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Technics SL 1200 GR

Hi everyone,

I know that a lot of you might think I am crazy but it is what it is.  I heard a Rega Planar 6 play a few days ago and was totally mesmerized with the sound. This will be my first TT and I am the type that prefers to buy the best I can instead of starting small, selling and upgrading. I have to admit, I do enjoy fiddling with upgrades but the idea is to get a future proof turntable and upgrade stuff like cartridges, etc along the way.  

Before you recommend that I get the P6, its simply out of my budget. I could consider the P3 if you believe its better than the SL 1210 GR (not the latest model 2 but the original one). 

Anyway, here are some questions I was hoping you'd be able to help me with:

  • What will a good starter Cartridge?
  • Should I go for MM or MC? Is one more complicated to install than the other? prefer something simple as its my first time.  Also, I read stuff like LO and HO.. For what ts worth, I will be using my Marantz PM Ki Ruby's built in phono (I believe it can handle both MM and MC, I could be wrong).
  • Anything else I should keep in mind?  Basic products for maintenance? 

Thanks in advance for your help. I appreciate it!

prashanth14485

Showing 6 responses by lalitk

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,785 posts
 

“the idea is to get a future proof turntable”

I hate to say it but SL1200 is not something I would consider a future proof TT. If you want to dip your toes into record playback, go ahead with SL1200. If you’re the type that prefer the best then you need to budget around $5K. Alternatively, look for used bargains on TT’s.

A good analog setup requires serious commitment and $$$$.

My reference for start up cartridge is Hana ML MC Cartridge - $1200. Your built-in Marantz phono EQ would suffice for now but eventually you may end up upgrading to a better phono. When I started with analog few years back, I was pleasantly surprised by modestly priced Parasound ZPhonoXRM - $249. It was so easy to use and sounded incredibly good with a $3K TT and Hana ML Cart.

Basic products for cleanup….depends on whether you’re digging records through bargain bins at local thrift stores or buying new records 😊

Be patient and soak in all the advise coming your way from some of the experienced members here and then plan your purchase.

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,785 posts
 

“what do you think are the shortcomings of the SL 1210 GR?”
@prashanth14485

Nothing major other than being limited on upgrade path. Other than cartridge, there isn’t much you can do in terms of upgrading the SL. If you own a good turntable, you can always get a meaningful upgrade from upgrading the tonearm and isolation feet or platforms. But that’s getting into deep $$$$ territory which can be explored later when you have a bigger budget. 

Check out the Hana S MC Cart -$750.

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,785 posts
 

@prashanth14485

As daunting it may seem but Installing cart is relatively an easy task. Don’t over tighten the screws..lol. Here are couple of must own accessories that will make your life easier, both of these accessories are available from Elusivedisc.com

1) Audio Additives Digital Stylus Force Gauge 
2) Nasotec Headshell Lead Tweezers

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,785 posts
 

@prashanth14485

Congratulations on SL1200. If you find Marantz phono inadequate, check out my recommendation on Parasound phono. This phono will drive pretty much any cart out there, I paired it Hana ML. 

https://parasound.com/products/zc-zphonoxrm

 

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,785 posts
 

@prashanth14485

You’re a bad influence bud! I may buy this for shits and giggles :-)

https://youtu.be/V6o2G5N_R8w?si=os0qrP2VDWXIPson

 

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,785 posts
 

@prashanth14485 

What cart and phono you end up buying? 

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