Technics 1200G vs VPI Forever Model One


This is a bit of a loaded question, and the Forever line is probably still too new, but I'm going to toss this out anyway. 

For backstory, I currently have a Mofi Ultradeck and it's treated me very well, but I'm starting to think about the next step and which piece I'd like to save for.

The Technics obviously has a legendary status, and is probably one of the lowest maintenance tables on the market. However they have become much more difficult to demo and you really have to purchase on blind faith that it will live up to expectations. The only time I've ever seen a 1200G was when I purchased my UD back in 2018 I demoed it alongside a 1200GR the dealer has one on display but I didn't get to hear it. That was before Technics scaled back to only higher volume dealers, which is somewhat annoying as a customer. But it's also the more affordable of the two options and I've also noticed the number of reviewers that continue to depend on the 1200G for their main systems. Obviously the option to quickly change headshells is part of the reason for reviewers, and that wouldn't really apply for me because I'm much more of a one cart type of person. But none the less, the 1200G sounds like a no brainer on paper. 

However, I've always loved the looks and sound of VPI tables. I've heard several over the past decade, and every time I've enjoyed the sound and performance regardless of surroundings system and cartridge. It also helps that I normally hear them in fairly high end systems with quality cartridges. Last weekend I also got to meet Mat Wiesfeld at SWAF and got to spend a solid amount of time evaluating the Forever Model One. I really liked the sound of the table, love the look, and the modular design is interesting but also might be annoying. But the upgradability and repair options does have a real appeal to it, especially when I think about long term upgrades. The ownership experience will not be as easy. Replacing belts, oiling bearings, manual belt speed changes, suspended design. While it certainly seems easier to own than the older unipivot arms, it will require more effort and TLC. But it does have a cool factor that I just don't get from the Technics, and the idea of upgrading speed controls and arms over time does sound cool. I also have more faith that VPI will continue to honor service well past the production period of the Forever One. I'm not sure I have that same faith in Panasonic once the 1200G is discontinued. 

Would love to hear thoughts from others on which direction you would go and what pushes you that way. 

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I don’t think you can go wrong either way, especially if you have no particular preference for one type of drive system vs the other (Direct Drive vs Belt Drive). They really are quite different in their advantages and disadvantages. But otherwise, follow your heart. One thing though, you wrote, "I also have more faith that VPI will continue to honor service well past the production period of the Forever One. I’m not sure I have that same faith in Panasonic once the 1200G is discontinued." You’ve got to be kidding. Panasonic (aka Technics) have been around as a company for more than 50 years, and that only counts their years in the TT business. Panasonic is one of the biggest businesses that still dabbles in audio, and I wager the 1200G series alone has sold more units than any other lineup in the world, not to mention all the very popular TTs sold under the Technics name since the 1970s. On the other hand, VPI is a family business, albeit a very successful and robust one. But its existence depends on the Weisfelds alone.

I see on line that there is an ADS motor controller available as an option on the VPI.  I highly recommend that you budget for the ADS along with that turntable, if you go in that direction.  Motor controllers make a huge difference (upgrade) for a BD turntable.

2 different "sound signatures."

Technics will be speed accurate over the VPI.

The 1300G has most of the 1200G and is less "DJ" looking. Get bored and put a nicer arm for another step up in performance.

I would be comfortable with either for long term use.

Longtime VPI Classic user.

If you REALLY like VPI aesthetic, save a little more dough for a used HW40 DD. If you look around, they can be had for $10K or less.

The new VPI to me appears overpriced for what you're getting. Haven't heard one, so not really  qualified to give a solid opinion on it. 

If you're set on choosing between the 2, go with your gut. 

Upgrade to a next level phonostage if you haven't already to make either choice perform  its best.

 

 

Upgrade to a next level phonostage if you haven’t already to make either choice perform its best.

Thank you, I forgot to add my other associated equipment. I meant to do that. 

I currently have a Hana ML on the Ultradeck, and I will likely carry that onto either new table. That runs into a Bob's Devices Sky 20-S and then a Sutherland 20/20 w/LPS. 

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