 and the other was $435...
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
@@neonhomer I can't speak to record shops. They could over-charge, or give you a killer deal, it just depends, and it depends on how great of shape they're in. For the mark 3 those prices are not at all unreasonable for what you would be investing in, but again, I know nothing of their condition cosmetically, or internally. EBay was where we turned to for our deck. I still firmly believe that if you are running a little short on funds, then that means you need to wait a little longer, and continue to save up. Either that, or buy something else like a vintage Thorens, or a Fluance TT. I hope my feedback is helpful, it just makes me sick to think of anyone going through what I went through with the audio technica tables. Stay away from any imitation turntables. It's just not worth the risk.
@allstar930
@allstar930 6 жыл бұрын
This video was very necessary. Great job! The 1200 sounds better. I think one more step that you should do before a final comparison is to do the solder hack that bypasses the DAC on the AT, I've seen videos that show a drastic improvement in sound quality.
@timoleary5815
@timoleary5815 2 жыл бұрын
The SL-1200 is an engineering marvel, treat them right and manitain them and they can outlive more than one owner. There's a 1210 in the London Science Museum, as an example of technology that shaped the world we live in. That's a significant statement and a huge compliment to it's engineering and build quality.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 2 жыл бұрын
Well said my friend. Thank you for commenting.
@nicklockner3839
@nicklockner3839 6 жыл бұрын
Without a doubt the LP120 is more muffled, I can hear it!
@russredfern167
@russredfern167 6 жыл бұрын
Nick Lockner That's because of the preamp caps
@nicklockner3839
@nicklockner3839 6 жыл бұрын
@@russredfern167 Yeah, I don't doubt it. That's just one more reason why the Technics is better. No preamp, no hassle!
@stephen579
@stephen579 Жыл бұрын
There is not the massive divide I expected, I have heard this comparison between an sl1200 and an lp 120 that has had its preamp removed and a high-quality RCA fitted, and it's almost impossible to tell one from the other.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl Жыл бұрын
You see on the thumbnail where it says *'Part 1'* in big bold lettering? You are in dire need of watching *'Part 2'* before stating the claim that there is no massive divide. The divide is in utterly poor build quality, and this is as vast and deep as the divide gets. Sounds like you also only watched part of this video and not the rest where I begin the materials and build quality.
@michaelellis7952
@michaelellis7952 4 жыл бұрын
No difference in sound. When I close my eyes I can't tell which one is playing.
@pedrominiaturas
@pedrominiaturas 4 жыл бұрын
True
@Peter_Cetera
@Peter_Cetera 4 жыл бұрын
Agree. If you are using the same cartidge, you will hear almost no difference.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
@@Peter_Cetera Well yeah, of course it would sound different if I had used two different cartridges. That would make the audio comparison entirely useless. The point is to see if there was an audio difference in the *turntables themselves*. This video is a comparison of turntables, not a comparison of cartridges. If I put the standard AT-95e on the LP120 and left the Nagaoka MP-110 on the SL-1200, which one do you think is going to sound better? Exactly! That's why you don't throw people off with a different cartridge when you're testing the decks.
@cinqo7
@cinqo7 4 жыл бұрын
You need to get better headphones then
@Calimero-1980
@Calimero-1980 10 ай бұрын
I personally can't tell a single differences (sounds wise) here, BUT I'll take Technics all day if I get to choose, Great comparation!
@treyquattro
@treyquattro 6 жыл бұрын
nice review; good test methodology. The SL1200 sounds like it has the edge to me, but I can't exactly say why: a little bit warmer, perhaps. I have to doubt my own ability to differentiate through laptop speakers though and suspect the real differences only become apparent in a proper listening environment with an amp and speakers that match (and which are the same for both). Materials are far better on the Technics and would be a winner for me on that basis given that the sounds seem very close.
@gplock1626
@gplock1626 4 жыл бұрын
I just bout a 1200 but it doesn’t have a slip Matt. Can someone explain why I need one and the difference from cloth to rubber ?
