Technics Sl 1200 Mk2 Vs Audio Technica At-lp120

The Technics SL-1200 MK2 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP120 are two of the most iconic turntables ever made. They’ve been used by countless DJs, producers, and audiophiles for decades, and they continue to be popular choices today.

But which one is the better turntable? That’s a question that has been debated for years, and there’s no easy answer. Both the SL-1200 MK2 and the AT-LP120 have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs.

In this blog post, we’ll take a close look at both turntables and compare them in terms of build quality, features, performance, and price. We’ll also provide our own verdict on which turntable we think is the better choice.

Build Quality

The Technics SL-1200 MK2 is built like a tank. It’s made from heavy-duty metal and has a solid construction that can withstand years of heavy use. The AT-LP120 is also well-built, but it’s not quite as sturdy as the SL-1200 MK2. It’s made from a combination of metal and plastic, and it feels a bit lighter and less durable.

Features

The Technics SL-1200 MK2 and the AT-LP120 both offer a wide range of features, but there are some key differences between the two. The SL-1200 MK2 has a more advanced motor than the AT-LP120, which gives it better speed stability and torque. The SL-1200 MK2 also has a built-in strobe light, which makes it easier to adjust the speed of the platter.

The AT-LP120, on the other hand, has some features that the SL-1200 MK2 doesn’t have. It has a built-in phono preamp, which means that you can connect it directly to your speakers or amplifier without needing a separate phono preamp. The AT-LP120 also has a USB output, which allows you to connect it to your computer and digitize your records.

Performance

The Technics SL-1200 MK2 and the AT-LP120 both offer excellent performance, but there are some subtle differences between the two. The SL-1200 MK2 has a slightly better signal-to-noise ratio than the AT-LP120, which means that it produces less noise. The SL-1200 MK2 also has a more accurate speed stability than the AT-LP120, which means that it’s less likely to drift off speed.

Price

The Technics SL-1200 MK2 is more expensive than the AT-LP120. The SL-1200 MK2 typically sells for around $1,000, while the AT-LP120 typically sells for around $300.

Which Turntable is Right for You?

The Technics SL-1200 MK2 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP120 are both excellent turntables, but they’re not right for everyone. The SL-1200 MK2 is the better choice for DJs and audiophiles who need a high-quality turntable that can withstand heavy use. The AT-LP120 is a more affordable option that’s still a great choice for casual listeners and vinyl enthusiasts.

Verdict

So, which turntable is the better choice? It depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for the best possible turntable, the Technics SL-1200 MK2 is the way to go. But if you’re on a budget, the Audio-Technica AT-LP120 is a great option that still offers excellent performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the difference between the Technics SL-1200 MK2 and the SL-1200 MK7?

A: The SL-1200 MK7 is the latest version of the SL-1200 series. It has a number of improvements over the MK2, including a new motor, a new tonearm, and a new platter.

Q: Is the Audio-Technica AT-LP120 a good turntable for beginners?

A: Yes, the AT-LP120 is a great turntable for beginners. It’s easy to set up and use, and it offers excellent performance for the price.

Q: Can I use the Technics SL-1200 MK2 with a DJ mixer?

A: Yes, the SL-1200 MK2 is a popular choice for DJs. It has a number of features that make it ideal for DJing, such as a high-torque motor, a built-in strobe light, and a reverse play function.