Technics 1200 bearing upgrade Jul 15, 2011 · Paul is a great friend and he does excellent work as well. It is important to note that the1200 arm was designed at a time when tracking forces were pushing the 0. Don't take me wrong - I do like the 1200, and I favor some mods, those that provide audible difference AND cost a reasonable amount. Using technologies acquired through the development of the SL-1200 Series and the Reference Class flagship SL-1000R, the SL-100C uses the latest coreless direct drive brushless DC motor provides high-level accuracy in rotation and si May 14, 2007 · The SL-1600 has a suspended platter. Technics SL-1200/1210 MK5 series On/Off Start/Stop Assembly. My 2nd table will be a new 1200 or 1500 model. Original Technics SL-1200 Tone arm pivot center mount with bearings Fits all Jul 9, 2017 · Yet another cheap mod is to get a vibrostop platter (around $30 or so) Another mod that I found to be very effective was changing out the main bearing to the IanMac bearing. Dec 29, 2014 · Technics SL-1200MK2 Upgrades (Pictoral) Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by 56GoldTop, Dec 29, 2014. I’ve been listening to the same Technics SL-Q3 since 1980. I figured the name is respectable and the price of the turntable seemed to fit regarding the cost of other components in my system: May 30, 2011 · Technics SL1200-MK2 SE-2: MN Bearing + Baseplate, Copper Mat, Paul Hynes SR7 Power Supply, Isonoe Feet, SME 309, Audio Technica ATOC9/MLII, CableMaker 1 Tonearm Cable 30-05-2011, 22:30 #7 CableMaker1 Aug 1, 2018 · I take it this new bearing housing is sealed as opposed to the old one that was open and definitely benefitted from lubrication and a higher grade bearing, based on the number of extremely positive reviews from bearing upgrades out there. I personally started with new tonearm wire & a new Cardas phono interconnect hardwired to the deck, so now I have pure litz wire going from the cartridge to the phono pre. Nov 1, 2012 · 7. In both cases I was able to find a great deal on used arms by stalking audioasylum and audiogon. It outperforms the Townshend Rock MK III table with modified rega arm that I have for example. Sep 4, 2015 · Last week, I 'operated' on my Technics 1200 and upgraded the tonearm wires, RCAs, and put heat shrink tubing on the tonearm tube to further help with dampening. Online parts shop. Technics publishes their bearing friction numbers; nobody else When this project began, I had one Technics 1200, with original arm, Ortofon Pro S mm cartridge, original platter, mat and internal PSU arrangement but as time has worn on the baseline reference, which I have been using – more often – is a S/H Technics 1210 mk2 with the original platter, bearing and arm replaced, with the PSU now outside Aug 22, 2022 · Every single 2nd hand 1200/1210 arm thats been through my hands was knackered the taper ended adjuster screws are made from metallic cheese and all are, dented, bent, worn or blunted. Perus the Sl1200 owners thread. In fact some nice black coloured ones are out now. He, and a few others, appear quite convinced that the stock 1200 arm is the equal or better of most audiophile tonearms, in that: The bearing friction is extremely low and may be superior to most low-end audiophile tables. Created by Technics in pursuit of true analog record sound, rather than nostalgia, the SL-1200G includes the latest technologies to solve issues involved with direct-drive systems, such as cogging. Also the tonearm bearing will have to be replaced. I figured the name is respectable and the price of the turntable seemed to fit regarding the cost of other components in my system: Aug 1, 2018 · I take it this new bearing housing is sealed as opposed to the old one that was open and definitely benefitted from lubrication and a higher grade bearing, based on the number of extremely positive reviews from bearing upgrades out there. Dec 23, 2010 · I already have Mike New's bearing fitted to my deck, and it takes the SL1200 to completely different level, to call it an "upgrade" would be an understatement IMHO. thanks What will be the first upgrade you do on Technics sl1200 mk2 - Page 2 Enter the real vinyl culture with the Technics SL-100C Premium Class Turntable System. In fact, your description of the difference in sound between your Linn and Technics could be applied perfectly to my own comparison. Technics Turntable Servicing, Repairs & Parts. After posting this and putting on spherical needles and carefully rebalancing everything and adjusting the bearing screws I got one side basically fine and the other with