Direct Drive

@Mahler123 - time zone differences accounting for late reply. I'm not saying that the Technics is entry level. But given that you have had two pretty good turntables that didn't float your boat, I'm not sure a Technics 1500 will either and it's a very expensive way of accessing a handful of classical records not available on digital.

The reality is that digital hardware and software has improved very significantly in the last ten years, whereas analogue technology has plateaued to the extent that any improvements being made are largely at the bleeding edge of technology and price.

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.

@mahler123, I've owned a number of classic cars, so I get what you are saying. A few further comments... The new Technics designs are much better than the old "disco" 1200. As you already have a phono stage/s, I think its worth going for the SL1210GR. Regarding the digital comparison, I suspect you will like it's pitch stability and bass control compared to comparably priced belt driven designs. The turntable is superb in terms of its fit and finish and ergonomically, it's delightful to use. I previously owned a 1200G which replaced an SME 20. The SME was more neutral tonally but the Technics was more interesting to listen to. It has since been replaced by a Clearaudio - but it's an Innovation with professional PSU and Universal arm. That combination is in a different league to the Concept - as it should be at the price - and combines the best qualities of the SME and the Technics.

Congratulations, Mahler123. Really looking forward to your listening impressions when you get the deck - and the stylus upgrade is a good move.