Technics SL-1500C vs Technics SL-1200GR | Which turntable is the best for you?

Check out our detailed written comparison here 📚 audioadvice.io/technicsturnta...
Subscribe! 🔔 audioadvice.io/YTsubscribe
Chat with us online 💻 audioadvice.io/aa-chat ☎️ Call for sales and support: 888.899.8776
In this video, we compare the new SL-1200GR and SL-1500C Technics Turntables. With the SL-1200GR selling for $1,699 and the SL-1500C for $1,199, we get a lot of questions from music lovers wondering which is best for their needs. If you’re ready to select your next turntable, we encourage you to take advantage of our carefully curated selection to narrow down your search. Overwhelmed by all of the options? Check out our Turntable Buyer’s Guide ( audioadvice.io/ttbuyersguide) - we’ve done all of the legwork for you in order to provide you with your perfect fit.
⬇️ Check out these two awesome turntables ⬇️
Technics SL-1500C: audioadvice.io/technicssl1500c
Technics SL-1200GR: audioadvice.io/technicssl1200gr
Chat with us online 💻 audioadvice.io/aa-chat ☎️ Call for sales and support: 888.899.8776

[@PopExpo]

That's how you know when a product is truly innovative.... When the modern version of it is not much different than the original. They got it right the first time. Very few products can say that about themselves.

[@AudioAdvice]

Well said, that is so true, there are only a handful of products like this, Klipschorn, JBL L100, McIntosh MC275

[@CDJF1]

@@AudioAdvice Look up Optonica by Sharp. I have an SM 4646. Very under rated brand.

[@ashleymcgovern5120]

AKG 275

[@lsrocha3296]

Seriously?😏@@ashleymcgovern5120

[@timothykeenan3743]

This is a model of how you should do an audio review, especially a comparative review. There's no superfluous waffle, just detailed, helpful information. 10/10!

[@AudioAdvice]

Thank you so much! We appreciate your comments. Our founder still loves to compare things!

[@martybrazill7935]

I love the ability to easily swap head shells. Very convenient if you have a 78 style cartridge and mono cartridge in your collection.

[@AudioAdvice]

Great point, Marty! Thanks for watching.

[@ericharrelson2045]

Thorough review, nicely done; enjoyed it.

[@AudioAdvice]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@PopExpo]

The Technics 1200 series went far beyond the home consumer market it was intended for. Dare I say, Its in the same league as a Fender Stratocaster? As far as it's wide spread use across multiple genres, in the studio and in live performances, the amount of timeless innovation put into it's design,.... Yeah, I personally think so.

[@AudioAdvice]

We agree! Thanks for watching

[@disyokerr]

Same with. SL 1500 MKII ,1800mKII 1500 MKII not showed in this video.Limited edition and almost impossible to find used in the80 s no body would sale to you 1500 mkII digital pitch was the rolls Royce of the technics. DJ s that made 4 turntable mix Used this model.The 1200 only became popular(at scratch DMC champion ship),and when Matsushita Technics limited the production of this phenomenal. 1500/1400 1510 ,SL 150 in Canada. In my opinion the best turntable DJ mega mix ever made the faboluos SL 1500 MKII

[@misterwirez7731]

I own the SL-Q2 silver model. I still love this thing. Nice solid table more reasonably sized for home, but still 17 pounds stock. You can pack 10lbs of clay under it too.

[@AudioAdvice]

Very nice!

[@knockshinnoch1950]

Another first rate review. No nonsense just down to the practical nuts and bolts facts

[@AudioAdvice]

Thank you! Glad it was helpful and thanks for watching.

[@fctryoffetsh39]

You really know your stuff thanks for the info😊

[@AudioAdvice]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sethfm9773]

A very thorough comparison of these Technics turntables.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thank you! We are glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching.

[@Broadmaynewood]

Great review..I have just ordered a 1210 GR here in the Uk and will fit my Koetsu Red cartridge and Collaro mat ..Happy days

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks, glad you liked it

[@trhoades2063]

I really enjoyed this,

[@AudioAdvice]

We are so glad to hear this was helpful. Thanks for watching, Elijah!

[@pf5658]

Actually just bought my very first turntable about two and half years ago and it was a Technics. It was one of the higher end models though with a Soundsmith Zephyr cartridge.

[@AudioAdvice]

Nice! Thanks for watching.

[@pf5658]

@@DG-ie5ip 😂 Yes! But we’ll worth the money.

[@HarleyFLHRCI99]

Obviously to do a fair test between them you used the line out on both and not the preamp output of the 1500. Would’ve liked a test of the 1500 using it’s own preamp against the GR and line out.