@vinylexplorer9817
@vinylexplorer9817 6 жыл бұрын
Not only SL-1200 wins on quality of product, which is by far a better product, but also in sound quality. From what I could hear the Technics has more tight bass, it's more warmth, and has a more deep sound stage. I guess the bottom line is that you get what you pay for. Congrats on the review! Cheers!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
With all of the various records we've been spinning on the SL-1200 so far, Vocals and Strings seems to be the biggest thing that I hear the difference in. It's SOOOOO much more clear than the LP120 with percussion and strings, but above anything else, the vocals are so much better. Thanks for your comment and support!
@vinylexplorer9817
@vinylexplorer9817 6 жыл бұрын
I totally agree. The vocals were really noticeable. Huge improvement!
@vinylexplorer9817
@vinylexplorer9817 6 жыл бұрын
You guys rock!!!
@Hot_guy267
@Hot_guy267 6 жыл бұрын
@Vinyl Explorer what you hear in LP120 is not the exact sound that the cartridge is generating. Here a part of the signal is subjected to grounding muffling the high frequencies. As Technics lacks this feature,it sounds more open and clear. Just rip off the internal preamp in LP120 and then hear how it sounds. I bet it will be difficult to differentiate it from the Technics in the blind test.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 5 жыл бұрын
@typedef So where are all of your demonstrations of this knowledge on your channel? All I see is some thug music and a pretentious comment from a douche bag that is trying to deny himself the truth. When someone else makes a perfectly good point about money being properly invested into quality products, don't deny them just because you don't want to face the truth.
@Rulon-bo1ig
@Rulon-bo1ig 2 жыл бұрын
Is there any notable difference in sound between the og lp120 and the current Lp120X? Seeing as they’ve made slight improvements over the years!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 2 жыл бұрын
You need to watch Part 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/amqydIiNf7iCn5o
@smallclone
@smallclone 6 жыл бұрын
the lp120 has slightly more bass imo
@pufarinu
@pufarinu 4 жыл бұрын
what's the price difference between them?
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
For the near mint SL-1200 in this video? About 300. However, price isn't the point when understanding why I made Part 1 & 2 of this comparison. You can find those details in my descriptions.
@jenniferbevan6495
@jenniferbevan6495 5 жыл бұрын
instrumentation no difference that I can hear, but vocals and sound effects......OH YEAH! Technics for the win!!!
@TranceMusicEventsUK
@TranceMusicEventsUK 4 жыл бұрын
what M K table is the technics and conly 1210's came in black wit hthe black tonearm
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
No, that's incorrect, plus I'm pretty sure I know my own equipment there buddy. See for yourself at 10:00 where you clearly see that it's an SL- *1200*
@angusvanhalen2886
@angusvanhalen2886 5 жыл бұрын
ya for sure the 1200, classic. a lot of audiophiles scoff at a dd turntable, but the 1200s sound awesome, and they're tanks that run forever
@chris1275cc
@chris1275cc 5 жыл бұрын
It is true we audiophiles sometimes scoff at dd but not many of us scoff at the 1200 series and most of us own one, their stability and near reference levels make them very good for recording vinyl to digital without a lot of messing around.
@andrewilliams9921
@andrewilliams9921 4 жыл бұрын
Reason why the 1200 became the staple to any real dj.
@gman5218
@gman5218 4 жыл бұрын
Give me a direct drive anyday ... my vintage pioneer has no motor noise . Something else It doesn't have is abysmal wow and flutter specs of so called modern audiophile tables.. cough cough REGA . The the 1200 is the best built and sounding table iv ever heard weather for dj or home listening.
@eklektikTechno
@eklektikTechno 4 жыл бұрын
The question is will my platter and weight from my 1200 MK2 work on the audiotechnica? :)
@rpg896
@rpg896 3 жыл бұрын
My question, also. One could add mass to the 120 plinth and platter? That would be a great video, mods for the 120. I can’t afford a 1200 so I’ll have to live with the obvious differences.
