What should I add next?

03-31-08: Autodexr
I tried going the KAB route with a Technics 1200 MK5. I finally took the pluge and got a VPI scout. There is no comparison between the two even with the upgrades...the Scout is just superior in every way. Trying to turn the Techincs into an audiophile table is like trying to upgrade a VW to a BMW M series. JMO

Your post never mentions whether you had the arm rewired or added the trough, or what cartridge(s) were used in each rig. The Technics is more vulnerable to mechanical noise and in-room vibration, so what it sits on is critical--more so than an isolated-by-design belt drive 'table. Unless the Technics is isolated properly it probably doesn't stand much chance, but when it is, it does.

I recommend upgrades to the SL12x0 in this order:
Headshell
Cartridge
Tonearm rewire
Fluid Damper
Brass cones platformed on isolated butcher block or Isonoe feet
phono stage
Amp?
Speakers. What are you using now? There are some killer $500 speakers out there now. I saw a review 3 yrs ago for some stand-mounted PSBs that were surprisingly linear.

Dear Jmoog08: IMHO and if I was you my first step should be a new Phonolinepreamp ( paramount importance and a huge improvement ), second step goes through a new speakers ( very important audio link too. ) and third step ( and not the last, I mean you need other additonal steps. ) forget about your 1200 TT and buy/try to find a Technics SP-10 MK2 that you can get second hand at very low price, this SP-10MK2 not only beats extremely easy the 1200 ( with all and any up grades. Don't waist your money and time there. Put your money where it counts more. ) but competes with many of the very top ( very expensive ones ) TTs out there.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

..there really is never and end. Instead of asking strangers/friends, go to live musical events of performances you really like, and understand what real music sounds like. After awhile, you will know what to alter in your system to sound like the real stuff.

No doubt live music is very best way and VPI is indeed better then Technics but living within your budget and educating youfelf about audio can be rewarding too. If TT is very prone to vibrations try a wall mount stand. Go to Lowes or Home Depot and get good shelf brackets and some screws found in the special draws for screws. I forget name of screws but they are two threaded sides one is pointed (like wood screw) one is flat. Screw flat side into shelf brackets (already has two holes) with some nuts (top/bottom)to secure. The pointed side up acts like an expensive brass cone isolator with shelf on top. Total investment is about $10 with a 3/4 plywood shelf.