Technics axe 1200 and 1210 turntables

The digital juggernaut continues its mindless destruction of analog classics, with the latest brand to throw in the towel being venerable club favorite Technics.  Manufacturing parent Panasonic has apparently issued a statement blaming "low sales globally in analogue turntables" for the demise of the Technics 1200 and 1210 decks, which it will cease producing in February 2010.

"It is a sad day today but due to low sales globally in analogue turntables a decision to stop production has been made on Technics Turntables.  For Australia this means we will receive our last shipment in March" Ian North, spokesperson, Panasonic Australia

We can't find a copy of the statement on any of Panasonic's region sites, nor their Technics pages.  It's also unclear what the news means regarding the production of mixers and headphones under the Technics brand.

Recent years have seen a rise in the popularity of digital mixing systems, which either use CD or completely digital MP3-style mixing rather than classic vinyl.  These setups are generally easier to transport, less prone to damage and allow for more flexibility in post-processing.

[via InTheMix]