Thoughts on the Linn LP12 turntable


I don’t see many discussions that include the Linn Sondek LP12 turntable and was wondering why? They’ve been around since the late 70’s and other then power supply and a few other minor changes (IMO) are relatively unchanged. I had one in the early 80’s and another in the late 90’s. They are somewhat finicky to get setup correct and once you do, they sound great. That being said I know there have been a lot better designs to come out since the LP12’s hey-day. Are they worth considering  anymore or has the LP12 just become another audio vintage collectors item?

markcooperstein

@mijostyn It would seem, by your own admission, "....I have used them all and the LP 12 is an antique. Its days ended in 1980."  .... that you are still stuck back in 1980 and that with all the improvements and developments that have been implemented over the last 42 years, you seem to refused to believe that the LP12 has advanced beyond that point of over 4 decades ago.  

Well, you are certainly entitled to your opinions.  However, I will put more weight on the opinions of those whom I have quoted in my last post who have actually not only listened to current model LP12's, but have also compared them head to head with well respected modern day alternatives (some of which were on your list, no less) as well as my own ears and judgement.

@slaw  I, for one, can certainly believe that what your ears heard from your friend's updated LP12 was indeed impressive.  I'm glad that you were able to listen with an open mind and without a biased judgement.

Best wishes to all,

Don

@photomax, Sota, the first reasonably priced turntable that definitively out performed the LP 12 is still very much alive and making turntables that are better than the LP 12 and way more advanced in every way. History is littered mostly with Japanese low end turntables of no significance, changers and old idler wheel designs that also continue to be propped up in the used market like the LP 12. 

The reason I am so harsh on the LP 12 is that there are many turntables on the market that are much easier to deal with and in the end out perform it. This is coming from a guy who only will buy suspended and isolated turntables, who will only use turntables with hinged dust covers and who has owned two of them in the past. It's suspension design is inherently unstable and if it is not on a supremely stable surface it will skip easily. Footfall issues are legion with this turntable. A little bump will cause a skip. It's chassis and plinth are designed to resonate.

I do not have any financial skin in this game. My only motive is to prevent people from making the mistake of buying an LP 12. Sota, SME, Basis, Avid and Dohmann make for superior turntables. I own a Sota Cosmos Vacuum. I would love to own a Dohmann but it is a little too pricey for my wallet. The Basis Inspiration is another favorite. The good old Sota Sapphire is in the same price range as the LP12 and there is no comparison.