Linn LP12 Turntable - W/ Upgrades + New Lyra Kleos Cartridge

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General:
The Linn LP-12 is one of the most iconic European turntables ever made, and for good reason. Its precision manufacturing, thoughtful engineering, and timeless design have kept it in production for decades. LP-12s tend to move quickly through our shop, largely because of their reputation, extensive upgrade path, and simple but robust design.

This particular LP-12 is a highly upgraded example, with a number of significant components installed by the original owner directly from Linn.

Internal upgrades
Internally, it features the Linn Kore sub-chassis assembly, Linn Karousel main bearing, Linn Trampolin LP12 suspension, and Linn Radikal motor control/external power supply. The Trampolin also provides the mounting point for the Linn Urika-II phono preamplifier. All upgrades if bought new from Linn would cost a whopping $24,120.

At the top of the table is a Linn Ekos SE high-precision tonearm, paired with a brand-new Lyra Kleos cartridge, valued at $4,495. The Kleos is a fitting match for the Ekos SE and the rest of the upgraded LP-12, and gives the table a cartridge worthy of the rest of the build. The plinth is also worth noting as it is made by Woodsong Audio in Idaho.  It is a custom piece, made to look like an original LP12 plinth, but using better materials and a nicer finish than Linn ever did.  

The upgrades on this LP-12 go well beyond cosmetic or incremental changes. These parts collectively make this a very different turntable from a standard LP-12.

The Linn Radikal is particularly worth noting. The external motor control and power supply are a substantial upgrade to the LP-12's drive system and are a key part of this configuration.

Note* Optional:
The table is also equipped with a Linn Urika-II optical phono preamplifier, an uncommon component that provides digital optical and Ethernet outputs. The Urika-II is optional, so the buyer can choose whether to have it included and fitted with the turntable.

Overall, this is an extensively upgraded LP-12 with a serious collection of Linn components and a brand-new Lyra Kleos cartridge ($4495). which will be calibrated using our 12-step process ($390) It offers the opportunity to purchase a highly developed LP-12 configuration without having to source and install these upgrades individually.

Included will be the turntable + dustcover, cartridge, mentioned and its original packing material.

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
One small dent at the top left corner, Otherwise excellent condition. The original owner cared for this turntable clearly.

Ownership:
Single Owner

Connections:
Optical phono stage= Digital Optical output + Ethernet.
Tonearm = Turntable Din output.

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

Cosmetic Condition:
9/10 = Excellent. Perfect physical condition, gently used. See our detailed rating description here.

Working Condition:
Working perfectly and calibrated on our custom turntable calibration stand.

Included:
Turntable, phono cartridge, and dust cover.

Packing:
Original Manufacturers Packing

Dimensions:
17.5" x 13.5" x 6.25"

Weight:
30 lbs.

Testing Process:
First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings. We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range. There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum. We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure. On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.

We then assess the platter speed using one of several methods, the most accurate being playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency output with a frequency counter or oscilloscope. We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure it is within spec. We do this for all speeds available for that particular model (33 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM).

Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on the turntable's drive design. Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment. We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure it is properly lubricated, keeping in mind that some bearings don't require lubrication at all

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors, particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD-124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism. Then replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change, and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new phono cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the tonearm design. We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:
• Pivot to Spindle Adjustment
• Tracking Force
• Anti-Skate
• Tonearm Height
• Lifter Height
• VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle)
• Azimuth
• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.