Who Has the New Top Technics SL1200GRE? Does it blow your other expensive tables away?

@audiotroy............

Most of my displeasure with both VPI turntables had to do with the unipivot arm. It was way too fiddly. It was constantly having to be readjusted and it wore me down. My wife was very intimidated by the Prime and wouldn’t play any of her records. I bought the Technics after reading reviews and based on my experience of owning one which I bought new from Tech Hi Fi in the 70’s. This time around I was more concerned with the ease of use than anything else.

I was was very surprised that the new Technics beat my VPI on sound quality! I have since added the Oracle hard mat and a HRS record weight, both on the recommendation of fellow Audiogoner nkonor. As for the Rega, I had a Rega Planer 3 which was purchased from Natural Sound and never liked it. At the time of ownership, I felt my digital sounded better. I believe I had a Linn K9 Cartridge On it and later a Blue Point Special. The build quality was poor compared to the VPI HW19 MK III that I bought to replace it   The Technics table I have now is the last table I will own. Actually, the current configuration of my main system is done as well. After 50 years of buying and selling, I am satisfied.

@stereo5 

I'd recommend trying a peripheral clamp added to the use of the center weight.  I use both with my SL1200G (Stillpoints center and homebrew outer), and the sum is definitely better than either part in my experience.  I think you will like what you hear.

@stereo5 

Where in the US can I purchase the Oracle hard mat?

Thank you

I ordered mine from Adirondack Audio in Queensbury, NY.  They are both an Oracle and Technics dealer.  The price was $195.00 plus shipping and sales tax. Received it within 10 days of ordering. 

I have a 1200 GR I love it! It replaced an aging P3-2000w/ Dynavector10x5. Running the 1200GR with a Yamamoto HS4 carbonfiber headshell  and Dynavector 20xl 2 and Mobile Fidelity superweight. I don't have the G, the GR is fine with me. I originally was interested in the Oracle Origine, but I realized my tweaking days are over. Too much fiddling,By the way, stereo5 I also bought from Adirondack Audio, they are nice folks!