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Used Linn sondek lp12 worth?

Hi guys,

It's been a lont time since I've last posted....and I would seriously need your help.

Well, for the first time of my life, I have decided to get into vinyls (and therefore consider myself a newbie) and might have an opportunity to get my hands on a used TT.

I could get a Linn sondek lp12 circa 1988 from one of my best friend's mother. It has the Valhalla power supply, a SME Series III tonearm and an AKG P8ES Supernova VDH II S  moving magnet cartridge.

The lp12 has received both a Trampoline 2 and cirkus upgrades in 2015 from a Linn dealer. Also the cartridge has been rebuilt with a new suspension and a new VDH shibata stylus, again in late 2015.

Overall condition is very very good.

My friend's mother is nearing 80 years-old and is struggling with serious health issues. She has therefore decided to part with (among other things) her lp12. No shipping would be needed as she lives 30 minutes from my place. I could pick her TT up personally. 

She wants 900$ for it. 

Now, I have absolutely NO IDEA what her TT is worth?

I have tried to search the Web on various audio sites to get an idea about the lp12's prices BUT they really are all over the place !!!

Should I go for it at 900$ and take the plunge ? Am I getting ripped off or is it the other way around (I wouldn't want to take advantage of her either)?

I want both her and me to settle for a fair price. What would be a reasonable $$ settlement? 

Hoping for your advices

Thank you very much for your help.

Sincere regards
marcandr
marcandr's avatar
marcandr OP
7 posts
 
Thanks to all of you guys for the quick responses. It really seems like a  a "no brainer" kind of deal.

lindisfarne, the main purpose for asking those of you in the knows was exactly to avoid being "nuts" or a "dick" !!! ;-) Wanted a fair deal for both parties. Now, according to fellows comments, price seems to be very good but still fair.

Finally, the only remaining unanswered question is to know wheter or not I could get a better TT for this kind of money (or say up to 1100-1200$). If you gents could answer the latter, I'd be a very happy camper indeed.

Thanks in advance

Regards
Marcandr


totem395
390 posts
 
Finally, the only remaining unanswered question is to know wheter or not I could get a better TT for this kind of money
Seem's your chances would be slim to nil and it's a local sale to boot.
Additionally you have the opportunity to inspect and likely play the Table.

In these situations best to strike while the opportunity is there.
You do realize what $900 gets you these day's?
brf
1,715 posts
 
Buy the lp12 and live with it for a while. If you don't like it, you can easily sell it and get your money back. This is a no risk deal. 
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
5,725 posts
 
You do realize what $900 gets you these day's?

I don't think the OP does, that's why he is asking.  IMHO, the only tables that would come close would be a VPI HW-19MKIII or MKIV, with a half way decent arm or a Rega P7.  Those have been running around $1200 or so.

If it were me, I would buy the LP12.  They are a little difficult to setup and maintain, (yes, I've owned over a dozen different LP12s and setup probably 50-60 more, so I know them well).  You can get a taste for it and if you don't like it, can always sell it and not be out any money.  If you do like it,  they are pretty much infinitely upgradeable.
jadedavid
76 posts
 
You could hold out and scour Audiogon day after day, week after week and month after month looking for that one GREAT DEAL.
Or you could buy the LP-12 and enjoy it. 
The choice is entirely yours.

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