Technics 1200 Critic Fremer Praises the newer 1200G

I have no idea how close Pioneer is to genuine SL 1200. I do not know which one would be genuine in the first place. There have been many SL 1200 models by now. There are even a few current ones, ranging from $1700 to more than double of that. I wonder if, in case Pioneer does not fare well when compared to the cheapest current Technics, it is even a fair comparison. It is almost 2.5 times cheaper. Compared to a current genuine expensive SL 1200 it is almost 6 (six) times cheaper. If the difference is obvious, is it Japan vs. China issue, "Pioneer clone" vs. "genuine Technics", or "more affordable" vs. "it costs a lot" issue? I do agree they look almost the same, but they do not seem to be in the same category at all.


For those who just read the thread, but have not had a chance to lay their hands on the Pioneer 1000, it is quite a substantial piece. Yes, you can feel it is not a million-dollar product, but it is put together quite well and screwed tight. If money is not an issue, I would go with Technics. If money was tighter, I would not mind buying Pioneer.

By the way, has anyone noticed that it is relatively hard to find these new Technics turntables for sale, not to mention for a listen? Or maybe I am looking at all the wrong places.

@neonknight  thank you for your correction. My mistake! Even though made in China the PLX looks, feels and sounds like a quality piece! At its price would you rather buy a Project or a Music Hall? I wouldn't! 

@chakster

What does it matter that Pioneer markets to DJs? The table is no less good for it. One might even argue that it’s benefited from it in the form of greater torque and mass over the 1200s. It also has a damped tonearm and detachable cables. Won’t find that on the old 1200s. Further, all the KAB mods can fit the PLX.

The 1200 didn’t originate as a DJ turntable but Technics was certainly selling them for that purpose by the time the MK5 arrived.

Hmmm....let me think...a brand new Pioneer with warranty for $700, or a beat up 1200 that’s been molested by a half dozen wannabe disc jockeys for $800+?...hmmm that’s a tough one...

Well, with all my reapect, i’m really tired about all that Technics talks on audiogon.

I’ve been using my pair of SL1210mkII for more than 20 years for my professional needs, it was modded to deliver much better sound that stock version. I’ve had SP-20 and still got my reference SP-10mkII. Nothing wrong with a DJ or broadcast turntables made by Technics. Worldwide DJ standard for professionals is Technics, not Pioneer or any other clone of Technics with some minor tweaks. Technics SL1200mkII has enough torque and nobody needs more torque. Companies like Vestax released higher torque dj turntables, but no one can beat Technics as this is the opriginal product with legendary status that all of them trying to copy. The marked was flooded when old SL1200/1210mkII and higher models were discontinued. But now Technics returned to the business with a great success, the SL1200GR is about $1700 new (Made in Japan quality) and finally suitable not only for DJs, but also for Audiophiles as an entry level to the new Technics sound. Also available SL1200G and GAE, SP-10R and SL1000R for the most demanding audiophiles.

And the more inportant in this thread:
The OP already bought a Technics, but some users talking about Pioneer for some reason. I just don’t understand it. KAB offers many inexpensive mods, including the one to dump the tonearm inside (which is the cheapest).

P.S. Pioneer made their DJ turntables when majority of the DJs are not into vinyl anymore, they are using vinyl controllers like serato/tracktor to play digital files. Some still play real vinyl. But for $1700 Technics with SL1200GR can satisfy both (audiophiles and vinyl deejays). Imagine the price for them on the used marked soon (at least 30% cheaper) and if you prefer Pioneer (made in china) then i don't know what to say.