Direct Drive

+1 on the 1200G - not certain about the other models but I hear they have nearly the same motor. Set aside funds for a phono pre-amp and a cartridge. The 2M is muffled like others have said and should be avoided. A 1000 or 100 with a Denon 103 would be a good match, but a good SUT would cost you as much if not more than the rest of the rig. I’ve heard good things about the Nagaoka MP 500 for a MM cart, but I have no real world experience. I listen to a like of big band which I expect requires the same characteristics as classical, and a fast cart is a must. If there is a weakness with the technics it’s the arm. I’ve compared a belt drive with a Groovemaster arm and the Technics with a stock arm, both running a Miyajima Zero on 78rpm’s, and the Technics still beats the BD, despite the arm.  

The Technics 1500's phono stage and Ortofon cartridge are really just "get you started" inclusions.

Compared to the Clearaudio concept, the Technics will sound like it has more "get up and go" but it is a bit ragged tonally in the midrange and treble - not really what you want for Classical music, particularly.

Unless OP has a large stock of vinyl albums, it's questionable as to whether getting an entry level (ish) turntable makes sense.

@yoyoyaya

I have no vinyl at present. There are about a dozen Lps that I am eyeing because they are not available digitally. Are you viewing the 1500 as entry level? And given that analog will always be a secondary source, I don’t really wants to spend into the stratosphere

Laugh all you like but a Vestax and Numark DJ deck are both very effective