Audio T Verdict
The Linn Majik Sub-Chassis provides the structural foundation used in the current Majik LP12, supporting the main bearing, platter and tonearm as part of the turntable's suspended assembly.
Its multi-layer aluminium box construction offers a substantial improvement over earlier standard LP12 sub-chassis designs, while the matching five-layer laminated armboard provides a firm and acoustically damped platform for the tonearm.
It is a sensible upgrade for many older Sondek LP12 turntables, but the correct tonearm-specific version must be selected and the suspension completely reset after installation.
Linn Majik LP12 Aluminium Sub-Chassis
The Linn Majik Sub-Chassis is an aluminium structural upgrade for the Linn Sondek LP12 turntable.
It forms the suspended platform beneath the record, supporting the main bearing, inner and outer platters, tonearm and cartridge.
The current design uses a multi-layer aluminium box construction to provide greater rigidity than many earlier standard LP12 sub-chassis designs.
When partnered with the LP12's five-layer laminated armboard, it creates the standard structural platform fitted to the current Majik LP12.
What Does an LP12 Sub-Chassis Do?
The Sondek LP12 uses a suspended turntable design.
The main bearing, platters, tonearm, cartridge and record are supported by an internal sub-chassis suspended beneath the stainless-steel top plate using three springs and grommets.
This suspended assembly helps isolate the record-playing components from vibration entering through the wooden plinth and supporting furniture.
It also maintains the mechanical relationship between the platter bearing and tonearm while the stylus follows the record groove.
The Sub-Chassis Supports
- The LP12 main bearing
- The inner and outer platters
- The fitted tonearm
- The cartridge and stylus
- The record during playback
The Suspension Helps Isolate
- The platter and bearing assembly
- The tonearm and cartridge
- Vibration reaching the wooden plinth
- Interference from the supporting furniture
- Movement transmitted through the room
Multi-Layer Aluminium Construction
The Majik Sub-Chassis is manufactured from 1.5mm-thick aluminium formed into a multi-layer box structure.
The shaped layers increase rigidity without requiring a heavy solid plate beneath the suspended turntable.
Controlling the weight of the structure is important because the sub-chassis, platter, bearing, tonearm and cartridge must all be supported by the LP12 suspension.
The box construction provides a firm platform while retaining a suitable distribution of mass across the suspended assembly.
Why Sub-Chassis Rigidity Matters
A phono cartridge generates its signal from extremely small movements of the stylus and cantilever.
Any unwanted flexing between the tonearm mounting and the main bearing can introduce additional movement that is unrelated to the record groove.
A rigid sub-chassis helps maintain a stable relationship between the tonearm pivot and the centre of the platter.
This allows the cartridge to operate from a more secure mechanical reference while the platter rotates and the tonearm travels across the record.
The final performance still depends on accurate installation, a correctly adjusted suspension and the condition of the bearing, tonearm and cartridge.
Five-Layer Laminated Armboard
The Majik Sub-Chassis is designed to be used with Linn's five-layer sandwich-construction laminated armboard.
The armboard provides the mounting surface for the tonearm and connects it to the suspended aluminium sub-chassis.
Its laminated construction combines several bonded layers to create a firm but acoustically damped platform.
This helps control unwanted vibration around the tonearm mounting while maintaining the geometry required between the tonearm and main bearing.
Confirm Whether the Armboard Is Included
Linn describes this component as an aluminium sub-chassis designed for use with a five-layer laminated armboard.
Package contents may depend on the selected version and current Linn supply arrangement.
Audio T will confirm whether a suitable armboard or any additional mounting parts are required for your installation.
Tonearm-Specific Versions
Different tonearms use different mounting distances, fixing arrangements and cable routes.
Linn therefore offers Majik Sub-Chassis and armboard arrangements for Linn, Rega, SME and Naim tonearms.
The exact tonearm model must be identified before ordering so that the correct version and armboard can be supplied.
