Interesting thought- Linn &

Norman, I think we will have to agree to disagree. I have heard all of the VPI range, including the DD and the Classic 11 that you mention.
Compared to a Linn LP12 Radikal D Klimax, the VPI Classic 11 is IMHO not competitive. For your $10K budget, one could get a LP12 with Radikal D and Kore that would still be a better option than the similarly priced VPI. All IMHO.

daveyf,

My Linn comparison is based on my personal table.  That is the only thing I could really based it on, as I had it for 10 years and am very familiar with it's sound. 

While the Classic II is an introductory table in the VPI line, it's dynamics and pace are excellent. 

I am a little surprised though at your staunch loyalty to Linn.  Linn isn't and has never been the last word in turntables.  There are just so many finer options, both vintage and new.  I will stick to my $4000.00 budget VPI Classic II over the Linn any day. (again comparing to my LP12, which by the time I sold it I believe was about a $9000.00 table.. that's in 2003 dollars not including the arms) 

Funny story, when I decided to move on to another turntable I called my Linn dealer and he took it personal.  He offered me $1650.00 for my LP12 (absolutely pristine conditions with all upgrades purchased and performed by his dealership) Go figure?

I will be at my Linn Dealer tomorrow.  I will let you know if I get an opportunity to hear the latest mods.

Norman  





 

Norman, I hope your Linn dealer is not the same guy as you have referred to in your prior posts. That dealer seems unable to set up the table so that you could hear what it is capable of. Just saying.

I am interested in what your hear as well.

While I've not heard turntables/arms/cartridges that carry a $50,000 or more retail price, I have heard turntables/arms/cartridges upwards of $20,000, including a fully decked out LP12 (Radikal, kore, kandid, Ekos Se)- none gave clearly bettered the LP12. I did hear an oracle, with an SME arm and a Benz cartridge that was pretty terrific too