Linn – manufacturer of the rather iconic Sondek LP12 – has released a upgrade for this turntable: the Karousel.
For the first time in 27 years, Linn has released a turn table upgrade. For the legendary Sondek LP12 to be exact. Originally, the bearing of the LP12 consists of a unique one-point bearing designed by Linn founder Ivor Tiefenbrun. This design was an inspiration for the company logo. Even in the latest incarnation of the bearing – called Karousel -, the basic principles have been retained. Advances in knowledge of materials and improved machines plus increased knowledge and experience of mechanical design and manufacture have led to the Karousel, among other things.
Improvements
According to Linn, the new bearing offers refined rotational movement and higher stability. And that, of course, should lead to better sound and an even longer service life. Karousel – according to Linn – raises the bar a even higher when it comes to the quality of vinyl reproduction. And offers every owner of the LP12 that higher level by means of an upgrade.
A better coupling between plateau, spindle, bearing housing and sub-chassis is realized by using selected stainless steel. And of course the new design also does its bit. One of the most important points of that design is an improved locking nut that improves the stiffness – previously a somewhat less strong point. Also, thanks to the new locknut attachment method, it is not necessary to dismantle the entire subframe. This saves disruption to the suspension and tone arm settings!
The Linn Karousel bearing kit costs 750 euro excl VAT