Ivor has quite a sense of humor. I would have loved to see the expression on his face and the “humorous” comments that might have followed an inquire about what Linn makes.

As to the LP-12. Yes, it has changed over the years. It was first available in 1972, I believe, and the first update was a new main switch in 1974, Since then it has seen many updates including, “nirvana”, “valhalla”, “lingo”, “trampolin”, “cirkus” and now a new version of “lingo”. Also, the arm and cartridge can be updated from “Basic” to “Ekos/Arkiv”. Don’t you love those names? All of which can be retrofitted to the original LP-12. What a concept!!! And yes, I’ve found the latest updates improve the sound. The setup of the LP-12 and other “sprung” tables is more complicated than say a Rega (also a very good table) but more capable I think you’ll find. This isn’t to say that the only table choice is LP-12 there are very good reasonably priced tables from Music Hall, Rega, Pro-ject, Basis, Bluenote, JA Michell, VPI and others. Seems to be a good time to buy/upgrade your turntable. There are more and better offerings at all price points then a few years ago.

As far as buying a used LP-12, I’d get one from a Linn dealer or have a Linn dealer check out your prospective purchase. The check out should be reasonably priced especially if you agree to a tune up (new belt, oil, and perhaps springs & grommets and suspension adjustment) on your new purchase. Make sure it is in good original condition (meaning Linn parts regardless of upgrade level, although there are quality upgrades available from companies like NAIM) and go from there. Add, or have the dealer add, the upgrades you feel make sense from a cost and a sonic standpoint. Or leave it alone and enjoy it for years. A last thought if you have an LP-12 shipped make sure the original box is used (replacements are available from Linn), and the outer/inner platter ARE REMOVED. If they are not removed for shipping you’ll need a new bearing or the “cirkus” mod which includes a new bearing. And, once re-assembled the suspension will need to be adjusted for the “proper bounce”.

I also have separate setups for 2 channel stereo and home theater. Let me leave it at “I rarely play music on the HT setup”. That said, my new 950/7100 does a much better job with music only playback than the 1050 did.


[This message has been edited by Xyzfla (edited June 07, 2003).]