Technics SL-1200G, Loving DIRECT-DRIVE turntables

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[@derekwoolston3564]

Moved from Michell Orbe SE/SME to the 1200G for mostly the same reason. Upgraded the G with Oyaide BR-12 mat, carbon fibre headshell, Furutech phono lead and changed the torque to approx half way setting. Previously 301,401, LP12, 124,Roksan and other TT's but the G just makes the listening experience just right. Shall await with interest your experience with the G. Hope you enjoy the ride and thanks for your videos. A pleasure to watch.

[@johntrott9513]

Just yesterday I upgraded my 1210GRs headshell with Oyaides carbon fibre. The improvement was quite noticeable. I wasn't aware of their platter mat, going to check that out.

[@keithkrieger7075]

What, nk power supply mod?

[@derekwoolston3564]

@@johntrott9513 Forgot to mention I added a Oyaide STB-MSX record stabilizer set to 350g (3 weights) and a Furutech Roxy power cable.

[@BobCoalWater]

Derek, what cartridge(s) are you using? noticed that the audiophiliac seemed to have down graded his cartridges. I also am interested in this turntable, but mainly because I want play with different cartridges, unfortunately I have a transimpedance phono stage that limits me to low output cartridges. I'm wondering if this table is more suited for more high energy cartridges like high output moving irons.

[@derekwoolston3564]

@@BobCoalWater I'm using a Audio Technica AT33PTGII and an AT33EV into EAR834P Sig phono stage. The G is a wonderful TT for the price in my opinion and the arm is just fine. See the Technics video about how Michiko Ogawa sought out old boy employees to come back and make the arm. Spirit of Japan.

[@joechill1]

After doing a college radio show for four years on 1200-MKII turntables, I couldn't go anywhere else for a turntable. The feel of using a Technics 1200 is like nothing else.

[@RichardGreen422]

Around 10 years ago, I gave up my Linn Sondek (which I had for more than 25 years) and replaced it with a Technics SL-1200 MK 2. To me, the Technics sounded about 95 percent as good as the Linn did when the Linn was working properly. The problem is that the Linn rarely was in peak form--it needed tweeking on a regular basis and I spent a lot of money getting it tweeked. The Technics, on the other hand, is fabulously reliable. It sounds they way it sounds every single time I play it. And I love that. It has also cost me nothing to maintain. OTOH, I also love my Honda Accord and Johnny Walker Black scotch, so maybe i am just not a high-end person in any dimension.

[@DNGR369]

I like your disclaimer on the end haha. To be fair Johnny Walker Black is overwhelmingly a blend of Caol Ila whisky mixed with some cheaper stuff. Caol Ila is literally the best Distillery IMO in Islay overall. Double Black is just a higher ratio of Caol Ila in the blend. So you're not as basic as you say, just economical!

[@Treviscoe]

@@DNGR369 Johnnie Walker Black is pretty decent, IMO (just not the best).

[@stevengagnon4777]

The Accord is a good car ...just like the SL 1200 mark II. A good drive, does what it's supposed to do and very reliable. As far as the Scotch Whisky goes...I have some Irish blood in me . I discovered the two don't mix well. Anyway I be using my Technics SL-7 put the record on close"n"play. My Stanton L747S even has a brush...when I'm lazy! I just pulled a power cord in a dumpster years ago...and this little whale was at the other end . $105 for the Stanton. It puts a smile on my face 😊 every time I use it. It's kind of cute too sittingon top of my JVCDD-7 ( yeah I said it has good enough isolation)..the foot print is the size of an album jacket and has good enough isolation since it's as heavy as my SL-1200 mark II (another dumpster find ...needs a tone arm bearing...eventually I'll fix that) .

[@Dano-MX5]

After a couple decades of not listening to vinyl I decided to take my turntable out of storage in my basement and bring up a handful of my favorite albums. My turntable is a vintage 1970s Technics SL 1600. After 20+ years boxed up on a shelf I was surprised it even ran. All though not as good as new, after a 5 minute “warm up” I was able to get the speed adjusted and Abbey Road sounded so good. The 1600 needs a little patience each time I play it but it still brings me joy after almost 50 years.

[@svenschwingel8632]

After being in storage for that long, the bearing would love 2-3 drops of glide bearing oil. After that, it'll be ready to roll.

[@johnnyjames7139]

I have had my Kenwood direct drive turntable for 40 years. I love it!

