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Best upgrade path for an older but nicely maintained Linn LP12

I dropped off my 1978 LP12 for a tuneup yesterday. To do this I must make the nearly four hour round trip to Accent on Music in MT Kisco, NY. I live in Guilford, CT and although  a long drive, David Wilson is the only person I have ever let work on my LP12. It was last tuned up in 2012 so it's time. While there yesterday David plugged it in for a quick listen and I was relieved to hear that it was still "a very nice sounding LP12". I knew that already but hearing it from David is very reassuring. My table is currently set-up with a Lingo 2, Ittok, and Dynavector 20x HO. My system consists of a McIntosh MAC7200 and two Pranafidelity Bhanas on Sound Anchor stands.  I was glad to hear the folks at Accent agree that the Dynavector seems to show no sign yet of wear. I've owned that cartridge for 7 years but only play it for a few hours a week and not every week. We of course discussed a few upgrade options and that is why I am asking the following of this group.

How much of a listening difference will an upgraded keel make? It will cost $1200 but I am told it will make a big improvement. Not that I doubt what anyone at Accent on Music tells me but your opinions are valued too. Thank you all in advance for your thoughts. 
sondekmcintosh

Showing 2 responses by sondekmcintosh

sondekmcintosh OP
9 posts
 
I know a lot of people who own LP12s. I've oned one myself since the late 80s. Personally I wouldn't even consider tweeking one myself. I am happy to pay an expert to do so for me once every five years or so. I disagree about Linn upgrades being a waste of money. I've heard the difference between the arms for instance and just can't imagine anyone thinking one arm to be as good as the other. But to each their own of course. I do though wonder why a guy would own an LP12 if he thinks any LP12 upgrade to be a farce. Why not just buy a different turntable? 
I
s there anyone out there who can speak from actual experience about the upgraded keel? 
sondekmcintosh OP
9 posts
 
I get all that and agree. but to each their own. I read what everyone writes, ignoring some and listening closely to others. "I work on it myself" is a big fat tell in most (if not all) cases. Dave and Alma at Accent on music are the best of the best. They are the only ones I ever let touch my turntable. I am however getting ready to sell. I hardly ever listen to it and hate to say this out loud but Sonos is usually my platform of choice these days. Music in my life has become a background means of filling the air behind conversation and work. My latest passion is for vintage cars, so I have finally (after a long time considering) decided to cash in my audio system and put that money into another car. My current table is a LP12/kore/ Karousel/Lingo2/Ittok LVII/Dynavector 20X HO. I will also be selling a McIntosh MAC7200, and a set of Pranafidelity Bhava speakers with Sound Anchor stands designed especially for the speakers. I hope to post it all on Audiogon in Oct.

Do you have an educated guess what I should ask for the LP12? It's in beautiful shape. Your advice will be welcome.
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