Luke, 
I went with a standard SL-1200 model last year (finally)…
…but the SL-1500 now comes with a semi-automatic tone arm lifter, preventing very common needle wear. And a Ortofon Red needle!
A bargain, if you were looking for a #Technics.
#SL1200 #turntable
https://www.turntablelab.com/products/technics-sl-1500c-turntable-silver