recommendation for a high end analog system

The only thing with TP with SOTA is that the counter weight sticks out and the dustcover won't close while playing.

@mijostyn

bkeske, I also have a high output Soundsmith I am dying to hear.

I bought the high output Zephyr before I got my phono pre (when setting up my Sapphire for the first time) that I know can drive a low output cart. I love my Zephyr, but am really considering the MIMC Lo version of the Zephyr now. Or perhaps step-up on the Soundsmith line with one of Peter’s other Lo output offerings.

chungjh, you really do not want to consider a different turntable. Once you are use to the bullet proof performance of the Sota and it’s top notch isolation you will be unhappy with most other turntables including all of the VPIs. The Sota may not be the fanciest looking table out there but darn does it work well.

I agree whole heartedly

A lot of people are raving about 1200G. How long have had it and how durable is it?

Where you’ve been? You must be kidding, are you from another planet or what? Technics made killer turntables since the late 60’s. Technics motor used at Neumann cutting lathe. SP10 mk2 and mk3 are the best. Technics will last forever, this is one of the most durable turntables of all time. Their new G or GR are great for the money when someone looking for plug and play turntable (without upgrades). The tonearm is great! 

Looking for something better? The SP10R is the answer. Best Technics tonearm? The EPA-100 mk2 is the answer. 

To be clear, I am not necessarily pushing for the Triplanar over all the other very good tonearms also mentioned by others.  There is not a loser among them.  For me, not being able to close the cover (a potential issue with the Triplanar/SOTA combo, apparently) would be a non-issue, since the first thing I do with tt covers is to store them out of sight in my basement.  Also, I would not advocate for a SOTA without the Eclipse motor and motor control upgrade. this is based on my ~10 year experience with my Star Sapphire III.  It was only after selling it and replacing it at that time with a Nottingham Analog Hyperspace and a Walker Audio Precision Motor Controller that I came to appreciate that the SSIII suffered a bit from speed instability audible on decay of piano tones. The Eclipse option should raise the SOTA to a level of speed stability way above that of my old Hyperspace/Walker combo. Enough said.

@lewm 

Don't you have the Technics SP10 MK3? How does it compare with MK2 or 1200GAE? There is a big price differential.