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Technics SL1200MK2 Cartridge Discussion

Hi,

I'd like to have a thread on cartridges that work with the Technics SL1200MK series tables.

I want to buy a Technics SL1210MK2 (the new black version from Musicians Friend) and need a cartridge recommendation. I am using a Musical Fidelity A308CR preamp that has MM/MC capability. My amps are Bryston 7B ST's and I have a pair of B&W Signature 800's on the way to replace my N801's. The MF Preamp is rolled off on top and the system is very listenable for long lengths of time. I'd describe it as detailed, but not too bright.

I really want to try the Technics table as it is relaible and inexpensive ($400 shipped or less for a used table if I go the ebay route). Please do not try to talk me into a different table. I had a VPI Scout and Dynavector 20x (High output) that I sold because I just wasn't using it. I'd like to keep this cheap so that I have decent TT available when and if I want to use it.

What can you recommed for a cart? I'd like to keep $160 to $200 as a max and stay lower if possible. Here is what I am considering:

Denon 103 (not the R)
Denon 110
Denon 160

Audio Technica 440 MLa

Shure M97xe

I do not know what carts work well with the Technics tonearm. I know that it is light and some threads recommend a Sumiko headshell for the Denons. What do I need to know here before buying a table and cart.

Thanks.
tigerwoodkhorns
tjnindc
91 posts
 
First, my KAB mod 1200 arrived today. I can't wait to get home and take it for a spin. At Kevin's suggestion, I went with the Goldring 1022 GX. Of course, I'm already curious about other options.

Johnnyb53: Did you need to do much about the weight on the Denon's? I've heard that they can be kind of light for the Technics. Are you using the Sumiko headshell?
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
I never even bothered trying the stock headshell with the Denon. Even though my Technics headshell has a screw-in 4g weight to make it heavier, I took the advice of the sales rep at Acoustic Sounds and got the Sumiko. It's just a better headshell in every way--less resonant, more structurally rigid, much better lead wires and clips, and that totally cool azimuth adjustment. I figured the extra weight would also come in handy with the lower compliance rating of the Denon compared to the Ortofon and Shure carts I'd been using.

I consider the Sumiko the first step required in elevating the SL12x0's performance to reach its potential.
edo_musica
113 posts
 
Add Audio Technica AT150MLX MM cartridge


03-04-08: Tjnindc
First, my KAB mod 1200 arrived today. I can't wait to get home and take it for a spin. At Kevin's suggestion, I went with the Goldring 1022 GX. Of course, I'm already curious about other options.

I use a Audio Technica AT150MLX MM cartridge. Online
I found it almost 1/2 price of the ($400US) at an approved vendor.

As my KAB SL1210 is my first TT, I have no way to make comparisons. I am fortunate that my TT setup sounds just right to me in my system. I did bring it to a Audio group meet and listened on another system Tube AMP + big Audiokinisis floorstanders and it was favorably received.

My TT set up:
* Technics SL1210 MK5se (new), with KAB mods:
-Tonearm Fluid Damper
-Cardas tonearm rewire with add-on RCA Phono Plate
* Audio Technica AT150MLX MM cartridge
* SDS Isoplatmat + Herbie's Way Excellent II mat
* On a 3" oak? cutting board
* Graham Slee Gram Amp 2 SE phono preamp
* VenHaus Pulsar IC cables
* >TT used with a newish Denon AV Receiver and Tetra speakers + sub

Enjoy your turntables!

Ed
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Has anyone had humming issues on the phono stage with their Technics with the volume cranked up? I did not notice it when my Rega was hooked up. I'm about to start playing with the ground and whatnot.

Otherwise, the KAB modded 1200 is everything it's talked up to be! I'm hooked.

First spin: Grant Green, Idle Moment (180g)
Most recent spin: Stereolab, Emperor Tomato Ketchup
Ag insider logo xs@2x
drubin
3,274 posts
 
I'm sure this has been discussed, but let me raise it again. Is the SL1200 KAB genuine competition for belt-drive tables of the Linn/Spacedeck/Scoutmaster/Gyrodec/etc caliber? Can you put a Koetsu or good Benz or Dynavector on one and get good results? I ask this because the enthusiastic posters about the Technics seem to be first-timers in analog, or people getting back into it. I'm looking for some seasoned perspective.

Signed,

Linn Owner Looking for a Change
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