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Thoughts on the Linn LP12 turntable

I don’t see many discussions that include the Linn Sondek LP12 turntable and was wondering why? They’ve been around since the late 70’s and other then power supply and a few other minor changes (IMO) are relatively unchanged. I had one in the early 80’s and another in the late 90’s. They are somewhat finicky to get setup correct and once you do, they sound great. That being said I know there have been a lot better designs to come out since the LP12’s hey-day. Are they worth considering  anymore or has the LP12 just become another audio vintage collectors item?

markcooperstein

Showing 3 responses by cleeds

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cleeds
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I’ve heard various LP-12s over the years and even lived with one for a while. It is an exceptional table and its biggest fault is that it is deceptively simple. That’s why so many underestimate it. But make no mistake, the LP-12 is capable of outstanding sound when properly set up in the right system. My personal preference is for a much higher mass table, but I have nothing but respect for the Linn.

Linn has its hard core detractors, similar to McIntosh, and I’ve never understood their motivation. What’s the value of expending energy on something you don’t like?

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cleeds
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daveyf

Why is it that mijostyn and others who have to denigrate and naysay the LP12 get butt hurt when folk like their LP12?

I think it’s a function of ego. They take it personally, and consider disagreement with their preferences to be a form of insult or disrespect to their assumed "authority."

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cleeds
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mijostyn

You could say the same for the LP12, but it’s problem is that it is based on a bad design and nothing anyone else can say is going to change that ... Frankly, nothing Linn makes is of interest to me.

You sure seem to be interested in the LP12. Rarely do you miss an opportunity to denigrate it, often in a lengthy tome. So I have to wonder: Who is it you’re trying to convince?

While the LP12 isn’t to my taste, I’ve heard recent versions of it. It’s a fantastic turntable. My preference for higher mass designs hardly makes the LP12 a "bad design."

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