Since his departure from Apple, Jony Ive has been industriously involved in an array of projects with his design agency, LoveFrom. These projects span from designing typefaces and a charity clown nose to envisioning Airbnb’s future. The latest venture from LoveFrom however, harks back to Ive’s hardware roots: a modern take on a classic, the modular turntable that has stood the test of time for half a century.
Ive’s firm played a pivotal role in refining Linn’s iconic Sondek LP12 turntable for its golden anniversary edition. Speaking to Fast Company, Ive described the project as a “gentle and modest” endeavor from LoveFrom, spurred by his team’s respect for Linn. This admiration was so profound that LoveFrom undertook the project on a complimentary basis. Ive further explained, “There are many things that I’ve always wanted to be able to do purely for the love of doing them.”
LoveFrom initiated the collaboration with Linn partly because of Ive’s longstanding admiration for the brand. Both teams minutely analyzed every aspect of the LP12 but held back on major modifications due to potential sound quality implications. Nevertheless, Ive shared that LoveFrom “identified several areas for subtle enhancements and gentle refinements to the existing design.”
Externally, the 50th-anniversary edition Sondek LP12-50 mirrors the standard LP12, with a few design adjustments. These include rounding off the corners of certain components, replacing the plastic rocker with a circular aluminum power button, and installing a new hinge that allows the dust cover to easily remain open at any angle.
For those interested in purchasing Ive’s first hardware project after Apple, a significant investment is required. Priced at $60,000, only 250 units of the Sondek LP12-50 are being manufactured by Linn.
With this project, Ive transitions from digital audio equipment to an analog product. His influential role in the creation of iconic devices like the iPod, iPhone, and AirPods at Apple propelled the company to unprecedented success. The next few years promise even bolder endeavors from LoveFrom, as the firm is set to join forces with Ferrari and its parent company Exor on a series of creative projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jony Ive’s Turntable
What is Jony Ive’s first post-Apple hardware project?
Jony Ive’s first hardware project post-Apple is a refined edition of the Linn Sondek LP12 turntable. This project was conducted through his design agency, LoveFrom.
How much does Jony Ive’s new turntable cost?
Jony Ive’s new turntable, the special edition Linn Sondek LP12-50, is priced at $60,000.
How many units of the Sondek LP12-50 are being made?
Linn is producing only 250 units of the Sondek LP12-50 turntable, which was refined by Jony Ive’s design firm LoveFrom.
Who is Jony Ive collaborating with on this turntable project?
Jony Ive collaborated with Linn, a brand he has long admired, on this turntable project.
What changes were made to the Linn Sondek LP12 in the 50th-anniversary edition?
The modifications to the 50th-anniversary edition Sondek LP12-50 include rounded-off corners for certain components, a circular aluminum power button replacing the plastic rocker, and a new hinge that allows the dust cover to remain open at any angle.
What other projects is LoveFrom, Jony Ive’s design agency, involved in?
In addition to the turntable project, LoveFrom is also working on several creative projects in collaboration with Ferrari and its holding company Exor.
More about Jony Ive’s Turntable
- Jony Ive’s Career at Apple
- Linn’s Sondek LP12 Turntable
- LoveFrom Design Agency
- Jony Ive’s Collaboration with Ferrari
- Jony Ive’s Influence on the iPod, iPhone, and AirPods
- Airbnb’s Future Vision with Jony Ive
5 comments
Wow, a $60k turntable? Jony Ive has really moved on from apple huh… Cant wait to see this beauty, bet the sound is epic!
60k for a turntable! Lol it better make my old records sound like a live concert. Love the design tho, typical ive style.
jony ive, apple misses u… Hope to see some of his magic in Ferrari cars soon.
Not a big fan of turntables but gotta admit, if Jony Ive is involved, it’s gonna be something worth watching. Also, working with ferrari? Can’t wait to see where that goes!
Interesting! A high end turntable from Ive. Rounded corners? Aluminum power button? Total Apple vibes. But the price though…