[@AudioAdvice]

Great point. We thought of doing that but we would be adding the phono stage the 1200 went into as part of the comparison. The built in is a good way to start then add a better one later. We did try it using the built in and concluded it’s probably similar to a $100 phono preamp. Thanks for watching

[@firstphoton655]

Best reviewer ever

[@AudioAdvice]

Why thank you! We appreciate you watching

[@thehunterofdeath2180]

Beautiful the 1500 to chill n listing to my collection I'm going to buy one I already have my old 1200 since 89s still working like a champ all this years I have 4 technics mk 2 mk 4 technics is the way to go gr is cool but I heard is no good for scratching so i really don't know that but is a beautiful turntable both matter n love them to chill technics is the legend of DJ turntable n for people that like to listing to there record lp collection is so cool 😎👍

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing

[@johnnyhickman6798]

Leon is a secret rocker! Awesome

[@AudioAdvice]

That's been no secret! Thanks for watching

[@Madjed2024]

I love watching your videos and listening to you covering all the technicalities . You are very detail oriented and that is much appreciated. I currently have an EAT B sharp with ortofon blue, connected to a Vincent hybrid integrated SV237 MK ( I picked it because I need both digital and analog inputs as I am connecting MD, DAT, Reel to Reel, Cassette, Turntable and CD ( via analog since only 2 digital input) and a couple of monitor audio silver 300. Don’t get me wrong I love this system but not a big fan of these hybrid because I had already to change the bulb even though the entire thing is only 4 years young and I really don’t like the sound of the ortofon ( two sweet and syrupy like Pepsi cola) My question is Would you be willing to allow me to trade the turntable and the integrated amp and suggest a good integrated amp for the 1500 with a different cartridge than ortofon so I dan buy both from your company? Also I listen to 50% classical, 30 % instrumental and vocal jazz, 10% rock, 10% world music Thank you kindly

[@AudioAdvice]

Reach out to our team of experts at audioadvice.com and they can help you out!

[@QoraxAudio]

The pitchfader is also useful for 78s that aren't cut at the right speed.

[@AudioAdvice]

Great point! Thanks for watching

[@QoraxAudio]

@@AudioAdvice You're welcome. I own an SL-1200G, wonderful turntable. They're definitely not the 1200 turntables people were used to, much better than the 1200MK2 and MK4 I've had before!

[@homerjones3291]

I used it on my original during my cassette days to speed up songs just a tiny bit to fit one more song on a side, and to slow down songs to hear certain parts or match my tuning when I played in bands. I no longer need it for those reasons now.

[@markwhitehead6965]

Not just 78s! Original Pressings of Kind Of Blue are at the wrong pitch the original album as first issued in 1959 that has the three tunes on side A at the wrong pitch (too fast) because one of the tape recorders was running about an eighth tone (1 1/4%) too slow during the recording session.

[@lilth501]

Today I can't believe I sold a pair of my beloved sl-1200 Mark 2 back in the 90s

[@AudioAdvice]

Those were jewels! Sorry you sold them.

[@Trojan0304]

Automatic was a must for me so got a restored 1600mk2.

[@AudioAdvice]

That is a nice table too, we hope you enjoy it

[@fastrick]

Hello, I just bought myself a Technics SL1200gr with an Ortofon Bronze. I love it, lots of detail, clear sound and great depth. I have heard of the Funk Firm APM Achromat Turntable Mat. What do you think of this expensive addition? They say it improves the bass a lot. Thank you !

[@AudioAdvice]

That is a great combo! We have not tried that mat. We do not recommend aftermarket mats for turntables with any kind of suspension system, but you are fine to try it on the SL1200GR. Just remember to raise or lower the tonearm height based on the height difference in the Funk Firm mat and the stock mat. Thanks for watching.

[@BaldKnobbies-Sunny602]

Late to this party but i have the 1200gr with ortofon bronze and funkfirm mat, did a lot of soundtesting with bass heavy and more mid and high range records and it’s a step up for both. Just remember , like AudioAdvice said , to raise your tonearm so its level when playing. 👌🏻

[@fastrick]

@@BaldKnobbies-Sunny602 I lifted it with the screw near the arm, that's right...a little trick. I admit I'm not an expert on this stuff. Is it correct ? The arm is straight when dropped on the vinyl. THANK YOU for your information.

[@BaldKnobbies-Sunny602]

@@fastrick that is indeed how to do it, loosen the clamp, screw the base upward. Then put on a record and lower the needle (without the record turning!) with the needle resting on the record, preferably outside or near the spindle, then take the lightest level gauge you can find and raise of lower it so its perfectly level. Then again tighten the clamp and offcourse recalibrate your needle pressure 👌🏻👍🏻👊🏻 good luck !

[@alexanderkowollik3681]

Earlier I left some comments regarding Technics on this channel. A while ago I upgraded my Technics SL-1210 MK2 equipped with Ortofon 2M Bronze to 2M Black. The bronze is very good, but the black improved my MK2. But that's not the point, I'm very curious how the old SL-1210 MK2 compares to the 1200GR and 1500c.

[@user-vp4dv5hg9o]

Thanks a lot! I'm between Technics sl-1500c and Dual 618q. Both have strong and weak points. What would be your advice given every day listening using active speakers? And what device is more robust and durable in long term?

[@AudioAdvice]

Both are good turntables. Please reach out to our team at www.audioadvice to discuss the differences and which would be best for your needs

[@reginamisty425]

hope once i will get this one

[@AudioAdvice]

We hope so too! Thanks for watching.

[@anotherbrickinthewall1700]

very nice review/comparison. what I would want is a turntable without the gimicky DJ speed change slider. That's it. Offer the exact same deck just without that one feature.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks! Sounds like the Technics SL-1500C would be great for you then: www.audioadvice.com/technics-sl-1500c-turntable-w-built-in-preamp-cartridge

[@anotherbrickinthewall1700]

@@AudioAdvice Actually it looks like a poor cousin: from the platter, to the arm, to the lack of lighting and finally the lack of build location. I should have added removing the phono pre-amp along with the slider.

