Why Are Used Technics 1200/1210 MK2 Still So Expensive Compared to GR/GR2?


I’m in the market for a new Technics turntable, and I’m also looking at lightly used Technics models. One thing I’ve noticed: the older 1200/1210 MK2 units still sell for surprisingly high prices on the second-hand market, sometimes even comparable to or higher than the newer GR/GR2 models.

 

Why is that? Is it just nostalgia and reputation, or is there something about the MK2 that keeps its value so strong compared to the newer versions?

naish

Lewm,

Everything was the same, same cartridge, same electronics, only difference was changing from TT (a) to TT (b) and we did that as a blind test, meaning a friend was doing the changing and I did not know which one I was listening to.  So, yes the G is ever so slightly better sounding than a MKII that has had the full KAB mods.  Also, Kevin did the mods if that matters.  The difference between the two was subtle, but enough that I was able to consistently hear the change every time with no wrong outcomes.

 

would echo @billsteven comments. A couple of years ago took the exact same path. Had a 1200MK2 with all the KAB upgrades. Then bought a 1200G. Better speed stability than the mk2, better platter damping, better chassis damping better resolving power off the same record. All with same cart, phono cables and phono preamp. The G may appear to look the same as a 1200 mk2 but pretty different inside. And the platter is a brass and aluminum sandwich vs. the MK2 cast aluminum platter. the MK2 is a nice table but the G offers better sonic performance. And the SL-1000R is another notch up above the G. 

This discussion got me interested in the 1200G and a local dealer has one in stock.  I looked up reviews, and found Stereophile's Technics SL-1200G turntable | Stereophile.com.

As luck would have it, Stereophile compared it to a Garrard 301.  I have a 301 which I am fettling and since there was no clear winner, I will keep on with the 301 for now.

Recalling the discussion earlier in this thread on wooden plinths, I note that my 301 came mounted in an SME wooden plinth.  I have built an inner structure of thick MDF slabs separated by constrained layer damping.  The 301 mounting board floats on the inner structure, which in turn sits on three IsoAccoustics OREA Bordeaux isolation feet.  The SME plinth and integrated dustcover are air-gapped from the inner structure so preserving the original aesthetic while adding a lot of damping and isolation.