Does anybody have experience with the Denon VL12 Zu Audio is selling?

I’m familiar with Pro-Ject, i think it’s crazy that belt drive cost as much, if you like the look of the Denon you can definitely try it. I’m a big fan of Zu Audio as i use their Druid speakers. On the shows they are using Luxman PD-444 turntable, this is what i have. Regarding Denon my favorite is DP-80. You can ask people at Zu about their Denon mods, they are always very helpful.

But for that Denon tonearm you definitely need a decent MM cartridge, not Zu Denon 103 low compliance MC with conical tip.

If you can pay more go for used technics SL1200GR instead of Denon

It is actually a Denon with some Zu Audio mods. They are dealing with Denon because they sell Denon cartridges. 

I remember when Zu Audio offered Technics SL1200 mk2 MOD long time ago. It was a nice version with Audiomods tonearm. Look here.

They know what they're doing, so the Denon must be nice and definitely better than those cheap belt-drive turntables like Pro-Ject. 

Not sure if they can offer 60 days return for Denon, but for any Zu Audio products they're offering 60 days return with full refund. 

Try it!  

I think DL-103 stock (or from Zu) is better for superheavy tonearms like Fidelity-Research 64s and related.

That models Denon tonearm is for mid compliance cartridges (like everything today). 

The only Denon in my arsenal is DP-80 and it's absolutely amazing reference class Direct Drive turntable. The price for this DP-80 is affordable on used market. DA-401 tonearm is great too! 

An alternative to everything NEW is some killer vintage DD turntables.