Technics SL-1200MK7

And of course the iconic but utterly useless converter for playing old jukebox records, because we all do that nowadays right, on the turntable.

And that wraps my look at the SL1200 MK7R, the Red Bull BC-1 Special Edition of the Technics SL1200 Mk7 Turntable.

So there you go, my take on the SL1200 or 1210 Mark VII from Technics.

My choice: The Technics SL-1200Mk7. It has a smoother direct drive system and better tonearm bearings than the esteemed Mk2, Mk3, and Mk5. And it's new, not used and very likely worn out (tonearm bearings in particular). I really like this turntable, with.

I have had the SL-1200Mk7 since it came out. It is outstanding. Quiet. Perfect speed.

I say go for it.

I have the SL-1200Mk7, Nagaoka MP-200, and Mani 2. Very nice. With the Mk7, no throw-away cart or preamp. Easier to set VTA. Worth a thought...

Technics SL-1200Mk7 or SL-100C for $1,000. MUCH better than Fluance. Schiit Mani. Cartridge of your choice. I really like the Nagaoka MP-200.

I recommend the Technics SL-1200Mk7 instead of the SL-1500C. You can then buy your own choice of cartridge and phono preamp.

Don’t short-change the most important piece… especially in this case, where the turntable switch comes at pretty much no performance cost. Also, ~~FYI **the 1200Mk7 doesn’t include a dust cover** whereas the PLX-1000 does. If this turntable is going to be used for home music enjoyment, where it will live on a piece of furniture (not stored inside a DJ flight case), you really want a dust cover.~~ Actually this may only be true in certain regions.

Throwing in an alternative that I own and really like: Technics SL-1200Mk7, with the Nagaoka MP-200. I use a Herbie's Way Excellent II mat, which really unmuddies the sound caused by reflections off the platter.