[@kawasakiaddiction6296]

Hi from the UK. I bought a 1200GR, 3 years ago. Various Cartridges for various music. I have no doubt that it's my end game TT. I love it

[@AudioGuyBrian]

I have a SL-1600 MK2 that has the super isolated body and the rubber underside platter like the G. It also has a Vertical Tracking Angle adjustment that you don't see on some of the other Technics decks. It does sound great and I've never had to use isolation tables or special feet. It blocks sub-sonics from getting back into the system very well. Love my Technics. Glad you had such a great time reviewing these.

[@Paul58069]

1200ś have VTA

[@elmowilcox]

Just bought the 50th anniversary 1200 as my first turntable out of sheer nostalgia and reputation from watching DJs with them my whole life. I’m not disappointed. They’re as fun to play with as they always looked and they perform as advertised. If it gets better, good on ya.

[@MrMoogle]

I treated myself to a 1200G back in 2019 and I don't regret it one bit. Rarely do I splurge on something so nice but I know if well taken care of, this thing will likely outlast my ability to bend over to pick out an album. It's built like a tank. The solid construction and overall feeling interacting with this turntable just brings a smile to my face every time I drop on an album to kick back at the end of the day. The ability to quickly swap the carts is super handy and something I didn't think I would use as much as I do, but now that I have the ability, I find myself trying out different carts with different albums simply because it's so easy to swap.

[@peterstudley1804]

To Mrmoogle, I done exactly the same in Feb 21 , after years and years faffing and pratting around with a JA michell, I find myself playing records now so much more than I used to , every thing is so easy and predictable with the G , swapping cartridge and headshells in seconds, and playing records I thought I didn't like of which I now love .

[@classiccoupe666]

Great review, as usual. Been considering the 1210G for some time now and after this review, I'm sold on it.

[@yyman23]

I've had my 1200G for about two years now (it replaced a 1200 MK 7 which replaced a MK2). It's the last turntable I ever buy. I use an Ortofon 2M Black on it and I love that combination. The 1200G is a joy to touch and operate and it's always ready to roll. No tweaking, no speed fluctuations, no issues what so ever. It's reliable, it sounds great and if another small company was making it, it would have cost triple the price. Great video Steve!

[@StylusDrop]

The MK2 is a better deck than the MK7! The G on the other hand is superb.

[@YuengsNwings]

This video is very timely and thanks for the upload. I’m currently running a Fluance RT82 and upgraded to the Ortofon OM30. A wonderful combination for the money. And it comes with a feature that is very important to me - the auto stop. I have been eyeing the Technics SL 1500C for my next turntable and can’t wait for when the time is right.

[@davidrusso4750]

Great video - learned a lot - and am now considering the 1200 G. Thanks for the insight.

[@jeraldquist8579]

I have a SL-1200GR with a Sumiko Amethyst on order. I would love the SL-1200G but is is more than I want to spend though I could. My first TT I bought was a Technics SL-BD10, their most basic table. I still use it as I love the controls on the outside of the dust cover. Great review!

[@tnarch]

really great comparison and review. it is always informative and pleasure watching your reviews and listening to your opinions...

[@brotherbrian5625]

Technics have always made some of the best turntables in the world. Glad to see you do this review

[@Falstaff-mr8fk]

Been loving my 1200. Mkll table since the late 70s. Solid as a rock.

[@1980JPA]

I've probably got about 10 different turntables but my "everyday driver" is my SL-1200 MK2 (customized) . Always will be because of the design, no belt, changeable head shells, easy manipulation. Love Technics

[@djluminol]

I just bought my third 1200 and this is why. There are better sounding decks. The Technics, with some modification are good enough and nothing is more user friendly. I see what you said over and over again. Why would a guy with a ten thousand dollar turntable not use that? The Technics must be good enough to overcome the headaches of dealing with those very high end turntables. To me that says save my money and invest it in other areas. I'll be honest. I want to swap the arm and power supply on the MK2 I'm refurbishing but other than that I'm good. I'll only swap the arm if I can find one with the same removable stylus functionality though. Otherwise it defeats the point for my needs.

[@donalddeorio2237]

I've had a Technics SL D2 direct drive turntable since 1978, still works great and I still use it.

[@Nonsense62365]

Yep hasn’t changed very much for over 42+ years

[@MD-cy6pe]

That was my first turntable. Have a sl-1210gr now.

[@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777]

these people wouldn't be able to tell the difference from yours - as long as it had the same cartridge , rubber mat ect and one was using headphones.. I would admit yours would suffer due to the lighter mass of your turntable in a 'playing' live environment . . This is hilarious when belt people think this is new because of an outrageous price tag.

[@GeirRssaak]

You are a healthy and lucky man!

[@stevengagnon4777]

I've got one of those . It's very reliable I ditched my belt drives for it a while back. Now that I have my SL-7 fitted with a Stanton L747S I've been using the little close"n"play.

