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You still have to choose..... if you don't already have a turntable or DAC, and your budget only allows for one or the other......
Well if the OP doesn't have to choose if the OP doesn't state a budget; it is a false dilemma
You still have to choose..... if you don't already have a turntable or DAC, and your budget only allows for one or the other......
If we are talking new, for about the same money as a Technics 1200 you could get a Project expression Mk3[size=x-small], or Rega P2, or any number of Thorens and a well matched decent cartridge.[/size]
[size=x-small]If talking second hand, the same applies.[/size]
[size=x-small]I never said the Technics wasn't a good deck - for its intended purpose.[/size]
[size=x-small]I just said, in my opinion, I would go for one of the others. [/size]
[size=x-small]Thorens, Rega and Project have been designing and making Hi-Fi Turntables for years - their intention is to make turntables for the home Hi Fi market, with a sound to match.[/size]
[size=x-small]The Technics is a DJ turntable. Its intended market is DJ's.[/size]
[size=x-small] [/size]
But have you heard a Technics 1200 versus a Rega P2 or Project Expression?
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I have, and while it wasn't an outright slaughtering by the 1200, the timing and speed accuracy of the quartz-controlled DD motor was definitely an advantage on the part of the Technics.
You're certainly entitled to your opinion, of course... Both of the tables you mentioned are great bargains for how much they do right.
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But have you heard a Technics 1200 versus a Rega P2 or Project Expression?
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I have, and while it wasn't an outright slaughtering by the 1200, the timing and speed accuracy of the quartz-controlled DD motor was definitely an advantage on the part of the Technics. Plus it's never a bad thing to have an easily removable headshell to switch cartridges at the drop of a hat.
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Definitely food for thought if you're thinking of a budget deck. I agree that for the person who wants an attractive piece for home use, that the 1200 has too much of a pro look to it, and that might be a turn off for some audiophiles.
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And as far as the SL-1200 being designed as a DJ table, it was actually first introduced in 1972 as a HiFi deck. The MK2 model added an upgrade motor and pitch slider, and that was in 1979. You might think that's exclusively a DJ design, but it was rooted in HiFi.
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Hmm, I have heard that some people like the technics 1200, but it is designed for DJ's to "scratch".
For the money a Project would sound lightyears better. IMO.
Erin, the Linn Sondek does deliver good sound. I had the pleasure of listening to one fed to a pair of ESL-57s, it sounded great. However, the reason I didn't go with a Linn is because they're fiddly. The suspended deck needs to be tweaked and tuned up every six months or so. The people who love them don't mind, bit I wanted more of a "set it and forget it" table that doesn't need regular tweaking. The Planar 3 went tkgether fast and didn't need a single adjustment as long as I owned it. The Orbe needed a bit of tweaking and turning to dial it in, but hasn't needed anything since. I probably should change the oil and belt, but that's straightforward and doesn't involve spending a few hours carefully turning screws then checking for the platter bouncing evenly. So before you buy, be sure to check the maintenance and upkeep of a table. Vinylengine has forums where you can find detailed posts on a variety of decks with detailed maintenance and setup information.
Ok, you have put me in my place. I have heard a SL1200 a long time ago, and was not critically listening.
After doing much googling, it seems like the SL1200 has a strong following, and is apparently more than capable of audiophile quality sound even in stock form. I guess its popular with the DJ's because of its direct drive and solid build quality.
I did read on one of the Audiokarma forums that someone owned both a Rega with RB250 and a SL1200 and said that he thought the RB250 was a better arm which would retrieve more detail than the Technics arm. I actually have a TT with an RB250 and find it to be a great sounding arm and TT,
It certainly appears that the SL1200 would be more than adequate as a first TT. I now will endevor to find one to listen to, based on your recommendation. it will be an interesting experience. Anyway so I apologise for disputing your knowledge.
Though, to me, the apearance of the Technics is off putting, its the sound that matters in the end.
For someone willing to spend $1000 on new or used, I think a Linn Sondek would be in this price range (used) and would be hard to beat.
I own a 1200 among other tables, and I definitely agree that there are other tables out there which are superior, but for a price.
I'd be very curious to do a shootout of a Rega w/ RB-250 versus a 1200 with an RB-250. If for no other reason but to try.
So, in your opinion this is a gret table for the price?
Do these units have built in preamps?
It's not going to perform a sonic miracle, but for that price, nothing will!
How much are miracles going for these days?