[@dmnddog7417]

@@anotherbrickinthewall1700 They now have the SL-100C which is a 1500C but without the built-in preamp.

[@pravstar1]

I bought my 1200gr second hand from someone who also had the 1200c and kept that instead. To me even with a nagaoka mp200 the gr needs a bit of tweaking

[@AudioAdvice]

We hope you enjoy your Technics table. Consider a better Ortofon. Thanks for watching

[@fornowimhere6651]

When the 1200 arrived people must of been blown away.

[@AudioAdvice]

If you mean the revival of the original, yes. Thanks for watching

[@vadiquemyself]

I will surely pick the one with the pitch adjustment, it is the must have thing for me 🤗

[@AudioAdvice]

Hope you enjoy!

[@evancalle1296]

Hello, trying to decide between Rega Planar 6 and the new Technics SL 1200 GR2, with the Hana SL cartridge in either case, I realize they’re different animals, but would like your thoughts / input. Thanks!

[@AudioAdvice]

Absolutely! Chat or call our experts at audioadvice.com and our team will help you decide which would be best for you!

[@davidst4896]

Thanks I thought the 1500 was just the 1200 without the speed control. I would like to see a model just like the 1200 with only the speed control missing as I would never use it.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing and we appreciate you watching

[@zogzog1063]

I have a pair of the earlier 1210 Mk5g. I use them for Hi-Fi and not DJ. I have disabled the pitch slider by shorting an internal connection. I still like the pitch slider for its looks though.

[@ingenfestbrems]

Mk4 (Japan only) is the best of them all

[@marcusbenwell3655]

Big question in your audio comparison the GTR only has a grounded phono output, but the 1500 has both a built in phono stage a and a regular grounded output, did you use that on the 1500? Or did you use the built-in phono stage? Because I have read that the built-in phono stage on the 1500 is substantially better than the regular grounded phono output?

[@AudioAdvice]

We used it with the built in phono stage to test its quality. We liked what we heard with it set up that way.

[@NOMQN]

@@AudioAdviceI’ve read that the built in phono stage while convenient is sonically inferior to most entry level external phono preamps. I’d be interested in a comparison of both tables into the same phono stage and wonder if the audible differences you heard had much to do with the different phono stages

[@olaniyi570]

Great video! I'm looking to buy a Technics. Will you guys carry the new SL-100c? Also how does the SL-1200GR compare to something like a Rega Planar2 or 3?

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks! If the 100C makes it to the US, we will have it. Please reach out to our team at www.audioadvice.com for more info on comparisons.

[@Matasky2010]

@@AudioAdvice IF it makes it to the US? WTF is going on with this deck, North American Technics authorised dealers should be boycotting the company lol..

[@MrMarkhall1]

I've always wondered what the red light shining on the dots on the circumference of the platter is for,anyone know?

[@AudioAdvice]

To check the speed. Thanks for watching

[@robchismar4679]

I really want the 1200gr but the no auto lift is a major bummer and deal killer. What is out there equal to the 1200gr with auto lift?

[@AudioAdvice]

We do not know of anything.. some people use one of these on the 1500 www.audioadvice.com/integrityhifi-tru-lift Thanks for watching

[@RUfromthe40s]

i think something is wrong ,and the description couldn´t be more wrong ,the sl-1200 was a working turntable (doesn´t have auto-return ) made for radio stations and the sp-10 if memory doesn´t fail me was much above in the sound quality i ended up buying a sl-1000mkII(79- complete Sp-10mkII) that were much better than the sl-1200 that also owned two mkII because i worked for 35 years as a dj ,but at the time the "audiophiles" said that the sl-1200 or the mkII were bad turntables ,working ones not for home use , the sp-10 is one of them(diferent assembly options with a proper tonearm and needle). I started a radio station and bought some thorens professional turntables and around 72, it came out the first sl-1200 ,that i bought two ,the sp-10 is from the 72/73 catalog that is for the costumer choose what to put on the turntable whatever he wants so it doesn´t came with a arm but sold already asembled to the ones who choose to buy it but didn´t had enough information to choose wich arm to use(being the SL-1000).Not a doubt the SL-1500 is good as the other also good and a litle improved but soundwise if you have a room with minimum space both would fit perfect both of those turntables are remakes of the 70´s turntables allthough in the 70´s you had a lot to choose from this regarding technics. To end ,this today are the best turntables budget friendly one can buy all others cost a fortune. Around 1.000€ are so bad that even if they cost alf i wouldn´t buy one, technics is the only choice,there are others but cost several thousands of €´s, there are more but one find the same model sold by two other brands with litle diferences, this time i´m going to end by saying that i bought a complete new system and the SL-1500 was my choice almost bought a Magnat but prefered the amplifier with tubes ,hybrid amplifier as they call them also the speakers i bought from magnat those that loook old and the biggest ones, already this year but on the doors that open in my table for the amp and turntable i have a ct-959 cassette deck and a md-j707 minidisc deck both from pioneer with a akai tape selector, this new amp. only as one output . Regards

