ONE day, when a new generation of vinyl lovers rise from the ashes of our civilisation, you can bet the one turntable that will still be in business is the Linn Sondek LP12. The first iteration of the LP12 goes back to 1972 – there have been better turntables, before and after, and many competitors have faded into oblivion… but Linn and the Sondek LP12 have keep the flag flying high through the most testing of times for the vinyl business.
The fact that an LP12 from that era can usually be upgraded to current specs is perhaps one chief reason why the model has endured… and Linn is not resting on its Sondek laurels. The latest upgrade is the Karousel bearing, “the third evolution of Linn’s ground-breaking single-point bearing design that raises the bar for vinyl reproduction yet again and is an essential upgrade for every Sondek LP12 turntable ever made.”
According to the Linn, the new bearing “offers smoother rotation and greater stability, thanks to its innovative new design, meaning better sound from all your vinyl.”
It adds: “This innovative new take on our original bearing design has been made possible by technological developments in material science, machining capabilities and mechanical engineering expertise gained from almost half a century of designing and manufacturing the world’s best turntable.
“That vital union between the platter, spindle, bearing and sub-chassis is now the strongest we’ve ever achieved. The substantial lock-nut fastening on the stainless steel housing increases rigidity at the critical point where bearing and sub-chassis come together.
“Enhancements to the base of the bearing include a stronger housing for the thrust pad, and combined with a smaller, stiffer form, improves the critical area that supports the platter rotation and mass, meaning your vinyl reproduction is more accurate and detailed than ever before.”
Importantly, and of course, the Karousel is retro-fittable to any LP12.
Linn is also offering two new personalisation options for the LP12 – you can specify any colour you like for the plinth, and Linn will match that colour.
And to put the seal on your possession, Linn also offers to add a laser-etched monogram of up to four letters of your choice. This makes it easier to track, for sure…
How much for the new bearing?
£750.