little slop so that cueing and mixing are totally fine. The Technics has a decent platter (which is also damped) and a much more powerful drive then the PR-8. willing to pay ~$560 to do so. Very thin and resonant. The bearing will fit: Technics SL-1200 Mk2 Technics SL-1200 M3D Technics SL-1200 Mk5 Technics SL-1200 LTD Technics SL-1200 GLD Technics SL-1210 Mk2 Technics SL-1210 M3D Technics SL-1210 Mk5 Technics SL-1210 M5G Thank you guys so much. Our new thrust plate will fit all SL-1200’s and many other models in the Technics line” Jun 5, 2020 · The KAB dampener is an immediate improvement, anyone who has a stock 1200/1210 will benefit from it. No doubt about the basic qualities of the 1210 but its vastly overhyped and expensive. This and the extra closeness of pivot center to the bearings results in a minimal friction of 7 milligrams. 00; Prices include fitting (when carried out as part of a service) Other parts/prices also available, please enquire. They can be had for around $500. Stock tonearm wire/pcb are nothing special either. The Jun 8, 2017 · The original Technics SL-1200 turntable was one of the most widely sold and broadly influential turntable designs ever made. I’ve always bought gear based on quality first. The SL-1200G includes a newly developed coreless direct-drive motor with greatly increased precision by incorporating Blu-ray Disc technology for Jun 24, 2007 · It may be worth having in mind that the bearing friction is very low in the Technics arm, compared to the Rega. . com. I was just wanting a little more and it had to be torn down for overhaul. Jan 6, 2015 · My concern is that these head shells are much heavier than the stock Technics or the KAB version. Why would you bother? If there's one part of the SL-1200 that has proven near-indestructable after three decades of DJ abuse, it's the Panasonic bearing on the SL-1200. Without comparing it to any other turntable in a optimised top end system, I couldn't say which is the best choice - with a detachable headshell, the Technics is clearly compromising ultimate Aug 19, 2009 · The DL-160 was my first ah, now I get it moment with the Technics 1200, because up until then I had been dissapointed with its sound. I've read the reviews of why the newer GR is "better". Yeah, I have a TecnoArm which is sitting back on the shelf with the stock arm back on the deck with a very expensive cartridge. Sep 9, 2021 · If this was a heavily abused example, I'd want to check the tonearm bearings and everything else also. It seemed like a deal, but after taking possession and setting it up, I noticed that my records tended to loop during playback. Info: Mike New Audio Technics 1200 Bearing Upgrade. Headshell - Sumiko - 39 € 16. Can I use some oil from Matsushita that is mfg'ed for technics 1200 as an oem part? I have read you can use motor oil or baby oil so I figure technics 1200 oil would be fine to use? 3. Internal chassis or component damping - bits of Blu-tack 15. Many seem to have had success with that. But hey - to each Apr 25, 2024 · There are predrilled armboards specifically for 1200 turntables so that it’s a drop in swap. Aug 2, 2020 · For the past five years I have been running a Technics SL1200 MkII. Hifi News, Hifi Reviews, AND MUCH MORE VIDEO REVIEW - Technics 1200 G Apr 21, 2013 · Since major parts of the various Technics models are the same, as bearing, drive and tonearm, a different Technics -say a 3310 or a 5210- would come cheaper but offers the same. Also fits M5G series. turntable's power supply should have virtually nothing to do with the signal chain unless it's so bad that it introduces ground loop noise into a system. Timestep EVO GR turntable: an enhanced Technics SL-1210 GR - The Audiophile Man I ve seen some people upgrade to jelco arms and have said theres an improvement. Apr 20, 2012 · You can't beat the VTA adjustment aspect of the Technics arm, especially with a Rega arm. I like that idea and will probably Jun 6, 2018 · Technics magnesium tonearm 1200G vs J Technics SL 1200G status and availabi Technics 1200 Critic Fremer Praises t Proper thickness for platter mat Tech Nottingham Spacedeck vs Rega Planar 8 Go for it. How about the Rega? With the KAB fluid damper and the Rat Fink plastic dust cover removed from the 1200, why, you got a fine sounding phonograph player there Jim! Aug 2, 2021 · It was popular upgrade for OLD technics turntables, but the "G" series is excellent NEW tonearm. Feb 10, 2017 · I know there are many tweaks which can transform Technics tt to different level, but money will play a part as well. What do you guys suggest? Aug 