Compare · sheet 05 · M3D vs 1210GAE

M3D vs 1210GAESL-1200M3D / SL-1210M3D and SL-1210GAE

8 of the 8 figures in the comparison table differ. The M3D is from the classic line (1972 to 2010), the 1210GAE from the revival (2016 on).

M3D

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

1997–2000

1210GAE

55 years of Technics in black: 1,210 numbered units, with a strobe you can switch off.

2020

05.1Where they differ

Years
1997–2000
2020
Motor
Quartz-locked DC direct drive
Coreless twin-rotor direct drive
Starting torque
1.5 kg·cm
3.3 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
~18 kg
At launch
~MK2 pricing
~€4,499

05.3What each one changed

M3D

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

Reverb sold median $650 (40 listings, published May 2022–Aug 2026). Middle half $579–$713.

Full model sheet →

1210GAE

vs G: black finish, numbered plaque, strobe on/off switch.

Used market: Limited-run collector pricing above launch

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