" Because it is not necessarily the case that a tube-based power supply will make for a better sound compared to a solid state one. I for one have my doubts. Very often these days model changes are merely a device for raising prices."
The only thing that can be said to be true about "new" is that it's different somehow. There is no entitlement attached to that word.
Statements that can be true or also be false. At least till the proof comes along to shift it to one or the other. Right now , its just speculation on all sides . Tube based power supplies for turntables like Brinkmans is proof they can be done and done for the better, so its plausible it could improve the 1201's performance in a phono section..... but....it still remains to be heard on this specific product. What the OP said about it being just " a little more expensive ", does create more speculation as well. That is one of two things this hobby has far too much of. Speculation and hype....but I guess they compliment together so well ...