Sheet 05 · Head to head
MK3D vs M3D
2 of the 8 figures in the comparison table differ. Both are from the classic line (1972 to 2010).
MK3D
The MK3 without the click at 0% pitch, plus a reset button, a recessed power switch and a headshell stand.
1997
M3D
The MK3D for the rest of the world, with a recessed power switch DJs couldn't kill mid-set.
1997–2000
05.1Where they differ
- Years
- 1997
- 1997–2000
- At launch
- Japan only
- ~MK2 pricing
05.2Identical on both
- Motor
- Quartz-locked DC direct drive
- Starting torque
- 1.5 kg·cm
- Wow & flutter
- 0.025% WRMS
- Pitch
- ±8% detent-free + reset
- Speeds
- 33⅓ / 45
- Weight
- 12.5 kg
05.3What each one changed
MK3D
vs MK3: no center detent, pitch reset button, recessed power switch, hinge-free dust cover, spare-headshell stand, silver finish returns.
Used market: US askings ~$480–650 in Very Good (Aug 2026); mostly 100V Japan imports
Full model sheet →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 →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] Audio Heritage (JP), SL-1200MK3D[4] SL-1200 series wiki (JP)