Linn Tonearm Version
- Designed for compatible Linn mounting geometry
- Suitable for current Majik LP12 configurations
- Can support appropriate earlier Linn tonearms
- Exact arm model should be confirmed
Third-Party Versions
- Rega tonearm version available
- SME tonearm version available
- Naim tonearm version available
- Correct factory armboard must be selected
Do Not Drill or Modify the Armboard
The armboard and sub-chassis should not be drilled or altered to accept a different tonearm.
Changing the mounting pattern may affect its rigidity, alignment and structural integrity.
Order the correct factory version for the intended tonearm.
Standard on the Current Majik LP12
The Majik Sub-Chassis is fitted as standard to the current
Linn Majik LP12 MM
and
Linn Majik LP12 MC
.
In these complete turntables, it is partnered with the Karousel main bearing, Krane tonearm, internal Majik power supply and Solid Base.
The MM package uses the Linn Adikt moving magnet cartridge, while the MC version uses the Linn Koil moving coil cartridge.
These components create the current entry point into Linn's modular LP12 range while retaining clear future upgrade options.
Upgrade for an Earlier Standard Sub-Chassis
The Majik Sub-Chassis is available separately as an upgrade for many older LP12 turntables fitted with an earlier standard sub-chassis.
Earlier decks may use a pressed-steel or previous-generation structural platform with a separate armboard.
Replacing this with the current aluminium box construction can provide a more rigid and consistent platform for the bearing and tonearm.
Compatibility should be assessed from the actual turntable, as older LP12s may contain different bearings, tonearms, armboards or dealer modifications.
Compatibility with Linn Krane
The current Majik LP12 combines this sub-chassis with the
Linn Krane tonearm
.
Krane uses Linn's established LP12 mounting geometry and supports both conventional two-point and Linn three-point cartridge mounting.
When upgrading an older deck, the tonearm mounting, armboard, cable connection and counterweight compatibility should all be checked.
Compatibility with Earlier Linn Tonearms
A correctly specified Linn armboard version may also be suitable for various earlier Linn tonearms.
The exact tonearm model and its condition should be confirmed before installation.
Older tonearm bearings, mounting collars and cables should be inspected before they are transferred to a new sub-chassis.
A worn or incorrectly adjusted arm may limit the benefit available from the structural upgrade.
Compatibility with the Karousel Bearing
The Majik Sub-Chassis is used with the
Linn Karousel bearing
in the current Majik LP12.
The main-bearing housing passes through the central mounting within the sub-chassis and is secured beneath it.
This establishes the relationship between the platter spindle, suspended platform and tonearm mounting.
A suitable existing LP12 bearing may be transferred during installation, or the sub-chassis can be fitted alongside a separate Karousel upgrade.
The Main Bearing Is Not Included
The Majik Sub-Chassis does not include a Karousel bearing, platter, tonearm, cartridge, motor supply or LP12 plinth.
Audio T can inspect the existing main bearing and advise whether it should be retained, serviced or replaced.
Majik Sub-Chassis or Kore?
The
Linn Kore
sits above the Majik Sub-Chassis within the current LP12 range.
Both designs use a multi-layer aluminium box structure, but Kore is partnered with an armboard machined from solid aluminium and permanently bonded to the sub-chassis.
The Majik design uses a separate five-layer laminated armboard, providing the more accessible route into Linn's current aluminium sub-chassis range.
Majik Sub-Chassis
- Multi-layer 1.5mm aluminium construction
- Used with a five-layer laminated armboard
- Standard on Majik LP12
- Versions for Linn and selected third-party arms
- Entry point into current Linn sub-chassis options
Linn Kore
- Multi-layer aluminium box construction
- Machined aluminium armboard
- Armboard bonded directly to the sub-chassis
- Standard on Selekt LP12
- Higher-performance structural upgrade
Majik Sub-Chassis or Keel SE?
Keel SE is Linn's flagship current LP12 sub-chassis and is fitted to Klimax LP12.
It is machined from solid aluminium as an integrated structural component, combining the sub-chassis and tonearm mounting within one continuous assembly.
