Linn Linto Phono Stage - Comments Please


My analog chain currently consists of an older Linn LP12 with Hercules PS, Ittok LVII (black) Tonearm, Ortofon MC X30 with Boron Cantilever and Micro Line stylus by VAS, and a Linn Linto MC phono stage.

Before you ask - I broke the cantilever on the MC X30 and sent to VAS for repair.  I had him use the Boron/ML combination for repair. Interesting that the new MC X50 uses that combination.

I have very limited experience with phono preamps and wanted to hear your thoughts on the Linto and what else I may or should consider.  How much would I have to spend today to get better results?  I like the Linto but have nothing to compare it to.

maam522a

I just had my Linto returned from refurbishment to front my VPI Aries with Triplanar U2 tonearm. Sounds very good with my DL-103R MicroRidge/Boron cart. I’m waiting to have my BenzMicro S2 returned from WAM engineering analysis and shim addition (to correct for zenith error).  I’m a bit nervous that the Linn’s fixed 150ohm may not be enough for the Benz, but fingers crossed!!

@audiodidact - can you tell me what was done to the Linto in the refurbishment process and if it is a specialist, who did the work?  

@maam522a:
I bought it needing repairs.  Took it to George Meyer in Los Angeles: They repaired the power supply and input/output circuits and resoldered the bad connections on the main board. Works like new now. It’s very expansive in my system. Clean and very quiet. 

@audiodidact Thanks for the insight.  Mine appears to work fine and I really enjoy the silent background and detail.

@maam522a 

Glad to hear you’re enjoying it too. I moved up from a SUT + Rega MM/MC Phono preamp. It was a good choice for me.