Info about Linn Export LP12

[cwise]

I just bought a late 70's Linn LP12. The armboard says that it is the 'export' version. It is wired for 240v, so I assumed that I would be able to drop in my newly purchased valhalla board (using the 50hz motor). When I opened up the table, the motor has these markings - 250-350rpm and 50-60hz. It came with the basic power supply and easy instructions on how to make the conversion to US mains, but I would really like to use the valhalla. Does any one have any info for this motor (will it work for valhalla)? Also, is there any difference between the export version and other versions from the time period. Thanks!

[Paul Ranson]

I think 'export' on the arm board is a pretty meaningless clue to what may be inside. I forget what it signifies but many UK decks had this, perhaps it's down to whether Linn drilled the board or not.

IIRC there are two Valhallas, a 50Hz and a 60Hz. The latter was supplied as an upgrade when Valhalla was new. Most will be 50Hz. The 50Hz Valhalla has a 3.2768MHz crystal, the 60Hz 3.9206MHz. The circuit diagram I have shows no other changes for 50/60.

Anyway if you wire it for your local mains with the existing supply and it runs fast then you need 50Hz, otherwise 60Hz. I would modify the Valhalla to suit, assuming parts are easy. Otherwise it's a new (or S/H) motor, I think the pulleys are factory fit and forget. The pulley should be 21mm dia for 50Hz and 17 for 60Hz.

BTW the LP12 service manual is available at various places on the Internet, it is very thorough and highly recommended. Google will get you loads of sites.

Paul