Technics 1200 Critic Fremer Praises the newer 1200G

The Pioneer PLX will certainly keep up with a used 1200. I've handled both and the Pioneer actually felt like the higher quality table. It even had less visible platter runout. But don't take my word for it (or that of any YouTube amateur), compare them yourselves.

The 1200G is in a whole other league for reasons that Fremer clearly pointed out. 

@chakster

What does it matter that Pioneer markets to DJs? The table is no less good for it. One might even argue that it’s benefited from it in the form of greater torque and mass over the 1200s. It also has a damped tonearm and detachable cables. Won’t find that on the old 1200s. Further, all the KAB mods can fit the PLX.

The 1200 didn’t originate as a DJ turntable but Technics was certainly selling them for that purpose by the time the MK5 arrived.

Hmmm....let me think...a brand new Pioneer with warranty for $700, or a beat up 1200 that’s been molested by a half dozen wannabe disc jockeys for $800+?...hmmm that’s a tough one...

@chakster

At no point in this thread has the OP yet mentioned that he bought a Technics.

HR of Stereophile conducted side by side tests of a mkii 1200 and PLX-1000, using the same carts. His conclusion is that they're equals in performance. So other than the 1200’s proven track record of reliability, there’s little reason to not consider the PLX over a Technics in that price range. Then consider that the only 1200s you’ll find for $700 anymore will be ones that have had a rough life, so cosmetically damaged that they’re not really worth modding.

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve handled both decks and there’s absolutely nothing that indicates a mkii 1200 is of better quality, If anything, it’s the other way around. If you’ve experienced the PLX as you claim, you’d know this as well. I think you continually lambaste the Pioneer as you do because deep down you know it’s the equal of your precious 1200s.