Linn launches a 4th network player-- the Selekt DSM, a modular offering available as either a source component or standalone audio system complete with a tactile design and a range of audio enhancing technologies.
The Selekt slots between the entry-level Majik and flagship Akurate in the DSM product range. Interchangeable cartridges make it a modular system, since customers can upgrade the base streamer/pre-amp with either an integrated 100W-per-channel Class D power amplifier or Katalyst DAC architecture (as found in the Akurate and Klimax models).
Other cartridges include a headphone amplifier and a multichannel module with 5.1 speaker terminals, x4 HDMI inputs, x1 HDMI output and playback support for DTS and Dolby Digital Plus formats. The streamer will also seen an upgrade to Bluetooth and wifi (2.4/5GHz) support in 2019, since on launch it connects to networks solely via ethernet socket.
Since it is built on the Linn streaming platform, the Selekt is DLNA compatible, and supports the Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz and TuneIn Radio streaming services, as well as the Roon music player. MMC and MC switchable phono inputs allow connection to turntables, while digital inputs include x2 coax, x2 optical and x1 USB port. An HDMI ARC connection allows playback through a TV without need for source switching. Also included are x2 line-level RCAs, x2 Exakt Link ports (for direct connection to Linn Exakt speakers, Exaktboxes and Urika II) and balanced XLR and RCA outputs.
The Selekt also has a new aesthetic-- instead of the typical stripped-down display-less chassis, the Selekt has an onyx-black OLED display, cut-glass control dial and programmable "piano-key" buttons customers can set up to summon playlists or services.
"We love the clarity of digital music, but we also love the tactility of physical records," Linn says. "It’s easy to feel we’ve lost touch with the immersive experience of playing a vinyl record-- the LP selection, the lift-lower, the anticipation during those first pops and clicks-- and that playing music requires only a swipe and a tap. Selekt DSM revolutionises our physical interaction with digital music; every aspect is precision engineered for a tactile and enriched listening experience."