[@leonarddaneman810]

Great content . . . EVEN BETTER, your Glasses! What awesome frames.

[@RONCASE152]

You are so right about the turntable being the actual tactile interface with the entire sound system. Turntables we’re my favorite device My favorite turntable was as a Sony 2251 LA. As I remember I mounted an SME ARM. My most exotic was a Linn Sondek with a Vestigal arm. The Sony as I remember was the only AC direct drive being produced at the time. I wish I never sold it or the Klipschorn I purchased in 1975 for about $1600 (plywood).

[@TechnoGuy11]

I Dj'ed from '99 to '05 and used the Technics mkII and mkIII which was pretty much standard for all Djs. Never thought of them as at home listening tables but it makes sense because they are just really good turn tables.

[@cobar5342]

I bought a GR JUST to be able to swap cartridges! So I can appreciate your enthusiasm

[@robertgustafson4507]

Have a Yamaha DYP8 direct drive. After 30 plus years, I looked around and decided on a Thorns 1601 semi automatic tt, with a cadenza blue moving coil. I like that your approach indicates that being a audiophile indicates that systems need to be compatible. I really enjoy the details in my system. However, if I was doing reviews having a turntable that allows easy switching of cartridges would be a big plus. I enjoy your equipment reviews and your audiophile philosophy.

[@CHICO976]

love your videos ..however, It all really comes down your hearing ability.. Most don't even mention this..me as an nearly 84 year old man , obviously my hearing has deteriorated over the years, but my system definitely gives me true pleasure in listening to it... I use a Fluance RT-85 tt with a orofon 2 m blue and a shure V15II into a Kenwood KA-5500 amp and Fluance Signature series and B&W dm6 speakers

[@aerobill8554]

Interesting you would say that. I’m 53 now and 10 years ago I auditioned a Linn system with my then 76 yo father at BillyVee hifi in London. My father just had his first hearing aids. The linn speakers we listened to were the top of the line Klimax speakers, active drive with 10 (!) mono amps, 5 per speaker. The dealer had us listen to our own music on cd. Then he disconnected the super tweeters that have a range from 20kHz to 44kHz. As a trained electronics engineer and hifi enthusiast I was sure this wouldn’t make any difference. Boy was I wrong. I heard a clear difference but also my father. Turns out harmonics and many, many other variables play a role. Since then I have been chasing the perfect sound… Welcome to the world of audiophiles… Greetings from the Netherlands 🇳🇱

[@WhatTruthIs]

I was going through my belongings in my garage last year and found a turntable I has bought back in 1980 or so, and cleaned it up and brought it in my home. It had a Grace Ruby cartridge and stylus mounted on the headshell. The turntable is a Technics SL-1200 Mark II. She sounds sweet!

[@rmcellig]

I had a sl1400 many years a go and LOVED it!!! Then I got into other tables like the meitner modified oracle Delphi, systemdek, ariston, rega 3, maplenol air driven turntable. I stopped getting into high end audio when I accidentally fried a shinon ex red cartridge. I had it with high end audio! I now have an audio Technica turntable to digitize my LP collection. I know what high end sounds like and it's incredible but I can't go there anymore. It drove me crazy. The same reason I switched from apple to Linux. Love your channel.

[@RUfromthe40s]

that not a real issue ,that´s you wanted to be more sure than your hears can ,like if you doubt them, but they are yours and you shouldn´t doubt them ,i never got crazy over high-end hi-fi but happy some years ago i was thinking about the 2m ortofon black with golden letters and i did bought one for my sl-1000mkII and till i´m dead it´s enough the sp-10 is a sl-1000 but not assembled by technics you choose the options of building it perfect for you ,in terms of sound they are much above the SL-1200 but the SL-1200 was never intended to be a high-end audio turntable but professional one ,good sound and practical while working ,i´m doing the reverse i´m buying whatever i didn´t had in vinil but avoiding new records and searching for colections being sold , at the same time i own more than a thousand original cd´s but those are not older recordings tuned into digital, as an example one listens to AIR or the first Massive Atack cd and it sounds good if listening to portished cds also the cd version in good but the vocals can only sound better in vinil versions but they don´t sound bad in cd so why spend more money if what you have is good and either than good only bad, and some original recordings came with more noise than home recordings this meaning not all music is the same

[@louiesipes2257]

Just bought a SL1500c and am enjoying the heck out of it.

[@anystereo]

Honesty & Change, - nice & refreshing thanks so much!

[@jamesnelson8549]

Hi, Steve what I think is going here is the sound that is stuck in your head since the 70’s!! There is pace & life in music on Technics that is not as dry as the SME! That is precisely why I bought the Klipsch Forte IV!

