Sheet 05 · Head to head

M3D vs GR

Different machines that share a silhouette. 8 of 8 published figures differ. One classic-line, one revival. These share a silhouette and almost nothing else.

M3D

The MK3D for the rest of the world, with a recessed power switch DJs couldn't kill mid-set.

1997–2000

GR

Grand Class for the rest of us: the G's ideas, 7 kg lighter and half the price.

2017–23

05.1Where they differ

Years
1997–2000
2017–23
Motor
Quartz-locked DC direct drive
Coreless single-rotor direct drive
Starting torque
1.5 kg·cm
2.2 kg·cm
Wow & flutter
0.025% WRMS
0.025%
Pitch
±8% detent-free + reset
±8% / ±16%
Speeds
33⅓ / 45
33⅓ / 45 / 78
Weight
12.5 kg
~11.2 kg
At launch
~MK2 pricing
~$1,700

05.3What each one changed

M3D

vs MK2 (for export markets): detent-free pitch + reset, recessed power switch, detachable dust cover, headshell holder.

Used market: US askings ~$750 in Very Good (Aug 2026), MK2 money for a better pitch fader; still the sleeper pick

Full model sheet →

GR

vs G: single-rotor motor instead of twin, one-piece platter, lighter build, less than half the price.

Used market: US askings $1,790–1,990 in Excellent (Aug 2026); the GR2's higher price pulled used GRs up, not down

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] Turntable Lab[3] Crossfader

← All nineteen in one table