I purchased my Linn LP12 a long time ago, probably over 30 years in fact when I had disposable income and it has been a big part of my life ever since! For anyone not familiar with this iconic turntable then it is made in Glasgow UK and has a suspended sub-chasis which isolates the tonearm and cartridge from any feedback, vibration or resonances. It is in most quarters considered to be the holy grail of turntables and with many upgrades available makes it an attractive proposition.
Still available today in various standards of refinement! Since it's original purchase I've had it upgraded with improved suspension and sub-chassis, from Kore to now a Keel. The Keel sub-chassis offers incredible rigidity being machined from a single piece of aluminium! The belt drive motor is controlled by a Linn Lingo power supply and is able to play 45's as well as 33's. The solid outer aluminium platter is isolated from the inner by a unique Tiger Paw Tranquillity Bearing Support system which uses a strong magnetic field to support the platter and separate it from any bearing vibrations! The Naim ARO tone arm, first made in 1989 was manufactured specifically for the Linn LP12 deck. My Keel sub-chasis is manufactured specifically to accommodate the Nain Aro tonearm armboard fitting!
Most Linn LP12 owners are deeply passionate about them and that includes me. It is my view and the opinion of many audiophiles that the LP12 is the best turntable ever made! The same is often said about the Naim ARO tonearm which it is said was manufactured from the same metal tubing that Olympic Arrows were made from in the day! Today it is possible to buy a good used LP 12 with a basic tonearm for less than £1000 on Ebay. On the other hand Linn's top of the range LP 12 version costs close to £19k with all it's singing and dancing upgrades! If you are serious about Hi-Fi then you should definitely audition one!
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