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing, the SP10 was introduced in 1970, and followed up with a MKII version around 1975. Yes, that, and the new version of it called the SP10R would be a far better turntable. We even remember fitting some original SP10's in custom bases for people back then and outfitting them with the various Grace, Denon, and other tonearms that were popular in the day. Thanks for watching

[@RUfromthe40s]

@@AudioAdvice thank you for the video but i have to add that i lived in a dictatorship and stores sold a few of expensive components i might be wrong on the year of release and at the time we choose what was in a catalog so they can order it , i remenber buying a pioneer amp. for myself and what arrived wasn't what i ordered but at the time they told me that what i choose was out of stock and for the same price i would get a much modern model , this in 72 , but i went to japan while working in Africa and it seemed i was in the future compared to my city in Portugal where i bought a ES-2000 system from pioneer for 400 dollars , it was a lot of money in 74 still have it and working in the t.v. room , i guess it was not that expensive , all works after 48 years , only cleaned the knobs and changed the belts and stylus on the turntable , and the sound quality is above many good devices today , regards

[@brucegelman5582]

Wheres the SL1100A? I had one.It was great!

[@AudioAdvice]

It is the grandfather to the new ones! Thanks for watching

[@homerjones3291]

Great review. Here in the states though these are nearly unobtainable except for at premium prices, and lately there’s been none for sale here at all for ANY price.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thank you, yes, we get in 6-12 every few weeks and they are instantly sold. Thanks for watching

[@jakobhjriismarkussen3758]

Well, I live in Denmark, Scandinavia, and your “premium prices” is, for the GR model $200 less than our price for the GR. By the way - I wouldn’t call this a review. Audio Advice is a Technics dealer, so an excellent sales pitch would be more fitting..

[@homerjones3291]

@@jakobhjriismarkussen3758 The “premium prices” I was alluding to are in the neighborhood of $225 over MSRP, so about $1900 plus whatever state tax you’d pay here, so add maybe another $100 or so. As far as reviews go, give me the physical differences between models and I’ll decide if it’s important to me.

[@thespotlightkid1011]

It was actually Thorens who made the world's first direct drive turntable long before the Tech' SP10. They dropped it quite fast tho.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing!

[@hobhood7118]

Interestingly Steve Guttenberg said he couldn't hear any real difference between the two in his comparative review. He also used $800 cartridge on both. But then he's not selling TT's...

[@jwhartline]

How about that. I wanted to hear what made the GR have better sound as claimed by the reviewer. Is this "It costs more, therefore is it must sound better"? Same tonearm and cartridge....hmmm.

[@PoppinWheeliez]

The GR will also do the laundry make dinner, and a quick handy if you are lucky.

[@AudioAdvice]

Now now. Be nice. Thanks for watching

[@chrisgargiulo304]

Technics is legendary!

[@AudioAdvice]

We agree, Chris! Thanks for watching.

[@davidlees9096]

I've got a sl1200 the deck is about 10yrs old but in as new condition but I need a hed shell and a good cartridge eny I ders

[@AudioAdvice]

If you are in the USA, please reach out to our team at www.audioadvice.com, they can help you out. Thanks for watching

[@davidpopelka4073]

Hello sir. I want to ask what is sound difference between this SL1500C and SL1200mk7. I understood that mk7 is DJ and doesnt have phono. I would like to have comparison just in sound ability. Thanks D.

[@AudioAdvice]

They are very similar, the SL1200MK7 will not have a phono cartridge or preamp. Thanks for watching

[@davidpopelka4073]

@@AudioAdvice thank you very much! David

[@TemujinScott80]

The GR is a great turntable!

[@AudioAdvice]

We agree! Technics have made music history for good reasons. Thanks for watching.

[@MrMichaelfalk]

Does these still have the rubber on the base as the old 1210?

[@AudioAdvice]

We are not sure what you mean, but our written overview has a cutaway picture www.audioadvice.com/videos-reviews/technics-turntable-comparison-sl-1500c-vs-sl-1200gr Thanks for watching

[@MrTechnarchy]

IT,s a comparison between Technics Malaysia (SL1500,SL1200/1210 mk7) OR Technics Japan (SL1200/1210GR or SL1200/1210G) premium class (Malaysia) or Grand Class (Japan)

[@MrTechnarchy]

@@DG-ie5ip okay, i was dont know that, i,ve got them februari 2021 by me on the GR stand made in Japan, but the quality still will stay the same even they made in Japan , than they gonna build by Panasonic than

[@ptg01]

Well done. Curious, how about SL-1200G ? How is it different from SL-1200GR that commands a substantial premium ? Sure looks the same to me. User manual looks almost identical too.

[@AudioAdvice]

Great question! Come have a chat one of our turntable experts at audioadvice.io/aa-chat so we can go over this with you in more detail. Thanks for watching!

[@ptg01]

@@AudioAdvice I did ! Still not too clear in helping me understand the $2300 price difference...

[@AudioAdvice]

@@ptg01 As with most high performance audio, as you pay more above certain price points, the incremental difference gets to be less, but on a good system, you can hear it. The 1200G is just build with the same concept, but higher tolerance bearings on the arm, and much more mass for isolation, heck it weighs 13 pounds more than the GR version. But with that said, the GR is just great for the money.

