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Would a Technics SL-1200 MK2 be an upgrade from a Denon DP-31L?

Hi all,

just wondering if this Technics turntable is superior to my current Denon for home audio use? The Denon is my first and only turntable, and it sounds great so I have no complaints, but I wasn't sure if the Technics would be even better. Especially considering the Technics is a DJ TT, which I don't have a clue if that makes a difference for my usage in a home audio setting.
Price isn't a factor because I'll only pick it up if I can work out some kind of trade for it (although the asking price is $400 in good working order with a new self grounding RCA board installed)

any my advice would be greatly appreciated!

thanks
hockey4496
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 

I would take a 27 lb. SL-1200MKII over a 13 lb. Denon DP-31L any day.  Especially with the aftermarket mods that are available such as those from KAB Acoustics, an SL-1200MKII can compete with decks costing much more.

There is a reason why the new SL-1200GAE is selling for $4000!  It is a direct descendant of the SL-1200MKII.

yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,764 posts
 
paraneer +1. Just try getting parts for the Denon," Rots O' Ruck".
czarivey
5,946 posts
 
Technics SL1200 wasn't designed as DJ turntable on the first place and fully suitable for hi-fi performance even stock as-is. With mods it will humiliate the top model of Rega or Pro-Jekt.

hockey4496 OP
104 posts
 
So that seem like a pretty unanimous consensus...as for the price- it's aesthetics are definitely a 4/10 at best (here it is: http://eastnc.craigslist.org/ele/5580637517.html ) but he says it works great.

what would be the lowest reasonable price I should expect to pay for one in this shape? Maybe $400 is it, but if I can haggle the price down I will certainly try...if I do get it, I need to know it was a steal, and not an average selling price (only way to justify it to the wife) :)
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