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Linn LP12 vs. VPI Classic 1 and 3

As an owner of an LP12, I am considering an upgrade to a VPI Classic 1 or 3 or 4. I have heard a Classic 1, but not in my system. Have not heard the up scale Classic 3 or 4. So my question is- for those who have heard or own the Linn and have heard the VPI's, do they sound better than the regular Linn Lp12 with Valhalla ( my version),...can they and do they beat the Linn with Lingo, and do they compete with the uber Linn-LP12 Radikal/Keel? If so, which models of the VPI are the winners in these comparisons ( if that is the case at all).
128x128daveyf
daveyf's avatar
daveyf OP
2,875 posts
 
Agree with Headsnappin. A well set Linn, should and does stay well set up for a very long time. That has been my experience. Many myths have been propagated about Linn's in the past, quickly falling out of a good setup is one of them.
polk432
1,142 posts
 
I just put together my 3rd LP12. Other than mounting the motor correctly, it's really not that hard to set up. I too am against the high costs of upgrades. Not dollarwise as far as what you'll accomplish vs. how much you spend.
headsnappin's avatar
headsnappin
295 posts
 
Schubert, who set up your LP12?
thesoundhouse
250 posts
 
I have listened to many LP 12 and find their sound and build quality lacking at
best. I have repaired too many LP 12s for clients to mention. I have set up way
too many LP 12 turntables and cannot imagine anyone getting away charging
the price they do for a inferior product like the LP 12, I cannot justify carrying
the product and seen better built tables at a quarter of the price. The Ariston
knockoffs were better built!
omsed
145 posts
 
What do you mean the Ariston knock-offs? Ariston developed the turntable and brought it to Linn, a machine shop, to quote parts prices. Linn copied the design and also hired an engineer out of Ariston.

The design of the LP12 is Ariston, not Linn. This is known by many people, more in UK than USA. Ivor was merely the son, who liked audio, of a machine shop owner.

All bad luck for Ariston. But nobody can say they know that Ariston would have marketed it like Ivor did.
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