Linn Kore LP12 Sub-Chassis and Machined Armboard

Linn Kore is an upgraded aluminium sub-chassis and armboard assembly for the Linn Sondek LP12 turntable.

The sub-chassis supports the LP12 main bearing, inner and outer platters, tonearm, cartridge and record as part of the turntable's suspended structure.

Kore replaces the standard Majik sub-chassis and separate laminated armboard with a stiffer multi-layer aluminium structure and an armboard machined from solid aluminium.

The armboard is bonded directly to the sub-chassis, helping the tonearm and main bearing behave as parts of one connected mechanical assembly.

What Does the LP12 Sub-Chassis Do?

The Sondek LP12 uses a suspended sub-chassis design.

The main bearing, platter and tonearm are carried by an internal platform suspended beneath the stainless-steel top plate using three springs and grommets.

This suspended assembly helps isolate the record-playing components from vibration reaching the wooden plinth and supporting furniture.

It also establishes the mechanical relationship between the tonearm and the main bearing around which the record rotates.

The stiffness, mass distribution and construction of the sub-chassis can therefore influence how securely these components maintain their alignment while the stylus follows the record groove.

Three-Layer Aluminium Construction

The Kore sub-chassis is constructed from three layers of 1.5mm-thick aluminium.

These sections are shaped into a multi-layer box structure and bonded together using an adhesive specified by Linn.

The box construction increases stiffness without requiring a heavy solid plate beneath the suspended turntable.

Keeping the structure relatively light is important because the complete sub-chassis, bearing, platter and tonearm assembly must be supported and isolated by the LP12 suspension.

The bonded structure also avoids relying solely on screws or removable joints to connect the main sections of the sub-chassis.

Why Sub-Chassis Rigidity Matters

The cartridge generates its electrical signal from extremely small movements of the stylus and cantilever.

Movement between the tonearm mounting and the main bearing can introduce additional mechanical behaviour that is unrelated to the record groove.

A stiffer sub-chassis is designed to help maintain a stable relationship between the bearing and tonearm while the platter rotates and the stylus tracks the record.

Kore also aims to reduce unwanted flexing and damping within the suspended platform, allowing vibration to be managed in a more predictable way.

The final result still depends on correct suspension setup, tonearm installation, cartridge alignment and the condition of the complete turntable.

Machined-from-Solid Aluminium Armboard

The Kore armboard is machined from a solid piece of aluminium rather than built from a laminated wooden structure.

Ribs machined into its underside increase stiffness while avoiding unnecessary additional mass.

The armboard provides the mounting surface for the tonearm and must resist twisting or flexing as the cartridge follows the record groove.

Each Kore armboard is manufactured for a particular type of tonearm mounting, so the correct version must be selected before ordering.

Bonded Armboard and Sub-Chassis

The machined armboard is bonded directly to the three-layer sub-chassis.

This permanent connection allows the two sections to behave more like a single structure than a conventional removable armboard fixed with screws.

The tonearm collar is attached through the machined armboard and connected closely to the aluminium sub-chassis beneath it.

The main bearing is mounted through another part of the same suspended aluminium structure.

Kore therefore creates a direct mechanical path between the tonearm mounting, sub-chassis and main bearing.

Direct Relationship Between Tonearm and Bearing

The tonearm must hold the cartridge in a predictable position relative to the record groove.

At the same time, the main bearing determines the rotational centre and stability of the platter.

By mounting both components to the Kore assembly, Linn aims to reduce independent movement between the tonearm pivot and platter spindle.

This relationship is particularly important because cartridge alignment is calculated from the distance between the tonearm pivot and the centre of the platter.

The bearing and tonearm must still be installed, tightened and aligned correctly for the structural benefits of Kore to be realised.

Standard on Selekt LP12

Kore is fitted as standard to the current Linn Selekt LP12 .

In the Selekt specification, Kore works alongside the Karousel main bearing, Lingo motor-control system, Arko tonearm, Kendo moving coil cartridge and Trampolin suspended base.

