Linn ESPEK Glossary

Type
Glossary
Glossary of terms
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July 2001
A
AC-3 ©
Otherwise known as ‘Dolby Digital’©, a Surround Sound system designed by Dolby which is incorporated in
the AV5103. A digital system in which, for the full effect, 5 speakers are used - front left & right; front centre
and rear left and right for surround sound effect. See also Pro-logic ©, DTS ©
Active
See Aktiv
Akito
Linn Tonearm. Introduced 1989. There have been 2 versions - Akito and Akito/2
Aktiv
The Linn name for Active - refers to the products and the process required to upgrade the speaker Crossover
from Passive to Active. The main difference is that a passive crossover is a basic circuit, which separates
the music into, Bass & Treble or Bass, Mid & Treble (depending on the speaker used). Passive crossovers
require to use some of the music signal to supply them with power.
Aktiv crossovers perform the same basic task, but much more precisely and controlled. Linn Aktivs either
(historically) come in their own box with their own power supply or (currently) come as boards which are
fitted inside power amps or inside the Tunebox using the power supply of the product into which they are
fitted. They can be adjusted more accurately to suit the room in which the speakers are used, they adjust the
timing of the music to compensate for the inherent limitations of the mechanics of speakers, since they have
their own power supply, they require no power from the music signal, freeing up the music signal to purely
play music. Aktiv configuration generally sounds much better than passive.
Arkiv
A Linn Moving coil cartridge. Introduced 1992. There have been two versions - Arkiv and Arkiv-B (also known
as ‘New Arkiv’) - currently our top of the range cartridge.
AV
Universal term - Short for ‘Audio visual’ - Refers to Surround Sound systems, which are based around
providing high quality sound track and audio effects for a visual medium (e.g. TV, video, DVD). Also known
as Home Theatre Systems
AV51 range
The Linn family of AV products are usually prefixed with AV51 (e.g. Linn AV5103). The range has styling,
which is distinct from our Hi-Fi range, but the AV products are designed primarily as high quality HiFi
components and are of a specification such that they can be supplied as Stereo Hi-Fi products.
AV5101
Linn Programmable remote control - Arrives pre-programmed with Linn remote codes so can be used with no
programming, if required only for use with Linn products. It can also be programmed with remote codes for
almost all the customer’s other non-Linn devices so that one handset can, in most situations, be used to
control all products. Supplied as standard with the AV5103 and Sondek CD12
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July 2001
AV5103
Linn AV Pre-amp. Introduced 1996. The 5103 incorporates several different surround sound modes such as
Dolby Pro-logic ©, Dolby Digital © and our own surround sound process – Limbik ©. Includes 5101 handset.
AV5105
Linn AV Power amp. Introduced 1996. Styling is similar to the AV5103. Designed for use in an AV system
but can also be used as a high quality Hi-Fi power amp.
AV5110
Linn Loudspeakers. Introduced 1996. Designed to be used as low cost but high quality full range rear
speakers in an AV system, but can be used to good effect in any location.
AV 5120
Linn Single Loudspeaker. Introduced 1996. Designed to be used as the centre channel in an AV system.
Fully screened speaker units so they can be used close to a TV set without interference. See also Centrik
AV5140
Linn Loudspeakers. Introduced 1996. Designed to be used as the Front (left & right) speakers in an AV
system but can also be used as standard Hi-Fi speakers. Fully screened speaker units so they can be used
close to a TV set without interference.
AV5150
Linn Bass Extension Speaker - known by some as a Sub-woofer. Designed mainly for use in an AV system
(but can also enhance Hi-Fi sound) it provides a bass sound, which is lower frequency and more powerful
than standard bass units can usually handle. Enhances AV sound by providing timely rumbles (which can not
be heard - only felt) and audible effects, as well as extending and improving the audible sound. Discontinued
2001, replaced by Melodik.
Axis
A Linn turntable. Now obsolete - it occupied a market position between the Basik and Sondek LP12
turntables.
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July 2001
B
Backbox
Linn metalwork - the metal box which is required to fit an RCU into a wall.
