Compare · sheet 05 · MK3D vs GLD

MK3D vs GLDSL-1200MK3D and SL-1200GLD

3 of the 8 figures in the comparison table differ. Both are from the classic line (1972 to 2010).

MK3D

The MK3 without the click at 0% pitch, plus a reset button, a recessed power switch and a headshell stand.

1997

GLD

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

2004

05.1Where they differ

Years
1997
2004
Pitch
±8% detent-free + reset
Digital ±8% / ±16%
At launch
Japan only
Limited edition

05.2Identical on both

Motor
Quartz-locked DC direct drive
Starting torque
1.5 kg·cm
Wow & flutter
0.025% WRMS
Speeds
33⅓ / 45
Weight
12.5 kg

05.3What each one changed

MK3D

vs MK3: no center detent, pitch reset button, recessed power switch, hinge-free dust cover, spare-headshell stand, silver finish returns.

Reverb sold median $590 (40 listings, published Apr 2023–Sep 2026). Middle half $560–$650.

Full model sheet →

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 →

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] Save The Vinyl[3] Audio Heritage (JP), SL-1200MK3D[4] SL-1200 series wiki (JP)

← All nineteen in one table