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

In my opinion, the G series turntables are far superior to the non-G older turntables, so there is no earthly reason why they should sell at a premium compared to a G series, even assuming what you say is true.

The demand for a clean 1200 MK2 is still high driving up the prices. They are so robust they will run for a long time. Plus KAB offers so many upgrades for the new and old 1200 series, you can really improve the sonics for not a lot of coin. The big advantage of the GR2 over the earlier mk2 models is better speed control. (don't forget the stylus riding the grooves is constantly changing the torque required to maintain constant platter speed). If you can stretch a bit, the newer 1300G model is a nice step up from the GR2. Regardless of which you buy you should consider getting the KAB arm dampener and arm resonance cap. 

IF I ever got a Technics, I would add a wood surround to it. These fit the 120, 1200, 1210,

Do they also fit, or are there any that fit the G, GR, 1300 models?

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/wood-surround-for-audio-technica-at120-technics-1200-and-technics-1210

Called a Plinth. 

The G series have an entirely new coreless motor with better electronics to control it, a better damped platter, and a stiffer chassis, compared to the earlier SL1200 based TTs. The tonearms are also probably upgraded. KAB is a great company that offers worthwhile accessories, but such bits will not bridge the gap between the older TT s and the G series. However if the criterion is whether you can buy a wood surround for your Technics, then all bets are off.

You don’t need the KAB accessories for the 1200G that came out in 2017 or the newer GR versions. There is a big difference the the older versions and newer ones since 2017.  Even though they may look the same, they are worlds apart. My 1200G is 40 pounds.  The plinth is made from 4 different materials with a heavy aluminum top plate.  Why would you put it in a wood plinth?  If you want wood, buy another brand.  The table has excellent isolation properties and it totally blows away the VPI Prime with 3D arm I was using prior to the 1200G. 

I just scored a 1200 MK2 for €450—wasn’t really planning on it, but couldn’t resist. Really curious to see how it performs! The idea is to give it a spin, then eventually sell it and move up to a 1300G.

@stereo5 + 1 - I've had a 1200G for about 4 or 5 years now, and it's wonderful (though I wish the black one had been available then); currently have a Hana Umami Red cart in it.... 

I have a 1200 MK2 that I purchased new in 2005. I would consider my system as better than big box store but certainly not up to the lofty standards of most systems discussed here.

In my estimation, the old 1200 MK series have a well-deserved reputation for being virtually bullet proof and hitting a great price/performance target, Mine has proven to be totally reliable for twenty years now. Can one do better? Certainly. But it fills my needs as for as performance. Dead quiet, inaudible wow/flutter and rock steady speed control.

The question was whether the G series is any better than the older look alike series. No one said the older TTs were bad or deficient in any way that an average user would complain about. I would bet in fact that Technics sold more of those SL1200s and all its variants than any other company sold any other DD TT. That is definite proof of success. Now comes the G series that are better in most ways.

@larsman ,  I bought mine in 2018 from Adirondack Audio up near Lake George in NY.  I am using a Shure V15 type 4 cartridge with the top Jico stylus and I am thrilled beyond thrilled.  I have 2 other cartridges as well.  Been thinking about one of the Umami's, but presently we are battling my wife's medical problems.  The blood thinner she is on costs $400 a month through our insurance so I am not spending much on audio at the moment.  I also use a HRS record weight, the lighter version.

@stereo5 - Those V15 carts have sure been around for a long time - I think I had a type 2 somewhere in the 70's. Now the only type 2 I have is diabetes! 

Lake George is so beautiful - I was last there around 60 years ago but still remember it well.

Very best wishes to your wife - I hope she recovers quickly and completely. 

Technics still makes and sells the SL1200 MK7.

https://us.technics.com/products/direct-drive-turntable-system-sl-1200mk7?_pos=2&_fid=653cb3f8f&_ss=c&variant=42863149482219

Sometimes, just sometimes, you get lucky and stumble upon a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Like today. In my city: a 1200SL Mk2, from the first owner, in absolutely perfect condition.
 

In 2016 I was lucky enough to acquire an SL1200GAE, they were hard to get.  I set it up next to my fully KAB modded SL1200MkII.  It was better, but it was not a night and day difference.  Subtle improvements.