[@yeti8073]

Interesting change of turntable choice, and an excellent video as always Steve. Perhaps a Technics SL-1000R next !?! Wonderful shirt too.

[@jamesm90]

I've been a Technics direct drive fan for 30 years my SL1210mk2 and it's cousin my semi auto SL1700mk2 are just end game turntables for me.

[@garykarczewski6678]

After researching so many Turntables I went with the GR1200 and am very happy with my choice. I have considered upgrading to the 1200G but it would have to be an "Oh Wow" experience when comparing to my 120GR. Bear in mind I would demo with the same cartridge. Love the swappable cartridge as well.

[@jeffl915]

Never been a belt drive fan. I have had a 1200 for quite some time, and love it.

[@garyjones5947]

This is fascinating…I currently have the GR, and have flirted with the idea of the G…think I’m going to go for it after this comparison. Thanks for your information Steve…keep up the good work.

[@02cooper]

Love the review. Welcome to the direct drive light!

[@tugboatamerica]

I have a Denon 60 direct drive that I have loved for years, with a ortophon cartridge it sounds great

[@user-bc6ok1yh4s]

I started with a used original DD Technics 1200 back in the late 70's and have never looked back, or desired another brand. Of course I moved on to a 1600MK2 and an 1800mk2 that is still in use today. End the upgrade madness forever and buy the Technics!

[@peterstudley1804]

I've got the sl1200 G and agree with all you said , I'd been using a JA MICHELE focus one for years and the G outperformed it hands down, and this will probably be the last tt I'll ever buy, it really is that good .

[@clee6746]

Technics direct drive turntables are simply great, they perform well and last forever. Their SP10MK II back in late 70's is well-known for it's high torque and low vibration.

[@dennis2494]

I agree with you about the removable head shell ,I plan on buying a SL1200GR

[@bladebrownberlin1579]

The journey of Technics started (and I am taking out the SP 10 for this although it was the first one) with the 1972 release of the SL 1200 and the artists discovering it for their art. The rest is history. There would not have been a MK2 and follow up models or today's G models without that. ❤

[@peterr.7429]

Great review, I also switched to the 1200G and it sounds better then most I have heard, it’s just a pleasure to use

[@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777]

you wouldn't know the difference from a 1978 Technics 1200MKII outfitted with the same mat and cartridge. Never .

[@graemeredmond6160]

I have a stock 1200-G and an old 1200-Mk2 with upgraded power supply and SME-V arm. I'm sure the G would sound better with the SME arm on it, but I love the ease of being able to swap out carts on a whim.

[@derekheeps8012]

I still have my Gyrodec some 25 years on ; I have the QC power supply and originally had the SME Series III ( which I'd bought when it first came out to replace the Transcriptor Fluid Arm on my old Hydraulic Reference Turntable . I bought the SME III at the time because it was lauded as a 'universal' pickup arm , with variable mass and damping to suit so many different cartridges , and I bought several of the CA-1 carry arms just so that I could experiment with different cartridges . Not only did SME supply modular lead weights to fit into the counterweight assembly , but they also supplied headshell weights so that you could balance out different cartridges without changing the counterweights , and the FD200 damper , which was an optional accessory for the Series 2 , came with three different paddles to vary damping , and they made thinning fluid which you could add to the dashpot . It truly was a very adaptable arm , and I used it for a while . However , my days of playing with cartridges were behind me , I'd tried so many and settled on the At-OC9 , which I'm on my second example of ( stylus wear ) and I knew there were better arms sonically , particularly ones that didn't use knife-edge bearings ; so I shopped around and bought a Rega RB700 , which was their second top arm at the time ; the next one up ( RB-1000 ? ) was a fair bit more expensive . However , during my years in the trade , I had many of the decks you mentioned through my hands , not only the LP12 ( I still know Ivor to speak to as I'm in Glasgow ) but all of the Technics , from the entry level belt drive ones , through the SL120 and SL1200 variants . The sound of turntables with just beginning to be discovered by people like Russ Andrews back then and the direct drives were quiet , simple and reliable . However , these were all what I'd have to describe as consumer level direct drives . Since you guys have had some quite expensive turntables , I'd guess price isn't such a problem , so may I point you to the Technics deck which was designed for broadcast studios ? The SP-10 . It is an armless deck , so you would need to choose an appropriate pickup ; since both of you have had SME , there was an arm ( the 309 ) which sat below the Series IV and V , but had a detachable headshell , but which tightened onto the arm tube with a collar to restore rigidity . While it is a lesser arm than the other two , I'm sure it is still a helluva lot better than the standard Technics arm . Maybe worth a look for you guys ?

[@dvanmartin9842]

Beautiful turntable.

