Linn LP 12

You would be far better off getting a new turntable. You don't realize how bad the LP 12 is until you replace it with a good one form SME, Basis, Avid, Dohmann or Sota. 

Mijostyn has a clear, consistent, extreme prejudice against Linn turntables before considering, evaluating, or  accepting his advise you might want to read what he has previously posted hear regarding his turntable playback problems he has a lot of them and unusual "fixes" for each one!

@malbor Here is the question regardless of other folks opinions. Do you enjoy this turntable? Do you see the value of these upgrades? 

If yes then do it!

I have an old Thorens TD145 I keep in my system and I love it. Is is as good as my Clearaudio Performance DC 😏 I don't think so but I still love it.  

OP. “Can anyone recommend a turntable that sounds better than the LP 12 for $1500…”

ok, now You asked for it.

@malbor If you are upgrading the LP12, the place to do it is from the inside out...which is the Linn Protocol. Therefore, the bearing would be the first place to put money. Having said that, your question is still valid in your OP, as the tonearm cable is in fact not that great with an Ittok, so a little money spent there can give you an upswing. The Lingo cable is not in play here, as it is just a low powered power cable and you will not gain anything there. If changing out the tonearm cable disrupts another Linn upgrade due to budget, like the Karousel or power supply, sub chassis etc., then leave that off as well.

Question to @mijostyn How come you have to put your uniformed 2 cents into every LP12 thread...you don’t see folks do the same for your beloved SOTA table threads ( are there even any??).