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Experience with Linn Select DSM?

Does anyone have direct experience with the Linn Select DSM system w/ Katalyst?  Please see: https://www.linn.co.uk/sources/network-music-players/selekt#selekt-dsm-with-katalyst

I have decent electronics already (NAD M12 Pre/DAC and M22 Amp) being sourced by a Node 2 server going into the DAC via SPDIF.  I’ve been auditioning other servers to upgrade the Node 2 and in the search process, came across this unit from Linn.  It is elegant and functionally very nice.  The appeal is that I could sell my other gear and have one box that does what I need.  But, I’d only be interested in doing this if it was better overall than what I have.  Unfortunately, I have no local dealers.  I’ve heard it in a nice shop in AZ, but that means nothing as it’s not a comparison to what I have.  Of course, the salesman thought it would be a step up from what I have.  Not surprisingly, I’m skeptical of that claim.  But, it is a cool piece.

So, anybody here with direct experience and insights to share?
mgrif104

Showing 1 response by thelostdutchman

thelostdutchman's avatar
thelostdutchman
41 posts
 
I have a Selekt DSM.  I've upgraded the DAC in it and added a pre-module so have it paired with an Audio Research VT80SE power amp. and my speakers are Wilson Sophia 3's and I'm using Transparent Audio cables to connect it all.

I couldn't be happier with the DSM.  It looks great and is easy to use.  Most importantly it sounds fantastic.  As another poster stated it is non-fatiguing to listen to.  I'd say that it's very musical.   The Wilson's are a large pair of speakers and to get the best sound and imaging they were sticking out in the room a bit more than I liked.  Had my dealer come over and set up the space op.  It's really a trip - I've the speakers back closer to the wall and with the space optimization on you wouldn't know that they were not in their optimal spot in the room.

I did use the power amp in the DSM for some time and while it is a great little amp I am far happier with the addition of the AR VT80SE.  It took a great sounding system and made it even more musical.  The depth and width of the soundstage is even larger now.  

Overall I couldn't be happier with the DSM.  It's very musical and presents a great soundstage.  Love the upgrade options as it allows you to grown the system at your own pace, it is easy to use and the space op is a gem.  I'd debated switching over to dCS but the lack of space op put that on the back burner.  

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