LINN Krystal cleaning advice
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LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Good evening.
I make this post as a strong advisory notice to all Linn Krystal owners as was suggested to me by Linn Service earlier today.
Following two Krystal cantilever failures which it is likely have been as the result of using Lyra SPT despite careful adherence to Lyra's advice for use. Please stop using any wet cleaning system with this cartridge immediately. It is clear from photographs taken that the cantilevers corroded and subsequently failed during play. Both Krystals were more than 12 months old.
Linn's advice on stylus cleaning remains that we should use the Green Paper.
Any Krystal owner wishing to have some Green Paper if you are not using it already is welcome to contact me for supply FOC. Or their own retailer who will happily supply I'm sure.
Doubtless discussions will be ongoing here and please spread the word.
Best wishes,
Peter
I make this post as a strong advisory notice to all Linn Krystal owners as was suggested to me by Linn Service earlier today.
Following two Krystal cantilever failures which it is likely have been as the result of using Lyra SPT despite careful adherence to Lyra's advice for use. Please stop using any wet cleaning system with this cartridge immediately. It is clear from photographs taken that the cantilevers corroded and subsequently failed during play. Both Krystals were more than 12 months old.
Linn's advice on stylus cleaning remains that we should use the Green Paper.
Any Krystal owner wishing to have some Green Paper if you are not using it already is welcome to contact me for supply FOC. Or their own retailer who will happily supply I'm sure.
Doubtless discussions will be ongoing here and please spread the word.
Best wishes,
Peter
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Hello Peter,
I would be interested to know what further investigations are being performed by Linn to understand how and why these two cantilevers have failed.
Regarding the green abrasive paper, does Linn provide advice on how to use it? The thought of moving the edge of an abrasive sheet close to a narrow walled aluminium tube must surely pose as much a risk as corrosion caused by the use of wet cleaning systems.
Personally I feel more comfortable using the Audio Technica AT637 dry than using green abrasive paper. Is this considered appropriate by Linn?
Thanks and regards,
Clive
I would be interested to know what further investigations are being performed by Linn to understand how and why these two cantilevers have failed.
Regarding the green abrasive paper, does Linn provide advice on how to use it? The thought of moving the edge of an abrasive sheet close to a narrow walled aluminium tube must surely pose as much a risk as corrosion caused by the use of wet cleaning systems.
Personally I feel more comfortable using the Audio Technica AT637 dry than using green abrasive paper. Is this considered appropriate by Linn?
Thanks and regards,
Clive
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
evil_C wrote: ↑Fri Nov 24, 2017 5:43 pm Hello Peter,
I would be interested to know what further investigations are being performed by Linn to understand how and why these two cantilevers have failed.
Regarding the green abrasive paper, does Linn provide advice on how to use it? The thought of moving the edge of an abrasive sheet close to a narrow walled aluminium tube must surely pose as much a risk as corrosion caused by the use of wet cleaning systems.
Personally I feel more comfortable using the Audio Technica AT637 dry than using green abrasive paper. Is this considered appropriate by Linn?
Thanks and regards,
Clive
Hi Clive, can I ask if you have been using STP on your Krystal and if so for how long?
Personally I have used STP on mine from day one and it is just over a year old (Sept16) as it worked great on my XX2.
It would be really interesting to find out how many people have been using SPT on their Krystal and for how long.
Then how many have had the cantilever fail (or not!)
Thanks,
Andy.
Cymbiosis LP12 / Ekos SE/1 / Kandid / KRadikal/2 / Keel / Karousel, TP Vulkan, Allnic H1202 Phono, Naim CD5X, Vitus RI-101 Mk2 on Walnut Isoblue, Tellurium Q Black cables into Audiovector M3 Avantgarde Arreté Speakers, Audio Desk Systeme RCM.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Yes I have been using Lyra SPT on my Krystal since new. Although I haven't checked the receipt, I suspect it's over a year old. Mine is serial number 0314. It is quite easy to see when there is a build up of debris on the stylus which cleans off quite effectively with the brush dampened with SPT. I have, I should point out, always used it strictly in accordance with the instructions.
