The LP12 from Scottish manufacturer Linn can be upgraded over time and now features a new separate power supply and a new counterweight on the Sondek version, available separately for retrofitting on previous models.
Klimax Radikal
With a new digitally controlled motor, the new Klimax Radikal power supply further improves the quality of the turntable’s rotation, bringing it as close as possible to 33.1/3 rpm.
Its internal Utopik power supply has two separate rails, so that it can power not only the motor, but also the Urika phono stage on the Sondek LP12 if required. Cushioned behind the front panel, this power supply is encapsulated to prevent any interference with the digital circuits, in a chassis machined from three pieces of solid aluminum, placed on stainless steel feet with rubber reinforcements.
Weighing almost 14 kg, this Klimax Radikal case promises even better performance than its predecessor, particularly in terms of finesse and bass response.
Keel SE
Superior in quality to the Majik and the Kore, the Keel sub-chassis already allowed you to upgrade your LP12 without breaking the bank. Now, it has been further improved in terms of resonance behavior and mass distribution.
Manufactured using FEA (Finite Element Analysis) technology and precision machinery, the Keel SE is reinforced by a complex structure in the lower part, which makes it 300% stiffer than the previous model. Thanks to this greatly optimized vibration control, the new sub-chassis can dissipate unwanted acoustic energy much more effectively, thereby smoothing the signal delivered by the cartridge.
As it was conceived after the Karousel, a particular attention has been paid to the path between the mounting point of this bearing and the tonearm collar. This area between the two elements has been considerably reinforced to ensure that any changes in geometry during playback are minimized, thereby reducing tracking distortion.
Thanks to the machining of aluminum in calculated areas under the platter, the Keel SE has a more balanced center of gravity on its suspension. This improves the weight distribution between the springs and reduces inertia.
And since we at VUmètre have a Sondek LP12, we will try to tell you more very soon, in order to verify the performance of these new components and let you know which of the two elements to invest in first. And besides, the price may be the deciding factor, since the Keel SE is priced at £4 250 / 5 060 € / $6 215 and the Klimax Radikal at £11 500 / €13 680 / $16 820.
03/11/2025
