Technics SL-1200MKV with New Calibrated Sumiko Songbird Cartridge

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General:

The most versatile and rugged turntable likely ever made. Able to reproduce music at audiophile levels with the proper cartridge and setup.

We chose this candidate because it was well cared for and benefits from all the improvements of being a MK5 (5th iteration).

We mated it to a formidable brand new Sumiko Songbird Low Output MC phono cartridge ($899) and perfectly calibrated it.

It comes with an acrylic dust cover as well - please note the original hinged dust cover was removed and an "upgraded" aftermarket cover was added.

Key Features of the Technics SL-1200 MK5 
• A plastic clear dust cover lid.
• A 45 RPM or EP adapter with built-in holder.
• Removable high grade S-shaped tone arm. But you can get straight tonearms to satisfy the most picky audiophile.
• Replaceable pitch slider control.
• Thick metal die cast platter. Very well balanced, for enhanced speed accuracy and low rumble.
• Platter slip sheets.
• Black rubber turntable mat.
• Head shell with all hardware for mounting cartridges that weigh from 3 to 13 grams.
• Low resonance cabinet for reduced feedback when operating this unit close to speakers.

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:

RCA plus captive non-grounded power cord.

General Sound:

Accurate to the recording

Cosmetic Condition:

8 - Very Slight Signs of Use

https://skyfiaudio.com/pages/our-testing-process

Working Condition:

Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:

Turntable, Sumiko cartridge, and cover.

Packing:

Original Manufacturers Packing

Original MSRP:

$1,800.00

Dimensions:

17.8 x 6.8 x 14" (452 x 173 x 356mm)

Weight:

26.5 lbs.

Age:

2004

Reviews:

https://tomstek.us/technics-sl-1200-mk5-turntable-review/

Link to Manual:

http://www.kabusa.com/SL1200MK5.pdf

Recommended Cables:

Kimber Kable - Tonearm Interconnects - Better

Kimber Kable - Flagship Tonearm Interconnects - Best

Testing Process:

Fist 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 asses the platter speed by using one of several methods, the most accuse is a playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency out put with a frequency counter or oscilloscope.  We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure its within spec.  We do this for all speeds available for that particular model.  Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on table 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 its properly lubricated keeping in mind that some 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 TD124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism, replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the arm 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

Tracing force

Anti-skate

Tonearm height

Lifter height

VTA

Azimuth

Stylus Distance and Overhang

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

Specs:

Motor
Brushless DC Motor

Speeds
33 1/3 and 45 RPM, Selectable

Brake
Electronic, Variable-Speed

Pitch Control Range
± 8%

Wow and Flutter
0.01% WRMS
0.025% WRMS (JIS C5521)
± 0.035% peak (IEC 98A Weighted)

Power Requirements
120VAC, 60Hz