[@CDJF1]

@@ptg01 Cost of parts and labor to make them has increased. Plus The 1200 was never made with planned obsolescence so it is expensive because Technics knows it will last 40 plus years.

[@laika25]

If one rca connector uses the built-in preamp and the other doesn't... why the need for a preamp on/off switch?

[@AudioAdvice]

Good question. The switch changes the routing of the signal to the appropriate connectors. This completely bypasses the built in phono preamp.

[@laszloantal8836]

Are both of these fully manual turntable ? or stopped when finished and the arm return back to the base

[@AudioAdvice]

The SL1500C has an auto lift at the end that will raise the arm, but it does not return it to the rest. Thanks for watching

[@laszloantal8836]

@@AudioAdvice Thanks for answering

[@stevekane4187]

What sort of money would you spend on a phono amp for the gr

[@AudioAdvice]

Great question Steve. It really depends on the cartridge you go with. Feel free to reach out to our team at www.audio advice.com for help Thanks for watching

[@homerjones3291]

I had the Pro-Ject Phono Box RS which I thought was pretty good in my moderately priced system, but then went for a PS Audio Stellar Phono Preamp because they had a big discount promotion and it was a big improvement, and I hear differences when cartridge swapping a whole lot more. But really the question you should be asking is “How good of a phono stage can I get for the money I’m willing to spend?”. You can go used and get a better one than money spent for new.

[@rickg8015]

Do you offer a 220-240V line voltage version of the GR? I plan to bring mine over abroad where there is no Technics distributor..

[@AudioAdvice]

Sorry, we do not.

[@homerjones3291]

I think the new turntables have a switchable mode power supply that handles different line voltages - that’s why you don’t see different voltage models.

[@paulrogers7067]

Neither one a true audiophile turntable but look great.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for watching and commenting

[@arress2052]

Timely. I just purchased a 1200.

[@AudioAdvice]

Congrats! Thanks for watching.

[@JustJamsOnly]

Regarding the interconnects from the 1200GR to say a phono preamp and then to the integrated amp any suggestions? I do release cables and interconnects is like opening a can of worms, but just looking for a solid product without spending more than the deck :)

[@AudioAdvice]

We like Audioquest and Transparent, but what you want, especially from the table to the phono preamp (since that signal is super low in level) is a cable that blocks any noise. This is a very good one www.audioadvice.com/transparent-link-phono-interconnect Thanks for watching

[@JustJamsOnly]

@@AudioAdvice Do you need to run the same cables (Audioquest or Transparant) from the phone preamp to the amp? Would that be necessary or do us a more standard stereo audio cable?

[@AudioAdvice]

@@JustJamsOnly You do not have to, that is getting into the can of worms you referred to earlier :) The most important one is the one from the table to the phono preamp.

[@deadandburied7626]

So what about the SL1200 Mk7?

[@AudioAdvice]

That is a good table as well, but it is sold in their DJ series.

[@BokBarber]

I sincerely hope that people keep mentioning the "cogging" that the old Technics SL-1200 MKXs allegedly suffer from. It keeps the prices in check on these fantastic older decks which have no measurable cogging... ...I mean, rightfully devalues those terrible old machines which are totally prone to cogging or micro-speed variations or whatever it is.

[@AudioAdvice]

Haha

[@ingenfestbrems]

If you see a hairless DJ, it could be he pulled it off in shear frustration of hearing the mk7 feedback

[@stixplayer]

I have a SL-D2 best 150 bucks my parents ever spent!! Still have it and still love it!!!!!!!!...works like new same stylus!!...wish I still had hair!!!! :(

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing!

[@stixplayer]

@@AudioAdvice I MISS HAVING HAIR!!

[@paulomontero12]

The on/off button on the 1500c is rubbish. I know because I had one then exchanged it for the 1200gr. Worth the extra money for 1200gr.

[@AudioAdvice]

The 1200GR is nicer, but this is the first button complaint we have seen. Thanks for watching

[@jwhiteker1]

The 1200GR does appear to be a beast, but isn't it fully manual? I've had several Technics TT's, but I keep going back to the automatics.

[@garyc9730]

Technics turntables are legendary. However I believe Technics knowing the history of these turntables should of charged a cheaper price which would of generated more sales. 🤔

[@AudioAdvice]

Gary- yes, in the past Technics had tables that were much less expensive. The SL-23 in the 70's was a classic for under $200. These are built a lot better though and right now, they can not even make them fast enough to keep up with demand. Thanks for watching

[@rossinimauro]

I have an SL-1210 GAE and a friend owns a vintage SL-1200, only looks are the same, materials, build and electronics are not comparable at all, hence the price difference.

[@leonshaw3362]

@@rossinimauro Precisely! Thanks for watching

[@CDJF1]

The cost of parts are what determine the overall price. Quality costs $$$

[@audioman6007]

Yes it's nice to have a expensive turntable, but you still need high end audio connections, high end cartridge, and phono stage/pre amp to get the best out of it, now buy a audio technica or a reloop for much less with a good cartridge, phono stage and audio connections and im sure most people will be more than happy.

[@lewis8290]

It’s all about the 1210’s Mk2.

[@TemujinScott80]

They don’t make those anymore

[@AudioAdvice]

Classic turntables that made music history. These build upon that incredible legacy. Thanks for watching.

