Technics 1200 MK2 or 1200GR?

[MarginWalker]

I am losing my wonderful, concrete floored basement listening room as we need another bedroom. As such the hifi and records will be moving up to the living room. Currently I have a Thorens TD160 with a SME 3009 tonearm. As much as I love it I think I will move it to the study system so I can get something a little less susceptible to footfall issues, and more sturdy and user friendly for other family members for the living room.

I have settled on a 1200/1210 and was hoping for some advice on here as to whether a MK2 or GR would be a better buy.

Thanks!

MW

[CageyH]

I would probably look at the GR2.

[Macca]

GR is a bit better than a MK2 I suspect because it has a better tonearm.

I have heard MK2s with upgraded tonearms that were better than the GR.

[Stratmangler]

I would probably look at the GR2.

Me too!
That said, I have a modded up SL-1210 Mk2 (Jelco SA-750D, Mike New bearing, Isonoes etc etc) and it performs really well too.

[MarginWalker]

Is the GR2 that much if a jump from the GR? Looks like it is £500 more at new prices!

[CageyH]

It has an improved motor control system, and is the reason many people are selling the GR. ;)
It also has a better/quieter power supply. One less thing to upgrade. Fairly important, as it is in the deck itself.

[Stratmangler]

Is the GR2 that much if a jump from the GR? Looks like it is £500 more at new prices!

What new prices?
Yes there are clearing deals for the older model that can amount to a £500 difference. At SSP there is a £200 difference.