2. analog
  3. 1183311074

Should I replace my LP12?

I've had an LP12 for the past 23 years. In that time, I've done all the suspension upgrades. It still has the Valhala supply. It also has the original Ittok arm, but a Goldmund platter. It has served me well and still works fine. However, I'm thinking that it might be time to go for a new, quite different approach to analog. I could save my pennies and get the Keel upgrade, new arm, etc, but maybe I'm simply ready for a change. I'm thinking I could get around $2.5k for what I have, including Clearaudio cartridge. My problem is where to go next for about the same money? The Pro-Ject tables look interesting as to the VPIs. I'd like to trade the LP12 signature lower mids for something crisper with a very sweet top end. I'm a tube guy so that might be considered a guiding principle. Any thoughts?
pscialli

Showing 2 responses by r_f_sayles

r_f_sayles's avatar
r_f_sayles
872 posts
 
Pscialli,

Better than an Lp12 for 2.5k USD... fuhgeddaboutit!
Different... that's up to your ears.

Here's another vote to keep the Linn Sondek because it's not cost effective to sell it. Still have mine since 1982.

But something is confusing me here...what prey tell is a goldmund platter doing on a Lp12?

I would suggest up-grades, you have a great reference table. Do you have the Cirkus bearing? It is outstanding. It single handedly cut surface noise (which was low to begin with) in half and then a whole lot of previously unheard low level detail came out to play. This was a bigger upgrade than even the Lingo power supply, which would also be a very substantial improvement over the Valhalla. And then there is a Ekos arm, with the new Ekos SE arm on the market, I think some close watching over the AudioGon used equipment ads may garner you a value.

Last but not least, how long has it been since you had your dealer reset-up your deck? I would also be curious to what cartridge you’re fitted with, and if it is a competent MC, what phono-amp your running. LOL.

Happy Listening!
r_f_sayles's avatar
r_f_sayles
872 posts
 
Pscialli, I think the dealer might be the only sure source for a Linn platter. Finding bits and pieces on AudioGon or Ebay is spotty at best for a non-upgradeable component but, not impossible. If you’re running a goldmund platter, is the spindle a Linn component with the Cirkus? I had no idea that such a thing was available. It leaves me curious to whether your non-Linn upgrades are helping or hurting or just changing the flavor. If I were you, I would pack up my table, go to Gifted Listener (who I've heard excellent feedback about) and A/B your table against a similar Lp12. I realize that it will be nearly impossible to do a real apples to apples comparison but, it may help you understand if the true Lp12 sound is vastly different than yours and whether you truly dig the groove it makes or if you need to head in a different direction entirely. On the chance that you like what you hear than comes the hard part of sorting out what has to happen with your deck. It sounds as if the rest of your set-up is of a good caliber so I don’t recognize a mismatch there. Personally, I would look at upgrades in this order 1.Lingo, 2.Ekos, then 3. Keel and agree whole heartedly with Newmanoc comments as far as value is concerned. The Lp12 on the used marked is a tough act to follow for the dollar. IMHO nothing comes close in total package, musically.

Happy Listening
More to discover