Baffle
The front face of a Loudspeaker - usually holds the Speaker units
Balanced Audio
A processed audio signal, used in Knekt and other music distribution systems between rooms (and also used
in the recording industry). Can be transferred over very long cable lengths with negligible loss of sound
quality. (At Linn we used over 1 Km over of cable and the sound was almost as good at the end as it was at
the start). We take a standard Line-level audio signal (for each channel) and split it into Balanced Audio +
and Balanced Audio -. We send these two signals along separate cables and at the other end, they get re-
processed - joined back together again to re-form the Line-level audio signal. The principle behind this
system is that any noise picked up is cancelled out when + and – are rejoined.
A standard line level signal used over long cable lengths results in significant degradation of the signal.
Basik
A Linn term meaning Basic - refers to ‘Entry Level’ products - there have been a few products which share
this name:
Basik Arm
- A Linn Tone-arm. Introduced 1980, discontinued 1989. There were 3 versions:
Basik LVV, Basik LVX & Basik LVX Plus.
Basik Power Supply for LP12 turntable
. The entry-level power supply option for the LP12; the other two
being Valhalla & Lingo. This supply fits inside the LP12.
Basik Turntable
- A Linn turntable. Introduced 1989, discontinued 1996
Bezel
The decorative facing that goes round an RCU once it is fitted in the wall. Supplied by Linn in white or black
but many customers have Bezels custom made to their own design/finish. There are 2 types: Standard and
USA types.
Bi-amp
A further improvement on Bi-wiring (see below) whereby, as well as separate speaker cables for Bass and
treble, you add an extra power amp so that Bass signal has it’s own dedicated power amp as does the
Treble signal. A further sound improvement.
Bi-wire
Adding another speaker cable connection from the power amp to the speaker to provide separate cables for
Bass and treble signals to a 2-way speaker. Provides a sound improvement due to the bass and the treble
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July 2001
signals travelling along separate wires. Can only be used with 2-way speakers which are designed to be bi-
wireable e.g. Tukan. (See also ‘Bi-amp’ and Tri-wire/Tri-amp)
Brakit
Linn wall bracket for solidly attaching loudspeakers to a wall. Adjustable for directionality.
Bridge
In some Linn CD players, the bridge is a bar, which goes over the top of the Mekk, holding the puck so that
when CD rises into playing position, it is clamped in place.
Brilliant
(Used in several Linn products) - A type of Switch Mode Power Supply, now discontinued - designed for Linn
- cylindrical in shape. Products fitted with Brilliant can be used with any mains supply (i.e. can connect to
120V, 240V etc) without adjustment. Succeeded by the Slimline Brilliant.
C
CAT 5
(Universal term) - Short for ‘Category 5’ - a type of 8-way cable, which is used in a Knekt system to inter-
connect between rooms, or devices within rooms - used more generally in telecommunications applications.
There are other types of cable, which could technically be used in Knekt, but CAT 5 is recommended.
Installers who used inferior cables often ran into problems with interference from mains cables, cookers etc
affecting the function of the system. See also Twisted Pair.
Centrik
Linn centre channel speaker for AV system. There have been two versions:
The first was only available for a short period of time, it was then succeeded by the AV5120 speaker.
Although the AV5120 & Centrik looked very similar, they have different sound characteristics. The Centrik
was very similar in design to the Keilidh, and can use the Keilidh Aktiv cards etc, but the AV5120 cannot - it
has it’s own specifically designed Aktiv cards.
A second version of the Centrik was introduced – only the name and the fact that they are Centre channel
speakers are common to both versions. The new Centrik is a very low profile design, sleek and flat – the
shape and build are designed to support a TV if required, to provide convenient siting for the speaker.
CD12
Short for Linn Sondek CD12. Our top-of-the-range CD player. Introduced 1998. Includes the patented ‘Smart
Drawer’, which allows the unit to be controlled without using any buttons etc by nudging the drawer front.
Chip
The common name for an IC - see IC below.
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Circuit Switch
A Linn Knekt product - A switching box. Used in a Knekt system to automatically switch devices on, off etc
(an example might be switching on amps, TV etc ) when the RCU is powered up. Can also be used to make
and break connections (e.g. to switch speakers on and off)
Cirkus
Bearing & sub-chassis upgrade for the LP12. Already fitted to LP12s > s/no 90581 (Apr 93) , but can be
retro-fitted to older models as a sound quality improvement.
