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Thoughts on the Linn LP12 turntable

I don’t see many discussions that include the Linn Sondek LP12 turntable and was wondering why? They’ve been around since the late 70’s and other then power supply and a few other minor changes (IMO) are relatively unchanged. I had one in the early 80’s and another in the late 90’s. They are somewhat finicky to get setup correct and once you do, they sound great. That being said I know there have been a lot better designs to come out since the LP12’s hey-day. Are they worth considering  anymore or has the LP12 just become another audio vintage collectors item?

markcooperstein
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,858 posts
 

Still have my Linn Axis which is a lp12 for dummies on a budget since 1987.   Love it!  Dread the day when I might finally have to replace it. 

regg
32 posts
 

Mapman, I am in the same place-have my beloved Linn Axis with basic plus since 1987. Never any problems and have yet to here a turntable in under 3 grand that beats it!

gordon
128 posts
 

I had an LP12 for about 22 years with all available upgrades.  When the Keel was introduced, I demoed a similarly speced LP12 with Keel against an SME 20.  I much preferred the SME, which I have happily owned for 16 years without any upgrades.  I would never go back to a Linn, especially at today’s prices.

slaw's avatar
slaw
20,442 posts
 

A relic from one who's a proponent of well thought out spring suspension tts.

terra3
60 posts
 

Had one of the first handful of those in the 70's.  Put many $$'s into it until I simply got tired of doing so when I could see other options entering the market (and being further developed by others). 

Was a nice table all along.  Finicky with setup more than others, but nice.

But it was an entirely other experience when I laid down the coin for a VPI and realized the ease available for what to me was still a very good sound.  I still have that same VPI and no reason for any upgrade as the years moved on.

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