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Upgrading Music Hall 2.2 tone arm.

Years ago I had a Linn Basik with a Sumiko Blue point. I loved the sound of that deck. I took a break from my audiophile obsession and got back into it about 3 years ago. I now have a Music Hall 2.2 and I really don't like the sound. I'm thinking of upgrading the arm to a Linn Basik arm or maybe a Rega RB250 or RB300. Does this make sense? Would it improve the sound to close to the Linn or sould I continue to hold out to find a Linn that I can afford right now.

Thanks.
Rod
roddierod
geraldm121
63 posts
 
OK after reading both Tketcham's and JohnnyB53's posts it seems to be a general misunderstanding that a Linn Basik is a form or variation of an LP12.This is simply not so. The Basik was Linn's attempt at a budget Turntable. Attached below is a link from the "Vinyl Engine" for the Linn Basik instruction manual. As you can see in the manual the Basik is not a suspended turntable like the LP12. Instead (actually quite similar to the MF2.2) it relies on three solidly mounted isolation feet for it's suspension. Most would agree that it was not in the same class either soundwise or construction wise as the LP12. Also the first version came with the Basik arm which left a lot to be desired in regard bearing quality and rigidity. As I mentioned in my earlier post the later versions with the Akito arm were much better. As to a comparison to the MMF 2.2 the Musical Fidelity has a more rigid plinth,suspended motor and a better arm and bearings.No it's not a world beater but as I mentioned in my earlier post it can be made to sound quite decent without a major investment. With all that said if you want a Linn then look for a used LP12 as there are plenty around but keep in mind that setup is a major part of the Linn sound and requires a great deal of patience so make sure that learn the technique or find someone to do it for you.Good luck and have fun.

Jerry

http://www.vinylengine.com/library/linn/basik.shtml
tketcham
291 posts
 
Hi, Jerry,

Yes, I was thinking you were talking about a LP12 and not the budget Basik. My apologies. I do agree that the mmf-2.2 is a decent turntable for the money, especially since the tonearm upgrade. And I believe we agree that if Rod is looking for a big improvement by adding a different tonearm, he'd be better off by just buying a turntable further up the chain.

Regards,
Tom
geraldm121
63 posts
 
Thanks Tom, and you are correct if there is an arm change involved the is no point in staying with the MMF 2.2.

Best Regards, Jerry
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
04-10-09: Geraldm121
Thanks Tom, and you are correct if there is an arm change involved the is no point in staying with the MMF 2.2.
That was my point as well, even though I'm obviously not well-versed in the Linn model names. The MMF 2.2 is an entry-level platform, and an arm change alone isn't going to give the OP what he's seeking.
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