8, 2016 · As for the debate over the bearings you might want to read the Technics G/GAE thread to get a sense of what transpired there could apply here. I am taking simultaneous steps to build it slowly. Apr 25, 2024 · There are predrilled armboards specifically for 1200 turntables so that it’s a drop in swap. The arm bearing system is IMO very good. KAB TECHNICS MAIN 1200 PAGE Works on most other tonearms as well. There’s a good reason why the image people imagine when someone says ‘turntable’ is a Technics. Motors, casting on the aluminum plinth, thrust bearing, platter, feet, and parts of the arm. Nov 5, 2023 · This would be an excellent upgrade if one were to run LOMC cartridges in the future. • Sealed unit phosphor bronze bearing housing • Arm plate for your choice of arm Mar 23, 2022 · The bearing on the sl1200mk2 arm is better than on most arms out there regardless of price. If your SL-1200 was made in Malaysia, you willl want this tool. It becomes much clearer with an overall soundstage upgrade. Chris Feb 23, 2014 · Yup, another happy Audiomods/1200 owner here. My other TT hookup is an LP12 / Grace 707 / Dynavector 10x5 trying to optimise the SL1200 for a MM Cartridge playback chain. Feb 26, 2017 · Mr Pig I'm expressing no desire to upgrade. They are widely recognized as being major influences on the emergence of hip hop , turntablism and electronic music culture in the 1980s. If you’re running MM cartridges, a low capacitance phono cable can be a big upgrade. Replacement arms are available at very reasonable cost and require no adjustment. In a way, I am surprised someone has not made these upgrades available commercially. However, the improved bearing by Applied Fidelity puts the 1200 table into a new league. The system’s rigidity is improved, using for the motor’s coil mounting base, the same reinforcement pattern found in the Reference Class SL-1000R/SP-10R. The TT will be returned in your original packaging. May 17, 2022 · 1) Sending the arm off to a professional to have them fix the bearings and restore the arm to factory spec or better 2) Buying a new tonearm assembly with bearings Besides Henray and KAB for 1200 parts, there's also DJ Fix in NYC and 1200s. Although, I am a sucker for a S shape. Jul 7, 2019 · @technick I think you're talking about old 1200 series, not a brand new GR the OP asking for. Last edited: Dec 25, 2010 BHamm The SL-1200, SL-1210 upgrade is US$450 The SP-10 Mk2 upgrade is US$800 The SP-10 MK3 upgrade is US$1200 For upgrades to other turntable brands please contact Richard for details. Oct 5, 2009 · I dl'ed instructions for the table but it just said 'put oil in the bearings reserve' but didn't say where or how to do that. If you want some killer tonearm for SL1200G then look for Reed 3p series, it will be definitely much better tonearm with amazing options. Sep 23, 2018 · I recommend the Technics 1200/1210 extra thick mat sold by KAB USA. All those mods could amount to the price of the recently announced new basic 1200. EXPIRED - WANTED: Mike New Audio Technics 1200 Bearing Upgrade . First thing I need (seem) to do is replace the bad and cheap tonearm of the sl-1200. Every new tonearm I have encountered has the top bearing set way too tight. I am currently using an Ortofon OM20 and am looking to upgrade. Turntables Upgrade to Technics OFC gold plated cable - £35. A KAB TD-1000 tonearm damper is an upgrade worth considering when you’re running high compliance cartridges. It may seem a bit scary but you can open up the case (from the top for the bearing) and take out the bearing. For a vinyl fan who isn’t a total lunatic (ie, not me) a hot rod 1200 is about all they’d ever need. Apr 19, 2015 · Good job. The KAB TD-1200 tonearm damper is another nice upgrade to consider. The same company also offers a platter upgrade. The third thing I would check out is the bearing. Payment Technics SL-1200/1210 MK5 series On/Off Start/Stop Assembly. Aug 21 2023 EXPIRED - WANTED: Mike New Audio Technics 1200 Bearing Upgrade . An audiophile upgrade package for all Technics 1200/1210 turntables. Overall I think the tonearm wire was probably best bang for buck and most impactful to sound quality. It takes the 1200 to a new level of performance. I recently purchased a used Technics SL-1210 MK2 from Japanese eBay for around $250. I bought "official bearing oil" from KAB Electro Acoustics for $9. Feb 16, 2020 · Technics SL-1500 gets used 2-5 hours daily on average. Another $500 in upgrades from KAB and you’ve got the best $1,000 deck on the planet IMO. i seriously doubt electronic hash is an issue with 