I'd say don't spend anything on a Linn. Get an old REK-O-KUT B-12gh instead - I'm so depressed having spent so much on my Linn LP12 (Vahalla/Ittok LVII/Dynavector) only to have a beat up old ugly monster like the Rek-o-kut B-12 gh Rondine with a worn stylus totally out class it . $500 is good for the Linn (I'm not too thrilled by the Akito. & the K9 is a dog) you mentioned but a Rega3 may be just as good ($400 or less), depending on your system.
How much should I pay for old LP12?
Im consicering going back to vinyl again but now nothing about what to buy. I have been offered and old LP 12 w Valahlla,cirkus,akito,K9 in good condition for 500$.Is this a good buy or should I buy something else for 500?Can Linn tell you the age of the player if you give them serial number?