Every DJ needs to own a pair of Technics SL 1200 turntables. As a matter of fact, every single human being on Earth who prides her or himself in being a serious music lover.
Technics SL 1200 turntables are the ultimate symbol of DJing. They were there at the beginning and will always be there no matter how digital DJing takes over the world.
Just like a prized watch, Technics SL 1200 turntables will last you forever even if you really don’t take good care of them. It seems that they were built to last. I know a bunch of DJs who have had their pair since the late 80s and the SLs are still spinning flawlessly.
At this time of writing there are a few series of Technics SL 1200 turntables on the market: MK2, MK3, MK4, MK5, M5G, MK6 LTD & GOLD. You can read all about the minor differences at the Technics SL 1200 turntables Wikipedia page but if you really want to know which pair to get, I would advise the original Technics SL 1200 MK2 or MKII decks because they were the original.
I repeat. Every DJ needs to own a pair of Technics SL 1200 turntables. If you know of a DJ who does not own a pair, you know what to get him for her or his birthday, Christmas or any other occasion for a gift.
On a personal note… before the Technics SL 1200 turntables are completely discontinued by Matsushita, I will probably purchase at least 10 pairs. 30 years from now, they will be worth gold (especially the SL 1200 MK2!)!