1200s as many Oct 14, 2015 · The bearing adjustment screws cannot compensate for damage to the bearings. Dec 29, 2014 · I'm not talking a 1200 now, but for $5-6K in question, some really serious gear can be had. The DL-160 is a moving coil but is high output so it can be used with any phono stage and has great tracking. Pricing UK and Europe, includes all taxes and EU VAT at 20%. Jun 16, 2011 · AudioKarma Audio Forums. About the only thing people With the many upgrades and mods that are available for the Technics Sl-1200 series table, I was very curious (yet remained skeptical) about the improved bearing mod by Applied Fidelity, aka tubesforever. I also have the Shure M-44-7 and a Grado Black, which I rarely use. Item #649116440. It's a meaningless replacement, like getting rid of the engine of a Honda -- the best part. So I did the research and found the Origin Live Rega arm adapters which allow the use of Rega arms on the 1200's. But the PLX is in no way flimsy or a piece of crap. Jan 25, 2011 · I'v used MC cartridges on both a SL-1200 and SP-25, I'v havn't heard any noise useing either MM or MC. Jan 17, 2021 · I did the upgrades over several years: + Tone arm rewire, RCA jacks, cotton in tonearm for stabilization + DC-1200 for voltage regulation (prep for outboard power supply), TD-1200 tone arm dampening, Isonoe feet + SX-1200 Strobe, outboard PS. The taper is an integral part of the main shaft (all one piece). If you can get hold on of Jelco 750 or 850 at a reasonable price the upgrade is well worth it before buying a new table. There are other tonearm options, but the Jelco fits quite nicely with the aesthetics of the 1200/10 as well as improving the sound. :tresbon: For those who like heavier MC cartridges, the Sumiko headshells are Dec 17, 2011 · How can I determine if the slight platter wobble present on my Technics 1200 MK2 is the fault of the bearing/spindle assembly? Bad ball bearings? Observing the spindle while the platter is spinning I see no evidence that it is bent. The Technics bearings are very fine quality. This Technics is older than the Rega is by several years too. It’s fitted with an Ortofon M2 Bronze cartridge, a GH Acoustics platter weight and apart from that it is in standard format. Nov 23, 2009 · For anyone wanting to upgrade the Technics 1200 mk2, spend the most money for a good modern tonearm and beyond that invest in an external power supply. Most audible system upgrade I've made since replacing my Rectilinear III's with JBL L300's. Probably competes up into the $3,000 range. There are some disassembly videos of the 1200 on YouTube. The Technics arm, while looking the part of its earlier version, has improved bearings and arm materials, as well as the benefit of improved machining. I had the dreaded "skip" problem (more accurately the stuck needle problem) with my 1200. I found a wealth of information (some examples) on power-supply upgrades, bearing upgrades, sub-chassis tweaks and replacement footers, as well as platter-mat, -weight and arm-board and arm upgrades. Feb 21, 2014 · There are two types, (1) Generic and (2) specifically for the Technics. for around $250-$300. I would like to keep it that way with the help of the knowledgeable users of this forum. Freight and insurance each way is your care. Very quick & easy to set up (VTF/VTA & antiskate) and the performance is exceptional. New larger power supply - Mains-Cables-R-Us Technics PSU - 250 €* 10. It's a long one. Sep 30, 2010 · One that I especially like on my Technics SL-1200 is the KAB Ortofon Concorde PRO-S40. Dec 15, 2017 · Its not enough to have a massive platter. It's in great condition and it was fully serviced about 12 years ago by a company that works exclusively on technics, they even replaced the tonearm with a new one (same as came with original). My original note was that I had heard many times over the years that the SL1200 was a “giant killer”. A good many TTs have the power supply in the plinth and if power supply noise was a common problem I would think the reverse would be to see all power supplies outside the plinth. May 31, 2011 · Be extra careful while working around/with tonearm bearing. Jan 19, 2024 · Nice find. When making the replacement be sure to follow the instructions in the service manual for the anti-skate spring, in the manual it is called "canceller spring". And there are more tonearm options you can use, including 12" transcription arms you can do and plinth options the SL-1200 does not have. Jan 1, 2021 · Technics SL-1210/1200 Tonearm improvement . Otherwise loose bearing will have play and tight runs risk of bearing damage along with adding distortion in sound. New bearing - Technics SL-1200/1210 MK2 MKII stock Shaft - 30 € 9. otherwise, it should be isolated from the signal chain. 