technics 1200s

[geezfools]

So what is the going rate for a used one at this point. I found a black version for $250 OBO and have been wanting to upgrade for a couple years now. My current table is pretty weak so I tend to leave my record alone. And if I do go check it out, what should I look for?

[shenanigans]

So what is the going rate for a used one at this point. I found a black version for $250 OBO and have been wanting to upgrade for a couple years now. My current table is pretty weak so I tend to leave my record alone. And if I do go check it out, what should I look for?

i usually see them between $200 and $300

[konsonant]

i think the only 'knock' on direct drive is some audiophile nuts claim you can 'hear' the drive during playback.

It's not really about "hearing" the motor, it's about the motor being placed directly under the platter causing wow and flutter. It's not so "nutty". Denon made (makes) better quality direct drive tables, but I wouldn't recommend those either.

Normally with direct drive tables the platter is directly connected to a motor underneath. However, the Technics has a different construction principle that makes the platter actually part of the motor. The platter itself serves as the rotor of the electric motor and spins due to the magnetic field induced by the surrounding stator.

Keep in mind that the SL1200 series was originally designed as an audiophile table. The DJs came later.

[Dillhole]

So I'm deciding between a used technics 1200 or a new Audiotechnica LP120. Thoughts?

I had a pl120, wasn't bad but the 1200 is much better, go right for the Technics. You'll need a pre-amp or phono input on the amp, and a cartridge as the Technics doesn't come with one, and I wouldn't trust a used cartridge.