It doesn't take a music buff or an audiophile to appreciate record players. Even those who're listening solely for the catchy lyrics and couldn't care less about things like warmth and depth find themselves mesmerised by the sight of a spinning record, the tactile pleasure, and that comforting pull of nostalgia.
For those who know sound, this piece of equipment offers a way to connect with songs on a deeper level. A way to listen to music as it was meant to be heard. If that's you or who you aspire to be, the Linn Majik LP12 is a solid way into serious analogue.
Your Gateway to an Exceptional Vinyl Experience
The LP12 Majik is Linn's most accessible path to flagship sound. It's different from budget record players that rarely meet the standard of the seasoned ear or high-end models that cost a fortune. It's an ideal starting point for high-performance vinyl playback, bringing premium engineering, rich sound, and timeless appeal together in a more affordable package.
Another reason why many decide to go for the Linn Majik LP12 is the clear, modular upgrade path. You can improve performance piece by piece with Linn's wide range of turntable accessories, whenever you're ready. Your setup can evolve with your taste and budget, so you can refine your sound without replacing the whole deck.
A Closer Look at the LP12 Majik
Built upon the heritage of the legendary 1972 Sondek LP12, this edition preserves its timeless design, seamlessly fusing the classic and the contemporary. The Majik sits in a solid wooden plinth, contrasting the sleek internals with a warm exterior. The plinth is available in multiple finishes, including oak, cherry, walnut, rosenut, and black ash, as well as custom options.
At its core, this turntable carries Linn's latest aluminium sandwich-construction sub-chassis, a patented Karousel single-point bearing, and a refined low-noise internal power supply. The Krane tonearm and Adikt moving-magnet cartridge complete this finely balanced deck.
LP12 MM vs LP12 MC
There are also two versions to choose from. The Majik LP12 MM is the updated name for the long-standing Majik spec, fitted with Linn's Adikt moving-magnet cartridge. The Majik LP12 MC is a newer option, using the Koil cartridge. Although both share the same core build, each version comes with its unique qualities.
The Adikt MM is easier to replace and more forgiving, making it a good match for casual listening or vinyl novices. The Koil MC delivers greater detail and a wider dynamic range, which can reveal more texture in recordings. At roughly £200 more than the LP12 MM package, the MC version offers a step up to premium MC cartridges right from the start.
Putting the Majik to Work
Everyone's eager to play their first record, but brushing up on the basics and taking the time to set it up right will most definitely pay off.
The Foundation
As with any other record player, you first need to place it on a level, stable surface to avoid any skips, vibrations, or damage to the stylus and records.
Playback Essentials
Since it cannot play music on its own, you'll need additional components to bring the magic to life. A suitable phono stage and quality amplification will allow it to deliver the clarity, depth, and musical detail it was designed for. You'll also need speakers, along with the necessary cables to complete the signal chain.
Although it can fit into almost any home audio system, choosing the right components is essential to bring out its true capabilities. It's worth mentioning that a turntable like this deserves a proper set-up from someone who knows it inside and out.
An official, experienced Linn dealer can help you choose and balance all the components so it performs exactly as it should. They can also guide you through each stage of the upgrade process for the best results.
Connecting and Powering On
With all the pieces of the puzzle at hand, you can proceed with connecting the LP12 to your amplifier or phono stage using the supplied tonearm cable and plugging it into mains power. Fit the dust cover if you're using one, then remove it before playing. Place your record on the felt mat and press the rocker switch to power it on. For 45 rpm records, use the included adaptor on the spindle before starting.
First Impressions in Operation
Once powered on, the Majik LP12 quickly reaches the correct speed and holds it with precision. The platter spins smoothly, supported by the Karousel bearing and sub-chassis design. Lowering the Krane tonearm feels precise and stable.
Playback begins without noise from the deck itself, allowing the music to take centre stage. The presentation is clean and balanced, with clear separation between the instruments. Speaking of which, the Majik is a turntable that handles all kinds of music beautifully.
In jazz, it makes each instrument easy to follow. In classical music, it keeps even the most complex arrangements organised while maintaining a rich and full sound. Electronic and ambient tracks benefit from its stable pitch, which helps bring out subtle background details. And for rock or indie, it delivers a strong, impactful performance without sounding harsh.
Modularity and Upgrades
If you do decide to climb the analogue playback ladder, there are numerous paths open to you.
Lingo Power Supply
The Lingo is an external power supply that provides more stable and precise speed control. This upgrade means more consistent pitch, better timing, and a lower noise floor, letting the music shine through with greater clarity.
Keel Sub-Chassis
The Keel is a one-piece sub-chassis and armboard that significantly improves the turntable's rigidity. By reducing unwanted vibrations, it delivers clearer details, tighter bass, and a more focused soundstage.
Tonearms
Upgrading to a higher-quality tonearm is a game-changer. It improves tracking accuracy and minimises unwanted resonance, which can dramatically enhance the dynamics and reveal subtle nuances in your favourite records.
Cartridges
A premium cartridge is one of the most effective upgrades you can make. It can bring out more detail, improve the frequency response, and accurately reproduce even the most complex musical passages.
Base Boards
Upgrading the base board improves the turntable's isolation from external vibrations. This is especially helpful in rooms with a lot of foot traffic or when you like to listen at higher volumes, ensuring your playback remains clean and undisturbed.
Simple enough to be your first serious turntable love, but also satisfying for long-term vinyl fans - the Majik is a turntable you'll never outgrow. Ready to bring every record in your collection to life? If so, it's time to make it the centrepiece of your setup.
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