@rockmasterdjriz7776
@rockmasterdjriz7776 6 жыл бұрын
I used to be krs ones tour deejay...i use audio techncas .and stanton str8100s...i also have technics..but theres maybe a smidgen of a difference with the technics...they are the best ..but i battle scratch and i have all 3 hooked up and i seem to grab twords the a.technica the most..
@rockmasterdjriz7776
@rockmasterdjriz7776 6 жыл бұрын
@def creator u must be a rookie cuz its called throw a shure 35c needle on em n there awesome ..u can soup em up easily..i can scratch good on anything as long as its direct drive weirdo
@josuereyes5775
@josuereyes5775 6 жыл бұрын
@@rockmasterdjriz7776 I have audio Techinica LP120 I haven't use it because I wanted to know what needle I should by to scratch with. If that's what you recommend I would get it
@rockmasterdjriz7776
@rockmasterdjriz7776 6 жыл бұрын
@@josuereyes5775 a stanton 500l
@johnfry8286
@johnfry8286 5 жыл бұрын
Dude I'm not a 1210 fan but they are much better than the other turntable. No way would KRS Ones dj rock them lol When did u dj for KRS One?
@unklecorky2181
@unklecorky2181 5 жыл бұрын
Rockmaster what would be the best turntable to get if you wanted to join a numetal band?
@Tunz909
@Tunz909 3 жыл бұрын
I'm planning to take my 120 into Technica Headquarters within a few days (Stow, Ohio) and have them physically remove the pre-amp/and have them fix anti-skate, which I presume will make my 2014 unit the same as 2017 and afterwards?
@Mrm27274
@Mrm27274 6 жыл бұрын
I have the Audio Technica turntable, and it is a great device for the price, but it is very clear that the Technics is definitely a cleaner and better sounding presentation of the music.
@mongojoe21
@mongojoe21 6 жыл бұрын
I have an lp120 and I absolutely love it as far as playing records and very basic mixing goes. I want to step up to an Sl1200 for the high torque and build quality, the pioneer plx 1000 seems like a nice deck too
@bikdav
@bikdav 6 жыл бұрын
@@mongojoe21 Does your Audio-Technica "violently react" to speakers being nearby and people walking near the turntable? I have a very old Technics SL-D2 that has to be FAR AWAY from speakers and does not like foot traffic.
@mongojoe21
@mongojoe21 6 жыл бұрын
David Jamison Not at all, I have it on a table inches away from the right speaker and I haven’t noticed anything off. If someone walks terribly hard when I have my Ortofon red cartridge on it sometimes jumps a tiny bit, but my house is old and shaky and that particular cart only tracks at 1.8 grams,
@mongojoe21
@mongojoe21 6 жыл бұрын
David Jamison You have to manually ground technics tables right? Maybe the speaker thing could be an issue with that?
@bikdav
@bikdav 6 жыл бұрын
@@mongojoe21 Absolutely, or you will get very loud hum. But, what I was inquiring about is not electrical feedback like that. The "foot falls" and speaker feedback is airborn mechanical (if I'm describing that correctly). My old Technics has bad problems with mechanical feedback.
@revoxjazz8317
@revoxjazz8317 6 жыл бұрын
Sonically, it is very difficult to comment on the differences presented, since the codec used on KZbin is not designed for other purpose but the assumption of video submission. Maybe I notice one or another detail in the low frequencies between the two machines but it may just be my imagination to work. In this context, I believe that everyone can decide what they want on the quality of reproduction. I have a SL 1210 mkII and never in life would I trade it for any machine of the same style. Physically, everything that is described after 7:52 is correct and in this respect there can be no doubt. The quality of construction is one of the points that most caught my attention in these machines, since I met them and began to use. It does not seem to me that any manufacturer is able to put something on the market with this quality and stability. And frankly, after dealing with a Technics SL I think that the last thing anyone would need was a copy. I may even be wrong ...
@AthleticQuails
@AthleticQuails 4 жыл бұрын
I started getting into vinyl last year and I would be loved to get the technics but with shipping to New Zealand & import taxes it would've cost quite a bit. I ended up getting the LP120 because it was sold in a physical store here. For the moment, I'm happy with my LP120 till I can afford an upgrade 😊
@DezmondAbrams
@DezmondAbrams 4 жыл бұрын
Have any vinyl websites you can refer? Thx.
