Is the "standard" Linn Sondek LP-12 surpassed by newer turntable brands and designs??


More than ever, the infamous Linn Sondek LP12 turntables appear for sale on Audiogon. The price of each piece varying based on the age, condition, and how many authorized factory upgrades have been done .

The question is: Is the "standard" ( without any upgrades) Linn LP-12  outperformed by newer brand turntable designs??  It seems to be getting long in the tooth as a viable high end turntable

Can someone explain what made the sound quality of this table so special and so sought after??  Is  a USED standard Linn LP-12. really worth the money??   Thanks 

sunnyjim

Showing 2 responses by glennewdick

Garrard made the 301 and 401 starting from the mid 50's up to the mid 70's I believe. they are killer tables if cared for and upgraded with a good plinth. I left an oracle Delphi mk3 behind for a late 50's grease bearing 301 and its wonderful. the 401 had a better motor but other issues so a lot of people combine the 301 with the 401 motor for the ultimate Garrard.  They are what's called a rim drive transcription table use primarily in radio stations but also seen in homes. if you can get one a good table cost around $2k then you need an arm, cart and good plinth. well worth the money. check out
http://www.garrard501.com/

that's Loricraft audio they make some wonderful mods and have parts, pinths and rebuild  etc.  there is many others that work with these tables SMD is another that comes to mind.

Garrard 301 1954 to 1965, 401 1965- late 70's

http://www.garrard501.com/history.html