I used to be a die hard belt drive guy. Ever since using the 1200G, they all seem like they are missing something. Unless you spend say 20K for a good belt drive, they lack the the bite that is in real music that the direct drive and its speed stability and torque seem to provide. Many belt drives seem smoothed over in overall sound reproduction. It's all in what you like for sound. IMO the 1200G just offers a lot for the money. You can always put a different arm on if you so choose but for me, the stock is fine.
SOTA NOVA, HR-X VPI, Technics 1200G recommendations?
I am considering SOTA NOVA, used HR-X VPI and Technics 1200G TTs. I have an old SOTA STAR with vacuum, (and essentially a Jelco 750 arm-retipped Denon 103R) so I know its high quality and durability. Technics apparently has performance that far exceeds its $4000 price tag. For tonearms, I am down to Jelco 850M and old FR-64S. I am considering low compliance cartridges. For VPI, it would be JMW 12 or 3D. Changing the tonearms seems to be more of a hassle on VPI. What are your thoughts and recommendations?