[@lewis8290]

@@TemujinScott80 I know, they are still the best ones.

[@lewis8290]

@@AudioAdvice still have mine from when I bought them; amazing set of decks.

[@TemujinScott80]

@@lewis8290 ok.

[@paulomontero12]

Had the 1500c the start button was a disaster. Purchased the 1210gr in black much superior in every way.

[@AudioAdvice]

Sorry you had trouble but the 1200 is a great table

[@defiraphi]

How come that Technics turntables has become that expensive is beyond me . I bought an SL-1200MKII silver color in 1997 the price was 26000 Belgian francs which is 650Euros . In not even two decades their prices are insane x2 or x4 the price ( i'm not even talking about the 17000Euros for a Technics SL-1000 i think ) . They are built the same way maybe with some slight better materials and some better technology but there it stops imho . Also a Technics turntable is for your life you only need to change your stylus and you are good to go . Whereas other turntables found on the market will most of them deteriorate from materials cheap plastic used and such . What is fun is that there were many brands that has cloned the design from the Technics SL-1200MKII ( Gemini , Akiyama, Numark, ...later on the Audio Technica ) means enough to me that Technics is an excellent brand .

[@AudioAdvice]

They are great and classic turntables, but everything has gone up in price a lot since 1997. Thanks for watching

[@defiraphi]

@@AudioAdvice Not true all the prices raised because the 2008 failure and missunderstood economy crash . The fake record/turntable and other nostalgia i call as a scam plain simple . All is mostly "made in china" besides being an object made in your own country and cheap . Where is Philips made in the Netherlands and some models the better made in Belgium ? Where us Grundig made in Germany ? Where is Thomson made in France ? Where is Lenco made in Swiss ? I'm Belgian we had an excellent TV brand by the name "Barco" the brand prefered to do Nasa materials ... but their televisions in the late 70's and 80's were great and far superior to Philips/Sony . Even televisions from Sanyo from late 80's early 90's were better than Philips/Sony . How can the basic materials being better with the MK7 towards the MK2 ? I talk about the case and rubber itself . How can people compare the SL-1200MKII sold in the 90's as being similar to those sold in the 70's ? The technology evolved too in those decades but weren't mainstraim as internet didn't existed so . Kinda why i dislike people saying that records weren't sold in the 80's and 90's i'm not talking about the electronic style . But UB40 , Michael Jackson, Jean-Michel Jarre , etc...were still sold in those era yes maybe in smaller amounts which is logic since there was the newer technology already the compact disc ( CD ) . The funny of it all is the CD's are already coming back doing a revival too .... means newer generations doesn't know anymore and the music industry is out of ideas since there are no more real singers/bands with real quality music .

[@Kwippy]

With their low end turntables , Technics knows that their turntables don't always spin at the correct speed and so they come with strobe lights and fine speed or pitch adjustment to allow manual checking and correcting. The bonus is their low end decks is you can change the pitch of the music to your taste and are not forced to listen to music the way the artists intend you to.

[@vadiquemyself]

yeah, altering the speed of rotation is what I always need and want

[@matthewtaylor7355]

Still using my Technics Sl7 Linear Tracker. Do these classics from around 1980 compare to the modern types. The SL7 is said to better the Linn Sondek. Which is probably overated anyway.. The old school Technics Lobby refuse to accept that Technics have moved on from what they claim r timeless linear tracking masterpieces.!!!

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing. Saying its better than an LP12 is quite a stretch though, especially if you have never heard one. The modern Technics are also a lot better than most of the older ones.

[@matthewtaylor7355]

@@AudioAdvice It's not just me saying it.... Technics made some massive turntables that demolish the 1210 mk 2 gr etc.. But my ears may b wrong

[@Zockopa]

Well,the real thing for home hifi use were always the SL-1600MK2/SL-1700MK2. The SL-1200MKs only survived because of pro-DJ demands. And than it was the only affordable good quality direct driven turntable left on the entire market you could buy new - for years. THAT is the reason it became highly acclaimed. Its a thing of the early 00 years,before records became mainstream again. Not of the nineties or eighties of last century.

[@AudioAdvice]

This is a very intersting historical site on Technics here vintagetechnics.audio/turntables.php You should check it out.

[@Zockopa]

@@AudioAdvice Well,i know that site for a long time.

[@felixfranzen7318]

@Zockopa What's difference between the SL-1200 and 1600/1700 really? They have the same tonearm and the same specs for wow and flutter and rumble. A turntable only have to spin the record at the correct speed and have as little tracking error/distortion and rumble as possible. Everything else is the cart and interactions with the phono pre. Since those parameters are all speced exactly the same for the tables mentioned I can't see how the 1600/1700 can sound different or better. I actually can't see how the GRs can sound different from the MK2s either, aside from potential capacitance issues from the cables with some cables with some carts such as Audio-Technicas.

[@Funkbutterfly]

I seriously doubt you could hear significant differences between them with the same cartridge lol.

[@Funkbutterfly]

Sorry I know I should listen to my mama but hard not to say something...I mean they are basically the same table. Feels like you are overhyping the sound a bit.

[@GK-qt7qg]

#Nextpayday

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing

[@zapwatt]

Plus or minus 8%, not 16%.

