Turntable Advice: Technics vs Stanton

[Cdnbob]

I've been looking at turntables and was wondering what you guys thought of Technics versus Stanton turntables. I like the Technics models but I notice they're quite expensive - retail over $700 CAD locally. Yet, I've seen some Stanton ones that look just as good and retail under $500 CAD. Any advice/suggestions?

[BrunoRepublic]

The 1200s are built solid, having been designed in an age where components weren't disposable. They have stood the test of time, and they last for decades, not just years. They can easily be repaired, modified, parts replaced, etc. And they hold on to their resale value.

The 1200s would cost a lot more if it had been designed today, but the R&D costs for it were paid off years ago. The direct-drive mechanism is among the best ever made, and most definitely the best still being made today. Don't waste your money on cheap imitations.

[Cdnbob]

The 1200s are built solid, having been designed in an age where components weren't disposable. They have stood the test of time, and they last for decades, not just years. They can easily be repaired, modified, parts replaced, etc. And they hold on to their resale value.

The 1200s would cost a lot more if it had been designed today, but the R&D costs for it were paid off years ago. The direct-drive mechanism is among the best ever made, and most definitely the best still being made today. Don't waste your money on cheap imitations.

So Graham, you'd recommend the Technics over the Stanton then? The Stantons Tom Lee Music - STANTON - T.60 DIRECT DRIVE DJ TURNTABLE or :: Stanton :: look pretty good, but as I haven't bought a turntable in over 15 years I'm not too sure what would be my best option. I'm not planning to do any major DJ'ing, just playing my records and doing a few mix tapes for friends etc. Price is a bit of a concern - just want something that is reliable and will last.

The Stanton's apparently come with a cartridge, but do the Technics?

[BrunoRepublic]

The Stantons might be cheaper, but only the Technics are worth the asking price.

The Technics doesn't come with a cartridge, but that's okay, because any cartridge that is included with a turntable is garbage anyway.

If you're getting a turntable for listening, you'll want to use a cartridge like an Audio Technica AT440MLa or Shure M97xe, both of which can be bought online for ~$100.

Stanton stopped producing quality cartridges years ago, all current Stanton product is DJ-oriented (durable but sounds like crap).

[Cdnbob]

The Stantons might be cheaper, but only the Technics are worth the asking price.

The Technics doesn't come with a cartridge, but that's okay, because any cartridge that is included with a turntable is garbage anyway.

If you're getting a turntable for listening, you'll want to use a cartridge like an Audio Technica AT440MLa or Shure M97xe, both of which can be bought online for ~$100.

Stanton stopped producing quality cartridges years ago, all current Stanton product is DJ-oriented (durable but sounds like crap).

Thanks for the info and advice Graham. Really appreciate it.

[conor l]

Id agree with Graham alright. Ive had my 1210s 6 or so years now and theyre like new still.

One rule of thumb with audio equipment, you generally get exactly what you pay for, so if they are more expensive, there is generally a good reason for it

[Disco Funk]

I bought a Sony, the PSLX250H, back in 2000, and it's still going strong today (knock on wood). It's just a basic player, but it does have a built in amp which is nice because I can run it directly into my PC to record my music. And the needle cartridge replacements are cheap, usually around $15US on Ebay, every year and a half or so. I have yet to have to change the belt or any components on it, and I've used it to record or check out hundreds of records over the past decade. The only thing it doesn't have, which the Technics has, is pitch control, but I can change my music's pitch in whatever software I'm using. If you're planning on DJing, then Technics is the way to go, but if it's just for general purpose use, the Sony ain't a bad alternative. Disco Funk

[andyy]

In my opinion i agree with Graham i love my Technics i have two 1200 mk5s i bought my first one ten years ago this being a SL 1210 mk2, i really wanted a SL1200 love the silver finish but Practical Hi fi in the UK at the time only had the 1210s in. My next door neibour bought it from me in January 2007 and it was looked after by me no marks etc or abuse.
I bought my first 1200mk5 in december 2006 and recently another to match it you cannot tell the differance hardly between the new one and a two year old one.
This tells you the quality build and if you look after them you should have them many many years. I remember the first time i used a SL it is a great feeling something to be proud of and would highly recommend to any prospect buyer choose the Technics.