Thank you.
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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Looks like the price on the VPI Forever One is jumping up to $5850, so $600 above the initial release. Some dealers still have it posted at the original $5250, but that's enough of an increase to factor it in. $1500 price point between the two is significant. I still think the VPI is a long term stronger offering, but that is a big price gap. I'm also still curious to see where they go with the Forever Series as well. We'll see what happens as units start to show up with dealers. |
@displayname Have you decided? Which one did you went with? I had the same dilemma a month ago which one would be a good upgrade/sidegrade from my VPI Prime with a Soundsmith Zephyr MiMC cart. I almost went with the VPI forever model one but have realized I want to streamline and eliminate boxes of gears at the moment and went with the 1200G with an ART9XA cartridge. I went blind for both tables but i love how fast to setup the 1200g and the motor is silent. I have to isolate my motor on my vpi prime as it gets feedback on my cartridge with it’s vibration. |
I haven’t pulled the trigger yet. We’ve got a big trip coming up in the fall so I’m going you wait until we return to pull the trigger. Plus that will be my 40th, so easier to justify spoiling myself. However, the more I think about it, the more I lean towards VPI. I’ve just always loved those tables, and I know that if I go with something else, I’ll probably still be wanting a VPI. It’s just that simple sometimes. |
@displayname Get the VPI Forever Model One. Another option is the direct drive HW-40 which can deliver near reference level sound. If cost is a factor with the HW-40 look for a show model or dealer demo, purchasing a used turntable is very risky. |
- 95 posts total