linn sondek tt

There is still a large group of LP12 owners. Most already own a Linn setup and continue to upgrade, so I don’t think there are many new sales, except perhaps in the UK. The issue is that a new SotA Linn is very expensive and there are better tables for that amount of money.

The quality of the LP12 continues to increase, but requires owners to upgrade components such as new improved power supplies and tonearms.
I love the Linn sound, but it is expensive to own the latest versions.
There are many complaints about setup by non owners, but if your Linn has been properly setup by a Linn dealer or Linn specialist it will provide years of trouble free performance.

I'm not up on the latest TT's since I've been upgrading my digital.
Dont know of a better TT rig since I've been out of the game, but I do love the sound of a Linn. 
I think you can get many XL TTs for that amount, but it's a matter of taste. If I could afford it, I would own a Klimax or a Sota.

Absolutely correct about misinformation due to the many variants. But for an owner, you gotta love that this can be a TT for life. The upgrades and different choices will continue.