Sound Advice: Hear the difference with turntable upgrade

Don Lindich, Tribune News Service on Apr 2, 2025

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Q. I am an avid vinyl listener and considering a turntable upgrade. I currently own an Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB turntable and am considering the Technics SL-1200GR. I might add an Andover Audio SpinStage phono preamp too since I can get one for $169. I need to stick with smaller speakers and currently have a pair of Polk Legend L100s, powered by a Harman/Kardon HK 3490 receiver.

Do you think it's even worth considering a turntable upgrade? I read a lot of great things about the SL-1200GR and can get an open box unit for $1,439, but since I am limited speaker-wise maybe I wouldn't notice much difference. I am also not familiar with mounting cartridges so I'm not sure how I would do that either.

—P.M., Minneapolis

A. Asking if a Technics SL-1200GR turntable would make a difference with your Legend L100 speakers and HK3490 receiver is like asking if first class airline seats are more comfortable than coach seats, or if you should buy good tires or cheap tires for your Ferrari. The Polk Legend L100 speakers were the 2020 Sound Advice product of the year and the Technics SL-1200GR was the 2018 Sound Advice product of the year. Both products brought the performance associated with quality high-end audio to attainable, if aspirational price points. The HK 3490 is a modern classic with tremendous power and pristine sound. You have a good, but entry-level turntable. When listening to vinyl the combination of turntable, cartridge and phono preamp is critically important. Not only do I think you should do this upgrade, I think you NEED to do this upgrade. I can't even quantify the huge improvement you are going to get, especially with the right cartridge. Since vinyl is so important to you this will pay huge dividends.

The Technics SL-1200GR has been replaced by the SL-1200GR2 at $2,199, so an open box SL-1200GR for $1,439 looks like a good buy. The sound competes with many $10,000+ turntables (and often exceeds them) while providing a reliable, satisfying and hassle-free ownership experience. Your SL-1200GR will probably become an heirloom as it is passed down through several generations of friends and family, lasting for decades without needing repairs or adjustment. I use an SL-1200GR myself and cannot recommend it highly enough. Any new SL-1200 turntable model rates as a buy-it-for-life product, not only because it will last, but also because you will never want to change it. us.technics.com

The Andover SpinStage phono preamp is $249 and there was a recent coupon code SAVE80 that makes it $169. I did not know the code was still active, but if you can get one for $169, go for it. andoveraudio.com

Mounting cartridges is difficult and fussy. One advantage to the SL-1200GR is the removable headshells. You can buy a cartridge premounted on a headshell configured for Technics. Just plug it in, balance it, and adjust the tonearm height and it will be properly aligned. I recommend the Vessel A3SV Ultimate Set from lpgear.com for $309. It's a great match to the SL-1200GR and can be upgraded by changing the stylus. With the Technics turntable, Vessel cartridge and Andover preamp you will discover a whole new world in your vinyl collection — I promise!

Q. I have a Subaru with the older USB-A connection and have read that existing cable adapters are OK for USB-C charging, but not reliable for CarPlay. What do you recommend?

—C.P., Pittsburgh

A. Just get a USB-A to USB-C cable. That way you do not have a fussy, unreliable adapter in the signal chain. I've used one for years with no issues.

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