Help me Buy an LP-12

Go to this page. It tells how to set up an LP12 (All are Sondeks-by the way). Also on this page is a link to a file - LP12FAQ.zip - this gives the history you need and more. Feel free to e-mail me if you need more. Steve

I suggest you start with a Sondek LP12 with the Basic power supply, then upgrade later to the Lingo power supply. If you are buying used, by all means try to get a Valhalla power supply on the cheap -- but the Lingo is much better. As far as "vintage", look for an LP12 that has the Cirkus upgrade (stock since, I believe, the early 90's, but many owners of older LP12's had this upgrade put on). A Trampolin is also recommended - though you can go other routes (Bright Star) to control vibration. As for arms , the new Linn Akito is pretty decent for the money (some say as good as the old, top of the line Ittok). I lived happily with this set-up for 3 years before getting the Lingo, the new Ekos arm and upgraded tonearm cable. As far as cartridges, Linn's cartridges of course work very well with their turntable/arm. I have used the K18 (good) and the Klyde (better), and I tried a Glider before the Klyde (good as well). I am sure many other cartridges will work as well or better, but if you want to keep it simple to start with the Linn cartridges are a good starting point.

I have been happily using an LP-12 (synonymous with Sondek) for about six years. I would very much recommend finding a good used table with the Ittok arm and Cirkus bearing upgrade as previously mentioned. Of course you want to have the table, and especially the arm, inspected by a Linn dealer before purchase. The trampolin in my opinion is less critical on initial purchase - it can easily be added later. The Cirkus however, is a complete rework of the bearing and subchassis that changed the sound of the LP-12 very much for the better (greater neutrality and dynamics). On the issue of power supply, you have multiple options. Many of the used Sondeks have the Valhalla PS, which is a step above the 'Basik' - the 'Lingo' is the rather costly top of the line AC motor PS. However there are some non-Linn aftermarket motor and PS combinations available. One is a DC motor and PS that is very cost effective and an OUTSTANDING performer. I purchased it with some reservation but am now VERY glad that I did so. Apparently now Linn is embracing DC motor drive for the LP-12 in an ultra-expensive option called the SKEPTIK (not yet available). This news only reinforced to me my decision to go DC on my table. The web site for the kit I installed is originlive.com.