So I find myself wanted to upgrade from my beloved Sansui SR-717 turntable to one of the aforementioned Technics.
The 1200MK2 would be a local FB market place purchase for $700. The owner claims only his father had it and is willing to sell it for $700. Maybe it checks out. Maybe it does not. He does have the original box FWIW.
The 1500CS ($1700) and 1200GR2 ($2500) would be purchased new from an authorized vendor with warranties.
I have a Luxman 507Z amp/phono stage and Wharfedale Super Lintons.
I would say records are about 20ish percent of my listening. I have invested in a number of things for cleaning and it has revolutionized my listening experience. I really, really like records. I only see growth in my record listening. It just is fun.
I am trying to figure out - is the 1200MK2 a red herring? Let's assume it is in very good condition.
The auto lift at the end of a record of the 1500CS is absolutely a consideration. For either the MK2 or the GR2 I would invest in the Little Fwend for another $300. I can afford that, and I view that as a sunk cost.
What I am trying to determine - does it make sense to spend the extra money on the 1500CS vs the 1200MK2? When I compare the CS to the GR2 it looks like a difference in weight which may marginally impact sound quality?
I am sure spending more gets you more, I am just concerned about diminishing returns.
Oh and to throw one more grenade into the convo - I could do a Rega Planar 5 with an Ania Pro for about $1800ish. I will certainly uprgrade my cart whichever turntableI pick.
Nota Bene: My goal is not to go cheap. I want to buy for the next 5+ years, not the next 10, as I am sure I will upgrade. I am trying to avoid "Wiim answers". What I mean by that is Wiim, is great. It is fantastic at that price point, but I am not at that price point (despite my interest in the 1200MK2). I am not looking to save the last dollar. I want something that is aligned with the rest of what I have. I hope that makes sense. Thanks you in advance!