Linn LP12 Transcription Turntable w/New Sumiko Songbird Cartridge

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General:
The Linn LP12 is a legendary turntable that stands the test of time.

It's one of top three best-selling turntable models due to its provenance, reliability, supple suspension, and great sound.

This turntable is paired with a brand new Sumiko Songbird high output MC (Moving Coil) cartridge that will come to you perfectly calibrated.

The Songbird is just the right cost to performance ratio to match this 'table, and it also works with any MM (Moving Magnet) phono input while offering the benefits of MC (Moving Coil).

It also has our favorite Linn tonearm, the venerable and super reliable Ittok.

SkyFi Cosmetic Notes:
Some heavier scratches and marks on the clear dust cover, mostly on the rear side corners. Also some light marks on the wood base.

Ownership:
Single Owner

Connections:
RCA phono outputs, ground connection.

General Sound:
Smooth, uncolored, undistorted natural and clean

Cosmetic Condition:
8/10 = Very Good. Excellent front faceplate, one minor flaw on chassis side or top. See our detailed rating description here.

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

Included:
Turntable, phono cartridge, dust cover, and box (box not pictured).

Packing:
Will be packed using our highly developed in-house process and custom packing materials.Dimensions:
17.5" (W) ,6" (H) ,12.5" (D)

Weight:
28.6 lbs.

Approximate Age:
1975

Link to Manual:
Click Here

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
• Tracing 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.