Linn vs. Thorens debate - a reflection...
Is Linn really that superior?
The mythical Linn Sondek LP12 turntable is generally regarded as the best of its kind. It must be admitted that as a suspended, belt driven turntable, it has quite many arrows in its bow. The construction level is really superior. What about the sound?
I must admit I’ve never heard a Sondek in my life, never even seen one. So what am I talking about?
I am just reasoning about what I can read in the Internet. The Linn Sondek has generated a plethora of true passionate admirers, some on the verge of fanatism, maybe...
But I also read something about the Thorens TD-160 sounding not that worse than a LP12! Wow! Is it possible? Probably yes, depending on the system used, on the tweaks, if any, and maybe on personal taste.
The point, for me, is: what sense is there today in buying an LP12? Passion? Ok, I agree: if you’re passionate about it you can go ahead and spend the same amount of money you’d spend to buy 4 or maybe 5 Thorens TD-160s.
I don’t believe the sonic differences between the two decks would amount to more than 1000 euros! Come on!
Ok, if you’ve always had an LP12 since the 70s, or happen to have one at home, on have inherited it from your dad, by all means, keep it in the best way possible, even install an alarm system so that you can see who’s messing with it from your smartphone while you’re away! ;-)
I wish I could have been that lucky, but I’ve only inherited a Thorens TD-165 (and I will probably write a similar post about its presumed great inferiority to the TD-160).
But if I am to spend those figures now, I’d rather buy an Origin Live Aurora or Clearaudio turntable; maybe I could also find something interesting in the Michell catalog, wouldn’t I?
Linn passionates, forgive me. I’m not saying your turntable is no good. I’m just saying it is now sold at unbelievable prices...
One could buy a used TD-160 in good shape (maybe even a glorious TD-124/5!), do the usual tune-ups, tweaks and mods, maybe buy a more advanced tonearm, even go to the extent of using a newly built plinth, and would possibly have a a turntable as good sounding as the Linn by spending less...
