Technics 1200 Critic Fremer Praises the newer 1200G

I recently decided to treat myself with a retirement turntable that I could live with without further upgrades.  I had a Marantz TT 15S1, made by Clearaudio.  The Marantz was a very nice budget table, but I've heard enough better tables to want an upgrade.

I bought the Technics SL 1200G a few months ago, and that was IMO the best choice as my last table.  The weight of the sound matched the other great tables I've heard and wanted.  No more belts.  I can clearly hear the speed stability on sustained piano.  Super easy to setup and operate.  I love being able to swap head shells to use different carts.  History suggests it won't break.  Worth every penny. 

Serious shoppers hopefully aren’t so shallow that they avoid the 1200G because it looks like a cheaper version. I never owned one of the older Technics 1200 machines, but I was certainly aware of what they were, and what the quality level was.

I had no trouble understanding that the new 1200G was quite different and worth the price. Buying it based on its merits at its price was an easy decision for me. I’m also not hung up on looks as much as I want functionality and quality. My electronics are ugly but they work best for my system. I’m not trying to impress anybody, but I do like the high level of fit and finish on this table.

Anyone who avoids the new 1200G because of its looks is only missing out on a great option. Those who are blind to the improvements and think Technics has priced this new table too high aren’t really potential buyers and just like to throw mud.

Fremer correctly suggests that Technics couldn’t have brought this table to market for "only" $4,000 if they had to craft a totally new design.