I kind of now that guy from New-line and believe me, he is pretty reliable. Fact is that the technics have proven themselves already for durability. But for the other points the Akiyama is better. I've read several positive reviews and i couldn't find any negative reviews.
I also know 2 people who sold their 1200's and bought these akiyama's and they don't regret it they say.

But andré (that guy from new-line) did said he keeps the 1200 in his hire collection because they have proven themselves.

Another thing that's important if you want to buy these tt is that you remove the whim (don't know this is the right word in english) of the tonearm. Technics is still the only company that can deliver whim-free tt.

Technics perform solid, they dont have known issues and are reliable. That is why pro audio ppl who setup equipment for different club owners and venues will certainly have 1200s (mk2s or 3s) on their equipment list and not vestax or other manufactures (including OEM). It's the good old simple philosophy "if it aint broke, dont fix it". They perform and have performed for so many years that pros in industry do not care about switching to something else.

If you want to add some creativity to your mix, there are many external processors out there that you can use to add spice and effects to your mixes, not to mention what some mixers already offer.