Linn LP-12 still competitive with the very best?

Schip,

I wouldn't assert that it (my Linn Axis) is the "best". I'm sure it can be improved upon if desired.

I only state that I am satisfied with the sound, performance and value it has awarded me over the years, so I am not compelled to change.

I also have a $100 Skagen watch that keeps perfect time, and looks sharp that I am not likely to give up until it finally dies. I know there are "better" watches out there, but I have no need.

Mapman to say that you have no need to explore another table is fine, if your satisfied with the sound of the one now being used. I say now has I did over 20years ago the Linn is then and now superseded by better designs.

"the Linn is then and now superseded by better designs"

Wouldn't surprise me after 20+ years.

Its still a classic and a long time reference standard though!

I doubt if many people still believe that the LP12 is the "best" even if it ever was. But i always wanted one because every review that i read seemed to describe the type of sound that i was looking for and whilst expensive it was not totally out of the realms of affordability. I prefer a presentation that sounds like music to me even if it is not absolutely accurate. I am not a musician and i never listen to classical or jazz but on rock/pop/blues and folk the LP12 gives a convincing impression of a live event, unlike any CD player that i have heard. Like Mapman i bought an Axis (all i could afford) which has served me well for nearly 20 years. It too has a lifelike sound to me, but to a lesser degree. I have had an LP12 now for over 3 years and love it. It is by no means the latest spec. but sounds so good that i dont feel the need to upgrade it. I think Linns upgrades are ridiculously overpriced. I do tend to buy things and keep them for a long time anyway. If money was no object then i would probably have something other than a top Linn but i would would certainly audition one just to see where it stands against others.

I think Linn is predictably trying to play it both ways with their expensive upgrades.

1) Their tables are a well established reference standard, for better or for worse, for many, so they keep it unchanged and market that. Who can blame a company for keeping their flagship product around?

2) There's lots of money to be made selling upgrades to the long time reference standard as well, so they gladly do that as well.

Nothing strange here that I see.