The Iconic Linn Sondek LP12 – Turntable Legend – more info at Speakers Corner HiFi in Kiel

The Iconic Linn Sondek LP12 – A Turntable Legend– Price in 1974 about 90 USD – Today up to 20,000 €

In the world of high-quality Hi-Fi audio devices, only a few components achieve the nearly mythical status that the Linn Sondek LP12 holds. Introduced by Linn in 1972, this turntable turned the way audiophiles thought about vinyl playback on its head — and is still in the lineup today in revised form. Wikipedia + PS Audio + 2

Origins and Design Philosophy

The LP12 (the '12' stands for the 12" LP record) was launched at a time when vinyl was dominant, but turntable designs were often rather utilitarian. What set the LP12 apart from others was its suspended sub-chassis and patented single-point bearing — both elements were chosen to minimize vibrations and maximize musical clarity. Wikipedia + Stereophile + 2
Linn founder Ivor Tiefenbrun believed that the 'source' or source device (in this case, the turntable) is the most important link in the Hi-Fi chain — a reversal of the then-common approach where speakers were considered central. Wikipedia + 1

Why he became an icon

• In the United Kingdom, the LP12 was chosen by the magazine Hi-Fi Choice as the 'most important Hi-Fi component ever sold in the UK.' Wikipedia
• He is also regarded as a benchmark in the international Hi-Fi context: In a ranking by The Absolute Sound from 2011, he ranked 2nd among the 'most significant turntables of all time.' Wikipedia
• His modular upgrade path — users could retrofit bearings, power supplies, tonearms, etc. — gave him a longevity that many competitors lacked.

In the world of high-quality Hi-Fi audio devices, only a few components achieve the nearly mythical status that the Linn Sondek LP12 holds. Introduced by Linn in 1972, this turntable turned the way audiophiles thought about vinyl playback on its head — and is still in the lineup today in revised form. Wikipedia + PS Audio + 2

Origins and Design Philosophy

The LP12 (the '12' stands for the 12" LP record) was launched at a time when vinyl was dominant, but turntable designs were often rather utilitarian. What set the LP12 apart from others was its suspended sub-chassis and patented single-point bearing — both elements were chosen to minimize vibrations and maximize musical clarity. Wikipedia + Stereophile + 2
Linn founder Ivor Tiefenbrun believed that the 'source' or source device (in this case, the turntable) is the most important link in the Hi-Fi chain — a reversal of the then-common approach where speakers were considered central. Wikipedia + 1

Why he became an icon

• In the United Kingdom, the LP12 was chosen by the magazine Hi-Fi Choice as the 'most important Hi-Fi component ever sold in the UK.' Wikipedia
• He is also regarded as a benchmark in the international Hi-Fi context: In a ranking by The Absolute Sound from 2011, he ranked 2nd among the 'most significant turntables of all time.' Wikipedia
• His modular upgrade path — users could retrofit bearings, power supplies, tonearms, etc. — gave him a longevity that many competitors lacked.

Sound Character & Application

Owners and testers often praise the LP12 for its Pace, Rhythm, and Timing (PRaT) — a term often used in British audiophile jargon. PS Audio
It is appreciated for extracting fine nuances in vinyl recordings and creating a musical experience that makes it feel like the musician is in the listening room. Due to its mechanical construction, it is often reported to be superior in price to many modern turntables — even decades later.

Vintage Appeal & Collectibility

As a vintage component, early LP12 models (1970s/1980s) are in high demand. The value lies not only in the sound but also in the original condition (e.g., with walnut plinth, maple plinth) and with original turntable setup. Additionally, the upgrade path means that a well-maintained LP12 is often still technically compatible with modern additions — bridging retro charm and today's usability.

Why he is still relevant today

While many audio device brands have come and gone, the continuous production run of the LP12 shows the robustness of its design. The fact that it still plays a role in high-end vinyl discourse shows that the fundamental principles like minimizing vibration, high-quality mechanics, and uncompromising design are timeless.
Moreover, vinyl is experiencing a renaissance in times of streaming and digital convenience – making the LP12 increasingly significant as both a stylistic statement and a highly functional analog device.

Final thoughts

For anyone looking to build a vintage hi-fi system or just enjoy vinyl in the highest fidelity, the Linn Sondek LP12 stands as a reference device. It's not just about nostalgia – it's about a real piece of audio technology history. Whether you're assembling a retro system or simply seeking the highest sound quality in the vinyl realm: the LP12 offers a lasting connection to the golden era of analog sound.

Price information

• Original price: According to one source, the price at launch was at £59 (without tonearm) in 1973/74 — which by today's standards is about £800 / ≈ US$960 in today's purchasing power. PS Audio
• For the year 1974, there is an invoice showing that the complete set including turntable + SME tonearm cost £134.90 including 8% VAT cost. ripcaster.co.uk
• Current price: Depending on the configuration, equipment, and upgrades, a new LP12 today ranges in several thousand euros – e.g. in versions with high-end accessory upgrades well over €10,000. (See current dealer offers)

Here is a Price development table for the Linn Sondek LP12 – as far as data is available – along with brief explanations:

Explanations

• The starting price of £59 is nominal; adjusted for inflation, this corresponds to about £800 / US$962 today according to the source. PS Audio
• Over the decades, the model range has evolved significantly, with numerous upgrades, editions, and luxury versions (e.g. anniversary editions) – which explains much higher prices.
• Used prices vary significantly depending on condition, equipment, serial number, upgrades – e.g. simple older models remain relatively affordable, while top versions are in the tens of thousands or more.
• Today's retail price for a fully equipped high-end model shows how the device has transformed from the 'entry-level high-end turntable' of the 1970s to a luxury collector's and performance product.

For more info, ask the HiFi specialist Speakers Corner in Kiel: https://www.speakerscorner-hifi.de/