2ND HAND LP12 / ITTOK LV11 - HAVE I GOT A SCREW OR 2 LOOSE?

Posted by: Ron Brinsdon on 13 February 2003

When I last bought a TT some 10 years ago I could not afford an LP12 and settled for an Axis. Having being bitten by the bug again, I recently started trolling through the links and ads and found a 45*** s/no LP12 with Mk1 LV11 and a few further mods (bracing etc) - all at a reasonable price and only 1 mile from my home!

After listening and performing the bearing and bounce checks etc from the links I bought the kit. When putting the counterweight back on, I noticed it has two very small diameter threaded holes in the edge. Should there be screws in place? I am uncertain because a recent thread mentioned that the c/weight is OK if it is a "snug" fit without any other screw-type clamping - and this is.

Also the cueing device has been removed. I know from the forum that this is OK but I would prefer to use one if possible - any suggestions as to where one might turn up?

When I take it to a dealer for a service,

a) What sort of costs are involved?

and

b) Will they automatically give it a thorough clean-up or is that an "extra"? (I don't mean Duraglitting the rim or anything similar but just a general wipeover of the top plate, platter surface, innards and plinth) etc. I'm not lazy but if it must be done I would rather the pros did it.

Thanks for your time and the useful past threads on some of these topics

Ron

Posted on: 13 February 2003 by Jo Sharp

I think the holes on the counter-weight are for adding an additional ring to increase the mass for heavier cartridges.

I'd take the deck to a dealer for a set-up and service which shouldn't cost more than 50-60 quid ( replace rubber grommets on the suspension and change the belt and bearing oil would be advisable). But make sure it is a dealer who has a good reputation for LP12s - some haven't a clue!

Jo

Posted on: 13 February 2003 by David Stewart

Some people think that removal of the cueing device from the Ittok brings sonic benefits, personally I'm skeptical but thats the 'tweaking' business for you.

If you take yourself off to the Pink-Fish Forum, you'll find lots of LP12 afficionados over there. You might be lucky and find one who's done the mod and kept the bits and pieces for the cueing arm. Try putting a post in the 'for sale and wanted' forum over there.

Because the Ittok has been out of production for a long time, I think its unlikely you'll find a dealer with the necessary parts, but you might be lucky.
David

"Opinions are like belly-buttons, everybody's got one"

Posted on: 13 February 2003 by Paul Ranson

I don't see any reason why an Ekos cueing lift wouldn't fit. Possibly an Akito one is also the same. So they should be available as a spare part from Linn. But probably only through a dealer. There must be a competent LP12 capable Linn dealer in or about Birmingham.

(The 'advantage' of the Ekos device is that is damped up and down, which takes away the reason for removing it from the Ittok)

(When I had an Ittok I removed the lift, but when I sold it I replaced it. Just put the bits in the LP12 box, which you need for transport to/fro a dealer every decade or so if nothing else.)

Paul