New Scout & MH MM-7 or old Linn Sondek. ?????

Well, I've certainly heard alot of other very good sounding turntables, and own a Teres 245/OL Silver/Shelter 501 right now, so I guess that eliminates the possibility that I "have no idea what a good sounding turntable sounds like".

Perhaps since I was the main TT setup man at the audio shops that I worked at, and was trained in Linn setup by "the man" at Linn, that I was able to properly set up my Linn and get good sound from it.

It is an older design, and is not on par with the finest turntables of today, but it will still do better than the lower level models and entry level models from these modern turntable makers. It has it's weak points, and being fussy is one of them, and so is the coloration, but it is musical and can provide good enjoyment. I think at the prices that they are selling for used, they are a good value. But the setup is critical to get the most out of it.

I'm a bit offended by the statement that I don't know "what a good sounding turntable sounds like". I've listened to many of the available TT's out there, and auditioned a few of the VPI's, Regas and Sotas in my home system. While I found the sound satisfactory in most of them, I didn't think the price difference was worth dumping my LP12.
I do agree about the "fussiness" issue. I have mine serviced and set up by a "pro"- I don't think it's a good idea to have the set up done by a "novice".

My Linn sounds great, too. And I've heard quite a few. I don't know this rant about having "absolutely no idea about a good sounding turntable" is supposed to accomplish. Babyz didn't ask about $10,000 turntables. Most of us can't afford such, hence the market for Linn, MH, VPI, etc. Of the realistic and affordable choices given, I'd go with the Linn. [my attempt at being "nice" and not using the "f" word]

Thanks for your input. What is the big deal with the setup? Is this TT (Linn) going to make me nuts.
I like to tinker around a bit, but I'd rather just listen to my records. I'm building a wall mounted, granite based shelf for my next TT, to minimize room vibration. Will that be enough? $1,500 for a TT should be enough for any one with regular ears to fully enjoy whatever some record company spent to put on the vinyl. $10,000? Even if you have the dough, seems a little silly.

Babyz-The Linn won't make you nuts. It's just a little bit tougher to set up than some other TTs. I bought mine used about 12 years ago and have had no problems with it. I do have a pro install the cartridge and, while it's there, check the belt, cords, etc. So far it's needed no repairs. If it hadn't needed a new cartridge from time to time, there would have been no need to remove it from it's stand.
Mine is also wall mounted, which made an incredible difference.
I agree that $10K is silly (until I hit the lottery).
Don't be afraid of the Linn. Buy one and spend the other $8500 on vinyl.