00; De-Click mk2 pitch (remove ball bearing) - £10. I've also had an RB300 (rewired with RB700 wiring) that was a huge upgrade from the stock arm as well. This upgrade results in an astounding increase in sound quality. The sound difference is extremely noticeable. Jan 18, 2025 · Looking at the recent Technics tables in the tear down videos I found, it’s clear where Technics thought the SL1200 needed work. Apr 17, 2017 · I am currently running my Technics 1200 MK2, with the stock tonearm, into a recently acquired decent phono pre-amp (Trigon Vanguard 3) which allows me to experiment with various gain stages and impedance. Sep 29, 2014 · May order the MikeNew bearing upgrade, if the Tonearm delivers a marked improvement in resolution, as the problem with the med-mass Technics arm is one of omission as it basically sucks the life out of cartridges. Payment Jul 7, 2019 · @technick I think you're talking about old 1200 series, not a brand new GR the OP asking for. Hifi Pig. The Applied Fidelity and Time Step bearings are for sure over the top, the question might be does the bearing need to be over Jul 20, 2017 · The Technics SL-1200 tonearm is specified to have a bearing finish of ± 0. It went away with the tonearm assembly I purchased from DJHenray. Same audio system, same record. The direct-drive mechanism has a lot of torque and the table has a very weighty presentation with a fair amount of bass detail despite its other shortcomings. 75 gram range. As for MM cartridges, there’s not much better than an AT540ML, so unless you want a different (not better) sound, I would stick with that one. It has the fluid damper, their rubber platter mat, 3 speed conversion (78 RPM added) and also had Grover interconnects to replace the stock ones. The next thing to check is that the whole turntable is horizontal. Jim Howard (tubesforever) from Applied Fidelity created a custom spindle end (ceramic ball if I remember correctly), modified the thrust plate with a sapphire pad, and added an oil well with sealed o-ring. 5 microns. Nov 16, 2012 · I run a Mike New bearing, but I'm still not convinced that it's a big upgrade step from a stock bearing, well oiled and in good shape. Jul 30, 2015 · I recently had the opportunity to compare my Technics SL-1200 MK2 w/ AT440mla cartridge to a Rega P3. That mod costs around $175 but very worthwhile. 2 that I bought years ago when kids were young- I forgot I even had it!!- It has pretty much all the KAB upgrades- How good a table is this compared to todays table- In other words how much would I need to spend to equal this table Sep 28, 2017 · The majority of the site is about upgrading & modding Technics 1200's. No sense in fixing a problem that doesn't exist Mar 25, 2015 · Have alook at the "Technics SL-1210 M3D Upgrade Project / Build "thread and its mention of the "improving the stock Technics bearing" thread I am currently offering forum members a limited run of a bearing I have designed. Dec 11, 2009 · Bear in mind that either that or the Technics 6mm mat will leave very little spindle protruding once the record is in situ, so that is something worth bearing in mind if you ever plan to get a clamp. It sounds the best on the previous generation Techie 1200 /1210 up to the Mk7 model. 150 cycles (it was still going Up for Sale is an Applied Fidelity custom upgraded bearing for a Technics 1200 turntable. Inexpensive Spanner for resetting tonearm bearings. I really like the ruggedness of the Technics, and it seems there's a wide world of Aug 1, 2022 · PSU is a snakeoil “upgrade”. In 1970, Technics commercialized the world‘s first direct-drive turntable, and the system took the world by storm. Mar 24, 2015 · Technics 1200 tweaked,Ianmac Bearing,DACT DIY Phono Pre, Belcanto CD-2, Engineered Switzerland DIY Renderer, Benchmark DAC2, Hypex NCore, ATC SCM40 2nd system --Engineered Switzerland DIY streamer, Sony CDP11,Topping D50 DAC, Hypex NCore. All New BT-1200 Tonearm Bearing Tool. looking to upgrade their decks 2. They just go, and go, and go. Of all typical TT upgrades, this is by far the best. Can’t beat that quality. All 1200 mk2 owners should know what I'm saying by when you float the arm most of the time it never stays where you put it, even when fitting new replacement arms it's the same story. Original Technics SL-1200 Tone arm pivot center mount with bearings Fits all All New BT-1200 Tonearm Bearing Tool. Mar 