Linn Audio


Just curious why there’s not a single discussion on Audiogon forum regarding Linn. Linn makes outstanding gears and speakers as well. Especially their DS (digital streamer/DAC) such as the Linn Klimax DS or DSM, Linn Akurate DS or DSM, and Linn Majik DS or DSM. IMO Linn is very innovative and I have always loved their products, especially their digital source components (DS/DSM) and the famous Linn Sondek LP12 turntable with their own accompanying accessories.
Linn makes very musical sounding gears. Even their speakers are pretty awesome too esp when paired with all Linn electronics. Why no luv for Linn?

For my main two-channel setup in my dedicated two-channel room I used to have all Linn Klimax setup and system, from the Klimax DS, LP 12 Klimax version turntable all the way to the Linn Klimax 350 passive floorstanding speakers. But mine was a non-Exakt system. I used to be a Linnie. 

I also like the fact that all Linn gears (electronics) are compact and do not take much space, especially Linn Klimax gears. You will even have less components if you go with Linn Exakt system/setup.
caphill
I don't have any current Linn products, but do have a Kairn preamp and LK280 amp, both acquired used.  I recapped the LK280 this year and it is sounding very nice.  So far the only thing I have done to the Kairn is to replace the battery a couple of times.
I have a Linn Klimax Kontrol preamp & love it. It has a very open & natural sound. That is the only Linn product currently in my system & it mates well with everything else.     

I am shocked with how cheap Linn Majik DS has become, even with the Dynamik power supply. Just picked one up for $500 and it has blown me away with regard to bang for buck. I was concerned with setting up wifi before getting. Purchased Orbi Satellite to extend existing Orbi network and provide Ethernet port. Plugged in and good to go. Linn is still supporting the original DS and integrates perfectly with Kazoo and Kazoo integrates perfectly with Tidal. My fears were unfounded, this could be a current product if I did not know it was from 2009. Great job Linn.

My first ‘serious’ system included the LP12 and LK1/LK2, bought new from my local dealer in the uk. Now I think of them as having shifted their emphasis more towards ‘Lifestyle’ products, designed to look great and serve multi-room functions, rather than sit at the heart of a serious 2-channel system. I realize that isn’t exactly how it is, but it’s a strong perception. 

I remember listening to a Linn Naim system back in the mid 1980’s that was quite impressive. I liked it so much that I eventually put a system together based on some of their gear. However, I got caught up in gear cycling via the original Audiomart (Walt Bender’s invitation by recommendation only - used audio market place publication - RIP Walt 🙏) and ended up owning quite a bit of used hi-end audio equipment over the years.

I finally settled decades later with some older (now vintage) gear that I truly enjoy. Front ends are a Rega Planar 2, Systemdek IIX, Naim CDI, and a Nakamichi ZX7.

Amplification includes: Naim Nait 2, Naim Nac 42/Hicap/Nap 110, while speakers are Linn Kan I and Kef Reference Series Model 101. This gear was very affordable on the used market, and still offers a level of listening enjoyment that rivals if not exceeds that of many far more expensive new audio systems. The bottom line is that audio is about getting as close to the original performance as possible and finding audio equipment that gets you there at an affordable price. 😊