These components are selected to form the middle complete package within Linn's current Majik, Selekt and Klimax LP12 range.

Kore can also be selected when building a custom LP12 or fitted as an upgrade to a compatible existing turntable.

Upgrade from the Majik Sub-Chassis

The Linn Majik sub-chassis also uses a multi-layer aluminium box construction.

It is partnered with a separate five-layer laminated armboard rather than Kore's armboard machined from solid aluminium.

Kore strengthens the tonearm mounting and bonds the armboard directly to the aluminium sub-chassis.

This creates a more rigid and closely connected platform for the tonearm and main bearing while retaining a manageable suspended mass.

Kore or Keel SE?

Kore sits below Keel SE within Linn's current LP12 sub-chassis range.

Kore combines a bonded multi-layer aluminium sub-chassis with a separately machined aluminium armboard.

Keel SE is machined from a single solid aluminium billet, integrating the sub-chassis, armboard and tonearm-collar structure within one component.

The Keel SE underside uses an intricate bracing arrangement and carefully controlled material removal to increase stiffness and optimise the distribution of mass across the suspension.

Keel SE is fitted as standard to the Linn Klimax LP12 .

Keel SE provides Linn's ultimate current solution, while Kore offers much of the same design philosophy at a more accessible level.

Compatible Linn Tonearms

Linn lists Kore versions compatible with Ekos SE, Ekos, Akito, Ittok and Arko tonearms.

The current Selekt LP12 combines Kore with the Linn Arko tonearm.

Kore can also provide a suitable platform for the flagship Linn Ekos SE , subject to the wider LP12 specification and upgrade plan.

Compatibility should include the exact tonearm model, mounting arrangement, cable routing and the condition of the arm bearings.

Versions for Rega, SME and Naim Tonearms

Linn also offers Kore versions for compatible Rega, SME and Naim tonearms.

Each version is machined and drilled for the relevant tonearm mounting arrangement.

A Rega-mounted Kore cannot automatically be converted into a Linn, SME or Naim version simply by drilling additional holes.

The tonearm geometry, mounting distance, collar design and cable clearance all need to correspond with the selected armboard.

Compatibility with the Karousel Bearing

Kore is compatible with Linn's current Karousel single-point bearing .

The bearing housing passes through the central mounting within the sub-chassis and is secured using its substantial lock nut.

This connection establishes the relationship between the platter spindle, sub-chassis and tonearm platform.

Karousel and Kore are fitted together as part of the current Selekt LP12 specification.

Older Cirkus and pre-Cirkus bearing arrangements should be inspected before a Kore upgrade is planned.

Does Kore Include the Main Bearing?

No. Kore is supplied as a sub-chassis and armboard assembly.

It does not include a Karousel bearing, platter, tonearm, cartridge, suspension springs, power supply or LP12 plinth.

The existing compatible bearing can be transferred during installation, or Kore can be fitted alongside a separate Karousel upgrade.

Does Kore Include a Tonearm?

No. Kore includes the sub-chassis and an armboard machined for the selected tonearm type.

The tonearm itself is supplied separately unless Kore is being purchased as part of a complete LP12 package.

The tonearm must be installed using the correct mounting hardware, geometry and cable routing.

A new arm should also be matched to a suitable cartridge and phono stage.

Effect on the LP12 Suspension

Replacing the sub-chassis changes a central part of the suspended LP12 assembly.

The bearing, platter, tonearm and cartridge all need to be removed or supported during the work before being installed on the new Kore.

The suspension springs and grommets must then be adjusted so that the complete assembly sits level and moves freely.

Tonearm cable dressing is particularly important because a cable that pulls against the suspended assembly can affect its movement and level.

Professional Installation Required

Linn requires Kore to be installed and configured by a retailer.

The work involves dismantling much of the suspended assembly, transferring or installing the main bearing, mounting the tonearm and rebuilding the LP12 around the new sub-chassis.