22, 2017 · Guys while cleaning out my back room I found a new tech 1200 mk. Technics SL-1200 Mk2 recapped / Audio Technica AT-OC9ml/II Thorens TD 160 / TP16 / Denon DL103R - boron - microridge tip - higher compliance suspension Apr 28, 2022 · Hey folks, I'm starting to take vinyl seriously after I purchased a Technics SL-1200MK7 sort of on a whim. Technics 1200: KAB re-wire and RCA upgrade how-to guide . KAB Accoustics web site has maintenance info, tips and upgrade parts for SL1200 series. Qualified service engineer. The sl1200mk2 has from memory 7mg of friction on the bearings which to compare to the Jelco for example which is 25mg, the bearings on the Technics are very very good indeed and known to be so. On the issue of upgrading the 1200 bearing, I had been Jan 11, 2022 · I would buy the traditional S-curve Technics tonearm assembly rather than his custom straight arm, which I think is more for DJ use. Plus the bearing specification's of the Technics arm are readily known, and superb. Jan 30, 2017 · I Recently Bought a Technics SL-3350 w/t a Shure v15 type III cartridge in great fully functionally condition for $40. Mar 18, 2013 · I made a statement in another thread that the AT LP120 tonearm and the Technics SL-1200 arm are the same (I used the word identical). Nov 3, 2005 · I have a pair of 1200 MK3D's that I like quite a bit for DJ use. Mar 22, 2021 · The KAB thrust plate looks good but has anyone tried the more advanced bearing upgrades? Feb 8, 2017 · Just about any of the KAB 1200 upgrades are worthwhile but your money will be best spent on a really good matching compliance cartridge that will have the most impact on sound quality. Has anyone owned and played both, looking for some input. Quick turnaround. Anybody here have experience with that and have any suggestions? Jul 19, 2009 · I am currently producing 5 new bearing assemblies for retrofitting into the SL 1200. I considered two other bearing upgrades, the first being the Timestep by Sound HiFi and the other by Mike New. Mar 22, 2021 · The Time step one is cr@p it actually increases wow and flutter, as do most. Sep 29, 2002 · Category: Accessories I got my KAB fluid damper kit for the Technics SL-1200 installed yesterday, and I managed to audition one cut twice in close proximity both with and without the damper, by playing it just before I put the silicone in the trough, and again just afterwards. The original MSRP for a SL-1200mk2 was 750, which would be about 3,300 in todays dollars. Dec 4, 2017 · I think Timestep still offer a bearing upgrade for the SL1200 Technics SL1200 SL1210 - SL-1210 SL1200 modifications Seems that making improved Technics 1200 is Jun 11, 2011 · Hi, I finally decided to get a technics sl-1200 on ebay and upgrade it as my first table. Dec 18, 2014 · Hifi Pig Advent Calendar - Mike New Precision Bearing for Technics SL1200 | 1210. The spindle bearing shaft is 12mm diameter and precision ground from a solid bar nitrided and carbide coated steel. Rewiring the tonearm gives another very noticeable improvement, but you need to have some skills to DIY, I botched the job and had to send mine to a professional. When you get into upgrades that each cost more than the whole table - I start to question the logic. I used SME tonearm bearings for that upgrade. Apr 10, 2022 · I have a 1200 Mk2 with Ortofon Blue cart. It is truly a 1200 equivalent in most important things. Jun 4, 2007 · Kevin Barnes of KABUSA is very, very fond of the stock arm. SL-1200 & 1210 Models. Apr 6, 2017 · Quick links Please login or register an accountlogin or register an account Jan 25, 2011 · With the KAB upgrades I felt that I had reached the maximum potential of the table and that it would not be worthwhile to continue to upgrade the technics table. And it had put the direct-drive principle on the map for good. I have 2 1200/1210`s on the bench both with knackered arms, the cheapest fix I can do for the owners are to put 2nd hand Rega arms on, not a hard job. Feb 12, 2024 · I started researching and soon realised that as far as the original "deejay" SL-1200s go this was a well trodden path. Has it's original motor, and the worst thing ever done to it over 2 owners, was the 33 1/3 RPM-Off-45 RPM switch replaced once, pots cleaned, and the Technics oil in the spindle bearing done twice yearly. Upgrade your MK II to Cardas wiring and add the KAB damper for light cartridges and you're good to go and still low cost and practical. Aug 21 2023 Aug 16, 2015 · I do agree with you though - itch that needs scratching and I scratched it as well with a bearing upgrade, powersupply