Classik
Linn Independent Amplifier – originally introduced 1998. This version (i.e. the first version) was an integrated
amplifier, containing a CD player. Other sources can be connected via inputs at rear. Superseded by Classik
with Tuner (known as Classik-T) and later by Multiroom version (Classik-K)
Classik-K
Version of Classik that superseded the Classik-T – contains all the functionality of the Classik-T with added
multi-room capability. Can be easily interconnected with up to four other Classiks to form a simple DIY ‘plug-
and-play’ multi-room system or can be incorporated into a Linn Knekt system.
Classik-T
Version of Classik that superseded the first incarnation. Contained all the functionality of the original Classik
with the addition of an integrated radio tuner.
Control Board
The circuit board in a product which is the user’s interface with the product, i.e. contains the control buttons,
display (if applicable) etc. Usually it is the front panel board.
Crossover
(Universal term) - The device which separates the music signal coming from the Power amp output
according to frequency: either into Bass and Treble or Bass, Mid and Treble, depending on the speakers
used. Can be passive or active (see Aktiv above). Passive crossovers are the basic version, using a very
simple circuit to divide the signal - not powered up - these are usually (but not always) located inside the
speaker cabinet.
Linn Aktiv crossovers were originally located in a box by themselves but now are fitted inside Linn Power
amps. Quite simply Active crossovers do the same job as passive but better and in a controlled manner.
Active crossovers require to be powered up.
Cross-talk
A term used generally in electronics, which mean that a signal within a part of a circuit is somehow crossing
to another part of the circuit or another device that it should not be. In Hi-Fi, it is most commonly used to
describe a situation where music from one input is crossing to another input or music from one channel is
crossing to another.
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D
DAC
(Universal term) - Short for Digital to Analogue converter - which describes it’s function. Used in a variety of
applications but most commonly, in a HiFi scenario, it is used to convert the Digital signal from a CD player
or similar Digital source to an Analogue signal. Also used in solid state switching applications (e.g. turning up
the volume in a Kairn Pre-amp is done with a DAC). Found mainly in IC form but also covers ‘Discreet’
circuitry, which performs the same function.
De-soldering Tool
A device that removes solder. There are many types available, but the most common type which is adequate
for most Thru-hole tasks, is the spring loaded sucker type. This tool is only useful for removing solder from a
‘Thru-hole’ solder joint, other techniques are required for Surface Mount solder joints (see also Solder Wick)
Dirak
Linn power supply for the LK1 pre-amp. Took the place of the LK1 transformer but was contained in it’s own
case, externally. A sound quality improvement, it smoothed and processed the mains supply. LK1s of any
age could be converted to accept the Dirak using a Dirak Kit. A version of the LK1 was also sold which had
already been converted for use with Dirak (LK1/Dirak).
Direktor
Linn integrated Amplifier, part of the Knekt family of products. Contains an RCU, a line Receiver and a power
amp - designed to provide a one box lower cost alternative to separates in a Knekt system room.
Discreet
(Universal term) - refers to electronic components or circuitry which is not in IC form (e.g. Resistor,
Capacitor)
Diskreet
Linn budget in-wall speakers. Introduced 1998. Two types available: Round and Square. They are designed
to be easy to fit into walls. Front baffle and grille can be painted to match the décor of the room.
DMS
Short for ‘Domestic Monitor Speaker’ - A type of Isobarik Speaker (see Isobarik). The other type was PMS -
Professional Monitor Speaker. DMS Isobariks were designed to be used Passively and had the Crossover
fitted inside the cabinet. PMS were wired to be used with an external crossover - either passive or active.
Dolby Digital
See AC-3
Doubri
A Knekt device. A small interface board (about 3cm square with an RJ45 socket at one end and a pair of
phono sockets at the other). This connects the RJ45 to Linn Line Remote in/out sockets.
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Doufer
A Knekt device. Known in some manuals as the ‘wee doufer’ (‘wee’ meaning small for any persons unfamiliar
with the Scottish vernacular) - a small interface board (about 3cm square, with a 9-way d-type computer plug
at one end and an RJ45 socket at the other). Connects the input / output Port of the computer to the RJ45
cable connections which go to the Knekt system. Used to download software revision to the RCUs in a Knekt
system
Download
A universal term for the transfer of software from a Computer to some other device. The computer
Downloads to the device which receives an ‘Upload’, so Download and Upload happen simultaneously -
this may sound complicated but it is not - although both terms refer to the same event (the transfer of
software), what it is called depends on whether the software is being sent or received. The sender
Downloads, the recipient is Uploaded. More specifically, in a Knekt system, it refers to the transfer of
software from the PC to the RCU. The AV5103 also receives Downloads for new software transfers.
