Aktiv Keltiks or Aktiv Espeks - Which are Better?


My application is strictly 2-Channel

I currently have a set of Aktiv Linn Kabers, an early model driven by (3)LK100's. I have never heard the Kabers driven by the better linn amps, but as this system is Kurrently Konfigured, including updated tweeters sounds very good to me, when a good source is used. I use a Kairn with Brilliant Power supply for Pre Amp, Lingo'd LP12 and older Rotel RCD965BX CD Player for my source. (As a side note, I am amazed by the performance of this Rotel player, given its' age and price. CD player upgrades can wait.) There is also a HSU TN1220HO Sub in this system, which blends in nicely with the Kabers at 51hz crossover point and handles information to below 20hz.

I would like to build a larger 'ultimate' primary system and move the Kabers to a smaller room, rather than updating the LK100's to better LK Series Amps. I have always appreciated the so-called 'Linn Sound' and the classic look of the smaller Linn boxes from the days of Kabers. Honestly, I am not all too impressed by the appearance of any of the newer Linn equipment, but could tolerate a pair of Espeks if they measured up to the Keltiks. It's 'all about the sound', even if the Espeks feature the 'new' Linn Sound, I wonder how they would compare to Aktiv Keltiks, which I have heard are sort of unique in their own way.

If anyone has had a chance to compare any of these Aktiv systems, Kabers, Keltiks or Espeks, I would appreciate your observations. What are the most striking strengths or weaknesses of these different designs?

I realize that there are different levels of amplification available for each of these LINN systems, so I'm basically wondering about Aktiv Keltiks or Espeks driven by AV5125's perhaps? Are Keltiks also compatible with AV5125's?

Another option may be to combine Espeks Aktiv with LK Series
amps? Would this give me a bit of the 'old' and 'new' Linn Sound? The same may perhaps work with Keltiks matched to newer Linn AV Amps? Or is it always best to match Linn speakers to the amps of their generation?

Any recommendations or Komments will be appreciated.

Thanks in advance
nsmith7

Showing 1 response by neubilder

"Aktiv Keltiks or Aktiv Espeks - Which are Better?"

Keltiks are better - no question.