Link: 1200 Plates | Price: Chrome £95/pair — Gold £115/pair plus shipping
Introduction
Technics turntables are not only iconic, they’re known as a workhorse of the DJ world, getting beaten, dropped and generally abused yet still staying loyal and reliable. They’re also very moddable, with people giving them all sort of expensive paint jobs and tweaks. But what if you don’t want to take your gear apart to give it a lick of paint?
Enter the UK-based Make Solutions Technics Faceplates. These are precision cut metal covers with a variety of finishes that fit right over your existing set up. Although I was given the chrome finished versions, there are over 300 different colours and finishes available. From metal anodising to powder coated, there’s something for everyone.
Installing the cover is a breeze. Simply slide them over the tonearm assembly and the cover drops in place. You might need to loosen and move the tonearm to fit over it, but it’s only a minor problem. They fit over the existing chassis, leaving a bit of room to wiggle without scratching the paintwork.
Having installed and used the covers for around a week, I can say they are definitely non-intrusive, shiny and give new life to your decks. Given the choice, I’d always suggest going for a non-glossy finish. As I’ve mentioned in previous reviews, a glossy finish on hardware you’ll be sticking your hands over is never a good idea. I have found that in general use, the chrome finish attracts fingerprints and smudges, but these are pretty easy to wipe off, and the problem is nowhere near as bad as with other gear. (Photography was a bitch – Ed).
Aside from dirt, the covers are sturdy and durable, and would do a good job of protecting your decks should you need to carry them regularly. These are a lot cheaper to replace than the turntable face, should you drop something on them!
Ratings
Quality
Well finished and cosy but not tight. Can suffer from greasy fingers, but seems to come off easily.
Value
Not cheap at around £100 a pair, but you’re getting bespoke-made and individually finished covers.
Conclusion
If your turntables are looking a bit worse for wear, you could do worse than invest in a set of these covers. Although a glance at the price tag may shock you, You’re getting a proper metal, individually made cover, with whatever colour you might desire.
If you fancy one of these sets, you can send your enquiries over to info@1200plates.com, or call 07487 701138. Covers for MK2 and MK5 Technics 1200/10 can be made to order, with other brand decks considered. The set I tested are the chrome versions, costing £95, with the flashier gold-plated set coming out at £115.
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