Linn Isobarik's - $750 - Run or Run Away?

[SimplySound]

I found a set of early Linn Isobarik's nearby for $750. Supposedly they are in fine shape. What I'm wondering is what type of deal is this and would a Brit-Head like me find them entertaining compared to something like the KEF R107's? :scratch2:

For prosterity...

 

[canuckaudiog]

They're a well regarded speaker and those who own them like them a lot..

I think that price-wise that's a good deal but I could be wrong - I hope someone else chimes in.

As for liking them, yep, I think if you enjoy the laid back sound you will like the Linns.

 

[SimplySound]

They're a well regarded speaker and those who own them like them a lot..

I think that price-wise that's a good deal but I could be wrong - I hope someone else chimes in.

As for liking them, yep, I think if you enjoy the laid back sound you will like the Linns.

I'm thinking that as well Mark... I've read that they are monsters to drive (3 ohm at points) but I think the McCormack can handle it. It's the DMS version and looks like early to mid 80's

I've read that they present great Bass alla the 107's but that the mids can be a bit forward and somewhat sharp on the high end. I sent the guy an email and I may drive to go listen to them.

These fell out of nowhere so I'm thinking about it... But I still have Spendors on the mind!!! :thmbsp:

 

[canuckaudiog]

I'm thinking that as well Mark... I've read that they are monsters to drive (3 ohm at points) but I think the McCormack can handle it. It's the DMS version and looks like early to mid 80's

I've read that they present great Bass alla the 107's but that the mids can be a bit forward and somewhat sharp on the high end. I sent the guy an email and I may drive to go listen to them.

These fell out of nowhere so I'm thinking about it... But I still have Spendors on the mind!!! :thmbsp:

Mark? Who is Mark? I'm Jeff.

They're certainly worth checking out.. go have a listen, see what you think of 'em.

 

[Descartridge]

Run- I am using a smaller isobarik version, Linn Saras, and they sound delightful.

 

[SimplySound]

Mark? Who is Mark? I'm Jeff.

That's too funny... Seriously!!! I was thinking it was Jeff and then I said no, it's Mark? No it's Jeff, but no it's Mark.

Gettin' old dude... Jeff it is Jeff!!!

...or maybe just "Cunucker"!!!

 

[aopisa]

Run- I am using a smaller isobarik version, Linn Saras, and they sound delightful.

Me too! I absolutely love my Saras and so does everyone who hears them!

 

[mfino]

I found a set of early Linn Isobarik's nearby for $750. Supposedly they are in fine shape. What I'm wondering is what type of deal is this and would a Brit-Head like me find them entertaining compared to something like the KEF R107's? :scratch2:

For prosterity...

Those are probably 70's vintage - the giveaway is the bare particle board on the baffles. From the very early 80's IIRC Linn changed from particle board to MDF and started veneering the baffles. Mine are from around '83 and are veneered.

They are a difficult load to drive, and I would probably agree that they are midrange-forward, but not in an objectionable way. After all, they do use the same KEF B110 midranges as the LS3/5a. They do very well in the bass, and the highs are extended but not at all fatiguing. I would be really interested to hear how they compare to the KEF R107's as those are highly regarded and somewhat contemporary to the Isobariks.

As for value, that's hard to say. They don't show up for sale often, and I don't see any completed auction sales. My gut feeling is that is a decent price, but depending on condition I would try to negotiate down. I got mine, along with all my Naim gear, for less than that, but mine was pretty much a once-in-a-lifetime score.

Give 'em a listen and let us all know!