Sheet 05 · Head to head

MK3D vs MK5

Same platform, real differences. 3 of 8 published figures differ. Both are classic-line decks, so the shared figures below are shared mechanicals rather than coincidence.

MK3D

The 'D' is for de-detented: the click at 0% pitch removed, a reset button added.

1997

MK5

The scratch-era workhorse: doubled anti-skate, white LED target light, last of the analog pitch.

2000–10

05.1Where they differ

Years
1997
2000–10
Pitch
±8% detent-free + reset
±8% analog, detent-free
At launch
Japan only
~$500–600

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 on the pitch fader, pitch reset button.

Used market: US askings ~$480–650 in Very Good (Aug 2026); mostly 100V Japan imports

Full model sheet →

MK5

vs M3D: anti-skate 0–6 g, LED target light, removable dust cover refinements.

Used market: US askings (Aug 2026): $690–800 in Very Good, up to ~$1,450 in Excellent; LA local asks run higher

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] Crossfader

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