2. analog
  3. 1151722657

I need HELP with my LP12 based system

I would love some recommendations from hard-core analog folks. Currently, I have a 23-year-old Linn LP12 with an Ittok arm. My cartridge is a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood II. The TT has all the mods, including Trampalin. It still has the original AC motor. I was the second owner and it came to me with a Goldmund platter. My phono stage is a PH5 and the line stage is the latest version of the VTL 6.5. Amps are Bel Canto Evo2 running as monoblocks and speakers are B&W N803s. I know the system quite well at this point. With all else being equal, I find that compared to my Modwright/Sony CDP, LP playback suffers from a bit of mid bass sluggishness. The mids and highs are gorgeous. They are liquid with loads of inner detail. While the CDP has tight, tunefull, snappy bass, LP bass is just a bit bloated. It lacks some of the dynamics I think it should have. Also, as in hard rock or even big orchestral music, some of the power bass notes are a little whimpy compared to the same thing on CD.
I suspect the weak link in the chain is my cartridge. It might also be the old arm with the ancient wiring therein. In principle, I'm not opposed to replacing the entire analog setup, but it will be some time before I can do that. Given the above description, where would be the best place to invest $2-$3k? I've been spinning vinyl since the late '60s and feel comfortable with my knowledge of where things can go wrong. My current guess is arm resonance along with less than ideal synergy with the cartridge. Please to dive in with even expensive thoughts on the matter!
pscialli
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
I'm sorry that it sounds harsh, but I'm with Flyingred. His reasons are my reasons.

Thsalmon,
You have a Simon Yorke table on order. That's a fairly good move IMO. Why not preach what you practice?
mcrheist
130 posts
 
I say horsehockey to all that told you to get rid of the Linn. I was in a similar situation as you not too long ago, was told to ditch the Linn, but instead I upgraded the Valhalla to a Lingo and the Adikt cartridge to a Lyra Argo. Yes, I let my ears guide me...not participants on an audio forum who had not heard the deck in question. Solved the problems. Is this setup a rival for the Walker? Heck, no but it also is signficantly less expensive. Will it rival an SME 20/2? It comes pretty darn close. And, yes, I have heard both in the same environment driven by the same gear.

FYI: you've got the phono preamp that I strive to own one day! However, I have discovered in demoing phono preamps, that my LFD Mistral kicks the tail of most under $1500. And, cost me sufficiently less.

For those who are making recommendations here, make sure you know the dog before you kick it. If I were you, I would take the Linn to the next steps with a NEW Lingo and NEW Argo Lyra.

Good luck in your quest.
pscialli OP
80 posts
 
Mcrheist,
What's the current installed cost of the Lingo. I found a couple of reviews of it and see that is pretty well respected.I'm forever intrigued that even after a 30 year run, the LP12 is still in the discussion at all.
Regarding the PH5. I found the purchase price to be a little deceiving. I wasn't at all happy with the sound of the stock tubes, even after break-in. I upgraded to some Mullard NOS tubes and things have improved dramatically.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
for anyone who is a music lover/collector in vinyl, and aquires more than just drips and drabs of audiophile releases, a 'suspended chasis' turntable is a 'must have'. the linn, along with select models of thorens, have proven their 'worthiness' for decades.....we can check back on the high mass acrylic stuff in 30 years.
thomasheisig
568 posts
 
The best you can do, it to go away from that coloured, completely overhyped LP12. There are two ways, listening or believing. Sorry, no offense. I know, I could it write more gently, but then I need 200 lines.
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