I considered an AT LP120x, but I bought a Technics SL-1200GR. Given the identical cartridge and phono pre, I suppose it is possible that they sound the same (though I doubt it); there are significant differences. The SL-1200GR (and 1200G) are made by Technics in Japan, this is reflected in the fine Japanese craftsmanship of the turntable, and especially, the tonearm. The LP120x is outsource manufactured in China. As far as I can tell, the LP120x is mostly plastic, the 1200GR has a solid aluminum top plate with a glass fiber damped plinth. The 120x weighs about 17.5 pounds (8 kg), the 1200GR over 25 pounds (11.5 kg). The Technics is exquisitely designed and manufactured. The AT seemed to me to be an adequate budget version for casual, but not critical, listening.
The original LP120 was produced in 2009 after Technics discontinued the 1200 series and before Technics upgraded and reintroduced those turntables. I presume that the AT 120 etc. are licensed knockoffs, but they are by no means the same, other than the cosmetics and basics of the DD design. Of course, the 1200GR is much more expensive, plus a cartridge, plus a phono pre. Nonetheless, in my opinion, you get what you pay for, in this case.
The original LP120 was produced in 2009 after Technics discontinued the 1200 series and before Technics upgraded and reintroduced those turntables. I presume that the AT 120 etc. are licensed knockoffs, but they are by no means the same, other than the cosmetics and basics of the DD design. Of course, the 1200GR is much more expensive, plus a cartridge, plus a phono pre. Nonetheless, in my opinion, you get what you pay for, in this case.