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Upgrading Technics 1200 Tonearm under $1000

My analogue setup:
  • AT9 cartridge
  • Herron vtph-2a stage
  • Bryston 4b3 amp
  • Bryston Model T Sig speakers
  • Moon Neo 350P pre
  • Technics 1200mkII

I upgraded the Technics with the obligatory fluid dampening technology - a must for anyone listening at higher volumes. Wires are upgraded to the cardas all purchased from KAB! I also stripped the tired silver paint and painted the plinth a pearl white. The tonearm is the only piece left to update! I'm struggling with the amount of choices out there that is easy to set up. I looked at the Rega RB330 as a possible candidate but I'm open to other suggestions.
joyofsound
big_greg
6,623 posts
 
The most impactful mod I've made to my SL-1200 MK2 was upgrading the feet. These are the ones I have, but there are other options - https://www.mnpctech.com/products/technics-sl-1200-sl-1210-turntable-isolation-feet-four

After that, using Zupreme headshells.  

I also put some fo.q tape on the tonearm and have the fluid damper and rca cable mod. The table came with the rca mod, so I can't speak to how much sonic difference that made, but it's nice to be able to use better cables than stock.  
knollbrent's avatar
knollbrent
521 posts
 
New Technics MK7 is under $1000 and comes with a nice arm. Then buy some carts. 
joyofsound OP
25 posts
 
Very good ideas here, but surprised how the AT-Art9 MC is getting no love.
mads1's avatar
mads1
87 posts
 
Great suggestions, thank you sharing!
williewonka
3,075 posts
 
@joyofsound - Audiomods - email jeff - he can make you a base for mounting his arms  on a 1200

They perform way above their modest price point
- Probably the last arm you will ever buy.

I have the older Series 3 classic with the micrometer VTA and the one piece harness with KLEI Harmony plugs - to my TT to a whole new level of performance - awesome

A friend had the Series 5 on his 1200 and he loved it

Regards

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