Thanks Viridian for the reference--see how useful your post was, I'm not even the gentleman who asked for help!
Drken, the great advantage of a used Linn LP12 Sondek (we are not talking about the Basic or the Axis, which were less-costly models) is that with factory kits, your Linn technician can upgrade it to very nearly the level of today's model.
You can therefore buy an LP12 from even the first production run and improve it step-by-step, as finances permit, learning a lot on the way and winding up with something very cool even if you're not a collector of vintage gear.
That makes the LP12 a safe bet for almost everyone. However as you hear more vinyl setups, your ears grow more sophisticated and you begin to notice that every turntable has a characteristic sound and the Sondek is no exception. It is most notable for its energy and drive, not to say it is a slouch in other departments, and if you stay with the hobby you may learn to prefer other tables eventually. That moment is, however, a long way down the road.
Best of luck!
Drken, the great advantage of a used Linn LP12 Sondek (we are not talking about the Basic or the Axis, which were less-costly models) is that with factory kits, your Linn technician can upgrade it to very nearly the level of today's model.
You can therefore buy an LP12 from even the first production run and improve it step-by-step, as finances permit, learning a lot on the way and winding up with something very cool even if you're not a collector of vintage gear.
That makes the LP12 a safe bet for almost everyone. However as you hear more vinyl setups, your ears grow more sophisticated and you begin to notice that every turntable has a characteristic sound and the Sondek is no exception. It is most notable for its energy and drive, not to say it is a slouch in other departments, and if you stay with the hobby you may learn to prefer other tables eventually. That moment is, however, a long way down the road.
Best of luck!