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How do I adjust the speed on my Linn Sondek LP 12?

I took the outer platter off to make a template for a home brew turntable mat (I know that most people would say to use the felt mat but it's an easy way to fuss with VTA and to try new things) and I turned it on to watch where the belt was riding on the inner platter (down low towards the bottom). Anyway, when I put it back together the speed is much to fast. The 'table is an 1984 lp 12 with Vahalla power supply. I bought it used from a Doctor who did not have much time to use it because he moved a lot and was too busy. He "stored" it in the basement for the last 4 years. I've had it for two months and it worked great until yesterday. I have a copy of the set up manual but I wonder if it there is something wrong with the Valhalla that can not be remedied with minor adjustment. If so, does anyone know of a good Linn set up tech. in the Berkley Ca. or greater Bay Area. And finaly, should I consider a Circus up grade while I have it in the shop? I assume it is going to cost me upwards of a $100.00 just to have them check it out and "tune it up". If I go the upgrade ($325 ??)I will essentially get the first $100 of shop time "free" and perhaps have better performance in the end. I paid $675.00 for the table with Ittok LV II and Koetsu Rosewood cartridge with little use. Any feed back or opinions would be helpful. Thank you.
mmiikkee
mbonn
43 posts
 
I had a situation similar to yours - an early 1980's LP12 w/Vahalla which was in storage for many years and turned really slow (with even slower acceleration when I turned it on). I replaced the drive belt, no help. Finally, I brought it in to "The Analog Room" in San Jose. The owner, Brian, is very knowledgeable about Linn turntables. Bottom line, Valhalla power supplies had lots of problems. He upgraded it to the Lingo supply, which also includes a new motor. He also installed all new suspension parts (springs, grommets, etc). I also had the Trampolin kit installed. Brian recommends against the Cirkus upgrade. Anyway, it now works as good as new (maybe better). The new power supply and motor have much higher torque, better speed stability, and you also get 45 rpm to boot. It wasn't cheap, but it was worth it. Hope this helps.
lugnut
1,190 posts
 
There aren't any speed adjustments on the LP12. While I believe the Cirkus upgrade is a sonic improvment (I've had it done), I don't feel it is worth the money. I would consider one of the aftermarket power supplies that are offered instead of a new Valhalla since they compete performace-wise with the Lingo for about $350. One thought though is that a number of folks have upgraded to the Lingo and your local dealer may have a good Vahalla for cheap. If that's the case definitely install it yourself. It's easy. You got a screamer buy on the table so I wouldn't feel bad about investing some money in it. Enjoy!
alexc's avatar
alexc
265 posts
 
Assuming the motor an dpower supply are OK, the speed CAN be adjusted, but it is a pain in the keister to do. The only way to do it is by shifting the tilt angle on the motor pulley. Thiss is accomplished by loosening/tightening the two adjustment scrws next to the pulley. These screws contact the casing of the motor and by loosening/tightening will tilt the motor (and pulley) for minor speed adjustments. Alittle goes a long way, and you must first loosen one of the set screws before tightening the other in order to avoid deforming the motor casing. You do need something like the KAB strobe to check the speed when doing this..
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