Hey,
I have been able to listen to the LP12 today.
I've made a quick summary in the Linn Owners thread, so here is the copy/paste.
Please help
"
For this demo, I have brought my preamp Art Audio VP1 mk2 + my Thorens TD126 (Shure V15 type IV cartridge).
Rest of the setup was Exposure integrated + Graham LS3/5 ... (to be as close as possible as my setup which is Pass Labs INT25 / Harbeth P3Esr)
1st test : A very old LP12 with Ittok LVII (Grade Master Type 1)
Sounds was not really different as what I use to have with my TD126 at home. Maybe a bit more fluidity.
2nd test : My TD126
Confirms my first impressions that the differences between both TT is not "night & day".
Maybe my TD126 is a bit less refined ...
3rd test : Linn Akurate with Krystal cartridge. As my Art Audio is only MM compatible, we have to plug it to an integrated Exposure with optional MC Phono stage.
This is the demo I have preferred so far. I was afraid of having something too much analytical or "digital" like. The sound was really refined, and very well balanced. It was much more transparent compared to previous test but no harshness, no brightness. Great fluidity. I think I can live with that setup. This demo model was 7000€. Even if it's a good price compared to new that's a bit higher than my predefined budget.
4th test : Brand new LP12 Majik with a Linn MC Cartridge (I cannot remember the name, but the Linn retailer told me that it was an Audio Technico based) with Karousel (now by default).
I find it way less refined than the Akurate (I know this is not the same price range).
And also less smoothness and fluidity, which are very important to me ...
So that was not a perfect demo because there are a lot of "variables", not always the same phono stages, but some outcomes that are interesting for me ...
So I'm a bit stuck now and I'm thinking again about the Nottingham Analogue Hyperspace ...
Any comment, advice is more than welcome of course
Thanks"