How can I tell the stock arm from the Akito?

I've searched for pictures, even at Linn, but they are too tiny.

A Basik with the Akito is the way to go over stock, yes?

Thanks to all,
Jim

I want to buy this table; the guy's asking $300, but I only want it if it has the Akito, yes?

Thanks again,
Jim

Also, do these decks have any pattern problems I need to look for?
Jim

Even at $300 you would be hard pressed to find a better table, I think they are better made than the ubiquitous Regas....

Even if it had one of the Basik arms it would be a nice table....the Akitos usually go for at least $300 by themselves....

Go to the Vinyl Engine (http://www.vinylengine.com/) and register, it's free, and then go to this link for a look at Linn arms....

Linn information (http://www.vinylengine.com/library/linn.shtml)

The stock arm for a Linn Basik turntable IS the Akito, the Basik tonearm was a much earlier design than the Akito tonearm and the Basik TT. That said, of course someone might have replaced the Akito arm with a Basik arm on the turntable you're considering. At least in Europe the Basik turntable was introduced around the same time as the Akito tonearm and they were sold together. It is a bit confusing that Linn has made a tonearm, a cartridge and a turntable that were all named Basik, but they weren't necessarily related or supposed to be combined. I have been happy with my Basik/Akito/K5 combination, and would suggest you look for a Basik turntable with the Akito tonearm, since that tonearm is the best part of the Basik TT.

All the best,
Jake

The only quirk I ever found with a Linn Basik was switching the belt to the 45 position. One must help spin the platter BEFORE flipping the switch, otherwise the belt could slip off the larger pulley. The "help spin" seems to eliminate any such issues and prevents it from occurring.

Oh, and as a note, the "Basik" name was also given to the Linn Sondek LP12 setup (post-1991) that didn't have either a Valhalla or Lingo option.. Now, the "LP12 Basik", after being unavailable for a few years, was re-introduced last year and is officially known as the "Majik LP12" (which now also includes a Pro-Ject 9cc tonearm).