Linn Ninkas aktiv vs. not?


Would like to hear a few comments on whether the aktiv option is really that much better. Could the money be spent better? They sound alright now with a single LK-85 and I imagine the bass goes deeper but what else? Can't do the a-b test where I am so I'd like to hear through others' ears. I keep hearing about crossover inefficiency and heat etc. but that was from the seller.... so..?
stuartbranson
Thanks for all the replies. I guess I'll start looking around for the amp and cards.
Dear Stuart,
I have a couple LK-140's in AKTIV mode. All I can say is "GO AVTIV". The sound is detailed, clean, and smooth. I went from one to two amps...and then on to getting AKTIV. I too, was on the fence some about it until last spring. I got to meet a LINN engineer who worked on the KLOUT. I asked him if I should get a KLOUT or just go aktiv. He said go akitv and you will really be impressed. I did, and I am....Hope this helps you some. I would stick with their cables and interconnects also...I made the "rounds" and went back to them.
From reading Flightmight's reply I'm wondering if anyone knows how to bi-amp bfore the aktiv stage. Is it daisy chained or do you need two separate IC outputs from the pre-amp? If the former then the speaker wires out of the second amp, I guess. A bit of a newbie here with only A'gon input as I don't know anyone around into the "hobby". The second amp is on the way so I'll be back to tell my experience. Thanks all for helping with the decision.
Hello,

I currently own a Linn system with ikemi, 5103, 5125 and active Ninka.
It is clear that Ninka are much better in active.
I found almost the same improvement whan changing my Kairn to 5103.

I have today 2 options for further upgrade :
- stay Linn : Espek with 2250 on treble and 5125 on medium/bass. Works very well. I tested the intermediate position with Ninka, 2250 on treble and 5125 on medium/bass. The improve is also huge (bass quality, dynamique, air).

- open : I look at Audio Research amps with other speakers. I could not confirm yet that it is a better idea that the previous (for a comparable budget)

Marc
Marc. I heard from the local Linn dealer that the Espek is only activ in a tri-amp situation.