Ralph, you'll be fine with the 1200, but I would personally go for the 1500. I have extensive time with the 1503CPH (the older model), and not as much with the 1200GPH. While both perform the same function, I'm personally into "overhead," whether is power driving amps, speakers, or anything electrical. The 1200 is actually rated up to 1450 watts, but it's a smaller unit and I think it has to work harder. I notice a heat difference between the 1503 and the 1200. Bottom line is the 1500 just doesn't have to work as hard to produce the power needed to drive that 700 watt element. Anything working in the middle of the power band, vs. the upper end, will have a longer life, in my experience.