Being a hardware tech I would like to agree with much of what Les_creative_edge has to say as far as build quality and engineering. In a world of over priced, esoteric TT's, I think it is a thing of beauty. The textile feel of the controls is amazing and so easy to use, especially after a few cocktails. And on the fly VTA is crucial. Can it be improved upon with mods, yes. But I agree that changing the arm on this deck would be a crying shame. This table has a lot of history, and Technics has R&D'd the hell out of it. I also love the hockey puck base, and would like to add something fun here...
I am one of the best detail guys I know (auto/motorcycle). There is a product by Mothers called "Back-to-Black" that is just out of this world (anything "mothers" is great). I highly recommend treating the rubber base with this product. It will make the base look very, very rich. Especially next to the metalflake of the M5G. But I also did my 1210MK5 (charcoal) and it looks fantastic. I know that it would really bring out the contrast on the champaigne silver 1200MK5. One application will last indefinitely. I would not use Armor all or Sun of a Gun as they are very oily. Back-to-Black is not.
Try it, you will like it...