Driver
Linn Knekt Line Driver - A device, used in Knekt systems which distributes audio from Source products in a
Main room to one or more Secondary rooms, allows the Secondary rooms to control the source products and
also passes ‘status’ feedback (for Linn products only) to those rooms. (ie on the RCU there, you can see
things like radio frequency on a tuner, track playing on a CD player etc). Available in ‘Standalone’ (Knekt-D)
and ‘Sneaky’ (Sneaky-D) versions.
Dry Joint or Dry Solder Joint
A solder joint which is not making good contact is known as a Dry Joint – very often this type of joint will
make intermittent contact and this makes the problem difficult to detect during testing etc. Several things can
cause a dry joint – e.g. the joint may have been made with insufficient solder to hold the joint securely and
the solder breaks, there may be a problem where the solder did not flow properly and is only making contact
with either the component leg or the track on the board (requires to make good & secure contact with both),
or perhaps no solder was applied at all.
DSP
Short for Digital Signal Processing. With reference to AV systems, tt does just as the name suggests -
processes the digital signal - takes the surround sound digital signal (eg AC-3) and processes it to create the
correct output for each speaker (front, centre, rear, sub).
DTS
Short for ‘Digital Theatre Systems’ - A Surround Sound mode. For more information, see the DTS website –
www.dtstech.com
Dummy Load
A device, which we at Linn use to take the place of a pair of speakers for the purpose of testing and checking
power amps. It is, quite simply one or two resistors per channel (which add up to 4ohms or 8ohms) clamped
to a large heatsink
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DVD
‘Digital Versatile Disc’. A DVD player plays either standard audio CDs or DVD’s which can contain digital
video and an AV soundtrack, ie they can play Movies etc. Discs are also available with music only but in
Surround Sound format (DVD-A).
E
Ekos
Linn Tonearm. Introduced 1988. Currently our top of the range tonearm.
Ekwal
Linn centre channel loudspeaker for AV applications. Introduced in 2001, replaced the AV5120 in our
product range. Improved on the AV5120 by incorporating improved drive units and the patented link-plate to
allow easy adjustment for the various wiring configurations
Espek
Linn floor standing 3-way loudspeaker. Introduced in 2001, replaced the AV5140 in our product range.
Improved on the AV5140 by incorporating improved drive units and the patented link-plate to allow easy
adjustment for the various wiring configurations.
F
Facia
The front panel of a product, usually the part that holds the display panel / control switches etc;
Flatblade
Type of screwdriver: the name says it all - it has a flat blade.
Flux
(In soldering applications) - a substance which is used to help solder flow more easily. For standard
electronic soldering, the flux is usually incorporated in the solder itself and this is the type we recommend;
but it also comes in liquid, paste or powder form for other applications.
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July 2001
G
H
Helix
A Linn Loudspeaker - introduced 1988, Discontinued 1993. There were 2 versions - Helix & Helix II.
Home Theatre
See AV
I
IC
(Universal term) - Short for Integrated Circuit, commonly known as ‘Silicon Chips’ or just plain Chips. These
devices are used throughout electronics and simply miniaturise a standard circuit onto a tiny flake of Silicon
which is then enclosed in a protective casing. On all Linn circuit boards except the Valhalla, IC’s are pre-fixed
with the letter U, eg U122
Impedance
Generally is a measure of the opposition to the flow of an alternating current, measured in ohms. In hi-fi
applications, is most commonly used to describe this value in loudspeakers as the input impedance of a
Speaker has a bearing on Power-amps that best suit those speakers. Linn speakers presently have an input
impedance of 4ohms, but other speaker manufacturers may use different values.
Index
A Linn Loudspeaker - introduced 1985, discontinued 1992. There were 2 versions - Index and Index II.
Install Kit
A kit which contains several items which are necessary to install Knekt systems. Contains a Software Floppy
disc for programming RCUs, 4 templates for RCU wall cut-out, a battery lead for a Doufer, a PC interface
lead for connecting PC to Intersekt, 4 Knekt knives - used to reset RCUs situated in-wall and a pair of phono-
phono leads.
