Cartridge for Technics SL-1200G or SL-1200GR

sleepwalker65:
With a virtually identical tonearm to the SL-1200G, there are very few improvements to be found in the SL-1200G over the SL-1600mk2.

I've been using the SL-1600mk2 with my rec room systems for a very long time.  Back in the day I had two hooked up my Rodec mixer, but gave one away.  Looking back, I wish I'd kept it :-).

I'm now using the 1600 in my new listening room.  The SL-1200G will replace it, and it will go back to the rec room.  I even considered buying another 1600 from eBay for my listening room, simply because I love having a fully automatic turntable. 

I settled on the G because it's new, and paired with the right cart, I do expect improved SQ.  I also settled on the G because almost every reviewer and user gives it such high marks.  I plan to add KAB fluid damping; and better RCA and power cables.  And then sit back and enjoy the music.

On the other hand, you would find the older SL-1200mk2 to be quite inferior to the SL-1600mk2 because it has no isolation of the plinth from the base, which is nestled in a rubber enclosure on rubber feet.

Agreed! The older SL1200s have appearance only in common with the new SL1200G and GR, which are entirely different construction from the ground up. It is easy to confuse that the two must be the same animal with maybe some slight tweaks, but that isn't the case.

@oldschool1948  I think you have made a good decision.  I am very happy with my 1200G.  I did hear improvements with a different mat and IC.I use a Hana EL along with a Denon 103.

I have those KAB fluid dampers on both of my upgraded SL1210mkII, the biggest improvement was not the KAB dampes, but a Technics 205c mk4 cartridge i have tried for a first time about 5 years ago. You may need a fluid damper for high compliance cartridges, but definitely not for low compliance cartridges. Also the damper collect dust all the time, i have removed mine today for cleaning. Better cartridge makes a HUGE different on this turntable, the dampers are not.

As for the classic SL1210mkII that you’re calling inferior compared to automatic SL1600, simply add Isonoe Footers and SAEC SS-300 mat and the problem is solved.

For a half price of the new SL1200G everyone can buy a Luxman PD-444 turntable designed for two tonearms. It’s a king of turntables made by Micro Seiki. Technics is a little toy compared to Luxman PD-444, almost any tonearm can be mounted on Luxman ("9, "10.5, "12 inch).

Our @brentknoll just bought one for $2k including shipping from Japan to USA and this is amazing price! Not to mention spare armboards supplied by that japanese seller. The price is very low compared to Technics SL1200G or GR. Luxman is state of the art turntable and does not require any mods. 

@chakster , there are huge differences between SL-1600 and SL-1600mk2. SERVO vs Quartz locked PLL, damping, adjustability of tonearm height, etc.  Then you need to know that the SL-1200mk2 is a simplified version of the SL-1800mk2 variant, which was developed alongside the 1600mk2 / 1700mk2 / 1800mk2, but with a rubber base instead of spring suspension to stand up better to rough handling and being shipped. The downside to the rubber base is poor isolation from shock and vibrations.