Direct freaking drive turntable, Technics SL-1200 mk2.



My curiousity for this deck grew more and more everytime DD vs BD discussion comes up. Yet, I have not heard anyone commenting on this with a Low Output Moving Coil cartridge. For that, I just had to try it out for myself as usual....
Since I just picked up a brand new Denon DL-301mk2, which I'm very familiar with, I decided to give it a shot with this ever controvercial TT.

I've only played about 8 LP with his deck, so I won't be making strong statements, but....

This thing is DEAD QUITE and as W&F spec shows, speed accuracy is superb.
I wish I could compare this unit with some of the exotic TT's like the ones Bernd
has, but I cannot only compare with my Pro-Ject Xpress w/ Speedbox mk2.

This turntable just makes sense. What is the most important/basic thing a TT must do? All TTs must play with a steady speed at correct speed. I'm not going to get into stylus drag. Again, this unit holds speed unlike anything I've ever tried and heard.
With this TT, my LP seem to play alot smoother and more seamless. What would be a correct audio term for this? PRAT? I'm not sure if PRAT can be used when describing a TT, but with its steady speed, Pace and Rhythm walks all over my Belt Drive..

One of the thing owners and observers always complain about is its arm.
I cannot really comment on its arm yet, but it's VTA adjuster is the most amazing thing I've ever played with. It feels very solid and is VERY precise. One thing though, music just flows thru my speakers. It's Anti-Skate mechanism is repeatable and works like how every TT should. My Pro-Ject carbon fibre arm is limited to 3 positions.
With Technics' arm, I can use it's anti-skate to bring center image to...well a dead center.

Where are some of LP I've played:
*Piano Music of Chopin Vol.1-3, London/ffrr
*Beethoven Complee Music for Wing Band, London/ffrr
*Wood Brothers - Loaded
*Joe Puma - Shining Hour
*Iron and Wine - Shepards....
*Jedi Mind Trick - Servants in Heaven, Kings in Hell
*YES - Close to the Edge

Here is what I can tell you, Bass was solid, highs were free of shimmering effects.
Midrange? Hmmm..... I have not noticed either improvement nor obvisous faults.

At this moment, I'm really tempted to get a new deck from KAB with some mods, and install a Rega arm to this unit. They are that good! Why change something I'm already enjoying? I hate this hobby......

Peace,
JRA