Linn LP12 vs VPI prime / classic / signature

I have not owned both, but when I decided to sell my LP12, I considered the Classic III. I was fortunate enough to happen upon a dealer that had one on display with he same cartridge as I had. Also they had McIntosh Pre and amplifier hooked up. I have a Mc amp and I thought I would get a good comparison. In short the VPI was such a departure from what I was used too, I ended up buying a Rega RP10, as it was much closer to what I had grown to love about the LP12. So I guess a short answer would be, two different tables in many ways and therefore the sound is quite different as well. 

All my own opinion of course 

You ask an interesting question. I have heard both tables, not in my system though. The Linn is the table that I own, if that tells you something.. 
The VPI Classic is a nice sounding table with some decent attributes...the basic model was priced at a point that I thought it could compete well with its competitors. The more expensive models..not so much. The Prime and Signature, to my ears were not as ‘expressive’ as the Classic models. 
The LP12, and this is highly dependent on the version, are, again to my ears, more accurate and consistent to the sound of what I hear in a “live” setting vs. the VPI’s...and seem to have better ability to get closer to what I consider is the ultimate in home playback...master tape.
You will get many opinions on the difference between the tables you inquire about, only you can decide for yourself which one you prefer...and remember, the tables vary greatly by what consists of the particular model, age, set up and numerous other variables.IMO.

The LP12, and this is highly dependent on the version, are, again to my ears, more accurate and consistent to the sound of what I hear in a “live” setting vs. the VPI’s...and seem to have better ability to get closer to what I consider is the ultimate in home playback...master tape.

A pretty good summary of the differences. Linn is a sprung table that tuned lighter and more responsive better mimics the sound of live instruments. VPI and other more massive tables contribute less of this "live" sound and so you hear more of what is actually on the recording.

Both sound good and both can be very satisfying you just have to know your own tastes and preferences to know which one to choose.

That at least is what Michael Fremer told me when I asked him for advice in a similar situation many, many years ago. Worked for me. May it work for you as well.

@millercarbon.  Please explain how a Linn can sound more like the ‘live’ instrument and yet resolve less than what is on the recording?

Hi,
different kind of presentation does not translate into less detail.
Sprung chassis or similar tt's have dynamics that when properly set up bounce more musically.