[@AudioAdvice]

There is a button on the table above the +/- 8% slider. If you press it in, it changes the range to 16%. This is explained on page 22 of the product manual. av.jpn.support.panasonic.com/support/technics/downloads/data/operating-instructions/SL-1210GAE_PP_TQBM0610.pdf Thanks for watching

[@felixfranzen7578]

How can these two turntables sound different? They're basically the same except the SL-1200 have more features (mostly needed by DJs and pretty useless at home like pitch control). The rumble and wow and flutter specs are the same. The rest will be decided by the cartridge and you used the same one for both.

[@AudioAdvice]

We used some very large JBL speakers at decent levels for the comparison. It is likely due to the better platter and the 1200GR has better anti resonance properties in the plinth. Both of those would help with the reduction of acoustic feedback. We suspect with a good pair of headphones they would sound virtually identical. Thanks for watching

[@felixfranzen7578]

@@AudioAdvice Alright, thanks for the answer! I'm about to replace my old Rega player (a P5) and the Technic's looks really good. The SL-1200 is really expensive where I live so I'm most likely going with the 1500C or perhaps the new SL-100C (which seems to be a 1500C sans the onboard phono stage).

[@AudioAdvice]

@@felixfranzen7578 Sure, they are both great tables, although if you have a good local Rega dealer, they can revitalize your P5, that is still a good table, we just did one in our shop last week.

[@felixfranzen7578]

@@AudioAdvice Hmm. My P5 i actually in rather good condition, although it probably needs a new cart and belt. The thing is, I've read that the non-high end Rega players have rather dubious wow and flutter specs. From 0.1% to 0.3% compared to 0.025% for the direct drive Technics players. And Rega refuses to publish any such specs themselves which makes me suspect that speed stability is probaby not up to snuff.

[@AudioAdvice]

@@felixfranzen7578 Don't get too caught up in the specs, we will leave it at that

[@disyokerr]

SL 1500 MKII is the king not the SL1500 C. This last one was home audiophile use. SL 1500 MKII 1800mk II and 1200 MKII are or war the only competitive and 100% manual. 1500 C have nothing to do there

[@AudioAdvice]

We appreciate your feedback! We agree, our audience is more interested in the audiophile aspects of the C model. While Technics is widely known as a standard production tool in the professional DJ/producer's arsenal, it's cool the brand's expertise is also trickling over to the audiophile market for people who just love listening to great sounding music. Thanks for watching!

[@disyokerr]

@@AudioAdvice Thank you .in that case I have to correct my self. The 1200 mkII has nothing to do here. For audiophile turntable technics had better ones like SP 15 etc. When I started in audio entusiast back in 1978 I had few turntables ,like Sansui ,Dual, Sony ,Pioneer ,Fisher,etc they sounded better than thecnics using the same cartridge ...strange been more affordable turntables ....However I stay with MKII as my only option since I became a pro dj. After technics I choose Vestax and Numark to compite with 1200 mkII. But no brand ever could compite with SL 1500 mkII in Dj pro mix ....the rest is history.

[@meropealcyone]

The platters weigh more than my entire turntable...😐

[@AudioAdvice]

It sure is heavy!

[@Matasky2010]

Why is this video even necessary? Two completely different decks for different use cases. And where is the damn SL-100C????

[@AudioAdvice]

We did the video as we get asked all the time about the differences. The 100c is not in the US yet. Thanks for watching

[@jazzkatt7083]

This word is "Technics" / this word is "Techniques" . Just saying 😂

[@ralex3697]

Nice vintage looking table, that’s about it. There are much nicer belt drive turntables for much less

[@AudioAdvice]

Fair enough! We have a hard time finding anything wrong with the influence Technics SL series TT have made on music history though. Thanks for watching.

[@trouble5085]

Is there a version of this in English? LOL!

[@jimovergaard1254]

The measurements are the same. There was no cogging unless you are an idiot and never saw an analog readout of the finest of the B&K continuous readout and everyone knew that this "cogging" that had a brain knew better. Otherwise go to K&B audio to understand the facts. The bearing are no different of the better GR is the same as the SL-1200mk2 and later.

[@SilentServiceCode]

"flow of music" and "sense of timing" are audiophile word salad gobbledegook. You didn't hear any difference.

[@tomwebb7091]

Technics, or should i say Panasonic have no interest in sound quality.... just milking vinylista and nostalgia trippers. The sound quality of these is just like the built quality, RIGID. Theres an excellent case to make for them as DJ decks but for home audio they arent for taking seriously without some proper mods and even then the rigidity means they wont loosen up. Imo, this turntable regardless of cart tries to turn Funkadelic into some German techno incapable of loosening up and boogying

[@nasskhan4543]

100% Disagree. I have owned turntables over 40 years 1979 Pioneer Pl12d 1981 to 1988 Dual 505 1988 Elite Rock 1990 to 2000 Roksan Xerses 2000 to 2020 Gyrodec. I have also tried Lenco L75 , Micro Sieki dqx 500 & briefly Thorens Td160. My Gyrodec sounded excellent but its a.c. power supply & motor often went wrong. I also felt as a deck it was too fussy so I sold it off. I bought a 2nd hand Thorens td160 but sadly that had problems too. 2 weeks ago I auditioned the Technics 1500c & loved it. I have noticed that this deck sounds consistently good with whatever lps you play. Technics do care about sound quality & I suggest you listen to them in a hifi shop set up with good equipment .

