2. analog
  3. 124670-9953

Would a Technics SL-1200 MK2 be an upgrade from a Denon DP-31L?

Hi all,

just wondering if this Technics turntable is superior to my current Denon for home audio use? The Denon is my first and only turntable, and it sounds great so I have no complaints, but I wasn't sure if the Technics would be even better. Especially considering the Technics is a DJ TT, which I don't have a clue if that makes a difference for my usage in a home audio setting.
Price isn't a factor because I'll only pick it up if I can work out some kind of trade for it (although the asking price is $400 in good working order with a new self grounding RCA board installed)

any my advice would be greatly appreciated!

thanks
hockey4496
hockey4496 OP
104 posts
 
Thanks all for the suggestions, very helpful info. Tim is correct though, I am beyond a being on a tight budget, and i likely can only get a turntable if the seller is willing to work out a trade for it, because as far as spending actual cash goes I could probably afford something equivalent to what you might find in a dumpster covered in old food and possibly used band aids (in my 3rd year of medical school living on student loans = almost no free time 24/7 365days, but more importantly no money for things like audio equipment)
raymonda
847 posts
 
Yes, I meant sp not sl....sorry.

I would probably go with a used Rega 3 and gradually upgrade it over time. One can be bought for around 300, or so. 

Upgrading the pulley, spindle, platter and then plinth is a fun project and something that can be done gradually and not cost a whole lot.

I would look at it as an investment in the arm.

That's a different type of table, I know but one which will perform well out of the box.

Secondly, if direct drive is a must a kenwood kd500 with an sme 309 can be had for around 500 if you search.

Not that the 1200 is a bad choice...it is good. But it would not be my first.

Btw, I always thought that the motor in the 1200 mkii was the same as in the sp25. And, yes, I'd buy a sp25 with a arm for 500 before I would buy a 1200mkii.

timlub
1,649 posts
 
Thanks raymonda, that's all reasonable. I have owned 2 different KD600's with a Linn arm and an AT arm. It was nice sounding

paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Thanks all for the suggestions, very helpful info. Tim is correct though, I am beyond a being on a tight budget, and i likely can only get a turntable if the seller is willing to work out a trade for it,

Thanks for explaining Hockey and understood.  Most of us have been in this position at one time in our lives - I know I certainly have.  That's when I honed my skills at repairing used gear. 

The above being said, if you can make a trade for the SL-1200MKII by offering your Denon, I say go for it.  Even if the Technics is a little roached as it appears to be in the link, a little knowhow, common sense and work on your part can get it functioning like new. It should clean up well too.  Eventually you may even find a used dustcover or be able to spring for a new one.  Remember, this is one of the best selling TT's of all time and millions were sold.  So parts are widely available. 

I hope your able to make to the trade.

yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
2,678 posts
 
A  Kenwood KD 500 with  SME 309 for $ 500 ?  You will never find one near that price!
More to discover