I, for one am a recent convert to the Linn camp myself. I was bewitched this past spring. In search of new speakers, I ventured outside of metropolitan Detroit, westward to Ann Arbor where I had not pestered the audio dealers there for almost 20 years since finishing medical school.
I wandered into Overture Audio on South Main Street whereupon I experienced an audio epiphany. I listened to Sonus Faber Cremona speakers with Linn Klimax Kontrol preamp and Klimax Solo monoblocks and a CD 12 frontend. I went back a few weeks later to make sure the experience had staying power. Although, the CD 12 and Solo monoblocks had been replaced by Unidisc 2.1 and Klimax Twin (then), the experience overall of luscious fantastic audio was not diminished by substitution of the lesser powered single chassis amplifier or the non-reference CD front end.
I was bowled over by the sound. I was also very impressed with the stylish low profile of the components producing it. Subsequently, I decided to go for the gusto purchasing new Klimax Kontrol and Solo amps in addition to the Cremona speakers. Subsequently, I've purchased a Linn LP12/Lingo/Linto/Ittok/Akiva and found a previously owned CD12 and now have an amazing sounding system.
I have no regrets. I have not heard much of the other solid state gear in this price range so I cannot offer valid comparisons. I do feel that the generally excellent reviews of the Linn Klimax electronics is commensurate with my personal experience. Well worth consideration.
I wandered into Overture Audio on South Main Street whereupon I experienced an audio epiphany. I listened to Sonus Faber Cremona speakers with Linn Klimax Kontrol preamp and Klimax Solo monoblocks and a CD 12 frontend. I went back a few weeks later to make sure the experience had staying power. Although, the CD 12 and Solo monoblocks had been replaced by Unidisc 2.1 and Klimax Twin (then), the experience overall of luscious fantastic audio was not diminished by substitution of the lesser powered single chassis amplifier or the non-reference CD front end.
I was bowled over by the sound. I was also very impressed with the stylish low profile of the components producing it. Subsequently, I decided to go for the gusto purchasing new Klimax Kontrol and Solo amps in addition to the Cremona speakers. Subsequently, I've purchased a Linn LP12/Lingo/Linto/Ittok/Akiva and found a previously owned CD12 and now have an amazing sounding system.
I have no regrets. I have not heard much of the other solid state gear in this price range so I cannot offer valid comparisons. I do feel that the generally excellent reviews of the Linn Klimax electronics is commensurate with my personal experience. Well worth consideration.