[@uhfch2358]

See if this changes your view. Just check out Mr. Fremer’s comparison of the 1200G to the $100,000 Continuum: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p4qcioyhprxrpMk

[@Matasky2010]

It sounds 'rigid'? Haha, ok thanks Tom. I think it has more to do with your preamp/cartridge/mastering than the damn deck lol...

[@nasskhan4543]

What Turntable do you use now just so we can appreciate why you think the Technics is rigid ???

[@tomwebb7091]

@@Matasky2010 No its the DD imparting its signature. Been there heard it many a time. Sorry if i offended you

[@yusko3845]

Overpriced 👍Marketing rubbish.. mk2 still the best.. ask any vinyl dj .. 🙂👍

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@BixLives32]

You can hear the difference? Not blindfolded you cannot. Let's say 50 A/B tests over a few days. I wager my 401K. Interested? You non engineers have noo idea of what you are talking about. When I hear the pseudo tech-term "sound stage", I wince. I am a proper, university degreed, E.E. -OVER 40 YEARS. If it cannot be quantified with test gear it is not worth talking about. They are both good tables for the money. The differences are so subtle for vinyl microgroove records that you cannot possibly hear the difference. As for standard groove shellac -that's another matter. (high energy modulation) For you people who do not own a lot of OLD records, this is NOT what you want. CD remain superior in all ways, except for album, art and liner notes. The best phono records with the best gear can, perhaps achieve 26 db S/N. The worst of CD players will give you at least 95 db S/N. An iTunes 256 kbps (VBR) file will give you at least 85 db S/N. ALL digital has NO wow or fluter. NO rumble. Over 80 db separation. Do you LIKE distortion and surface noise? Oh yeah, almost ALL fancy new vinyl you buy on 160 - 200 gram vinyl is lathed DIRECTLY from , commercial CDs (e.g., see Sundazed). Analogue is NOT a superior technology. I have a good turntable because I am OLD and I own several thousand shellac sides that will never be released on CD or even transferred properly. If you have a lot of old records, buy the 1200, if you can afford it. If all you play is vinyl, then the 1500 is your buy. It will sound the same as the 1200, all other things being equal. If you want to start collecting records, you are 35 years too late. Do I have a Technics 1200? No. Why would I? The Thorens TD124 flywheel weighs TEN pounds and is dynamically balanced (don't remove the three to screws, and it will stay balanced). The Technics has slightly less rumble than a TD124, but it should NOT be audible. There is NO substitution for MASS and the thorens has the technics 1200 beat. You cannot fool Sir Isaac Newton. I own two Thorens TD 124s that were given to me a long time ago. 20 years ago, I rebuilt every item that can be rebuilt, and they continue to exceed original specs. They also look a lot nicer. As good as a Technics 1200 is, I doubt it will be working as well in 50 years. I managed to buy out a Thorens parts warehouse in Queens when they were sold in the 1990s (they gave most of the old parts as they were going to be pitched). I am OK for the duration. It took me 20 years to learn how to rebuild a Thorens TD124 properly. I'd rather have the 1950's RCA's 72b broadcast table with a Gray tonearm, as I mostly play shellac. flywheel,

[@len9518]

Right on! You said blind test. Not good enough. It needs to be double blind, and levels need to be within 0,1dB. No one can pass this test.

[@defiraphi]

Why audiophiles makes me laugh alot of them invent new critics every second but doesn't know what they're talking about most of the times . The so called revival in records and turntables selling is a scam as easy as that . How can a record being that expensive is beyond me . I'm not gonna buy a David Bowie record for 50Euros new as i can get the same album original cheaper 5Euros in a second hand store which aren't always in bad state like many people say . The sound isn't about the turntable only but the stylus/needle and also a amplifier and a nice pair of speakers . I just heard on TV there's a revival from compact disc ( CD's ) how silly all that to make people spend their well earned money into expensive stuff that isn't made to last for your life anymore .

[@AnthonyStabler]

Pretentious hoohaa. $2000 for a turntable is ridiculous. Talk about diminishing returns! Sheesh!

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes, they are not cheap. However, they are built to last and sound really good. Of course, you can always find a cheaper alternative that works better for you!

[@johnsweda2999]

Both turntables all Technics direct drive turntables rubbish in that type of formation very bad idea

[@AudioAdvice]

Hi John! As with many things in life, we agree, pros and cons with direct drive vs belt drive technologies exist. Belt drive turntables are generally our favorite, however, the direct drive tech developed by Technics has been a staple in the professional music industry for decades and they have made music history, so we feel they really cannot be ignored at this point. What they do well, they do extremely well. Thanks for watching!

[@Richbroth]

You have no idea m8 @john sweda

[@johnsweda2999]

@@Richbroth of course not magnetic field is all I have to say you measure it

[@ashleymcgovern5120]

It's for DJ use. Belt drive just isn't a very good design for DJ use. Start up time is poor (or start from slipmat), belts slip when interacting with the platter etc. While 'decent' belts can be used at home for beatmixing they're next to useless when it comes to scratching or constant use for years in a club environment.

[@defiraphi]

Belt-driven turntables are a big NO for me for many reasons . Except for one turntable brand which is Thorens .