Technics stopped production of its earlier SL-1200 generation in 2010, but that was not the end of the series. FormatMag’s November 2009 report captured concern about the turntables’ future; the later return changes how that news should be read today.
What ended in 2010
Panasonic’s own retrospective account dates the discontinuation to 2010, with the SL-1200MK6 closing that production chapter. That is the relevant historical break when distinguishing the earlier turntables from models introduced after the revival.
The return was a separate chapter
Panasonic records the Technics brand’s relaunch in December 2014. The turntable series returned in 2016; the company’s subsequent release identifies the SL-1200G as a 2016 launch. A brand relaunch and a particular turntable launch are different milestones, not interchangeable dates.
In January 2019, Panasonic announced the SL-1200MK7. Its release describes a DJ-oriented model with adjustable starting torque and brake speed, reverse play and detachable power and phono connections. That announcement documents a later model—not resumed manufacture of every older version.
Why the news mattered to DJs
The series had become part of club practice rather than just a way to play records. Technics’ history of the SL-1200 describes engineers listening to DJs and developing the 1979 MK2 for demanding club use. Direct drive, pitch control and familiar handling helped establish its role in mixing and turntablism.
The useful distinction is between an older generation ending and the series disappearing permanently. The 2010 stop was real; the later launches make the original farewell incomplete. This is a historical account, not a test of a modern model or a claim about present availability.
Updated 28 October 2026. Originally published 30 November 2009. This article has been revised to clarify the 2010 production stop and the subsequent return of Technics and the SL-1200 series.
Nick,
I have set up a facebook group to show opposition to this: Save the SL 1200: stop Technics killing an icon
Its welcome to members to show their displeasure and demonstrate their creativity.
All are welcome
They’re only discontinuing the mk5! The actual 1200mk2 and 1210mk2 will be remaining in production!!!