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Linn Axis w/basic arm/Denon DL 160 should I bite?

Getting back into turntables after a 20 year break I,m going to take a listen to the Linn Axis this week and wondered for $795 (dealer)should i be looking elsewhere?

I listened to a new Music hall 5.1 with the magic on it and did not like the recessed sound at all,(brighter sound that I prefer could be fixed with a different cart said the dealer)

20 years ago I owned a built LP12/Lingo when I lived in the UK and loved the musicality of it and I,m hoping its little brother a similar brighter musical soundstage I,m after...... any ideas? thanks in advance.
carlukok
tbromgard
814 posts
 
If you can swing a Traveler, do it.

Otherwise look at Rega RP3, or for less the Debut Carbon, as MoFi suggests.

Yes, the LP12 is a great TT.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,210 posts
 
The price is high based on the market but I have owned one happily as my main player since 1986. It should be guaranteed to be in top operating condition, and have a decent cart to start with.

The sound with Denon DL103R and ARC phono pre-amp I use currently (with step up Xformer for the low output MC cart) is quite top notch IMHO and hard to beat, certainly compared with anything new at that price, though if mine were to die, the new VPI Traveler at just over $1000 looks like a viable replacement candidate.
mechans
3,048 posts
 
You would like a traveler but make sure you get a MC cart for detail and more forward presentation. Yes Get a Traveler, but the cart will reall have a major impact on the sonics. Don't forget the phono amp!
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,987 posts
 
Usually there are a handful of LP-12's here on Audiogon and I've seen some with arms in decent shape for as low as $800 and a little nicer ones for around what you would pay for a Traveler, ($1300).

Maybe be patient and wait for an LP-12 to show up in your price range. Seems like you'd really like to have another LP-12.

BTW, the Traveler is an excellent table. I've setup a couple of them already and they are indeed very nice.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
A used LP-12 for sale is usually in better condition than a used Axis. Plus LP-12 is upgradable.
But I'm still glad I had my Axis rebuilt.
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