Compare · sheet 05 · GLD vs M7L

GLD vs M7LSL-1200GLD and SL-1200M7L

6 of the 8 figures in the comparison table differ. The GLD is from the classic line (1972 to 2010), the M7L from the revival (2016 on).

GLD

Three million sold, in black gloss and gold; 3,000 units on an M5G heart.

2004

M7L

50 years of the 1200: 12,000 units, seven colors, gold tonearms.

2022

05.1Where they differ

Years
2004
2022
Motor
Quartz-locked DC direct drive
Coreless direct drive
Starting torque
1.5 kg·cm
1.8 kg·cm
Speeds
33⅓ / 45
33⅓ / 45 / 78
Weight
12.5 kg
9.6 kg
At launch
Limited edition
$1,099.99

05.2Identical on both

Wow & flutter
0.025% WRMS
Pitch
Digital ±8% / ±16%

05.3What each one changed

GLD

vs M5G: commemorative gold-hardware finish; otherwise an M5G.

Reverb sold median $4,900 (5 listings, published Feb 2022–Jul 2023). Middle half $3,300–$5,799.

Full model sheet →

M7L

vs MK7: colorways, gold tonearm, serial badge, slipmat.

Reverb sold median $1,500 (5 listings, published Apr 2022–Dec 2025). Middle half $1,253–$2,099.

Full model sheet →

Figures from the same sources as each model sheet. A dash means the figure is not published in our sources; we do not invent specs.[1] Wikipedia[2] Crossfader[3] Panasonic press release[4] Technics 50th

← All nineteen in one table