@Coolkyleko
@Coolkyleko 3 жыл бұрын
@@DezmondAbrams real groovy?
@TheRadiorama
@TheRadiorama Жыл бұрын
Technics is better, but AT is pure best buy!
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl Жыл бұрын
Finish this video to the end, not just a portion of the beginning, and then watch *Part 2* here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/amqydIiNf7iCn5o
@kakibunga
@kakibunga 6 жыл бұрын
i'm listening to this vid through my shitty phone speaker and even i can tell that there's a grand difference. much clearer sound. Crisper. it's not always the cartridge or amp, sometimes it's the deck! The power of Technics! i will listen through headphones when i arrive home. i have the AT-LP120 as well and am planning on selling it for a Technics. Nice comparison
@joeycastillo1496
@joeycastillo1496 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for doing the comparative test, I did notice some differences, and for me, I like the SL 1200 better
@musicman8270
@musicman8270 6 жыл бұрын
Of course the Technics screams quality...but the belief I have always had that the major differences in turntables is the cart is bourn out in this comparison,there is just not 1300$ worth of difference in these two, still would love to get the Technics tho, its way cool
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
It doesn't just have to do with cartridge though. Plus, per your other response on my LP120 video, you're wanting to get the SL-1200GR which is really going to cost you. We only spent $600 on our SL-1200. It was our decision to make further upgrades at that point that brought it to $880 You can find perfectly great SL-1200's for $200 - $300 which is the same price as a brand new LP120. We now have first hand experience on both sides of the spectrum and can confidently say that a used SL-1200 is the only logical choice.
@musicman8270
@musicman8270 6 жыл бұрын
Yeah, well I have a Technics direct drive, about 38 years old, works great, but being in the process, since I can't afford a dream system, setting up a not a nightmare system, a turntable around 1600 to 2000 is in the mix, either a Technics for direct drive or maybe a VPI scout if I go the belt route, which I probably wont. The lp120 is an temporary fix, soon to be a backup. Used is not in the discussion. Not for the last system I will probably set up. Enjoyed your video.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
@@musicman8270 I'm in agreement with you, except that a used Technics is not a problem. Like you said, you have a 38 year old system and that speaks well to the exact truth of the Technics SL-1200's is they last forever. As long as it's in great shape (and ours is in excellent shape) it's going to last especially if you take care of it, and we already baby ours like crazy so it's going to last for the long haul.
@nomorokay
@nomorokay 6 жыл бұрын
Billy, check out my reply to jack of all trades, who said he couldn’t hear any difference between the two turntables. When I went from a 1978 Technics SL-1400 Mk. 2 to a 2010 SL-1210M5G, the new deck came without a cartridge, so I pulled the headshell (with a Shure M97xE cartridge) from the 1400 and put it on the new 1210, along with the thick Sorbothane Platter Matter mat from the 1400. Literally everything touching the vinyl was from the old deck, but the sound was clearly better with the new turntable. Cleaner and clearer vocals and more solid bass were the obvious improvements. Cartridges are not the only things that affect the quality of sound from a turntable. The Technics decks have decades of engineering in them, which is why the new GR, GA, and GAE turntables are worth their prices. Over the years, the prices of the original SL-1200s and SL-1210s became relatively lower and lower, and people thought that’s all they were worth. They got spoiled, and didn’t realize the turntables were underpriced, partly because the tooling and engineering was long since paid for. The new ones are priced realistically, considering the new tooling and engineering that went into them. The Audio-Technica turntable, on the other hand, is a plastic replica of the aluminum and rubber-damped Technics, with none of the extensive and expensive engineering that went into the Technics. The AT deck even has a pretend anti-skating feature that doesn’t actually work. Seriously? Yes, there IS much more than $1300 worth of value between these two turntables.