Intersekt
Part of the Knekt family of products, the Intersekt distributes audio from a central room or area to a number
of other rooms. There are 3 types: R8S8, SES8 & RER16. The R8S8 distributes 8 sources to 8 rooms and
cannot be expanded further. The SES8 is a source expansion box, used together with the RER16, the room
expansion box to do the same job as an R8S8 but can be expanded to add more rooms or more sources by
adding more SES8s or RER16s as required (to a maximum of 16 sources / 128 rooms). The Intersekt does a
very similar job to the Knekt Driver but the main differences are: 1. More rooms/sources are possible. 2.
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July 2001
With Intersekt, different sources can be accessed by different rooms at the same time; whereas with a
Driver, all the ‘remote’ rooms must listen to the same source.
Integrated Amplifier
(Universal term) An amplifier that contains both Pre-amp and Power-amp sections in one box.
Integrated Circuit
See IC
Intek
Linn’s first Integrated Amplifier. Now discontinued. The Pre-amp and Power amp sections of the Intek were
adapted and sold as Pretek and Powertek respectively
IR Receiver
Short for ‘Infra-red receiver’ A device that receives infra-red remote signals and converts them to an
electrical remote signal which can be passed along cables. Commonly used to control products that are
hidden from view (eg kept in a cupboard)
IR Repeater
Short for ‘infra-red repeater’ A device which takes the electrical remote signal from the remote socket found
at the back of many Linn products and converts it to infra-red light which can then be used to control
products as if a remote control was aimed at them. Commonly used to control non-Linn products in a Knekt
system.
Isobarik
A Linn loudspeaker - Introduced 1973, discontinued 1992. Our top of the range speaker for some time. Two
versions were available - PMS and DMS.
The ‘Isobarik system’ is an aspect of the speaker design - patented by Linn - an ‘equal pressure’ system
whereby, behind the visible speaker is another speaker mounted and connected in parallel - both are in a
sealed compartment within the Speaker. With this system, the front speaker works as if in a much bigger
enclosure. The name was derived from the word ‘Isobar’ – used in weather forecasting etc.
J
Jack
(Karik) - Large plastic screw in CD mechanism which lifts & lowers the CD
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Jitter
A term used to describe timing errors found in a digital signal. A perfect digital signal would go from ‘0’ to ‘1’
taking no time to do so. In reality, however, there is a very small time lag – this leads to impurities in the
digital signal that can cause various problems. Jitter can never be completely eliminated, as it is impossible
for any event to take no time, but can be reduced and minimised using various methods.
Jumper link
A small shorting link used to short two parts of a circuit together. Linn have 2 different types: one is a very
small jumper that is actually a small socket – it is fitted to protruding pins of a connector on a circuit board to
short them together. These are used in many many applications e.g. to configure user settings on a Majik
etc.
The other type is a ‘U’ shaped metal link that is used to short the pre-out to power-in sockets at the rear of
the Majik.
K
K10
Entry-level Linn speaker cable – 2-way cable.
K20
Linn speaker cable - 2 way cable (ie has one pair of cables)
K400
Linn speaker cable - 4 way cable (ie has 2 pairs of cables suitable for Bi-wiring, Bi-amping or 2-way active
speakers.
K600
Linn speaker cable - 6 way cable (ie has 3 pairs of cables suitable for Tri-wiring, Tri-amping or 3-way active
speakers.
K3000
Linn speaker stand - suitable for supporting a small speaker such as the Kan or Tukan.
Kaber
Linn loudspeaker. Introduced 1992, discontinued 1999. Can be used Passively or Aktiv.
Kairn
Linn Pre-amp. Introduced 1991.
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July 2001
Kairn-pro
Linn pre-amp. Same as the Kairn except has no Phono input - has an extra Line-level input instead.
Kan
Linn Loudspeaker - Introduced 1979, Discontinued 1993. Re-introduced 1998 as a budget speaker in black
finish to compliment the Classik CD amp. In it’s original incarnation, there were 2 versions, Kan and Kan II,
which was eventually succeeded by the Tukan. The Kan in all its forms was Passive only.
Karik
Linn CD player. Introduced 1991, discontinued 1999 - our first CD player.
Katan
2-way Linn loudspeaker. Introduced in 2000, replaced the Tukan in our product range.
Keilidh
Linn 2-way Loudspeaker. Introduced 1992, discontinued 2000 and replaced by Ninka. Can be used
Passively or Aktiv.
Keltik
Linn 3-way Loudspeaker - Introduced 1991. Only available as an Aktiv speaker.
Keosa
Linn centre channel loudspeaker for AV use.