The cartridge must be aligned again and its tracking force, bias and tonearm height checked.

Motor position, belt alignment and clearances around the inner platter should also be inspected before the turntable is returned to use.

A Sensible Opportunity for an LP12 Service

Installing Kore requires extensive access to the internal turntable, making it a sensible time to inspect the wider LP12.

Suspension springs and grommets can be checked for age or distortion, while the main bearing, drive belt and motor position can be assessed.

The wooden plinth, top plate, baseboard and internal wiring should also be inspected.

Read our guide to Linn LP12 servicing and maintenance for more information.

Planning an Upgrade from Majik LP12

Kore provides a natural structural upgrade for a Majik LP12 fitted with the standard Majik sub-chassis and laminated armboard.

The existing Karousel bearing, Krane tonearm and cartridge may be retained where compatible, although the overall upgrade plan should be considered carefully.

Kore can also form part of a broader move towards Selekt specification with Lingo motor control, Trampolin base, Arko tonearm and Kendo cartridge.

It is not necessary to replace every component at once, but each change should complement the condition and performance level of the rest of the turntable.

Upgrading an Older Sondek LP12

Many earlier Sondek LP12 turntables can accept Kore because the deck was designed around a modular and serviceable structure.

Older turntables may contain a pressed-steel or earlier aluminium sub-chassis, previous bearing designs, non-current tonearms or dealer modifications.

Compatibility must therefore be assessed from the actual turntable rather than its age alone.

The plinth and top plate must also remain square and structurally sound before a higher-performance suspended assembly is installed.

Balancing the Complete Upgrade

Kore supports the bearing and tonearm, but it works as part of the complete LP12 rather than as an isolated accessory.

Motor control affects platter speed, the main bearing establishes rotational stability and the tonearm and cartridge retrieve information from the record groove.

A worn cartridge, poor phono stage or incorrectly adjusted suspension can limit the benefit available from the new sub-chassis.

Audio T can assess the deck and suggest an upgrade order based on its current condition, specification and the rest of the Hi-Fi system.

Compatible LP12 Base Options

Kore can be used with Linn Solid Base or Trampolin, subject to the complete turntable configuration.

The Linn LP12 base options page explains the difference between the fixed Solid Base and suspended Trampolin aluminium baseboard.

Selekt LP12 combines Kore with Trampolin as standard.

Turntables fitted with Linn Urika or Urika II use a dedicated internal phono-stage mounting and base arrangement, which should be checked before changing the sub-chassis or base.

Care and Maintenance

Kore contains no user-adjustable or routinely serviceable parts.

The turntable should not be lifted or carried by the tonearm, platter or suspended assembly.

Avoid inserting tools or objects through the LP12 base, as the sub-chassis, suspension, tonearm cable and internal electronics may be damaged.

Any change in platter level, suspension movement or tonearm position should be inspected by an experienced LP12 technician.

Key Features

• Upgraded sub-chassis and armboard for Linn Sondek LP12
• Standard sub-chassis fitted to current Selekt LP12
• Design philosophy developed from Linn Keel
• Three-layer aluminium sub-chassis construction
• Each aluminium layer is 1.5mm thick
• Multi-layer box structure for increased rigidity
• Layers bonded with Linn-specified adhesive
• Designed to retain relatively low suspended mass
• Armboard machined from solid aluminium
• Strengthening ribs machined beneath the armboard
• Armboard permanently bonded to the sub-chassis
• Rigid platform for the main bearing and tonearm
• Direct mechanical relationship between arm and bearing
• Compatible with Linn Karousel bearing
• Linn versions for Ekos SE, Ekos, Akito, Ittok and Arko
• Alternative versions available for Rega tonearms
• Alternative versions available for SME tonearms
• Alternative versions available for Naim tonearms
• Natural upgrade from Linn Majik sub-chassis
• Middle option between Majik sub-chassis and Keel SE
• Can be retrofitted to many compatible older LP12 turntables
• Professional Linn installation and suspension setup required

Frequently Asked Questions