I have been looking to get a new turntable and I have found a place where I can get a Pro-ject 1.2 for a little over $200 and a Debut II (2) for the regular price of $280 (or $300 for colors). I know that the 1.2 used to sell for about $400 before it was discontinued. Is the 1.2 the better turntable? Both come with a cartridge, though I've heard that the 1.2's Sumiko Oyster cartridge is better than the Debut's Ortofon. I listened to them both, but couldn't make a direct comparison because they were hooked up to different equipment.
i have a project 1.2 and was very pleased with it but I found the oyster cartridge a little bright for my tastes, swapped it for an ortofon red and love it. I also re-soldered the cable coming from the unit to a better quality one, didnt really notice a diff. but I like doing those things anyway.