The Technics 1200MK2 has been the industry standard for 25+ years. For all intents and purposes, this is the exact same turntable as the contemporary MK5 series, just without some of the new features, and the Technics 1200 remains the preferred choice for all types of djing.

FEATURES
This is the turntable that first established the type of high torque (motor strength), accurate pitch (speed control), quality tone arm (aids in skip resistance), and superior sound that is required by djs; and after 25+ years it is still the standard by which all other turntables are judged. Every other turntable that has come since has patterned their design off this legendary piece of equipment, and the reason is simple: the 1200MK2 is about as close to perfection as you can get with a piece of machinery. It functions beautifully and the durability and construction are unmatched. The body and major components are made of steel. The bottom of the body is made of a dense rubber that eliminates distortion and feedback and adds extra weight for stability. Most of the basic parts are readily available and user replaceable.

The differences between the MK2 and the newer MK5 versions are fairly minor and mostly aesthetic. They are as follows: the MK2 still has the "click" at zero on the pitch control, the MK2 does not have a protective sleeve around the on/off knob, and no slipmat is included. Other than that, they are identical.

OUR OPINION
Our #1 recommendation. There is simply no replacement for a Technics 1200 turntable, and it's almost cooler to have this original MK2 model, without the unnecessary "new features" of the newer M3D and MK5 models. Regardless of model number, Technics still makes the best turntable available, and they are used in 99% of all venues. Resale value is also very high. Some newer turntables may have more features, but this is the superior overall product. When you use a 1200, you know you are using the best.