Reply to Technics - Straight Tonearms

I have seen a bunch of custom 1200s with straight tonearms and even a few with those ghastly LED multicolour tonearms (seriously, buy a lava lamp). I know the theory is that straight tonearms are better for scratching but I have also heard that straight tonearms on Technics can be the kiss of death.

What is the deal with these?

As the French say, "Hit me with your knowledge peeps."