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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

Showing 2 responses by brf

brf
1,715 posts
 
If I was to go into battle, I would want a bunch of "Linnies" on my side...they’re a relentless bunch. Death by a 1000 cuts.
brf
1,715 posts
 
I owned a Linn LP12 with Ekos 1, Lingo 1, Cirkus and Tramp 2. The table sounded okay and was a lot of fun and taught me the importance of set up.

Linn lost me as a customer as future upgrades became extremely costly and I had a difficult time justifying Linn’s pricing model. I also did not like the lack of adjustability for their tone arms. With the Ekos, VTA was difficult to set and there was no provision for azimuth adjustment.

If you like to mess around with table set up and you have some technical skill and patience, I would recommend a use LP12 with a recapped Valhalla, Cirkus bearing and Ittok LVII. For less $1500 you will have a great performing table that will not depreciate in value. Read the numerous Linn forums regarding set up and play around with the table’s setup. There will be periods of frustration and periods of reward, but in the end, you will know if this table is for you or not.

I am a VPI user now and love the sound of their table plus the affordable of VPI’s upgrades. If money is not a deciding factor, I would recommend the Classic 3, but for $1500 the used LP12 as described above provides great value if you are willing to put in some time and effort.
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