I do not know how to use the abrasive paper to clean the stylus without risk of the edge catching the cantilever (it must be a very delicate operation, after all), so I'd be reluctant to use it. I guess from now I'll just use the AT637 dry, but I don't think it's as effective as SPT.
Although I've never tested it, I would hope that if it failed, then the household insurance should cover the replacement cost as accidental damage, just as it should if the cantilever were caught on a baggy jumper sleeve.
I do not know how to use the abrasive paper to clean the stylus without risk of the edge catching the cantilever (it must be a very delicate operation, after all), so I'd be reluctant to use it. I guess from now I'll just use the AT637 dry, but I don't think it's as effective as SPT.
Although I've never tested it, I would hope that if it failed, then the household insurance should cover the replacement cost as accidental damage, just as it should if the cantilever were caught on a baggy jumper sleeve.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Hi Andy
Here is what mine looked like after a very script adherence to the instructions gently touching the brush to the diamond when damp
Can it really just be the fluid or is it somrthing else ??
Obviously investigation are still ongoing because peter refused to let this be swept aside
Will keep you posted
Regards
Tony
Here is what mine looked like after a very script adherence to the instructions gently touching the brush to the diamond when damp
Can it really just be the fluid or is it somrthing else ??
Obviously investigation are still ongoing because peter refused to let this be swept aside
Will keep you posted
Regards
Tony
Clearaudio concept mc with MCRU power supply
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Derosa wrote: ↑Sat Nov 25, 2017 11:28 am Hi Andy
Here is what mine looked like after a very script adherence to the instructions gently touching the brush to the diamond when damp
Can it really just be the fluid or is it somrthing else ??
Obviously investigation are still ongoing because peter refused to let this be swept aside
Will keep you posted
Regards
Tony
Mine also had that 'look'
LP12 - Klimax Radikal 2/Urika, Harban Plinth, Karousel, Keel, Karmen, Ekos SE, Skale, Lyra Atlas
CD Players - Roksan Caspian M2 CD Player, dCS Puccini CD Player + Scarlatti Master Clock
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Cables - Linn Silver RCA & K200 speaker cable
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CD Players - Roksan Caspian M2 CD Player, dCS Puccini CD Player + Scarlatti Master Clock
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Wenge1 wrote: ↑Sat Nov 25, 2017 11:31 amDerosa wrote: ↑Sat Nov 25, 2017 11:28 am Hi Andy
Here is what mine looked like after a very script adherence to the instructions gently touching the brush to the diamond when damp
Can it really just be the fluid or is it somrthing else ??
Obviously investigation are still ongoing because peter refused to let this be swept aside
Will keep you posted
Regards
Tony
Mine also had that 'look'
Adam,
Prince had the look
Turntable - Linn LP12, Karousel, Keel, Ekos SE/1, Kandid, K-Radikal, Urika.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Derosa wrote: ↑Sat Nov 25, 2017 11:28 am Hi Andy
Here is what mine looked like after a very script adherence to the instructions gently touching the brush to the diamond when damp
Can it really just be the fluid or is it somrthing else ??
Obviously investigation are still ongoing because peter refused to let this be swept aside
Will keep you posted
Regards
Tony
That looks very suspicious to be blaming the cleaning fluid its rather far up to be used in accordance with instructions IMO.
Peter is a great dealer for trying to get the best he can for his clients after all his reputation is paramount and has had invaluable input regarding upgrades to further develop equipment.
" Keel for Aro " and the Ekos SE/1 headshell access all in the name of keeping the vinyl enthusiast happy and accommodated.
Many other projects aside but has a great ear for the client requirements.
Fine line to tread.
Turntable - Linn LP12, Karousel, Keel, Ekos SE/1, Kandid, K-Radikal 2, Urika.
