Linn LP12 Karousel

Sometimes it’s the little things that make all the difference!

Linn has introduced the new precision-engineered single-point Karousel bearing for LP12 turntables. Replacing the popular Cirkus bearing, which had been in production for over twenty five years, the new Karousel bearing is the most fundamental upgrade for an LP12.

Performance

A new, innovative precision-engineered design which will improve vinyl reproduction from every LP12 ever made.

“It’s a game changer. It’s the best value LP12 upgrade in decades!

— An Innovative customer

This innovative new take on their original bearing design has been made possible by technological developments in material science, machining capabilities and mechanical engineering expertise gained from almost half a century of designing and manufacturing the world’s best turntable.

Refined Motion

Improved tolerances of the bearing liners better support the spindle combined with the new Diamond-Like Carbon Coating (DLC) on the thrust pad for reduced friction, results in smoother rotation, improving the ‘noise floor’ of the turntable and musical reproduction.

“The noise floor is just so much lower, and warm musical bass becomes even more apparent.”

— An Innovative customer

Enhancements to the base of the bearing include a stronger housing for the thrust pad, and combined with a smaller, stiffer form improves the critical area that supports the platter rotation and mass, meaning your vinyl reproduction is more accurate and detailed than ever before.

Greater Stability

The new design and material selected, combined with increased rigidity provide better coupling between the platter, spindle, bearing housing and sub-chassis, all leading to the reduction of noise for more accurate vinyl reproduction.

“It cleans up a lot of the upper register sibilance that you can sometimes find with vinyl.”

— Our LP12 technician

That vital union between the platter, spindle, bearing and sub-chassis is now the strongest Linn has ever achieved. The substantial lock-nut fastening on the stainless steel housing increases rigidity at the critical point where bearing and sub-chassis come together.

Longer Lasting

Karousel’s reduction in friction means that it will last longer and continue to give incredibly accurate listening pleasure to the very highest standard for longer than ever before.

“It’s one of those Linn upgrades that shouldn’t need much thought. It’s just…so much better.”

— An Innovative customer

The LP12 platform has been around since 1972. The precursor to the Karousel was the venerable Cirkus bearing, which was in production for 27 years. With the new Karousel upgrade (and regular maintenance) your LP12 can easily last another 27 years!