[@leonard5980]

I am 100% on the removable head shell train! Technics 1500c for my main setup, and Fluance Rt-85 for my headphone setup. I probably wouldn't be inclined to buy another fixed head shell deck. It's too much fun swapping carts. Steve have you tried the KAB fluid dampening tonearm upgrade for your Technics decks? I have not yet, but people insist it's a substantial upgrade.

[@botz77]

I've never owned a belt drive turntable. Except maybe a Fisher Price toy record player I had as a child. I love my SL 1200 M3Ds so much. Even with a few wiring issues.

[@Mario-pn5lp]

Hi Steve! I’m a long time follower of your Chanel and I have to say that my jaw dropped when you announced that you’re swapping the SME for the Technics! Wow! The SME is waaay out of my budget but the Technics, although far from cheap, is definitely in the realm of future attainable. Thanks for the vid and keep up the good work!

[@jamesm90]

You definitely made the right choice Steve, the SL-1200 is a delightful turntable.

[@PhillipVella]

Made the same move last year as well... never thought I'd part with my belt drive either... Enjoy :)

[@n8great321]

My Clearaudio Concept died out and I went with a 1210GR as a replacement and I had the same experience as you regarding the ease of use. Adjustments and setup are just WAY more intuitive than the Clearaudio.

[@mwalker2496]

Great review Steve! Agree - I've heard the 1200G at shows and it sounds really detailed yet really musical...and so well built. A relative bargain considering what you get for the money...my end game 'heirloom' turntable.

[@pip5528]

I have a 1210GR on the way and had considered saving up for the G in the past but to each his own.

[@ayyubfaiyaz3368]

I had a technics SL BD22 and a Realistic LAB 400 which I learned to scratch on without it skipping and and bouncing because the footing was on some 2 inch springs that when you walked on the floor the needle would jump. This table taught me to be light handed

[@rickyblair8802]

My technics sl1200g has arrived today, got it set up using a ZYX Yatra cartridge. It is everything Steve said it was.

[@jonmpayne]

I recently got a GAE , use it with a Nag JT-80bk MM cartridge, which I think is a reissue of the cartridge at nag made specifically for technics for a limited run of the Gae. Seems to work really well.

[@DemarcoElliot]

I feel transparency can be a bit fatiguing sometimes - I agree you can listen to something like the 1200 for so much longer, also the durability aspect of Techincs makes it very enjoyable to not feel on edge around your equipment

[@That_Handle]

Transparency?

[@recordhead]

Welcome to the club! I use a modified (KAB USA added 78rpm speed) Technics SP-25. Tonearm is an ATP-12t w/ AT440mla cartridge.

[@nascarracer886]

Great Video. I also really liked the viewer system. Is there any audio loss of sound quality streaming from the tv versus a dedicated streamer? Using the same DAC ?

[@pala23mj]

I used to have a pro ject xtension 9 and since moved to a technics SP-10 MKII with custom plinth!! Boy oh boy what a difference!! 12” Jelco with detachable head shell! I get it Steve!!! I will never go back!!

[@rickyblair8802]

I have been on the fence for a while about a 1200g. I have been listening to different vpi’ s and Linn’s for about 40 years and your little you tube show and what you have said about this table made the difference. I now have one on the way from HiFi Heaven and am so excited.

[@dextergonzalezrivera4415]

It’s funny the way I agree with your decision to acquire a 1200g instead another turntable around the price: the option to exchange cartridges; I have the 1200g exactly for that. Another reason: it is forever, its validity and durability are indisputable. Thanks for make me feel proud of my decision!!! 😃👍

[@mikechivy]

my neighbors motor is shot, and its not an uncommon thing...

[@dextergonzalezrivera4415]

@@DG-ie5ip 😂🤣😂

[@cjMbuck]

I bought the Technics 1200MK7. It replaced an old Yamaha DD P700. Go direct drive and never look back. The Yamaha wore down over all, but the motor was rock solid to the end. My MK7 plays slightly slow at default, but the speed control allows me to set it right. Plays 33,45,78, all with the push of one or two buttons. A removable head shell is something I cannot do without. I have two cartridges. A medium end AT and an Ortofon Mono with 78 and LP stylus. I own bootlegs, which were often mastered at varying speeds, so again, the speed control in indispensable. I bought an acrylic mat for it which is set on a lambskin mat. These units also have tonearm height adjustments, so setting the stylus rack is possible and easy. It can be done while playing a record so you can get it to your preference. The table, within the bounds of my budget, is fantastic. Get a 1200 model within your budget and you will never look back.

[@djsoulfilter]

Love my Technics SL-1300. It's built like a tank just like the SL-1200.

