Just how good is the Technics SL-1200?

A KAB USA modded SL-1200 with a Dynavector 17D3 is a killer turntable. The ultimate would be with a stock Shure V15VxMR cartridge, but they've long been discontinued and the JICO SAS replacement styli changes (brightens) the sound dramatically. The Audio Technica AT150MLX is also an excellent cart for it but is too bright at 47kΩ. I use all 3 carts on mine.

For speed stability, ease of use, and reliability the SL1200 is incredible. Get some mods done (fluid damper, new wire, and power supply) and I doubt you'll find a significantly better sounding table. I actually find no fault with the stock arm as long as it has upgraded wire and the KAB fluid damper. There is an ideal amount of "play" in the headshell for azimuth adjustment (if you need more, there's something wrong with your cartridge). There's repeatable VTA adjustment. The VTF and anti-skate adjustments are extremely accurate and reliable. Being able to swap headshells is invaluable (especially for mono and 78 RPM carts). I've had two other "high end" belt drive tables, and I'm never going back. Did many needle drop comparisons with the same cart and phono stage. Zero difference in audio quality. However, the Technics speed stability was better, was quieter, and tracked better! It's just not very pretty compared to other turntables. Don't judge it's performance on aesthetics. I have a fully modded KAB SL-1210M5G. Set up with a Mint LP Best Tractor. EAR 324 Phono Stage.

Dave_72: Actually the AT150MLX measures about +7dB (max) above 10,000Hz at 47kΩ/120pF. So, technically it is a bright cart at it's recommended loading. But, it's a great one nonetheless. It'll test near flat at 15kΩ/570pF and listening tests support this. This is through an EAR 324 phono stage.

Dave_72: Actually the AT150MLX measures about +7dB (max) above 10,000Hz at 47kΩ/120pF. So, technically it is a bright cart at it's recommended loading. But, it's a great one nonetheless. It'll test near flat at 15kΩ/570pF and listening tests support this. This is through an EAR 324 phono stage.

How exactly does the turntable have an effect on the soundstage? Please exclude te wiring, the cartridge, and the phono stage. Just the turntable. In my experience, the table is not the deciding factor in things like that. The only difference I can hear between tables is noise and speed stability.

Learsfool- I understand what you're saying. I'm am simply reporting that in my tests that I cannot detect any musical qualities that contribute either positively or negatively when comparing an SL-1200 with the same wiring, cartridge, phono stage via needle drops. That way I was able to go back-and-forth between recordings instantly to hear any differences. It's taken me years to do this and honestly, the musical differences just aren't there in a way that I can even convince myself of. I don't have perfect ears, but I know what to listen for. Changing a cart, a phono stage, a A/D converter (I've done many of each)... I can hear that. But, this is the reason why I love my Technics so much: it's sound (if it has one) is inconsequential. Only the technical aspects were noteworthy. And those were BETTER speed stability than a belt drive, BETTER tracking of sibilants (with my Dynavector 17D3/ Mint LP BestTractor Stevenson alignment, KAB Fluid Damper), LOWER noise, especially towards the center of the record, with the KAB Power Supply.
Add the fact it has the physical qualities that make playing records a joy: adjustable VTA, azimuth, detachable headshells with optional 4g weight, pitch control, platter braking, 78RPM, self leveling feet, easy and accurate VTF and anti-skate adjustments, etc. It just everything I want it to do, sounds amazing too. It's just... an ugly, mass produced TT and not for the people who demand beauty in design. I had to be honest with myself and let the sound and the performance speak for itself. I don't regret dumping my higher end gear. I've done my homework and I feel ended up with a better turntable.