Sheet 05 · Head to head
MK4 vs MK7
6 of the 8 figures in the comparison table differ. The MK4 is from the classic line (1972 to 2010), the MK7 from the revival (2016 on).
MK4
Built for listening, not DJing: 78 rpm, detachable cables, an upgraded arm. Rarely seen outside Japan.
1996–97
MK7
The DJ deck returns: coreless motor, 78 rpm, reverse play; the first new DJ 1200 in nine years.
2019–
05.1Where they differ
- Years
- 1996–97
- 2019–
- Motor
- Quartz-locked DC direct drive
- Coreless direct drive
- Starting torque
- 1.5 kg·cm
- 1.8 kg·cm
- Pitch
- ±8% (detented)
- Digital ±8% / ±16%
- Weight
- –
- 9.6 kg
- At launch
- ~$650
- ~$999–1,199
05.2Identical on both
- Wow & flutter
- 0.025% WRMS
- 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 →MK7
vs MK5/M5G: coreless motor, digital pitch, 78 rpm, reverse, adjustable torque, detachable cables, much lighter build.
Used market: US askings (Aug 2026): $850–1,000 in Excellent; LA locals $850–1,300 single, ~$2,300 a pair; barely below new
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] Technics UK specs[4] DJWorx