etc - all things that make a great deal of sense - but the damn Technics sounds so good to start with - that it is hard to tell if there is a real difference or not with each upgrade. And the TimeStep bearing upgrade, the Power Supply upgrade, and the mat upgrades can be performed on one. May 16, 2015 · That type of usage would eventually damage bearings, the tone arm assembly and just about every other stationary or moving part of the table. Try to get your hands on a copy of the February 2015 issue of HiFi World (UK) covering a bearing upgrade. The good news is that Technics has been building the SL-1200 for a long time and the core turntable mechanism (motor, base and platter) is robustly built. We bring them back to better than new condition using a new powder coat finish that is tougher than the original paint and factory re-printed branding that makes them look factory fresh. The Technics arm? Well, I stopped counting after approx. Feb 16, 2018 · As I mentioned in a previous post, I haven't heard a 1200G, but understand it to be an upgrade in every area over the 1200 MK2, and sonically much better. A win win situation here. Introduced in 1972, the SL-1200 garnered sales of more than three million units by the time production ceased in 2010. The tone arm of course can't be overlooked. (You are welcome to keep your old parts after servicing but you must mention this beforehand. I once did a "swing test" shoot-out with an SL-1200Mk2 arm and a Rega RB300, and the RB300 managed around 15-20 cycles (supposedly very good). In my book better Sound for your Pound. If you do the bearing upgrade, might as well do the $3 KAB thrust plate wax mod. Oct 4, 2023 · Technics SL-1200 turntables have had a thriving upgrade scene for years, concentrating on the popular Mk2 and Mk5 models. I use the Michel Clamp (for Rega), which just helps to secure the record against the platter without adding much weight. The Dec 21, 2021 · I do have the impression that the 1200 can outlast the PLX. With the platter removed I can turn the spindle and nothing Dec 2, 2011 · The SP-25 is the superior turntable in practice. Particularly in how it sounds. Some of these have sagging springs due to age. Aug 22, 2022 · Every single 2nd hand 1200/1210 arm thats been through my hands was knackered the taper ended adjuster screws are made from metallic cheese and all are, dented, bent, worn or blunted. Unlike belt-drive and other systems, direct-drive systems rotate the motor at low speed and directly drive the platter, thus providing numerous advantages, such as the almost complete absence of degradation in S/N ratio due to motor vibration and deceleration mechanisms, as well TechnicsWorx is an Edinburgh based business that specialises in full restoration and re-sale of the Technics sl 1210 and sl 1200 (MK2 - MK6) turntables. These include a platter, originally made from metal with brass inserts or topped of with a copper mat, but now only offered in ETP, a beautifully made, heavy weight bearing, a mounting plate for that bearing (an optional extra) and an armboard made from Dec 29, 2014 · I'm not talking a 1200 now, but for $5-6K in question, some really serious gear can be had. I would skip this if OP intends to stick with MM. Jan 18, 2025 · A nice used 1200 MK2 is one of the best deals in this whole game. It feels more solid when changing headshells (socket), cue lever, tonearm rest, to give some examples of things that feel more "solid" on the Technics. Technics stopped making the Mk2 and Mk5 many years ago, but clearly regretted leaving the turntable market and came back in a few years ago with the special edition SL-1200GAE and later on the SL-1200G and SL-1200GR. Aug 1, 2007 · Hi, I use a KAB modded Technics SL-1200 at Ingrid's house. I'm merely enquiring whether the bearing is a worthwhile upgrade anyway. It's an integrated cartridge/headshell designed specifically for the SL-1200, featuring a Fritz-Geiger stylus profile. I personally own a M5G and use the extra thick OEM mat and a 3/4 pound (approx 360 gram) pound spindle weight. I've seen pictures of it. This new thrust plate features a thicker profile and an oil well for better retention of lubrication. Jan 28, 2025 · The new motor produces far greater torque than the one used in the SL-1200 GR2, while the reduced bearing load, Technics says, minutely reduces rotational vibrations. I’ve upgraded my (already very good) 1200G tonearm to an SME V. I mostly agree with Tattoo that the stock 1200 arm is the weakest link. There are a number of good aftermarket 1200 upgrade and repair shops on the