Amplifier - Naim Supernait 3
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Cables- Kudos KS-1 Speaker Cable, Linn Silver Interconnects
Support - Target TT4.
Amplifier - Naim Supernait 3
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Certainly a fine line to tread but Linn must also realise that customers have choice and can elect to spend their hard earned money anywhere they choose.
The Krystal is indeed a fine cartridge but there are also many others in that price band that are worthy of owning.
Poor press on that cartridge and/or the customer service could actually impact on the dealer sales of the Akurate LP12 !!!
A fine line indeed ......
The Krystal is indeed a fine cartridge but there are also many others in that price band that are worthy of owning.
Poor press on that cartridge and/or the customer service could actually impact on the dealer sales of the Akurate LP12 !!!
A fine line indeed ......
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
“That looks very suspicious to be blaming the cleaning fluid its rather far up to be used in accordance with instructions IMO.”
Check out what looks to me like a whole starting in the middle of the cantilever although I am of course no expert I could be completely wrong
Check out what looks to me like a whole starting in the middle of the cantilever although I am of course no expert I could be completely wrong
Clearaudio concept mc with MCRU power supply
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
In my totally un expert opinion that looks like a fracture due to brittle metal.
James
Fluted Afro LP12, Khan, KEEL, Karousel, Urika, Radikal-2 K, EKOS SE/1, sKale, DVXX-2 A, Tangerine Audio Revolver,
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Derosa wrote: ↑Sat Nov 25, 2017 11:28 am Hi Andy
Here is what mine looked like after a very script adherence to the instructions gently touching the brush to the diamond when damp
Can it really just be the fluid or is it somrthing else ??
Obviously investigation are still ongoing because peter refused to let this be swept aside
Will keep you posted
Regards
Tony
Tony,
What is the distance of the fracture from where the cantilever emerges from the cartridge body? Is the flat part I see at the top of the picture actually the end of the cantilever?
The same question to Adam. Do you have a similarly magnified photograph of your failed cantilever? I'd like to be able to compare the two. I would also like to ask a metallurgist I know to have a look at the photographs.
Thanks,
Clive
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
I have just checked the receipt for my Krystal cartridge and was surprised to find that I had actually purchased it in January 2016, so it's approaching two (2) years old. Typically I have been using Lyra SPT after each playing session.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Hi Clive
the top of the picture is where the stylus SHOULD be
You can just make out the cartridge body at the bottom right of the photo
(Ps I only used spt at the most 30 times and it had 300 hours on it according to my diary )
Regards
Tony
the top of the picture is where the stylus SHOULD be
You can just make out the cartridge body at the bottom right of the photo
(Ps I only used spt at the most 30 times and it had 300 hours on it according to my diary )
Regards
Tony
Clearaudio concept mc with MCRU power supply
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
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- Full Member
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Clearaudio concept mc with MCRU power supply
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Good luck.
If only everyone lived in Scotland where the water is soft and Free.
I sense an opportunity.
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Turntable - Linn LP12, Karousel, Keel, Ekos SE/1, Kandid, K-Radikal 2, Urika.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
My SPT came free my Lyra Kleos
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Having been a retailer for a number of years items that come free are generally included in the price.
Retail is not a charity.
Retail is not a charity.
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CD Player - Naim CD5si
Speakers - Kudos X3
Cables- Kudos KS-1 Speaker Cable, Linn Silver Interconnects
Support - Target TT4.
Amplifier - Naim Supernait 3
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Looks like a chewed up drinking straw
James
Fluted Afro LP12, Khan, KEEL, Karousel, Urika, Radikal-2 K, EKOS SE/1, sKale, DVXX-2 A, Tangerine Audio Revolver,
NAIM CD 5si with Marigo Lab Aida CD Mat
ThePre, ZAP 250, Kudos Super 20A's
Fluted Afro LP12, Khan, KEEL, Karousel, Urika, Radikal-2 K, EKOS SE/1, sKale, DVXX-2 A, Tangerine Audio Revolver,
NAIM CD 5si with Marigo Lab Aida CD Mat
ThePre, ZAP 250, Kudos Super 20A's
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Doesn't look like the super cleaning formula has done much either.
