Interesting thought- Linn &

Norman, I think if you like your Dual TT that is a very good thing.
If it portrays the sound you are looking for, then nothing to complain about there. However, IMHO a Dual is not in the same league as even the oldest 70’s LP12 with a Nirvana power supply....unless the set up and the cartridge on the LP12 are totally shot! I know you have never heard a LP12 Radikal D Klimax or you probably wouldn’t be posting as you did.
Comparing any TT to the master tape or even the 2nd gen tape on the likes of a Studer isn’t really fair. However, I can tell you that the Miles Davis KOB 45rpm MFSL on my TT has brought jaws to the floor of all a’philes that I have had over to listen. As they say YMMV.

davey,

My LP12 was purchased in 1992.  I changed the top plate, the bearing housing, the trampoline was adjusted multiple times, grommets were changed, motor thrust plate changed, bearing flushed twice, two different mind blowing oils were added, then switch to Lingo direct couple power supply, Valhalla motor upgrade, second trampoline installed, top place modification, top plate replacement, Cirkus bearing upgrade.  These were just the table mods, not to mention the four different tonearms I had on the table.  

My Linn dealer was at my house so much I even purchased a Linn Table jig (which I still have.. anyone interested?)

So, I don't know and NO I can't say that I have ever hear the LP12 Radikal D Klimax, but you know what?  I really don't even want too.  My Linn experience left me completely exhausted.

"Comparing any TT to the master tape or even the 2nd gen tape on the likes of a Studer isn’t really fair."

Why not?  That's exactly what the designer of the VPI TTs says he does to gauge his success (or failure, I suppose).  A TT is not supposed to be a musical instrument, merely an accurate reproducer.  Have I got that wrong?

I guess I'm lucky. I've had my LP12 17 drama-free years