web; just google TECHNICS SL1200, REPAIRS & UPGRADES. Too bad my evil audiophile side tells me there's more to be had out of these. Technics Upgrade Package • Off board hi specification power supply • Re engineered Technics platter with fitted billet 10mm aluminium for ultimate mass and flywheel effect (Removal of DJ strobe dots extra) Review of the Funk Firm's Technics 1200/1210 upgrades, the Strata Platter, Spin Bearing and FX3 tonearm Aug 16, 2015 · Which bearings did you upgrade? The tonearm bearings? One thing nobody has mentioned yet is putting a new tonearm on a 1200. The Rega was clearly cleaner--tighter bass, more separation of instruments. Considering the massive overhauls and upgrades they did with the motor, the tonearm, and the chassis, the MSRP for the 1200G seems appropriate. Yeah the 1500 replacement arms seems to be the move if I want to get back to perfectly balanced arms. With the platter removed I can turn the spindle and nothing For a short period of time Funk offered a reworked original Technics 1200/1210 tonearm, the Funk FX1200, with the OEM arm tube replaced with a carbon fibre one (which was the case with all Funk arms at the time) , better quality bearings and internal and external armcable, however a redesign in the entire Funk tonearm range, moving away from Technics Turntable Servicing, Repairs & Parts. The original bearing was very good and accomplished the job as Kevin said. New tonearm - Technics 1200 M5G Tonearm - 85 € 11. Your turntable with stock bearing and Kab mods has wow and flutter as low as you can measure and rumble up with the best turntable you can buy what do you think changing the bearing will improve? Is the aftermarket bearing perfectly true (unlikely), the Technics is. Some people are just too literal minded and railed against it and made nonsense noise how it would be patent infringemen - The Technics SL-1200 [1] is a series of direct-drive turntables introduced in October 1972 by Matsushita Electric (now Panasonic Corporation) under the brand name Technics. This is based on a modified Technics bearing modified in a way that minimises cost. I have it positioned atop a Soundstyle rack which is topped with a slab of granite 18mm thick which is in turn topped of with a sheet of 5mm plate Mar 22, 2013 · So I'm throwing this out to any 1200/1210 owners who are 1. Would be interested to hear the difference. The arm tube stinks. Jun 25, 2009 · The ruby bearings on the upper end EPA series are a little bit better but not by much. just gentle tightening will do. There are all kinds of upgrades for the 1200MK2, why not a "drop in" arm tube replacement? The stock arm base and bearings are excellent (IMO), so a CF arm-tube makes sense. I've done all the upgrades for the old 1210 mkII before i bought SP-10mkII, but i hope a brand new Technics does not require any of them, because it's a different beast and i believe stock wiring must be good as much as the new tonearm. A popular option for an arm upgrade is an SME 309. I found the same to be true when I put my modded Pioneer PL-41 with modded Sumiko FT-3 Tonearm (modded by Deli) up against my Delimodded Technics SL-1200. Jul 11, 2013 · I may try to mod/upgrade the stock bearing. May 5, 2021 · If you are using the stock tonearm you should upgrade it first. If a rumble figure is a good representation of the quality of the factory bearing, then bearing upgrades might not be the best way to spend money. But hey - to each Nov 16, 2012 · I run a Mike New bearing, but I'm still not convinced that it's a big upgrade step from a stock bearing, well oiled and in good shape. 2. Maybe a mg or two of bearing friction less. It's $70 to $80 for those parts or get a whole tonearm assy. It’s also nice upgrade. I used Linn Sondek LP-12 springs for this job. It really opened up the 1200 s sound and it s only about $159 on ebay. Watch Report This Ad. That's why I didn't jump on it especially with the shipping costs. Jan 2, 2015 · This guy is charging like $600 for this upgrade. Feb 25, 2016 · Mike New Audio is based in Australia and has for a number of years been making high quality upgrades for the Technics 1200/1210 turntables. Feb 17, 2018 · i'm not buying the claims that an overpriced $450 power supply can improve the sound of a direct drive technics SL-1200. Refrain from applying force to bearing screws. Here you can loose small metal balls from bearing. Dec 11, 2020 · Timestep (company here in uk) upgrade 1210s and they normally upgrade the arms to michell tecnoarm and their own sme versions. sbjk gobjw blnm kmwod dybspp xylxh qjwx spvtep bfqnc mcsaslg