Technics SL-1200MK2 Vintage Turntable with New Hana Cartridge and Beautiful Blue Top

Free Shipping on Most Electronics - Excludes Speakers and Items Requiring Freight - Contiguous U.S. Only

General:
The SL-1200 (in particular the MK2 variant) helped start an entire genre of music and revolutionized turntables forever. Many audiophiles are still using their SL-1200MK2 turntables professionally and at home. 

This particular 'table was originally manufactured in February 1985 making it a relatively early model in its production, which lasted from 1979-2010. It also has a blue metal top which gives it a unique look in comparison to its stock silver finish. Another change is the captive RCA connections which we opted to upgrade with higher-quality variants. 

We paired this 'table with a brand new Hana SH MKII High-Output MC (Moving-Coil) phono cartridge ($850). This is a great cartridge and compatible with just about any phono stage which is a huge plus. It will be mounted and setup using our 12 step calibration process ($390). If you'd like a different cartridge please contact us before purchasing via phone, email, or website chat.

As a bonus we've also included our custom and super high-quality clear acrylic cover ($399).

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
There are some marks on its rubber base visible on all sides. Overall very presentable.

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:
Second Owner

Connections:
Captive RCA Phono output, w/ Ground. Captive Power Cord.

General Sound:
Neutral sound with little to no coloration

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

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

Included:
Just the unit 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:
1985

Link to Manual:
Click Here

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.