Technics SL-1200MK2 Turntable W/ Flight Case & Ortofon X40 Cartridge - New - No Box

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General:
The Technics SL-1200MK2 is one of the most important turntables ever produced. Its rugged direct-drive design, exceptional speed stability, and legendary reliability helped shape DJ culture and played a major role in the development of entire genres of music. Decades later, audiophiles, collectors, and professional DJs continue to rely on the SL-1200MK2 in both home and professional environments. According to the serial number on the rear, this example was manufactured in October 1988.

We acquired this turntable from a DJ who also sold us another SL-1200MK2 that was new old stock (NOS) in its original box. While this example does not include the original packaging, but is in remarkable condition and appears to have seen no use. It is super clean.

Included with the turntable is a high-quality flight case, perfect for DJs who travel with their SL-1200 or for audiophiles looking to protect and preserve this time capsule when not in use.

This particular SL-1200MK2 will come equipped with a brand-new Ortofon X40 MC phono cartridge ($1,149 value). The cartridge will be professionally installed and calibrated using our in-house 12-Step Premium Turntable & Phono Cartridge Calibration Process ($390 value). Please contact us after purchase if you would like to discuss alternative cartridge options.

As an added bonus, this turntable will also include a brand-new OEM Technics dust cover, completing its factory-fresh appearance.

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
The turntable is exceptionally clean, the flight case shows minor signs of wear.

Brand Background:
At Technics we understand that the listening experience is not purely about technology but the magical and emotional relationship between people and music. We want people to experience music as it was originally intended and enable them to feel the emotional impact that enthuses and delights them. With a combination of our love of music and the vast high-end audio experience of the Technics team, we stand committed to building a brand that provides the ultimate emotive musical experience by music lovers, for music lovers.

Ownership:
Single Owner

Connections:
Captive RCA + Ground cords, Captive Power Cord

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

Cosmetic Condition:
9/10 = Excellent. Perfect physical condition, gently used. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:
Unit, manual, and power cord.

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.Specs:
Type: manual turntable
Drive method: direct drive
Motor: brushless DC motor
Control method: quartz (mk2)
Platter: 332mm 2kg (mk2)
Speeds: 33.33 and 45rpm
Wow and flutter: 0.025% WRMS (mk2)
Rumble: -78dB (mk2)
Tonearm: universal
Effective length: 230mm (mk2)
Overhang: 15mm (mk2)
Effective mass: 12g (mk2)
Stylus pressure range: 0 to 2.5g (mk2)

Dimensions:
17.83 x 14.17 x 6.38 in (453 x 360 x 162mm)

Weight:
27 lbs.

Approximate Age:
1988

Testing Process:
First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings. We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range. There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum. We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure. On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then assess the platter speed using one of several methods, the most accurate being playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency output with a frequency counter or oscilloscope. We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure it is within spec. We do this for all speeds available for that particular model (33 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM).

Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on the turntable's drive design. Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment. We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure it is properly lubricated, keeping in mind that some bearings don't require lubrication at all

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors, particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism. Then replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change, and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new phono cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the tonearm design. We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:
• Pivot to Spindle Adjustment
• Tracking Force
• Anti-Skate
• Tonearm Height
• Lifter Height
• VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)
• Azimuth
• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.