Upgrade LP12 or buy new VPI?

Bryans,

How much software do you have? You may want to consider the cost of that if you don't already have a good size stash of LP's. You already have a superb phono stage (I have one, too)so you're all set there.

Nothing wrong with VPI, but there are many other tables in the price range that you indicate. My own opinion is that by the time you upgrade your LP12 you would probably have spent close to the cost of a new table. Also, do you have any floor issues that would cause problems for a suspension table? There are some really good suspension tables out there that would easily best the LP12. In this category I'm very partial to Basis. I'm between tables and have started the process of deciding what will be next purchase. Like you, I'm looking at non-suspended but I'm also looking at much higher mass. Tables like Galibier, Teres, Avid, Acoustic Signature, etc. I'm just offering something to chew on.

Good luck,

Dan

I currently have about 300 LPs. Also I don't have any floor issues so I should be OK there.

Cool! Have you had a chance to hear your Rhea? What pre-amp is it mated to?

I have had an Aesthetix Rhea and Calypso now for about one year and a Sondek LP12/Ittok LVII since 1983 with no regrets whatsoever. I could go on and on at length about the musical value of these choices, but I'll spare everyone that for now. Sufficed to say they are all outstanding.
Bryans, First, how much do you have to spend?
What does your Linn deck have done to it as far as upgrades, anything?
What tonearm do you have?
What is the deck sitting on?
Without knowing where you're at I would suggest getting the cirkus bearing upgrade, if you don't already have it. It is worth every penny sonically and will virtually eliminate any surface noise.
Let us know the whole story and we could better offer you our help and experience. Cheers!