How much am I missing with SL1200 mk2?

Everyone's going to give you a completely different answer. And the motivation's behind the answers will be different, especially since your current TT is pro gear. If you want the right answer, borrow a TT to try in your system or bring your TT to a store where you can try it next to something else.

"I've heard good things about the Denon. However, my built in phono stage is suited best for MM or high output- ruling the 103 out. Correct me if I'm wrong."

Yes. Unless you can bypass the internal phono stage, you'll need to use a MM or a HOMC.

"I'm jealous of you that have shops that are willing to loan gear, etc. I'm surprised it's not the case in my hood. Maybe someday!"

If you live in the US, you can always use The Cable Company. They will send you demo units of anything they carry before you commit to a purchase.

Can you bypass the internal phono stage in the 1200?

"09-08-15: Uncledemp
Hi, the phono stage is in my Anthem integrated. But I see your point. The answer is yes, I can change the phono stage by adding one between the Technics and the Anthem via Aux input."

I wasn't suggesting that you bypass the phono stage in your Anthem. That should work just fine for your needs. The TT itself has a built in phono stage, and if you can't bypass it for some reason, you can't use the one in the Anthem, or any other one in between. You'll have to plug the TT directly into a line level input on your integrated. If you can't use the phono stage in the Anthem, I would consider a different TT. But that's just my opinion, and I know many people really like the 1200, so I understand why they want to keep it.

I have 2 of them. Whatever version of the 1200's I have, I know they have a built in phono stage.

"09-06-15: Uncledemp
Chayro,

I've heard good things about the Denon. However, my built in phono stage is suited best for MM or high output- ruling the 103 out. Correct me if I'm wrong."

To me, that sounds like he was referring the built in stage on the TT.

All I can tell you is that the ones I have, come with a built in phono stage. I plugged one of them directly into a line stage and played a record. Maybe they were modified with after market parts, or are knock offs. I live in NY, anything like that is possible. I should have mentioned before that I pulled them out of a DJ booth. My family owns several night clubs and that's how I ended up with them. Maybe they make a DJ version with a phono pre. They don't have a regular head shell that you would mount a regular cart on. Its some type of quick connect setup.

I can do better than post pics. If anyone wants them, they can have them. They're not that old and in very good condition. I'll never use them and would rather give them to someone that would. As soon as I get back to NY, I'll pull them out of the closet and post back when it would be OK to pick them up.