So i'm sure you AK veterans have been asked this questions a thousand times, but I could really use your help. Its been 25 years since I spun any vinyl and my TT went by the wayside long ago. I have a Technics SU-8600 integrated amp and a pair of Epicure 3.0's. Human Speakers is building new drivers for them right now and going over the crossovers. So the SL-1200 sounds like a great TT, but I have read its is also a favored DJ TT. What do I need to look for in an SL-1200 if I go that way or what might be the consensus of another DD TT that I might consider? Thank you for your time and expertise.
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OMGCat!
Super Member
Definitely a bunch of threads on this and a bit of searching will get you good answers.
A quick way to scan ads would be to look for a dust cover and an original platter mat. Most DJ tables will have a slip mat and will go into a travel case so the dust covers are usually long gone by now.
Another good option would be an SL1800MK2. Same working parts but it’s a suspended table which tends to keep them in the home. They are usually much less expensive as well.
A quick way to scan ads would be to look for a dust cover and an original platter mat. Most DJ tables will have a slip mat and will go into a travel case so the dust covers are usually long gone by now.
Another good option would be an SL1800MK2. Same working parts but it’s a suspended table which tends to keep them in the home. They are usually much less expensive as well.
Thank you for the help! Whats your opinion on a 1700 MK2.
OMGCat!
Super Member
I don’t have any direct experience with the 1700MK2 but do know that there is a belt for the tone arm return which may need attention eventually. Also a plastic gear can crack leading to malfunctioning auto return.
Used to be a big deal but they are available again so it’s a DIY repair that’s been well documented here. I’d imagine they’d sound just the same as an 1800.
Don’t discount the earlier versions either. I’m listening to a 1700 as I type and like it just as much as the 1800MK2. You don’t get arm height adjustment but there are workarounds.
I personally like the suspended tables as my floors are bouncy and these seem to have no problem soaking it up without any of the noise making it to the speakers.
twiiii
Lunatic Member
Sl 1200 works really well with a medium compliance cartridge. Either MM or MC . I prefer the later Marks. If I could afford it I would buy a new one. I'm sure there will be deals popping up where people have purchased 1200 G or other versions and have decided to return to belt driven or that want more sophisticated arms. But some one who wants just a basic great TT thats what I would be shopping for. New, but pre-owned. If you do want a belt driven table finding a restored Thorens 125 or close cousins is a good choice. Maybe you want a VPI, they have units that will fit almost any. budget. Clear audio makes some great tables, too.
But if you are careful you really can't go to wrong with the SL 1200 series.
But if you are careful you really can't go to wrong with the SL 1200 series.
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paddypaws
Member
I have both a SL-1210mk2 and the SL-1700mk2. I'd say I cant tell them apart sound quality wise which is not surprising as they have the same platter, motor, motor drive board, and arm. I tend to use the SL-1700mk2 mostly as the auto arm return is such a convenient feature. As mentioned above, at 40 years old the arm return may need a bit of attention but its easy to replace the belt and the gear if required. The SL-1210mk2 with its solid base is built like a tank.
cafe latte
Addicted Member
Get either a sl1200mk2, mk3 etc or get the new GR or G all are amazing turntables as is the semi auto sl1500c. The older mk2 etc are great stock, but to become special they need minor mods like psu and arm damper (see Kabusa for all info and upgrade stuff).
Chris
With 3 million SL-1200Mk2 mfg shouldn't have a problem finding a good one. Don't entirely rule out DJ owned tables, "professional" DJs used them solely for mixing at home and never traveled. Like you many were used by consumers and were never "scratched". Do a search of prior SL1200 threads for lists of what to check for, you can download the owners manual from Vinyl Engine so that you will be familiar with the table. If you spot one on Craigslist with the original box/packing material/accessories/literature it's a pretty good sign the owner took better than average care of the table. In very good mechanical shape with minimal signs of use on average they will be selling in the $500-600 range, if listed for considerably less don't wait a week to go check it out, guaranteed it will be sold the same day it was listed.