Experience with Linn Select DSM?

Azbird

Thanks for the feedback.  One of the reasons I’m interested is because Linn’s commitment and longevity in streaming.  Which unit do you have?  I’m comfortable with the notion that the akurate DAC is probably better than what I have and that the streaming function is an upgrade over the node 2.  Part of the challenge for me is the rest of my system.  It doesn’t seem to make sense (in my mind) to break apart my M12/M22 combo.  And, all inputs into the M12 are converted to PCM (or something like that).  In other words, the Select DSM has a DAC, so I’d be going into the line inputs of my unit and I’m not sure that makes sense.  So, if I do this, it’ll probably be getting the one with the amplifier stage. 

A new server would cost between $2-$4k based on what I’m looking at. Or, I could sell my NAD M12/M22 and get ~$3k and turn around and buy the Select DSM w/ Akurate and amp for about $8k - a net cost of $5k.  Fewer boxes, cooler piece. Better overall?

Sure wish i could audition one at home.  There are no dealers for 300+ miles.  

Azbird: I’m envious.  I’m sure the Klimax DSM is spectacular! But, it’s outside of my budget.  Would love to hear one side by side the lessor units.  Someday.

I’m thinking your right that I should skip the amplifier section and just go with the streamer/DAC/preamp functions if I do this.  I have a pretty good (and far more powerful) amp that I wouldn’t get any more for than the additional cost of the amp section anyway.  I appreciate the advice.

yyzsantabarbara: thanks for the link to the review.  That was helpful.  It may not be the best measuring unit, but it does seem as if people generally agree the sound is quite good.  That was for the unit above what I’m looking at, but relevant nonetheless.  One constant was that most agreed you pay up for being a Linn owner.  But, it seems the Select DSM might actually be a decent value for me.  

I’m still working out doing this or just upgrading my streamer, but greatly appreciate the input/feedback.

Best,
mgrif

It’s an intriguing unit - I think particularly well designed.  As noted earlier, I’m skeptical it’s an upgrade for me all around - I doubt it’s a better amp or preamp.  But, I can easily believe it’s a better streamer than I have, and perhaps a better DAC.  And, the design is beautiful so I’m sure it’s enjoyable to work with. Good to hear it’s also non-fatiguing to listen to.  I’m still waiting to hear from my dealer (200 miles away) if I can do a home demo.  That’s really how I want to try to experience the unit.  Home demos are not something they normally do, but it seems to me it’s the only fair way to evaluate the piece.  With respect to the app, I think I’d do Roon as an overlay.

If I get it, my wife will know what I’ve paid as she pays all the bills...

Cheers,
mgrif

I ended up going in a different direction - and am hoping i didn’t make the wrong decision.  Not because it doesn’t sound good.

I bought the Auralic Aries G2 streamer - very nice upgrade over the Node 2 (and my Aurender N100H in another system).  But, now I’m in the awful loop of evaluating cables (have already gone up $$$), wondering about my DAC, power conditioning etc.  I was already evaluating replacement speakers.  

So, I probably could have saved myself a lot of trouble - and perhaps money by just buying the Selekt DSM.

Doesn’t make sense to turn back now....

Caphill, thanks for the comprehensive and thoughtful  reply.  I think you might be mixing me up with another poster as I don’t have and never have had PMC speakers.  

Interestingly, I wasn’t originally looking for a one box unit, but came across the Linn Selekt and found it appealing from a functional standpoint.  I will say that while I hold Linn and NAIM in very high regard - particularly for their upper end units, I stand by my previous comment that you “pay up” for the brand in terms of performance.  Of course, it’s reasonable to assume that the streamer built into the Linn unit is quite a bit superior to that of the Node 2.  But, I’m also guessing it’s performance falls Short of the Auralic G2 I acquired (though I can’t say for sure as I’ve no way to compare directly).  I would also say that I’m skeptical the amplifier in the Linn Selekt is superior to the NAD M22 I’m using - a very well regarded amp.  I find it powerful, smooth, and engaging and it is a very large and clear step up from the Paraound Halo amp I have in another system. I’ve no doubt the Klimax units are outstanding and a step up from what I have. As they should be at a multiple of the price point, too.