After leaving Apple in 2019, legendary industrial designer Jony Ive (an important figure in Apple’s history who played a key role in developing the brand’s most iconic products) started an independent firm, LoveFrom, with a fellow designer and former Apple VP of design, Marc Newson. And when the label’s site went up (also in 2019), the letter and look hinted at a minimalist approach to product design. Linn is another company that values minimalist design and powerful technology, and is known for its Linn Sondek LP12 turntable (an iconic hi-fi that came out in 1972). So it’s no surprise that the two have decided to team up on this limited-edition Linn Sondek LP12-50 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Linn. What is surprising is that this is Ive’s first hardware release with LoveFrom since he left Apple four years ago.
On the outside, LoveFrom has made sophisticated design changes with smoother edges, a precision-machined aluminum control button (instead of a plastic switch), and hinges that can support the turntable at any angle. Inside, Linn is highlighting its new Bedrok plinth tech, which is formed by pressing layers of beech together under high pressure, creating a dense material that reduces vibrations. Additionally, there’s an aluminum plaque with the model number and the name of the builder who assembled the turntable by hand at Linn’s factory near Glasgow. As for the colors, the turntable comes with a space grey aluminum base and your choice of natural wood or a painted white finish.
The Linn Sondek LP12-50 is available on a first-come, first-serve basis through reservations on the Linn website. If you get chosen, the turntable will be reserved under your name for seven days to allow you to complete the order.
The LoveFrom x Linn Sondek LP12-50 is limited to only 250 copies priced at $60,000.
