Oracle Delphi vs Linn Sondek vs VPI Scout


I am wanting to buy a good turntable. I am considering 2 older tables, the Linn Sondel LP12 and the Oracle Delphi MKI or MKII. As well, I am looking at a newer VPI Scout. All can be had for about the same price. The Oracle and Linn are both between 10 and 20 years old while the Scout is only 1 or 2.

What is the better sounding unit? Which table should I purchase? What should I be concerned about with respect to each of these tables?

I appreciate all opinions.

Cheers,

Michael
128x128mmarshall
I own an Oracle Delphi I and have upgraded it through the years. It is a fine sounding table, BUT, all in all, it's finicky in that I am frequently resetting the spring hieghts which I understand from others may be a common issue. Give the Scout a good listen. Sound will depend greatly on set up of all of the tables as well as the tonearms and cartridges used and tracking forces, so head-to-head shootouts will be difficult to say the least. From what I understand, all are fine tables, and should serve you well. IMHO, for what it's worth, go for the easiest to set up and use, in the long run you'll probably be the happiest.
Do any of the 'tables come with an arm? cartridge? Have they all been well maintained? I know Oracle has an "update kit" for $150, has one been installed? Linn has almost endless updates, which were done to the LP12 you're considering? Will you be placing the 'table on a dedicated wall-mounted stand, or on the top shelf of a rack?

What phono stage, preamp, amp, speakers and other equipment will you be using? Lots of info required to help you out...
I auditioned the Delphi MkII against the Linn back around 1980, both well tuned at a good audio store, and the Delphi won to my ears and everybody's at the store, which happened to be a major Linn distributor, and I still own it.
I own a Linn and an Oracle and love them both. That being said, for a set and forget table, I recommend the Scout.