Sticking on your own headshell and perhaps a better matt (though to be honest, the Technics rubber matt does the job and I like it) is about all you need. It’s a fit and forget turntable to last a lifetime. You can fit some aftermarket arms and feet but when the ones fitted are so good why tinker.
I heard the SL-1200G and GR. Went with the lower cost GR and a very good MM cartridge to pair with a Stageline/HCdr/282. If you can afford the G do that. If not, the GR gets bizarrely close for less.
There’s no denying it sounds very different from a Rega or LP12. I never got into vinyl despite years with access to a top end LP12 in the shop I worked and an entry level Rega. And I was sort of programmed to look down my nose at direct drive. But when I first heard a Technics in a hifi environment I was blown away.
To describe the character, against what I know, an LP12 is like a world renowned conductor. He comes out on stage in tails and bow tie. Clears his throat, “Ahem settle down people settle down. Places everyone! You at the back quieten down.” Tap-tap-tap of the baton. Beautiful music comes forth.
The SL-1200, on the other hand, comes out on a different stage. Puts his half empty pint of lager next to the mic stand. Scratches his crotch. Nods to his band mates to the left, then the right. “Right lads. Let’s Rock.”
Don’t get me wrong, the Technics does subtle and nuanced. But it’s all about the PRaT.