I'm not sure but I think the SL1200 doesn't have a built-in preamp. Which means it won't sound right connected straight to any amp, unless of course, you get an integrated amp that has a TT preamp. Take note, there's a difference between, say, an integrated amp that has only "labels" for TT, CD and DVD, and one that actually has a true phono input. Also, unless you listen primarily to speakers, better to get a phono pre and headphone amp. Preferably an amp with two inputs, or you use a switcher, so both analog and digital (PC, PC+DAC) can use the same amp without unplugging the cables. And the "preamp" listed as part of the MkIII's feature set is not the same as a phono preamp. That's a preamp for feeding a power amp for speakers. A phono preamp is for amplifying the analog signal put out by the cartridge. Think of it in terms of digital audio: the cartridge is a lot like the laser head and DAC chip, the phono preamp is the analog output section on the DAC or CDPlayer with the OpAmps and HDAM. Portable players like the iPod isn't the same sort of DAC chip since that's an "integrated" design, ie, it implements digital volume, and needs no analog OpAmp, which is why without doing the iMod digital volume control still affects the dock lineout. The S:Flo is a more conventional design though.
Also, you have to get the right preamp/integrated amp with phono pre input. MM and MC cartridges cannot be interchanged with the other's phono preamp.
