The Linn Sondek LP12 Transcription Turntable is simply yet elegantly styled turntable. Introduced in 1972 it was Linn’s first product and combines a belt driven platter, solid wood plinth, suspended sub chassis, and a low noise single point bearing. The one pictured above was probably produced around 1983 as it has no lid prop and utilizes spring loaded hinges. The history of Sondek LP12 production modifications are as follows:
- 1972, LP12 turntable introduced.
- 1974, Main bearing liner changed. Sub-chassis strengthened by addition of strap, spot welded in place. Motor control circuit changed from terminal strip to small PCB. Mains switch changed from two buttons to single with mains neon. [s/n 2,000]
- 1978, Top plate modified adding two holes for 6 x 0.5 self tappers into wood block. [23,000]
- 1979, Lid prop removed, hinges changed to spring loading. [27,000]
- 1981, February. Nirvana mechanical components. [32,826]
- 1982, May. Valhalla crystal-driven electronic power supply made standard. [38,794]
- 1984, Enlarged plinth corner bracing. [53,000]
- 1984, June. Sub-chassis strengthening bar epoxy glued instead of spot welded. [54,101]
- 1985, August. Cap head screws on bearing housing. [60,383]
- 1985, September. Diode modification to Valhalla board [61,090]
- 1985, December. Strengthening blocks on corners of plinth.
- 1986, May. New clear lid.
- 1986, Suspension springs improved.
- 1987, March. New bearing housing, New Formica and MDF armboard. [69,161]
- 1987, April. New springs. [69,591]
- 1987, Bearing improved with better lining material and tighter tolerances. Change to black oil. Suspension springs ground to improved tolerance. Arm board composition improved. [70,000]
- 1989, Motor thrust pad changed. Valhalla surge guard modification. PCB mains lead (UK). [79,700]
- 1989, New MDF armboard, laminated top and bottom. [79,160]
- 1989, Harder suspension grommets fitted. [81,000]
- 1990, External Lingo power supply available as add-on.
- 1991, motor thrust pad cap added to Lingo models. [87,047]
- 1991, Valhalla board with 45RPM capability added [87,047]
- 1991, motor thrust pad cap added to Valhalla models. [87,206]
- 1991, Introduction of LP12 Basik, a stripped down version of the turntable [87,672]
- 1991, Solid base board replaces hardboard. [87,672]
- 1991, Trampolin base board with isolating feet available as an option [87,672].
- 1992, Improved top plate fixing. [88,950]
- 1993, Cirkus upgrade (larger and better machined inner platter and new bearing, new springs, armboard, belt) fitted as standard. [90,582]
- 1997, a limited edition commemorative LP12 was created to mark the 25th anniversary of the LP12. Amongst other features, it bears a plaque etched with the signature of Linn’s founder Ivor Tiefenbrun.
- 2000, 4th bolt added near motor on top plate, fitted as standard. Required extra cross beam on plinth.
- 2001, New motor used (first new motor since original 1972).
- 2002, Maple plinth introduced adding to existing black, walnut, rosewood and afromosia options.
Linn turntables are highly sought after by both collectors and audio enthusiasts. This particular Linn Sondek LP12 sold for $1268.00 in early 2012. In good working condition they will commonly sell for $1200.00 to $3500.00.
