Sheet 05 · Head to head
MK4 vs GR2
7 of the 8 figures in the comparison table differ. The MK4 is from the classic line (1972 to 2010), the GR2 from the revival (2016 on).
MK4
Built for listening, not DJing: 78 rpm, detachable cables, an upgraded arm. Rarely seen outside Japan.
1996–97
GR2
The current Grand Class: ΔΣ-Drive motor control and flagship-derived silent power at $2,199.
2023–
05.1Where they differ
- Years
- 1996–97
- 2023–
- Motor
- Quartz-locked DC direct drive
- Coreless direct drive, ΔΣ-Drive
- Starting torque
- 1.5 kg·cm
- 2.2 kg·cm
- Wow & flutter
- 0.025% WRMS
- 0.025%
- Pitch
- ±8% (detented)
- ±8% / ±16%
- Weight
- –
- ~11.2 kg
- At launch
- ~$650
- $2,199
05.2Identical on both
- Speeds
- 33⅓ / 45 / 78
05.3What each one changed
MK4
vs MK3: +78 rpm, detachable cables, upgraded tonearm and wiring; aimed at listeners, not DJs.
Used market: Import-only rarity; prized by collectors who play 78s
Full model sheet →GR2
vs GR: ΔΣ-Drive motor control, new low-noise power supply; same torque class.
Used market: Too new for a deep used market; light discounts only
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] Forbes