Linn sondek LP 12 -A brilliant performer

kuruvilajacob

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Hi folks,
It was one of my object of desire- to own a Linn Sondek and I am really fortunate I could get one and once it was set up, it's performing like the true champion it is. I am fortunate it came with a Linn Attok LV 2 tonearm which according to Rajiv is an excellent arm . I had some initial anxiety on getting the deck but thanks to my excellent technician and few very talented young friends, I was able to get it going . I initially tried a Shure 44-7 cart and found that the deck deserved better treatment and changed to a Goldring 1020 GX cart as I read in a forum that the cart goes well with the arm and it does. The speed is ultra accurate and detail retrieval and sound staging are amazing. I could easily say that it could be the on top of the list among my decks. More about it's performance after I listen to my favorite tracks . Now for some pictures. The deck would need some face lift but to me the quality of music is priority right now. I want to thank Rajiv for some very useful advice.
 
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I have mounted it on a single tripod rack which is light and the top is made with MDF. I don't understand why users complain that Linn needs special set up and the alignment changes every time they lift it or move it. If anyone can throw some light on this, I would appreciate
 
There is no problem in moving the Linn as long as the platter and the sub platter are lifted off and removed first. Tis reduces the lateral forces on the vertical bolts on which the suspension springs are mounted. If these bolts are disturbed from their vertical position, then the entire assembly along with platter etc. when in operating mode, fully suspended, will not move up and down perfectly vertically. Then the famous linn bounce will not happen and sound will not be nice.
 
I meant to say that if you move it with the heavy platter and sub platter mounted, then since they are not fixed rigidly but suspended, they will move laterally also while you move the TT. The entire assembly is suspended on springs which are mounted on bolts which are bolted on the top plate. The top plate is rigidly clamped on the plinth. Bt the bolts may not stay perfectly perpendicular to the top plate if the TT is moved around with the platter etc. on. Just the thought is enough to disturb my mental peace. So I certainly obsess over these details.
 
I meant to say that if you move it with the heavy platter and sub platter mounted, then since they are not fixed rigidly but suspended, they will move laterally also while you move the TT. The entire assembly is suspended on springs which are mounted on bolts which are bolted on the top plate. The top plate is rigidly clamped on the plinth. Bt the bolts may not stay perfectly perpendicular to the top plate if the TT is moved around with the platter etc. on. Just the thought is enough to disturb my mental peace. So I certainly obsess over these details.

I read a lot about people fussing over this issue. I also spoke to Rajiv and my mechanic and my doubts are laid to rest. Thanks for your response
 
Side Note:
linn.jpg


Linn launches 25,000 turntable made out of whisky casks

Aside from enjoying a wee dram while listening to The White Album, we didn't think there was a better way to combine our love of whisky and high-end audio gear. Linn, on the other hand, decided to celebrate its 40th birthday by teaming up with fellow highland brand Highland Park to produce something really special. The pair are recreating Linn's flagship Sondek LP12 turntable, but on a wooden plinth crafted from some of the distiller's solid oak scotch whisky casks. Naturally, only 40 of the units will be produced, each one setting you back 25,000 ($40,000) -- but hey, at least you get a 40-year-old bottle of Highland Park (worth 900) thrown in for good measure.

Linn launches 25,000 turntable made out of whisky casks

For some truly intoxicating music! :p
 
Hi folks,
It was one of my object of desire- to own a Linn Sondek and I am really fortunate I could get one and once it was set up, it's performing like the true champion it is.

Congratulations!

I'm not much of a TT guy, but even so, when I was wandering around Singapore shops, a few months ago, I could not help thinking, "Oh wow! There's a Linn Sondek!" I guess it is one of those classics that even the non-specialists have heard of.

So now I can think, "Oh wow! Jacob has got a Linn Sondek!" :ohyeah:
 
Kuruvilla,

Owning a LP12 has been my college days dream, but gave up after acquiring some good turntables. But, it still remains one of the most iconic turntables in the history of vinyl - whether it is the marketing, design or the reviews. LP12 with Ittok and Asak are what dreams are made of for me earlier.

Good acquisition. It is messy and demanding, but a brilliant performer nevertheless.

Congrats. BTW it deserves a MC and not a MM.

Regards
 
The Ittok arm needs a low compliance cartridge to give of its best. An MC for sure.
Had you the earlier Basik arm, any Shure or Goldring would do just fine.

I'd had a Linn for many many years, and occasionally regret selling it to make way for the Garrards. Just for a while, tho' :-)
 
Thanks for the suggestion for trying MC cart with the Attok LV II arm. which would be the best MC cart for this? If any one can suggest, I would be grateful
 
the Audio Technica OC9/iii worked very well with ittok lv2 arm for me. the lingo power supply also makes a nice difference.

When are you coming this side again? I remember you telling me how good your Linn Sondek was. Now I know why it is so special. It beats all my other players hands down in every department even with a Goldring 1020 GX cart. I know it can achieve greater heights with perhaps an OC 9 or similar cart.
 
A fantastic acquisition this I must say Sir :).

Looking forward to your listening expressions.

Congratulations again...

My listening experience is very difficult to express in words. I have never felt more emotionally charged up while listening to any of my other Turn tables. Now, you can imagine how good it sounds. It is as near perfect as the sound I had in my mind. A sort of listening Nirvana . When is your next trip this side?
 
Oooh lovely. Infact you have put it in a few words that express this magic you are experiencing :)

I was supposed to visit early this month but called off as work needed priority. I will plan again sometime before this year end Sir. I will give you a heads up.

From my last visit to Vinyl Bungalow Kottayam, this Bungalow has turned into a paradise for Record Players and I cant wait to visit :).
 
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