@Drivehead103
@Drivehead103 6 жыл бұрын
@@cjsvinyl a used sl 1200 MK5 for $450 is the route I went a couple of years ago and I have zero regrets because it is just an awesome turntable. It is in stock form with sumiko headshell and ortofon 2m black cartridge in project tube box s phono preamp and makes my cerwin Vega 300 watt three way floor standing speakers sound smooth and silky! My next upgrade will probably be the amplifier and will probably involve tubes. Use an Onkyo TX 8511 right now and it is a real workhorse and everything I have read about it says I will have to spend at least $1,000 to beat this amplifier. People have spent $1,000 on denon amplifiers that would not beat the Onkyo.
@AL408
@AL408 6 жыл бұрын
Biggest issue I had with the lp-120 is you can hear the motor in quite parts of songs, this is not existent I'm my set of 1200's, and you can get a 1200 for around $400 so it should be clear which one to get if you ask me.
@macraghnaill3553
@macraghnaill3553 6 жыл бұрын
I listened with headphones and couldn't really hear a difference , also considering the price difference in turntables what was the point of the exercise? Would be better to compare like for like
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
Either your headphones are bad, or your ears are. I have very sensitive hearing. It's one of the reasons I got into this hobby. Also did you not watch the materials/build quality portion of the video? It's closer to the end and really helps shed some light on the quality of the SL-1200.
@matbostock8650
@matbostock8650 6 жыл бұрын
Dave H There Really is a Difference😎
@macraghnaill3553
@macraghnaill3553 6 жыл бұрын
@@matbostock8650 For the price difference i would expect there to be a difference in sound quality ,but i could not really hear it, then again I don't have "audiophile " ears. As I said, it would of been better to compare turntables in the same price range not 1k or more apart
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
@Dave H and I disagree. If something is too close to comparison then you're definitely not going to get much of a difference, then the test is a complete wash. However, when I get countless comments from people over the years such as, "Your LP120 is Chinese Crap, you should have bought a Technics!" it makes more sense after reading that from 30+ people, to finally give them the comparison. Even though some of them were trolls, they were still right to a certain degree, and the Technics does put out a much better experience, but the LP120's sound quality is not as bad as some people make it out to be. This is why I chose this test.
@velvet1undergrund643
@velvet1undergrund643 3 жыл бұрын
Que tal si se hace una comparación eliminando el pre amplificador del audio technica lp120 y desde ese punto comparar el sonido con el Technics sl1200 ?
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 3 жыл бұрын
Eso no importa. Mire el resto del video y luego la Parte 2.
@djaj423
@djaj423 Жыл бұрын
the 120 is NOT bad, perhaps you;re not comparing apples to apples IMO. i'll keep my 120xbt and my Fluance.
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl Жыл бұрын
You see the Part 1 on the thumbnail and the title of the video right? You've only watched Part 1. I would watch Part 2 specifically since the first 30 seconds of that video is more important than the length of this entire video. The LP120 is in fact NOT a good turntable. It IS very bad.
@eskeskeskeres
@eskeskeskeres 4 жыл бұрын
please, what is the name of Album of Ella Fitzgerald? thx
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 4 жыл бұрын
Yeah no prob! That's the 2017 Record Store Day exclusive _Ella at Zardi's_ double LP pink & blue pressing. Originally recorded in 1956.
@GJBedrin
@GJBedrin 6 жыл бұрын
I would imagine 90% of people wouldn't be able to tell the difference if they closed there eyes. Probably wouldn't even be able to notice the turntable changed at all
@cjsvinyl
@cjsvinyl 6 жыл бұрын
We have more than just sound going on here, there's a lot with build quality that is day and night difference. IE, Anti-Skate problems, Vertical Tracking Angle problems, plastic versus rubber and aluminum, plus they are also much different in person when it comes to sound. This is the best I can provide online.
@unklecorky2181
@unklecorky2181 5 жыл бұрын
Moral of the story buy a rega planar 3 or 6?
@Outdoorsman-k9d
@Outdoorsman-k9d 4 ай бұрын
Если закрытыми глазами , то думаю 99%, а оставшиеся 1% соврут, что слышат разницу.
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