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. 

displayname

westcoastaudiophile, 

Can you provide a link?  My GAE arm tracks well, but it will no longer raise and lower at the back to adjust VTA for differing cartridge profiles.  It has been maintained IAW the recommendations provided in the manual and I am the original owner. 

All these technologies and all turntables marketed since, say, the early 60s, could be described as "old technology" re-packaged.

All I know is that @billstevenson  makes a valid point. Doesn’t matter if Technics service is top notch in Japan, because I’m not in Japan. Doesn’t matter if the distributor should take care of it, because it sounds like they didn’t. 
Should have, would have, could have doesn’t make it any easier to actually get it fixed. As someone going through a TT fix at the moment, I do have a new found appreciation for a US based company with excellent service. And thus far, Mofi’s service has been exceptional. 
 

It also has me rethinking amp choices as I go up the chain as well. 

VPI does have good support AFTER you've  purchased  their product. 

I bet Technics would at least offer a technical support service center location as a resource especially for a model still in production despite being out of warranty?

Regardless, if you end up going for a VPI or even that MoFi(when they drop the price of the MasterDeck due to lack of sales) it's a solid choice.

Turntable  madness is SO FULL of right/wrong and "authorities."

The LP pedigree is also a topic of endless discussion which IMO, is of equal importance.

I'm one of those best available period,original press weirdos. No audiophool/ re-release (except for unobtanium super rare) for me!

 

Post removed