The Majik Sub-Chassis provides a considerably more accessible upgrade while retaining the modular laminated-armboard arrangement.
The best option depends on the tonearm, cartridge, motor supply, main bearing and overall performance level of the turntable.
Does the Sub-Chassis Include a Tonearm?
No. The tonearm is supplied separately unless the sub-chassis forms part of a complete Majik LP12 package.
The correct tonearm or compatible existing arm must be mounted to the appropriate laminated armboard during installation.
Cartridge alignment, tracking force, bias and tonearm height must then be checked.
Effect on the LP12 Suspension
Replacing the sub-chassis changes a central component within the suspended LP12 assembly.
The bearing, platter and tonearm must be removed or supported while the existing structure is exchanged.
Once the new sub-chassis has been installed, the three suspension springs and grommets must be adjusted so that the platter sits level and the suspended assembly moves freely.
Tonearm cable dressing is particularly important because a cable pulling against the sub-chassis can restrict its movement or draw it away from level.
The Suspension Must Be Reset
The Majik Sub-Chassis cannot simply be exchanged without reconfiguring the suspended turntable.
Spring position, grommet condition, platter level, suspension movement and tonearm cable dressing must all be checked following installation.
Professional Installation Required
Linn requires the Majik Sub-Chassis to be installed and configured by a retailer.
The work involves dismantling much of the suspended assembly, transferring or installing the main bearing, fitting the armboard and tonearm, and rebuilding the turntable.
The cartridge must then be realigned and its tracking force, bias and tonearm height confirmed.
The motor position, belt alignment and clearances around the inner platter should also be checked.
Installation Work
- Remove the existing sub-chassis and armboard
- Transfer or install the main bearing
- Fit the correct laminated armboard
- Install and align the tonearm
- Reassemble the platter and suspension
Final Setup
- Level and balance the suspension
- Dress the tonearm cable correctly
- Align the cartridge
- Set tracking force and bias
- Check motor, belt and platter operation
A Sensible Time for an LP12 Service
Fitting a sub-chassis requires extensive access to the internal turntable, making it a sensible opportunity to inspect the complete LP12.
The main bearing, drive belt, suspension springs, grommets, motor position and tonearm cable can all be checked during the work.
The wooden plinth, stainless-steel top plate, baseboard and internal wiring should also be inspected.
Read our guide to
Linn LP12 servicing and maintenance
for more information.
A New Sub-Chassis Cannot Correct Other Faults
A worn bearing, stretched belt, restricted suspension or poorly adjusted tonearm can still limit the performance of the turntable.
These issues should be corrected as part of the installation rather than expecting the new sub-chassis to compensate for them.
Planning an Upgrade for an Older LP12
Many earlier Sondek LP12 turntables can accept the Majik Sub-Chassis because the deck has been designed around a modular and serviceable architecture.
Compatibility should still be established from the actual turntable rather than relying only on its age or serial number.
Older decks may contain different bearings, tonearms, armboards, power supplies or previous modifications.
The wooden plinth and top plate should also remain square and structurally secure before the new suspended platform is installed.
Consider the Majik Sub-Chassis When
- Your LP12 uses an earlier standard sub-chassis
- You want a current aluminium structural platform
- The existing main bearing is compatible
- A suitable tonearm-specific version is available
- You want an upgrade below Linn Kore
Check Before Ordering
- The exact fitted tonearm
- Whether an armboard is required
- Main-bearing type and condition
- Suspension age and condition
- Previous internal modifications
LP12 Baseboard Compatibility
The Majik Sub-Chassis can be used with suitable current Linn LP12 baseboard options.
The current Majik LP12 combines it with Linn Solid Base, which provides a fixed aluminium underside and conventional feet.
The
Linn LP12 Base Options
page also includes the suspended Trampolin aluminium baseboard.
The selected base must provide safe clearance for the suspension, tonearm cable, motor supply and any internally mounted equipment.
Balancing the Complete LP12 Upgrade
The sub-chassis works as part of the complete LP12 rather than as an isolated accessory.
