LP12 Valhalla

About the LP12 Valhalla

The Linn LP-12 Valhalla is a high-end belt-driven turntable introduced with a quartz oscillator power supply that provides a single speed of 33.3 rpm. It features a single-point bearing running in an oil bath with a hardened steel thrust pad, a 12-inch non-magnetic zinc aluminium alloy diecast platter weighing approximately 4.1 kg, and a 24-pole precision synchronous low noise, high torque motor. The motor is fully shielded and mechanically isolated from the main bearing assembly by resilient mounting and a three-point suspension system. The drive is via a flat precision ground neoprene rubber belt with concentricity of 0.01 mm. The platter, bearing assembly, and arm mounting board are mounted on a free-floating inner chassis isolated from the plinth by a fully adjustable three-point spring-damped suspension. The top plate is heavy gauge non-magnetic brushed satin stainless steel. The Valhalla power supply generates a single 50 Hz sine wave from a quartz oscillator to drive the motor, providing stable and accurate speed control independent of mains frequency. This power supply was introduced in 1982 and is known for reducing motor vibration and noise, contributing to the LP12's reputation for excellent timing, rhythm, and pitch retention. The Valhalla is a predecessor to the Lingo power supply, which adds two-speed capability and further improvements. The LP12 chassis is mounted in a strong solid kiln-dried timber low resonance base with a hinged dust cover. The Valhalla power supply can be upgraded with modern motor controllers like the Zeus, which adds speed sensing and automatic calibration for improved speed stability and sound quality. The LP12 Valhalla remains a classic and highly regarded turntable in the audiophile community.