ok cool, i'll check out the 1200gr for around 2k. however, the 1210 m5g does have better tonearm wiring and phono cable as well as an improved tonearm...
- ...
- 153 posts total
I don't own a 1200 GAE but I listened to one for about half an hour in a store. I don't have much of an opinion about the sound since I heard it mostly on planar speakesr that a different sound than what I am used to. Also, it had a new cartridge that only had an hour or so on it. I do own a modified 1200 MK2 with an Archomat mat, isonoe footers, KAB fluid damper and good AT and Sumiko headshells. I didn't have to listen for more than 30 seconds to realize that the GAE is superior to the 1200 MK2. The greater clarity, richness of the sound and texture were what I noticed first. Visually, it appears to be much better built than the older models. As it should considering the price! A number of people have made comments online implying that it is overpriced and a ripoff by Technics. Seeing how (and where) it is made, it seems to be reasonably priced to me. Personally, I like knowing that this is made in Japan, made according to their traditions and not outsourced to some sweatshop in China. Do I wish they had chosen another design? To be honest, yes. I bought my 1200 MK2 originally as a stopgap after my Thorens table broke and couldn't be repaired. I didn't like the looks of the 1200 at first but it has grown on me over the years. I don't find the looks of the SP 10 to be more attractive, in any case. I am sure it could be improved by adding a much more expensive arm. Sound can always be improved-or at least altered-by spending more money on different things Personally, I don't think the arm that is on it now is so shabby. I would use it for awhile before I thought about replacing it. Still I would love to hear one with a Triplanar or SME! |
@dave_72 ok cool, i'll check out the 1200gr for around 2k. however, the 1210 m5g does have better tonearm wiring and phono cable as well as an improved tonearm... It's the same tonearm. Rewing of the stock Technics cost under $25 for Cardsa tonearm wires and about $70 for external cable if you choose the same Cardas 33awg + RCAs of your choise for a bit extra. The mk5 belongs to mk2 family, but the GAE is not and that's why the price difference is so big. |
@andysf I don’t find the looks of the SP 10 to be more attractive, in any case. Really? Maybe the stock technics obsidian plinth is not attractive at all, but if you put your SP-10mk2 in a good wooden plinth (like i did with mine, click here) it does looks much better and can accept any king of tonearm including "12 inch. |
- 153 posts total