I wresteled with this recently: sticking with Linn or experimenting with other sounds. I decided to experiment, for I already knew what I had.
I decided upon a simple 6SN7 tubed preamp (Cary design) which is most enjoyable. It also gives me a chance to fine tune the sound thru tube rolling. But there is no doubt, no matter what tube you select, tubed equipment editorializes the sound. This may be contrasted against the Linn house sound, which I consider remarkably neutral and accurate, particularly as you ascend their product lineup.
I have no regrets about this current turn, but I also think Linn gets it right and keeps it simple with 'control' and 'playback' elements of their product line (I've had issues with the Ikemi's poor chassis design). So make a high level choice: do you want to try something new and explore different ways of presenting music, or stick with what you know and be happy?
Best,
I decided upon a simple 6SN7 tubed preamp (Cary design) which is most enjoyable. It also gives me a chance to fine tune the sound thru tube rolling. But there is no doubt, no matter what tube you select, tubed equipment editorializes the sound. This may be contrasted against the Linn house sound, which I consider remarkably neutral and accurate, particularly as you ascend their product lineup.
I have no regrets about this current turn, but I also think Linn gets it right and keeps it simple with 'control' and 'playback' elements of their product line (I've had issues with the Ikemi's poor chassis design). So make a high level choice: do you want to try something new and explore different ways of presenting music, or stick with what you know and be happy?
Best,