Keypad
Knekt RCU – some people refer to the RCU as the keypad - see RCU
Also used more generally to describe the part of a device which contains the control buttons, whether it be a
Kairn pre-amp, a remote control etc.
Kivor
Linn’s audio server. Allows storage and playback of up to 1380 hours of uncompressed audio. The Kivor
system is made up of the Kivor Tunboks (audio server), Kivor Linnk (Knekt control interface), Kivor Oktal (24-
bit D-A converter) & Kivor PCI Musik Machine (conversion module)
Klimax
Top of the range single-channel Linn power amplifier. Introduced 1999
Klimax Tunebox
Aktiv module for Klimax amplifiers. Introduced 1999
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July 2001
Klout
Linn power amp - introduced 1992.
Klyde
Linn Moving Coil cartridge.
Kolektor
Linn Pre-amp - Introduced 1998. RS232 controllable.
Knekt
A Linn brand - Multi-room HiFi distribution - The family of products designed and made by Linn which
distribute high quality music signal from a number of sources (up to 16) in a central point to a number of
rooms (up to 128). Software controlled, it can be constantly updated and, being modular, can be constantly
expanded up to the limits shown above.
Knekt-D
See Driver
Knekt Knife
A small metal bar, about 10cm long which has a v-shape cut into the end - the 2 points of the V are used to
short together 2 points of an RCU which can be accessed through a hole between the ‘Do’ and ‘on/off’ keys
of RCU. This cuts the power to the RCU and allows the installer to do a couple of things: 1. (While shorting
the points mentioned using the Knekt knife - power is off) press and hold Vol+ and Vol-, remove the Knekt
knife then release the keys after a second or so - this gives you the LOADMEM function - ie the RCU is in its
best state of readiness to receive a software upload 2. (Again while using the knife to cut power), press
and hold question mark key - remove the Knife and then let go the key after a second or so - the RCU serial
number and software level will be displayed.
Knekt-R
See Receiver
Knekt-RCU
See RCU
Kremlin
Linn FM Tuner (or radio receiver) - Our first tuner. Discontinued 1999
Kudos
Linn Tuner (or radio receiver) – Was available in both Standalone and Sneaky versions. Receives AM and
FM. Discontinued 1999
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July 2001
Kyle
(Karik) - The name for the PCAS 059 - the DAC board found inside early Kariks.
L
LED
Short for ‘Light Emitting Diode’ - an electronic device which lights up like a small bulb. In Linn products, has
several applications such as power indicator on the facia of a product, display lettering/numbering (such as
the Kairn display), trip indicators, power fail indicators etc.
Limbik
Linn designed Surround Sound system for use in the AV5103. It is a software upgrade and takes the Stereo
signal (analogue or digital) and processes it to provide a 3 or 5-way surround sound. 5103s now being sold
already have the Limbik installed but earlier versions of 5103 require an upgrade. Units of s/no: <1400
require a hardware upgrade as well as the software upgrade.
Line Driver
See Driver
Line-level
(Universal term) - Refers to the output level of most source products (eg CD players, tuners, cassette players
etc) which all have similar characteristics.
Line Receiver
See Receiver
Line Remote
An electronic remote control signal, which is passed to & from Linn products via the Line Remote in/out
sockets found at the rear of many Linn products. The line remote can be connected (the rule is: always
connect IN to OUT and OUT to IN) from product to product in a daisy chain. There are a few uses for this -
for example used to control and to receive status feedback from Linn products in a Knekt system; or in non
Knekt applications - where one product only is visible (eg Karik) and the rest (eg Kairn, Kudos) are hidden in
a cupboard etc, by using Line remote, the hidden products can be controlled by firing remote signals at the
Karik which relays the instructions.
Lingo
A Linn power supply for the LP12 turntable. Introduced 1990. Our top of the range (there are three) LP12
power supply, the Lingo is contained in it’s own case and is connected to the LP12 by means of a cable.
Alternative power supplies are the Valhalla and the Basik, both of which are fitted inside the LP12.
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July 2001
Linnk
See Kivor
Linto
Linn Phono Pre-amp. Introduced 1997, the Linto is an extremely high quality standalone Phono stage.
