Linn LP12 turntable


I was in my favorite audio store yesterday talking turntables… Rega P10, MoFi MasterDeck etc, when he stated he had a Linn LP12 he was selling for a customer at $2,400 & the customer had $14K (with upgrades) into it. Intriguing, but knew nothing about Linn. After my research, people seem to love it or hate it. But it is installed in many fine audiogon systems. 
I would like your thoughts and recommendations. 
I have asked the following questions of the dealer: 

1. Date of production 

2. Upgrades that have been added 

3. Power supply / tone arm

4. Condition 

5. Recently serviced

I have not yet seen it, but it is there now. What other questions should I ask?

My current analog system: 

Pro-ject 1xpression carbon classic with Hana ML

Rega Aria

PS Audio BHK pre

Simaudio Moon 330A amp

KEF R11’s

Advise would be greatly appreciated. 

signaforce

OK, false alarm. The Sondek LP12 at my local dealer was too good to be true. Not sure of the DOM, but it is a Valhalla/Ittock model, with a 70% worn Dynavector XX-2A. The upgrades were that the local dealer rebuilt the Valhalla power supply & installed the trampoline, so no Karousel bearing, Lingo PS nor Kore arm board. 

The only good news is Audio Advice was a Linn dealer and the technician is well trained and experienced & the price is now $2,200. It probably is a reasonable price, but no steal. I think it is a pass.

Thank you for all your well informed advice! It’s been fun learning about the LP12.

 

signaforce

 

Yes, a journey of sorts.

It does not bode too well to set your expectations too high and jump too quickly thinking you will miss out with any other competition wanting to get to Valhalla…(pun intended). It maybe doesn’t exist or ultimately unobtainable?

Another post on Audiogon worth reading is……’’Is it the gear or the ears?’’  The author there has the ‘’upgradeitus’’ syndrome well debated and it’s worth a visit.

Remember Linn’s Valhalla (once an essential upgrade) is now debunked!

Logical thoughts or not?

@mylogic 

Thanks, I did read & even posted to that thread. My ears tell me things are pretty good. I think I will stay pat for a while. Perhaps I am in my Valhalla. 🤔

@signaforce 

I'd be signing up for the Linn as quickly as possible.  Worst case scenario is you can sell it again for about what you paid ... if not more!

Get in quickly or somebody else will snap it up ...

@signaforce   I was wondering how the dealer could justify $14K with upgrades? 

I really question who these folk are kidding when they come out with statements like that, particularly since the claims are easily verified. 

As an aside, you might consider a new LP12 Majik, as they are a very good deal, if budget allows. 

 

@yoyoyaya  I don't think it is impossible to balance the suspension with very light arms. For example, i utilize a very light WTA 'Black' arm. which works well with the suspension. OTOH, certainly an arm that is too heavy will have issues. ( as most non-Linn arms are ).