Compare · sheet 05 · MK4 vs MK5
MK4 vs MK5SL-1200MK4 and SL-1200MK5 / SL-1210MK5
5 of the 8 figures in the comparison table differ. Both are from the classic line (1972 to 2010).
MK4
Built for listening, not DJing: 78 rpm, detachable cables, an upgraded arm. Rarely seen outside Japan.
1996–97
MK5
The scratch-era workhorse: doubled anti-skate, white LED target light, last of the analog pitch.
2000–10
05.1Where they differ
- Years
- 1996–97
- 2000–10
- Pitch
- ±8% (detented)
- ±8% analog, detent-free
- Speeds
- 33⅓ / 45 / 78
- 33⅓ / 45
- Weight
- –
- 12.5 kg
- At launch
- ~$650
- ~$500–600
05.2Identical on both
- Motor
- Quartz-locked DC direct drive
- Starting torque
- 1.5 kg·cm
- Wow & flutter
- 0.025% WRMS
05.3What each one changed
MK4
vs MK3: +78 rpm, detachable cables, upgraded tonearm and wiring; aimed at listeners, not DJs.
Reverb sold median $1,150 (12 listings, published Feb 2020–Dec 2025). Middle half $1,050–$1,213.
Full model sheet →MK5
vs M3D: anti-skate 0–6 g, LED target light, removable dust cover refinements.
Reverb sold median $765 (40 listings, published Jan 2025–Sep 2026). Middle half $665–$820.
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