Linn Klimax DS

[Telstar]

Anybody tried it?
Comments?

I'm gonna bet my dedicated HTPC + Bel Canto S300iu will match it for 1/4 of the money.

[JerryDelColliano]

I haven't heard really ANYTHING from Linn since Brian Morris left the company to found his "House of Linn" retailer in the UK.

I miss them as Linn made some of the BEST sounding gear out there. They have some strong support with a handful of the best dealers but with new players like Halcro nipping at their heels - its important to have a strong message to the world of audio enthusiasts

[kennyt]

I was a long time Linn fan, and up until a few years ago had a fully active AV 51 system. Linn's new stuff has gotten so much more expensive now though and to me they have priced themselves out of the market. The new system to replace the AV 51 needs five channels of amplification for each speaker plus the active cards, it's ridiculous!

[deacongreg]

When you get like that, its like they want to be known as exclusive, to a select clientele. We`ll see what their marketing strategy is for this "House of Linn" Initially it seemed like something the high end desperately needs.
But, not if the price is in the clouds.

[Telstar]

Originally Posted by kennyt

I was a long time Linn fan, and up until a few years ago had a fully active AV 51 system. Linn's new stuff has gotten so much more expensive now though and to me they have priced themselves out of the market. The new system to replace the AV 51 needs five channels of amplification for each speaker plus the active cards, it's ridiculous!

I agree. And moreover the amplification for the AV series wasnt on pair with the quality of the source and the speakers (expecially the bookshelves, the 5140/5120 and the Espeks). You basically needed to go active to make them sound like they should.
A passive amplification (eventually bi-amp) of better quality and lesser price can make a linn system sound better than the original complete systems.

Current offering is good only in the mid-up range but unfortunately priced too high to appeal new customers and old ones (like me) as well: 5k€ for the 2-channel amplifier and 9k€ for a pair of Akurate towers is really too much, for they offer just a bit better sound than a pair of Espeks powered by an integrated such as an old Classé CAP-100 or 150/151 or a new Bel Canto s300i.

BTW, the Klimax DS should be listened.

[kennyt]

You are right Telstar, the AV51 system really did shine active! That is why I went to active 5140's x4 and a 5120 active center, mated with the 5150 sub.

Great system, but it was such a PITA to make changes to, and frankly impossible to swap pout amps etc....

My old rig is currently in a vintner in Sonoma's home enjoying regular use!