Linn Sondek LP 12 turntable

Description

Key Features and Characteristics:

• Suspended Sub-Chassis Design: The LP12 utilizes a suspended sub-chassis to isolate the platter and tonearm from external vibrations and the motor, contributing to its sonic purity. This design has remained fundamental throughout its evolution.  
• Patented Single-Point Bearing: A key element of the LP12 is its tightly toleranced single-point bearing, designed to ensure smooth platter rotation and minimize noise.  
• Belt-Drive System: A high-quality, low-noise synchronous AC motor drives a perfectly balanced, high-mass platter via a precision pulley and neoprene flat belt, promoting speed stability.  
• Modular and Upgradeable Design: A unique aspect of the LP12 is its modular design, allowing virtually every component to be upgraded over time as Linn introduces new technologies and improvements. This commitment to upgradability has fostered long-term customer loyalty.  
• Solid Wood Plinth: The turntable features a robust, solid wood plinth that provides a stable and resonance-controlled foundation for the other components. Various wood finishes are available, and even custom color matching is offered.  
• Three-Point Spring-Damped Suspension: The sub-chassis, which carries the platter, bearing, and tonearm, is suspended by three adjustable precision springs, further isolating it from external disturbances and acoustic feedback.  
• External Power Supply Options: While some versions have internal power supplies, Linn offers external power supplies like the Lingo and Radikal, which provide more precise motor control and reduce noise.  

Evolution and Upgrades:

Since its introduction, the Linn Sondek LP12 has undergone numerous refinements and upgrades, demonstrating Linn's commitment to continuous improvement. Key milestones include:

• Early Mechanical Improvements: Changes to the main bearing liner, sub-chassis strengthening, and motor control circuitry in the 1970s.  
• Nirvana and Valhalla: The introduction of the Nirvana mechanical components and the Valhalla crystal-driven electronic power supply in the early 1980s significantly enhanced performance.  
• Cirkus Upgrade (1993): A major upgrade introducing a larger and better-machined inner platter, a new bearing, new springs, an armboard, and a belt, fitted as standard.
• Lingo and Radikal Power Supplies: The introduction of external power supplies provided more accurate speed control and reduced noise.  
• Keel and Kore Sub-Chassis: High-performance, machined sub-chassis options that integrate the armboard for increased rigidity.  
• Karousel Bearing (2020): A recent significant upgrade to the main bearing, further reducing noise and improving stability.  
• Bedrok Plinth (2023): Linn's first plinth performance upgrade, made from a high-density beech material for superior acoustic isolation.  

Linn continues to offer a range of upgrade options for the LP12, allowing owners of even early models to bring their turntables up to current performance levels. These upgrades can include power supplies, sub-chassis, bearings, tonearms, and cartridges.