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
I am considering this piece if I get a  floor stander and require room correction. The store I went to has 3 units that do similar room correction. 

Anthem STR
Lynddorf 3400
Linn Selekt DSM

I am supposed to have a shootout with these 3 soon but may cancel it because I may ditch room correction and buy a smaller speaker allowing me to stay analogue (not sure yet). 

I did listen to the Linn Selekt DSM already and it sounded rather great. I do not think I would get the amp option for the Linn just based on prejudiced. I listened to the Lynddorf the same day and I did not like the internal amp. An external amp sounded much better. The Linn amp is also not that powerful.

It is unfortunate that the Linn does not have any analog inputs (other that the TT one). They also do not plan to add any other analog inputs, unlike the other 2 units I mentioned. The Anthem seems to have the best configuration options for me.

For what it's worth the dealer who I was working with preferred the Linn unit over the other 2. They are all about the same price.

Linn's argument for room correction is that the microphone based approach is not accurate and the measurement based approach is superior.

I went big and got the Klimax DSM.  I don't know if you have read much about Linn but they believe in Source First approach, that the source is the building block of a sound system. 

So you are debating going for the Select DSM vs DSM + AMP OR go up a level with the Akurate system hub + amp?

Personally I prefer to keep DAC & streamer functions separated from pre-amp & amp, it give you more flexibility down the road to tweek.
Azbird: I’m envious.  I’m sure the Klimax DSM is spectacular! But, it’s outside of my budget.  Would love to hear one side by side the lessor units.  Someday.

I’m thinking your right that I should skip the amplifier section and just go with the streamer/DAC/preamp functions if I do this.  I have a pretty good (and far more powerful) amp that I wouldn’t get any more for than the additional cost of the amp section anyway.  I appreciate the advice.

yyzsantabarbara: thanks for the link to the review.  That was helpful.  It may not be the best measuring unit, but it does seem as if people generally agree the sound is quite good.  That was for the unit above what I’m looking at, but relevant nonetheless.  One constant was that most agreed you pay up for being a Linn owner.  But, it seems the Select DSM might actually be a decent value for me.  

I’m still working out doing this or just upgrading my streamer, but greatly appreciate the input/feedback.

Best,
mgrif

@mgrif104 I posted a question to you on another thread and I see you have answered it already here. I have now heard the Linn Selekt DSM and the NAD M12. I was really impressed by the NAD M12 so much so that the Linn has lowered in my interest. The store I demoed the M12 was also a Linn dealer but did not have the Selekt yet. The lack of analog inputs on the Linn Selekt is a stumbling block.

I was informed that I would not really need DSP my room and the speakers I was interested in so the M12 is now an option.