[@nomorokay]

Everyone knows that turntables can sound different, but I was really amazed when I replaced my tired (1978?) Technics SL-1400 MK2 with a brand new SL-1210M5G. This was in the summer of 2010, so I got one of the last few 1210M5Gs around, having to order it from a shop In Calgary, a full time zone away. Since the new turntable didn't come with a cartridge, I took the cartridge (a Shure M97xE) and headshell from the SL-1400, as well as the thick Platter Matter mat. This meant that I had to raise the tonearm to correct the VTA, but that was simple to do with the big threaded ring on the 1210M5G. So, everything that contacted the LP was the same with both turntables: the cartridge, the headshell, and the platter mat. The SL-1400 was getting old and was making a clicking sound when the platter rotated, plus the controls were getting sticky to operate. I just wanted to replace it with a new Technics, and went for the top one. When I put on the first LP, within seconds I could hear the difference. The same LP, when played on the new M5G, sounded much better. The sounds were clearer and the bass notes sounded more solid, with a sharper attack. I was amazed! Everything touching the LP was the same on both turntables, but the new turntable sounded much better. Maybe the upgraded tonearm wires on the M5G model (compared with the regular SL-1210 MK5), maybe the increased platter weight. I don't know, but the differences were unmistakable, and they were all good. 12 years later, the SL-1210M5G still sounds and looks great. I added a dust cover hinge kit from KAB, as well as a solid walnut base, which really upgraded the looks and seemed to make a slight improvement in the sound. I gave the 1400 MK2 to a buddy, who was happy to have a working turntable.

[@stevecornett613]

Steven, how well did the Ortofon SPU work with the 1200G? I love mine and also share your love of cartridge swapping. The Ortofon is something I'd like to try but I wasn't sure if it would be a good match or not. Thanks!

[@homerjones3291]

Listened to and enjoyed your accompanying podcast.

[@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac]

Thank you

[@charlesnr]

I have both the recapped Revox B795 (PABST motor) and the Thorens 125 TT with the Rabco SL8E arm. Going back to the Revox recently, it again is obvious, 25 years later that the bass impact is much more accurate with the Direct Drive TT. The Soundsmith AIDA is in the Revox and the Soundsmith Carmen MkII in the Thorens, similar cartridges.

[@ayewhite333]

Right on time with this one Steve!

[@bekentech]

Steve, I have been reading your writings and watching your videos since your Stereophile days. You realize that as we age, our hearing deteriorates. Also, our taste and appreciation for different genres of music changes. It sounds to me you have given up some ultimate detail for a bit more convenience and you are not missing that ultimate detail anymore, and it doesn’t matter. The hobby is less expensive now. Let’s enjoy the music. :) I enjoyed your musings about the Technics turntables. My first TT back in the late 70’s was a Technics TT. I switched to belt drive non removable head shell TT and, so far, have not switched back.

[@robertbuchanan9234]

Bought my 1200's in 1985 from a shop on 14th. along from Union Square, the salesman wrapped some nylon string round them and attached a wee handle. I carried to Woodside via subway to arrive home with two rather ugly welts on the outside of my thighs due to friction burns. Well worth it as they are still going strong after being hauled all over NYC and beyond for DJ parties/gigs.

[@ronniefranks4351]

Since you are prioritizing switching out cartridges, I suggest you consider either the Moerch DP-6 or UP-4, beautiful Danish tonearms. The DP-6 is a fixed tonearm and the UP-4 is a unipivot design. They both have tonearm wands which are easily switched out. They’re exceptional.

[@andrewb4584]

Welcome to my camp. I had a Music Hall 7, an Oracle Delphi IV, a Linn, and a half dozen others. I (radio) DJ'd through college in the late 90s. We ran a pair of SP-15s, and I loved them. Loved. Incredible tables that ran 20+ years when I got there, 24/7. Still in use today, pushing 40 years later. I converted while digitizing my LP collection in the 00s.. Bought a Denon DP-30. Mid/low Denon table but it was painless to use. Spun up in a quarter revolution. Gave me zero problems, and it was just pleasant to use. Found myself playing through crappy speakers in my computer room because, well, it was just easier to use. Effortless. Loved the non-contact auto return. Sounded good (not great), but putting music on didn't become a task. I could leave the room and not fear getting stuck in a runout groove. It became an enjoyable piece of my life, not a task I needed to babysit. I bought a SP15 for my home. Same. Now it sounds as good as my Oracle. Without any fussiness. And with that... I sold every single belt drive I had. Have the SP-15 in my living room. A DP-67 in my office. A Nakamichi Dragon CT in the family room and. Sony Biotracer 600 in the basement. I long for a new Technics. I may be asking Santa (AKA my wife) if I can snag a 1200G or if I'm really nice a 1000R. Thankful Panasonic is back in the game. Love their equipment, and can't wait to unbox a new DD table!

