Sheet 05 · Head to head
M3D vs M5G
3 of the 8 figures in the comparison table differ. Both are from the classic line (1972 to 2010).
M3D
The MK3D for the rest of the world, with a recessed power switch DJs couldn't kill mid-set.
1997–2000
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
- 1997–2000
- 2002–10
- Pitch
- ±8% detent-free + reset
- Digital ±8% / ±16%
- At launch
- ~MK2 pricing
- 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
M3D
vs MK2 (for export markets): detent-free pitch + reset, recessed power switch, detachable dust cover, headshell holder.
Used market: US askings ~$750 in Very Good (Aug 2026), MK2 money for a better pitch fader, and often overlooked
Full model sheet →M5G
vs MK5: digital pitch control (±8/±16 switchable), blue LEDs, upgraded tonearm wiring, brake knob.
Used market: Scarce on the US market (Aug 2026): historically $800–1,200+ per deck, and current listings are so thin that a lone 1210M5G ask sits at $4,000
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] Turntable Lab[3] Crossfader