Has Linn Gone Crazy? They Stopped Making Pre-Amps

Interestng. Why do you say that that Linn is disliked here om the Agon forum?

That's just my general impression. I think most people prefer smaller, boutique companies and think that Linn is over-priced and over-marketed. Which, to some extent, is true.

A good indicator of the lack of interest in Linn is the fact that Linn's Exakt technology - which is a fairly big development - was announced back in 2013 but has never been discussed on this forum to the best of my knowledge.

I don't believe it is a matter of people innately disliking Linn. It is most probably people have found better sound quality and value with other products. It's an open marketplace with much competition. In my own experience some of the best sounding products are via the "smaller boutique" companies. I think most listeners appreciate new technology but ultimately it comes down to "how does it sound" rather than promises and hype. If the Linn approach/ direction is superior sounding people will take note.
Charles,

Perhaps. I think there's more to it than that.

Meanwhile, has anyone here listened to a Linn Exakt system? I'm very curious to hear people's opinions.

Mateored, thanks for your detailed replies & insight into Linn systems. I have very little experience with Linn myself. It is interesting that they are following the approach taken by Meridian (Boothroyd-Stuart Meridian) which also likes the "walled garden" approach & has been practicing that forever. They are DSP all the way & I believe their latest speakers are also active. Hmmm....very interesting that another British company is following in Meridian's footsteps. Is it just coincidence or is it influence thru proximity??