The result of the project is the Sondek LP12-50, the 50th anniversary special edition of Linn’s Sondek LP12. Only 250 models this special player will be produced and delivered to customers between August 2023 and March 2024. Interested buyers can book now, but the price 60,000 dollars It may scare some.

a little background

The collaboration between LoveFrom and Linn began with a surprise meeting between Linn’s CEO Gilad Tiefenbrunn and Jony Ive in early 2022. Tiefenbrunn was invited to meet via LinkedIn, which sparked controversy that eventually grew into a unique partnership. Fast Company describes the Sondek LP12-50 as “Ive’s first post-Apple hardware project.”

Lynn focused on the Sondek LP12-50’s acoustic elements, incorporating innovations such as a specially designed Bedrok pedestal made of dense wood that minimizes vibrations. LoveFrom focused on perfecting the player’s industrial design.

Ive explains that they have identified areas for subtle refinements and improvements in the current design. Changes include converting previously square components to softer ones, replacing the plastic push-button power button with an aluminum circle, and developing new hinges for the dust cover that allow it to stay open at any angle.

Sondek LP12-50 design

One of the interesting aspects of this collaboration is LoveFrom’s contribution to the project. for free. According to Fast Company, there is no formal contract or financial arrangement between LoveFrom and Lynn. Ive says the design firm generates revenue through long-term contracts with high-profile clients like Airbnb and Ferrari, noting that much of its work is purely passionate.

The Sondek LP12-50 represents a departure from the compact digital music devices such as AirPods and iPods commonly associated with Ive during his time at Apple. Still, this is probably the most similar Quince-esque collaboration LoveFrom has done since leaving Apple.

In addition to this player project, LoveFrom’s portfolio includes several projects including designing a typeface, creating an emblem for King Charles’ coronation, and making a clown nose for British charity Comic Relief.