This Linn came in with intermittent speed and poor sound .... nice condition for the year, manufactured in around 1985. The normal issue with Linns around this age tends to be a failing Valhalla board, this can be repaired, but as there are a few better alternatives out there we tend to fit either a Hercules board ... or a Heed Orbit kit
In this case we fitted a Hercules .... this, as well as offering a punchier more musical sound, also gives the option of electronic 33/45 speed change ... quite a bonus on the 33 only Sondek. Linn used to offer a larger 45 sleeve to fit over the 33 pulley to step up the speed, but it was a clunky solution.
The old K18mk2 had to go, as at 18+ years old it sounded dreadful. This has been replaced with a Rega Elys2, which suits the Ittok really well and has a very 'Linn like' presentation
After a full strip down and rebuild, the sound was nicely back to what you would expect ... a well tuned LP12 is still a hard act to follow !
If you have any queries re Sondek servicing/repair ... ring Philip on 01270 582154
Hello there - I have owned from new a 25 year old Lp12 with Ittok arm. It has never been touched, serviced etc. but has not been used much for the past 20 years but is now coming back to life as I am beginning to get back into buying vinyl!! I think it could probably do with a service/upgrade. Any help or advice welcome.
ReplyDeleteHi Ian ... apologies missed your comment until now. Give me a call on 01270 580734 ... there are a few options
ReplyDeletePhilip