Linn and Thorens

[Mikewong]

Is the inner sub-platter of Linn LP12 could be use with the outer platter of the Thorens 125? Are they compatible to each other as far as their diameters are concerned?

There is some one in ebay selling the inner sub-platter including bearing system and floating sub-chassis of Linn LP12
and I am thinking of bidding this and using the outer platter of my thorens with these to build a DIY turntable.

[analog_sa]

No. The Thorens platter hole is very slightly smaller.

[Toaster]

Hi Mike!
As you may know, the Ariston RD11/ Linn LP12 is basically a re-engineered Thorens TD150. The spring positions and seatings , the motor positioning, the basic form of the subchassis and the full length armboard are virtually identical. The outer platters for the TD150/ 160 derivatives and the 125 and 126 are all the same casting, although there were three or four variations on the inner platter/ main bearing shaft. Many years ago I owned a Linn (briefly) and a TD160 at the same time and tried the '160 main platter on the Linn subplatter. Fitted fine, as I remember it. What I'm not sure about is if the Linn subplatter is exactly the same diameter as the Thorens one. If not you won't be able to use the Thorens motor- unless the range of speed adjustment on the 125 is wide enough. Given how close the designs are though, I wouldn't be at all suprised if the difference was nonexistant or negligable.
However, although I don't want to rain on your parade, assuming both are in good condition, I wouldn't take it for granted that the Linn parts are significantly better than the Thorens ones. OK, the Linn subplatter looks nicer and has no holes in it, but the quality of the Thorens main bearing is very good. I'm not sure about the chassis either, come to that. The TD125 uses quite a nice cast piece, almost certainly significantly more rigid than the Linns mild steel pressings. As a complete turntable, my experience is that the LP12 (or at least the early 1980s one I had), sounded like what it is- an improved TD150/160. The 125 is better made than the 150/160 series and probably pretty close to an early Linn. My suspicion is that the main platter on the Thorens is the weakest part of the package, and FWIW, I'd be inclined to try out a few mats first, particularly the Funk Achromat, assuming you can get a refunds if you don't like them. While I'm pouring cold water, the vendor will probably be selling the chassis/ bearing/ subplatter set because they're upgraing to the newer 'Cirkus' main bearing and one of the newer glued chassis, so naturally you almost certainly won't be getting current spec parts. So to summarise; yes it'll probably work, but it probably isn't worth it. But that's just my opinion...

[Toaster]

That's interesting, analog... Well, it was a long time ago. Some combination certainly fitted. Perhaps I had the Linn main platter on the Thorens subplatter instead? Sorry if I've misinformed you Mike. In any event, even if it did work, I still say there's more effective ways of improving the '125.

[dnsey]

The Thorens platter hole is very slightly smaller.

Could it be fitted as some Linn outers have to be - by warming it so that it expands before offering up?