Upgrading Technics 1200 Tonearm under $1000

@chaksterThe Russian would have a good idea.

My idea is to keep the stock arm and concentrate on cartridge!
Or to sell this turntable and to buy SP-10 mkII with unlimited choice of tonearms (except for ’9 inch arms).

With SL1200 mkII your choice is very limited because of the pivot to spindle distance, forget about Rega tonearm. If you can find used Audiomods try this, but there are some nice vintage Japanese tonearms that you simply can’t use on SL1200 mkII.

Detachable headshell is amazing option! Stock arm is so easy to adjust quickly when you swap carts/shells. 

You should try some killer vintage MM on this arm, something like Grace LEVEL II and SAEC SS-300 mat on Technics platter.  

I've  moved from the vintage AT150 to the MC AT Art9. I hear more instruments clearly and proper separation. My age and hearing isn't what it was so that could be suspect. However, I do know what to expect from my vinyl music library. To be honest, the ART9 is quieter, perhaps forgiving on older vinyl. All in all, I'm happy with the current set up but I always thought there is some improvements to be made on this TT, in an effort to make the highs pop crystal clear. It already delivers a dynamic stage but there seems to be a very thin veil that needs to be peeled away. 

You you have no interest in different cartridges and willing to upgrade SL1200mk2 then extrrnal power supply is what you can do before upgrading the arm. Also Isonoe feet (available in silver or black).


Look for Jelco tonearm, it’s popular upgrade and armboards available. 

easiest tonearm upgrade would be SL1200MK4 titanium arm