[@andymill32]

Living the dream with that TT!

[@bimmer100timc]

Have the SL-1210 GAE 55th and the best turntable I’ve ever owned. Hands down. Also have the external psu upgrade from precision sound lab (Italy) -- I’ve over 20 high end carts and love love love changing it up. Can’t beat it! The G is worth it imo.

[@ogsan1296]

Tim, great info. Can you direct me to where you got the external PSU? I have the GAR as well. I love this turntable !!!! Thanks

[@Dirtweed]

Swapping of the carts is why I bought the 1210GR. Can't afford the G. I replaced my restored Thorens TD125 with the Technics and I love it.

[@ryanray6215]

Great ! I've got a simple MK7 and love it so much ! When I save some $$$ definitely will get 1200 G :-)

[@eightrodway]

This is a surprise to me. I love SME...yet I haven't heard the 1200G. Oh, and that English Beat album is great.

[@musamusashi]

Audiophiles are a funny bunch: after decades of being despised and shun upon with disgust as the "DJ turntable", the 1200 now is getting wide acceptance in those same circles and, as usual, it's just a few who have actually listened, while the rest just follow suit on trust.

[@classicrock7890]

The new line of 1200 decks are completely different than the Mk II and better sounding.

[@mrb2917]

Technics used to charge $400 for a brand new SL-1200. Audiophiles didn't 'approve' of Technics tables until they started charging big money for them. You could lock these dudes in a room with a 1200G and a GR in a blind abx setup with rules in place that they're not allowed out until they pass a 10/10 blind test identification of the tables, only difference being the table. They'd all die in that room.

[@musamusashi]

@@mrb2917 😆

[@FromMyListeningChair]

That Audio Technics AT-120XUSB's stock is about to rise...

[@jm_1214]

I've always found that a darkness is resonance. Anybody that went to night clubs in the 80s know what the 1200 is about. It's an addicting sound

[@jackflackatari]

Smart move. I love my SL-1200GAE Master piece

[@saturdaynightmusic5400]

Am using SL1300 here. This review is spot on.

[@Aswaguespack]

So for a very simplistic comparison we have basically the g which costs $100/lb while the gr costs $68/lb. 🤷🏻‍♂️ Then looking at other parameters maybe a prospective buyer can determine which one gives delivers more bang for the back. 😉 There will always be a debate between belt drive vs direct drive. Each has its merits and drawbacks. Get what you like within your budget and just enjoy your favorite albums and don’t look back. As always very spot on and timely for those pondering an important upgrade to their kit.

[@rmabgoi]

Hi Steve. That's why (mostly) i love my Ortofon "RMG 309" 12-inch tonearm. (Thorens "TD124" mk 1,year 1963)

[@paulwooldridge2380]

I tried an SL1200GR for a while,I made sure it was set up correctly with the same cartridge (Goldring G1042) but there was no comparison, the linn had more life and sounded more musical so I sent the Technics back. I do like the idea of swapping out cartridges but I guess I will have to find a Jelco arm instead.

[@nomorokay]

Did you consider upgrading to the SL-1200G? It is said to sound noticeably better than the 1200GR.

[@paulwooldridge2380]

@@nomorokay Yes I considered it but having heard it I didn’t believe the small increase in sound quality was worth the large increase in price and having the ease of cartridge swapping does not hold up against a much better turntable so now I am a bit lost as to why Steve would change from an SME turntable to the technics.

[@mystudent11]

I have a Technics sld - 500. It's a mid-80s vintage direct drive automatic turntable that with the spindle I can stack 6 albums. To me I now value it at well over $10,000.

[@MagusPerde42]

There's irony in this video for me because decades ago you persuaded me to stop using my SL-1200 MkII and buy by a Rega Planar 2 at SbS. I don't still have the Technics but fortunately I saved the Shure V15 that I still use today.

[@truman4956]

The journey growing out that soul patch!

[@dksculpture]

Decades ago I had that SME arm but it didn’t have the life I was looking for, it was a little dark and missing air. I switched to a Graham and I was much happier with the sound. Swapping cartridges would be awesome!

[@Madjed2024]

Thanks for another great video So what integrated amplifier and pair of speakers would you recommend with the 1200G? Thank you

[@davidduncan1733]

Had a sl mk2 for ages, perfect for me!

