Linn Selekt DSM - Modular Streamer - Page 3 of 4

The proof of the facts: listening

Listening tests focused on the streamer-DAC configuration, alternating between the two conversion modules Katalyst and Organik. The reference chain included a Luxman L-509Z integrated amplifier and Bowers & Wilkins 804 D3 speakers.

In a digital landscape that has raised the quality bar significantly, thanks in part to products with aggressive price/performance ratios, technical performance alone is a necessary but not sufficient parameter. Comparing many contemporary electronics can increasingly lead to close results, but in high-end, reliability, design continuity and, above all, sonic identity count. In this sense, the Selekt DSM plays with different cards: it is not an object of Asian provenance, of those that might be fleeting appearances in the system, but it is a device with a clearly recognizable philosophy, destined to leave its mark in the “lived history” of the enthusiast.

Indeed, memory brings me back to my personal old Karik and Numerik players, which even then were distinguished by a musicality uncommon in the digital landscape of the time and in many cases would still be relevant today. Today that language has been updated leaving the setting of a consistent and extremely reliable sound.

The Selekt DSM is a machine that doesn’t just sound good, it asserts itself, becomes reference listen after listen because of the controlled, coherent way it sounds. The ability to maintain tonal correctness and control, even when signal complexity increases, is exemplary. Whether via network or as a USB DAC from a PC (in this case it stops at PCM 192kHz, which for my taste is well beyond the threshold of perceivable resolution), the Selekt DSM confirms a mastery of the digital domain that leaves no room for uncertainty. The feeling is one of realistic transparency rather than an overt “sonic signature”: the signal is not interpreted but faithfully translated.

On the micro-information level, the system performs exemplarily. The differences between Katalyst and Organik emerge mainly in the ability to define space and contrast. In the former, the presentation is already very solid, precise and free of smearing; in the latter, a different continuity of the musical flow and overall naturalness is perceived. The soundstage develops with width and, above all, stability: it is not a “wide” image, but a credible soundstage, with right proportions and a good sense of air between instruments. With the large orchestra, the stage opens with a wide and credible spatial reconstruction. The environment is legible in its planes. Acoustic instruments emerge with surgical precision but without analyticity. The sustain is natural, never artificially extended. This balance is the key point: the detail is there, but it is never separated from the musical context.

Dynamics is one of the most convincing points of the system: not so much for impact in a spectacular sense, but for the ability to move from low to high levels with ease. The bass is controlled, deep and well articulated.

Functionally, the system confirms remarkable maturity: operational stability, flexible source management. The difference between the two DAC configurations is not so much a matter of “right or wrong” as of degree of finesse. The Katalyst already offers a fully credible level of performance with no obvious compromises. The Organik, is most appreciated after long listening sessions and is intended for those who want the best. The final choice, inevitably, shifts from the technical to the economic and listening philosophy. But it is hard not to notice how, going up or not, the Selekt DSM maintains its status as a reliable reproduction system like few in today’s landscape.

Linn Selekt DSM + 119 — Linn Selekt DSM with Linn 119 Speakers

Linn Slekt DSM: conclusions

Linn did not just make an evolved streamer but designed an ever-changing platform designed to adapt to the needs of the listener. Consistent with its history in which evolution and innovation have given the brand longevity and identity.

In the Selekt DSM we find Linn’s distinctive technological DNA, made up of non-trivial technological solutions aimed at sonic results. This streamer is a highly evolved, high-end audio component capable of meeting the needs of most enthusiasts and adapting to their wishes. From the possibility of becoming a preamplifier, to upgrading the conversion circuits to the option of amplifier modules that turn it into a high-end smart-amp or even an excellent Audio Video system. Exploited “normally” as a streamer or digital source in general, in itself it holds its own against the best current achievements. In addition to its blazon and sonic performance, it finds nontrivial added value in its expandability and ability to remain upgraded over time.

Andrea Allegri

Declared Technical Data

Audio formats: FLAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, DSD (64/128/256), MP3, WMA (except lossless), AIFF, AAC, OGG.

Resolution: Up to 24 bits/384 kHz.

Integrated services: TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Deezer, AirPlay 2, Roon Ready, airable, TuneIn, Calm Radio.

HDMI Specifications: HDMI 2.0 – Supports: 4k resolution at 60 Hz, 4:4:4, HDCP 2.2, HDR, ARC, eARC, CEC, 18 Gbps data rate

Ethernet (x1). Exakt Link (x2). Wi-Fi Yes (802.11ac). Bluetooth Yes (4.2).

Inputs

HDMI (optional upgrade) x4, HDMI eARC x1, Toslink x2, SPDIF x2 (1 configurable input/output), USB (Type B) x1, Line-level phono (RCA) x1, Phono MM (RCA) x1, Phono MC (RCA) x1.

Outputs

Clamps / Banana / Fork (optional upgrade) Up to x6 (configurable for surround channels).

Balanced XLR (optional upgrade) Up to x6 (configurable for surround channels).

Unbalanced RCA (optional upgrade) Up to x6 (configurable for surround channels).

RCA subwoofer output x2.

SPDIF x1 (configurable input/output).

HDMI 2.0 (optional upgrade) x1.

1/4-inch headphone jack x1.

With HDMI switching module

HDMI output x1 (doubles as eARC)

With surround sound upgrade (DSP and HDMI switching modules)

Surround sound processing up to 7.2