Thinking about buying an Lp12, Lingo table.


Greetings everyone.

After having had a VERY disappointing short life with a Rega RP6/exact (never again and you may read my previous posts) I am thinking about buying a used LP12. I was the very happy owner of a Linn Axis for about 27 years and I regrettably sold it last April to purchase the Rega. I wish I have never done that but I learned that the Axis board tend to go bad after years and you can not find replacements. I am looking at an LP12 from the mid nineties with serial number above 93000. It comes with the Lingo power Supply (original version), Cirkus, Trampoline (original version) , Akito tonearm and a Audio Technica ML-150 cartridge (which I would toss) , brand new original Linn box. The table is on consignment at a very reputable Linn dealer and they are asking $3100 plus shipping. I think that it is a little high. 

Questions:
I understand that the table need to be serviced and adjusted which can be a drag but I guess is part of ownership. Also I would put the table in a cabinet but unfortunately the floors below are a little wobbly and I am afraid that just by walking on daily basis even when the table is not in use it would put a lot of stress on the suspension, springs, etc. 

The table has had virtually no use for the past few years and it seems in almost mint condition. 

Thanks and I look forward to your replies. 



pivetta

Showing 1 response by daveyf

+1 on what Varyat posted.

Don't be too concerned about footfalls and going out of tune....all of the posters who state that really IMHO don't know how to utilize or set-up an LP12. The model you are considering has the Tramp upgrade, that means you can mount the table on a less than desirable stand or table and still have minimal impact from the surroundings. If you are placing the table in a cabinet ( not IMO the best situation for ANY table) you may need to consider removal of the dust cover on the LP12 ( no big deal and they sound way better without them any rate). The shoe box Lingo may be a little bit concerning...only due to age. ( it may need to be re-capped at some near point). The same set-up tech can do this for you, and this may be a great idea from the get-go. As to the Akito, it will be the weak link but easily upgradeable...as is the rest of the TT. As Mark stated, this table can be a very nice spring board to something far better. VPI's---why would you??
As to value, $3100 is a little steep, but I would think that the dealer probably knows that- and will be open to a real offer. I would go for this table if it is in the condition you state and you can get a fair price...then it would be a no brainer, all IMHO.