The main bearing establishes platter rotation, the motor supply controls speed and the tonearm and cartridge retrieve information from the record groove.
The turntable support, baseboard and suspension also influence how vibration reaches the record-playing components.
Audio T can assess the complete turntable and suggest an upgrade order based on its current specification, condition and the rest of the Hi-Fi system.
Key Features
- Current entry-level Linn LP12 sub-chassis
- Fitted as standard to Majik LP12
- Designed for compatible Linn Sondek LP12 turntables
- Multi-layer aluminium box construction
- Manufactured from 1.5mm-thick aluminium
- Designed to provide strength and rigidity
- Maintains relatively low suspended mass
- Supports the LP12 main bearing and platter assembly
- Provides the structural platform for the tonearm
- Used with a five-layer laminated armboard
- Laminated armboard provides acoustic damping
- Versions available for Linn tonearms
- Versions available for compatible Rega tonearms
- Versions available for compatible SME tonearms
- Versions available for compatible Naim tonearms
- Compatible with the current Karousel bearing
- Upgrade for many earlier standard LP12 sub-chassis designs
- Entry point below Linn Kore and Keel SE
- Professional installation required
- Complete LP12 suspension setup required after fitting
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Linn Majik Sub-Chassis?
It is the aluminium suspended platform that supports the main bearing, platter and tonearm in the current Majik LP12.
Which current turntable uses it?
It is fitted as standard to the current Linn Majik LP12 in both moving magnet and moving coil configurations.
What is it made from?
It uses a multi-layer box construction made from 1.5mm-thick aluminium.
Does it include an armboard?
Linn describes the sub-chassis as being used with a five-layer laminated armboard. Confirm the selected package and tonearm version with Audio T before ordering.
Does it include a tonearm?
No. The tonearm is supplied separately unless the sub-chassis forms part of a complete Majik LP12 package.
Does it include a Karousel bearing?
No. The main bearing is a separate component, although the current Majik LP12 combines this sub-chassis with Karousel.
Can it be used with a Rega tonearm?
Yes. Linn lists a separate version for compatible Rega tonearms. The exact arm model should be confirmed before ordering.
Are SME and Naim versions available?
Yes. Linn lists separate Majik Sub-Chassis and armboard versions for compatible SME and Naim tonearms.
Can it be fitted to an older LP12?
It can upgrade many earlier decks using an older standard sub-chassis, subject to bearing, tonearm, plinth and armboard compatibility.
What is the difference between Majik and Kore?
Majik uses a separate five-layer laminated armboard. Kore uses a machined aluminium armboard bonded directly to a stiffer aluminium sub-chassis.
Will the LP12 suspension need adjusting?
Yes. Platter level, spring position, grommet condition, suspension movement and tonearm cable dressing must all be reset after installation.
Can I fit the sub-chassis myself?
No. Linn states that it must be installed and configured by a Linn retailer because the suspended turntable must be dismantled and completely reset.
Can Audio T install the Majik Sub-Chassis?
Yes. Participating Audio T Linn stores can inspect the turntable, identify the correct version and complete the sub-chassis, tonearm, cartridge and suspension setup.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Experienced Linn Sondek LP12 specialists
- Inspection of your existing LP12 before purchase
- Identification of the correct tonearm-specific version
- Linn, Rega, SME and Naim compatibility checks
- Confirmation of required armboard and mounting parts
- Main-bearing condition and compatibility assessment
- Professional sub-chassis installation
- Correct transfer or installation of the main bearing
- Tonearm mounting and geometry setup
- Cartridge alignment and tracking-force adjustment
- LP12 suspension levelling and adjustment
- Tonearm cable-dressing checks
- Drive-belt, motor and platter inspection
- Advice comparing Majik Sub-Chassis, Kore and Keel SE
- Complete LP12 servicing and upgrade planning
- Part exchange available on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing Linn turntable support
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange an LP12 inspection or confirm the correct Linn Majik Sub-Chassis version for your turntable and tonearm.