LP12

LP12 refers to a line of turntables produced by Linn Products, first released in 1979. The LP12 is a belt-driven, phonograph turntable featuring a suspended sub-chassis and a modular drive system. Its design emphasizes upgradeability, allowing changes to the motor drive, bearing, plinth, and tonearm without discarding the core platform.

The platform employs a three-point suspension to isolate the platter and tonearm from vibration, with the motor mounted externally. The platter is belt-driven and operated at the standard 33 1/3 and 45 rpm speeds, often stabilized by external power supplies. Over its history, Linn has offered several power modules for speed control, including the Lingo, and a range of tonearms has been used with the LP12, from Linn-made models such as Ittok and Akito to third-party options.

Variants and development: The LP12 has undergone numerous revisions, with notable milestones including the Sondek LP12, which integrated improvements to the bearing and chassis and broadened upgrade paths. Later generations refined the sub-chassis, plinth rigidity, and drive electronics. The combination of a durable platform and ongoing part availability has sustained its popularity among vinyl enthusiasts who value customization and long-term support.

Impact and legacy: The LP12 is widely regarded as a landmark design in vinyl playback and has influenced later turntables through its modular, upgrade-centric approach. It remains in production in various configurations and is a common base for high-end systems, with a community of technicians and enthusiasts who maintain and tailor units over decades.