Turntable - Linn LP12, Karousel, Keel, Ekos SE/1, Kandid, K-Radikal 2, Urika.
Amplifier - Naim Supernait 3
CD Player - Naim CD5si
Speakers - Kudos X3
Cables- Kudos KS-1 Speaker Cable, Linn Silver Interconnects
Support - Target TT4.
Amplifier - Naim Supernait 3
CD Player - Naim CD5si
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Cables- Kudos KS-1 Speaker Cable, Linn Silver Interconnects
Support - Target TT4.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
That’s because I only used it on the diamond as instructed
Clearaudio concept mc with MCRU power supply
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
Naim stageline S with olive hicap
Rega Saturn CD as transport into Theta TLC
then into Arcam D33FMJ DAC
Wiim pro into Arcam dac
Stax L700 006ts Kimik headphones
Naim Supernait2 naim hi cap DR
Neat Momentum 3i
all supported by mana clamps and racks
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
That's why I said it.
Turntable - Linn LP12, Karousel, Keel, Ekos SE/1, Kandid, K-Radikal 2, Urika.
Amplifier - Naim Supernait 3
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Cables- Kudos KS-1 Speaker Cable, Linn Silver Interconnects
Support - Target TT4.
Amplifier - Naim Supernait 3
CD Player - Naim CD5si
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Cables- Kudos KS-1 Speaker Cable, Linn Silver Interconnects
Support - Target TT4.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
evil_C wrote: ↑Sat Nov 25, 2017 9:44 am Yes I have been using Lyra SPT on my Krystal since new. Although I haven't checked the receipt, I suspect it's over a year old. Mine is serial number 0314. It is quite easy to see when there is a build up of debris on the stylus which cleans off quite effectively with the brush dampened with SPT. I have, I should point out, always used it strictly in accordance with the instructions.
I do not know how to use the abrasive paper to clean the stylus without risk of the edge catching the cantilever (it must be a very delicate operation, after all), so I'd be reluctant to use it. I guess from now I'll just use the AT637 dry, but I don't think it's as effective as SPT.
Although I've never tested it, I would hope that if it failed, then the household insurance should cover the replacement cost as accidental damage, just as it should if the cantilever were caught on a baggy jumper sleeve.
Thanks for the reply Clive.
Sounds like yours is as old as mine, just over a year.
I am wondering if we have been using SPT from day one whether the damage is already done and reverting to a dry cleaning method won't make much difference?
Maybe only prolong it?
Cymbiosis LP12 / Ekos SE/1 / Kandid / KRadikal/2 / Keel / Karousel, TP Vulkan, Allnic H1202 Phono, Naim CD5X, Vitus RI-101 Mk2 on Walnut Isoblue, Tellurium Q Black cables into Audiovector M3 Avantgarde Arreté Speakers, Audio Desk Systeme RCM.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Hi Clive,
Only saw this post after replying to your previous post.
Well your Krystal seems to be holding up very well considering you have been using SPT on it for so Long!!
Maybe ths SPT isn't causing the cantilever to shear after all.
Cymbiosis LP12 / Ekos SE/1 / Kandid / KRadikal/2 / Keel / Karousel, TP Vulkan, Allnic H1202 Phono, Naim CD5X, Vitus RI-101 Mk2 on Walnut Isoblue, Tellurium Q Black cables into Audiovector M3 Avantgarde Arreté Speakers, Audio Desk Systeme RCM.
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Re: LINN Krystal cleaning advice
Exactly and this thread was extracted by the Mods and re-named. The issue as I have said I believe is/was with fluid cleaners on these cantilevers as far as we can tell at this stage.
More research needs to take place first.
Peter
Last edited by Mr Onion on Tue Nov 28, 2017 9:37 am, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: edited in light of new topic title
Reason: edited in light of new topic title