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Linn Sondek LP12 - Cartridge recommendation

Kind of new at this hobby and looking for guidance. I purchased a Linn Sondek LP12 (Valhalla pwr supply) with an SME Series 3 tonearm. The cartridge is an AKG P100 but the tip is broken (this was reflected in the turntable purchase price). Not sure which way to go..should I have the cartridge repaired (was quoted $325 for repair) or should I simply replace it with another cartridge ? What cartridge model would work best for this turntable ?

Thanks !
sympaticonorm
el34eh
57 posts
 
Hi Sympaticonorm -

`As someone whom has owned several different versions of this Turnatble with the first one in 1987 and the final version in 1996 before falling in love with either The Roksan Xerxes or Well Tempered Classic Turntables.

I'd have never throught that any SME based tonearm worked with the Linn LP 12 as they all seem to often a somewhat overblown & colored bass.

If possible? - do consider finding a Naim Audio Aro Tonearm as many of us have found that these two simply have that Synergy thing going on.

- As for recommended Cartridges:

In MM Cartridges look at Roksan Corus Black @ RedTrumpet.com
or something like the Lyra Dorian in MC. As these are both Cartridges that I've been using for well over 17 years & 8 months for the Lyra - I've always felt that both of these designs have much to offer. Or at the very least consider something like a Audio Technica AT OC - 9 MC.

I think that once you have learned to set up your LP 12 & adjust it fro proper bounce & with the correct TT Stand 'MANA' or older Sound Organisation TT Stand circa '85

- you just might be surprised at what you've been missing all this time. Just am opinion based upon listening.'

Regards,
- Oscar
linnlp12
79 posts
 
I had an SME III tonearm on one of my Linn tables long time ago. These tonearmes were made for the Shure V15 and similar cartridges. When I had this combo, I used a Goldring 1042 moving magnet. It sounded pretty good and I thought a good match. This would be my recommendation to you. While an ARO as the suggestion above is great (that is my current arm), it is also mucho bucks over the cartrdige upgrade. Look at the Shure if you can find one, or the Goldring. I think you will be happy with the sound.
simon74
216 posts
 
Hi there,
owning rather a lot of Linns, six at last count, I would tend to agree you will never get the best from it with an SME, especially the 3 which was not their best.
For the $325 mentioned to retip, I personally would sell the SME. The funds from this + the $325 would buy a Rega arm
or used Akito and still leave you money for a decent cartridge. IMO the catridge on a Linn is less important than the arm.
Regards Si
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