[@jordantomblin2302]

I remember going from an Audio Technica LP-60 to a Technics SL-D1. The difference was like night and day. Had to get rid of it because of a bad anti-skate spring (and my mechanically declined self). I’ve since bought a Pioneer PLX-1000 for a very good deal. After dealing with direct drive, I never want a belt drive again. None of the belt drive options in my budget I think are decent enough to give direct drive a run for its’ money. The sound is quite good when paired with the right cart and preamp, and I never have to worry about wow and flutter.

[@SaucyBegger25]

coming from someone that's had standard belt drive turntables from the age of 9 and my first pair of decks from 14. i am now 42, i learnt very quickly direct drive were superior in most ways. i own 1210mk2s. i have owned so many pairs of decks over the year belt and direct. the best high end decks for me are 1210mk2 for quality and just simple and strait forward design. the best budget direct drive turntables i have ever owned and used are KAM DDX680 or KAM DDX700. i still own a pair of kam ddx700s as well as the 1210s. i love them both and keeping them in time for mixing is about the same to be honest. it says a hell of a lot for the kams. they were some quality decks and still hold out today.

[@jpphua602]

A good belt drive with a detachable headshell worth checking out is the Audio Technica LP7.

[@louissilvani1389]

The fun thing about vinyl is it allows you to tweak Always trying to hide the imperfections 👍😊

[@mr.george7687]

What a coincidence, was thinking of upgrading my turntable to a Technics SL 1200GR. I have a Thorens TD 125 MKII w/ SME 3009 tonearm. works fine but, it's time to get into the 21st Century. Been playing a lot more vinyl due to the Pandemic.Will order one today!

[@btsr2553]

Congratulations. I wish many hours of fun with this great device. You should have made a purchase for life. If Technics should not have made a production error. Unfortunately they also occur there. As a proud owner of a 1200G I can give you but one thing, the 1200GR is from my point of view a good compromise compared to the 1200G. My absolute favorite was the SL-1000R. I think that is non plus ultra in terms of direct drive. Very nice that our good old friend Steve Guttenberg has finally found the way home to the direct driven ones.

[@erico888]

Enjoying the music more is always a forward move.

[@rolandt5592]

I'm using a late 1970s vintage direct drive Hitachi HT-550. It's quartz locked, but I will need to replace the capacitors in the near future. It takes a few minutes for the speed to completely stabilize. Otherwise it's great. I also have a Pickering XSV-3000 cartridge of the same vintage, but with a new stylus.

[@watchnut]

Would love to get a 1200G, they just never seem to be in stock.

[@dennisheadley4408]

Great review Steve. I remember your review of the Pioneer PLX-1000. It might be interesting for you to review the entry level audio-technica AT-LP140XP and share your thoughts. Curious how it compares to other turntables in that price range. Thanks for the reviews.

[@RUfromthe40s]

i almost bought one last summer but are rare and when for sale they are well taken care off and already had been restored and prices are high, but i had a lineartracking turntable not tangential and had a lot of unexpected functions and when new they work good some that are tangential ,normally from technics and one sanyo they are almost as a cd player in terms of functions and the audiotechnica you refer was a very good one far from entry level the entry level that were the Atn90 or atn91 or even atn3600 that were also very good even better than the entry level of shure like the M75b (older)or the N90 and N95ed(elliptical )as an example all listed were much worse than the technics EPS-275ed (e for elliptical point)that came out in 79 but people anyway bought a substitute sure stylus being a worse sounding one or full automatic technics that had a linear tracking but when substituted the cartridge that had a micro processor cease to work ,the stylus even had a litle hole so the cartridge could read the grooves ,this in those no weight and no anti-skating turntables with 1.5 grams from factory ,and the PLX-1000 if working fine are very good turntables ,i myself kept a thorens from 1970 professional one and from technics the SL-3310 ,the SL-1000mkII and from pioneer a pl-es , a pl-15d, a pl-540 a pl-430 (80´s) ,sold my two SL-1200MKII with original cartridge and stylus with two concorde from ortofon with 4 hours of use and the most i could get from them was 500€ in mint condition ,because in late 90´s the audiophiles classified it as trash not a home use turntable and without auto-return they also didn´t were good for me but now who grew up in the 90´s because of the dj fASHION NOW THE SL-1200 IS ALSO CONSIDERED AUDIOPHILE MATERIAL(sorry for the caps-lock)unintentional , all the turntables i refer are perfect in reading vinil and very good sounding better than a less than 1000€ cd player in sound quality but for music with analog instruments only a C.E.C cd player sounded very good this in the 90´s but for analog instruments with analog efects nothing beats the vinil ,and C.E.C. built turntables for several brands in the 70´s most of them for Pioneer but also other brands mostly when they started to be made of plastic ,before only some were made by chuodenki (CEC), regards