Compare · sheet 05 · MK5 vs M5G

MK5 vs M5GSL-1200MK5 / SL-1210MK5 and SL-1200MK5G / SL-1210M5G

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

MK5

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

2000–10

M5G

The 30th-anniversary deck: first digital pitch, a ±16% range and blue LEDs. Turntablists liked it best.

2002–10

05.1Where they differ

Years
2000–10
2002–10
Pitch
±8% analog, detent-free
Digital ±8% / ±16%
At launch
~$500–600
MK5 + premium

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

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 →

M5G

vs MK5: digital pitch control (±8/±16 switchable), blue LEDs, upgraded tonearm wiring, brake knob.

Reverb sold median $999 (40 listings, published Jul 2016–Aug 2026). Middle half $750–$1,125.

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[3] Turntable Lab

← All nineteen in one table