LK1
Linn pre-amp. Our first pre-amp - introduced September 1985. Now discontinued
LK2
Linn power amp. Our first power amp – introduced September 1985. There were, in a sense, 3 versions of
this amp, the LK2 being the first. The LK2 is a 60 Watt per channel amp (into 8 ohms). It was succeeded by
the LK275, a 75 watt version, which was then succeeded in turn by the LK280, an 80 watt version. All three
amps looked the same except for the name printed on the front (and differences in paint finish) and for a
while, upgrade kits were sold to convert an LK2 or LK275 to an LK280. So, there are many amps out there
which look like LK2s or LK275s but are actually LK280s inside. Do not be confused - the basic rule is:
Green power LED = LK280, red LED = LK2 & LK275. There will be the odd exception to this rule so beware
(LEDs are easily replaced) but it is almost always true.
LK85
Linn Power amp. Introduced 1998. Delivers 85 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
LK100
Linn Power amp. Introduced 1992, discontinued 1998. Delivered 80 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
LK140
Linn power amp. Introduced 1998. Delivers 140 watts per channel into 4 ohms
LK240
Linn Power amp A single speaker power amp (ie not Stereo). Introduced 1996.
LK275
See LK2 above
LK280
See LK2 above
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July 2001
Loadmem
With reference to Knekt RCUs, Loadmem is a function in the RCU which gives the RCU its best state of
readiness to receive a software upload. Loadmem can be achieved by removing power from the RCU (either
unplug the 8-way cable or use the Knekt Knife) and powering up while holding the Vol+ and Vol- keys
together. LOADMEM will be shown on the display. It is not absolutely necessary to use Loadmem when
downloading software but it often helps if there is a problem.
Local Room
A term used in Knekt systems which is used in similar situations as ‘Secondary’ and ‘Satellite’. Used to
describe rooms, products etc in a room in a Knekt system that are not the Main room. Tends to be used also,
however to describe products, systems etc in a room which is under discussion. For example, you might be
talking about the Master Bedroom and describe the sources there as the local sources. You may also talk
about one main room and another 3 local rooms.
Lock
When a Karik and Numerik are connected together, the Numerik detects the Karik connection and locks on
to the Karik – lock status can be viewed using the LEDs at the back of the Numerik. There are 2 lock modes
– Master and Slave (these are explained at ‘Master’ and ‘Slave’ below.)
LP12
Short for Linn Sondek LP12 - Our first turntable - in fact it was the first Linn product – the product that
launched the company. Currently is our only turntable. Introduced 1972.
M
Main room
In a Knekt system, the Main room is the room that contains the Driver or Intersekt and contains the source
products which you wish to distribute to Secondary rooms. The Main room need not be an actual room, it
may be a cupboard or attic or any area where the Intersekt is kept but the system requires this area be
defined as the Main room
Majik-I
Linn integrated amp. Introduced 1993. Also known simply as the Majik. There are 2 versions - a Phono
version (Majik-IP) and a line-level version (Majik -IL).
Master
Refers to ‘Master mode’ – when a Karik is using a Numerik as a D-A converter, there are 2 modes – Master
and Slave modes. Master mode is superior to Slave. Slave mode is the conventional method of locking a CD
player to a D-A converter where the CD player’s clock dictates the D-A converter timing. Master mode is
where the Numerik D-A converter clock dictates the timing of the CD player/Numerik combination. This mode
eliminates data related clock jitter and provides superior sound performances, as the timing is more
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Copyright © 2001 Linn Products Limited. All rights reserved.
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July 2001
accurate. Master mode is achieved by connecting the ‘Sync’ link from the ‘Sync’ socket on the Numerik to
that on the Karik. See also ‘Lock’.
MC
(Universal term) - Short for ‘Moving coil’. Refers to a type of Phono cartridge and to the Pre-amp input used
to listen to it. MC cartridges are usually the more expensive and better sounding of the two types of cartridge
available (the other type being Moving Magnet (MM)).
Mekk
(Karik, Mimik, Classik) - The Linn term for the CD mechanism - loads & plays the CD.
Melodik
Linn Bass-extension loudspeaker. Introduced 2001, replaced the AV5150 in our product range.
Micro-Switch
A general term meaning a small switch. In Linn terminology, this term is mainly (but not exclusively) used in
reference to the small switches used in the original type of Karik Mekk (fitted to Kariks < ser/no: 6000). There
were four fitted to this Mekk: one triggers when the drawer fully opens, one when the drawer fully closes, one
when the Jack has fully risen and one when the Jack has fully lowered. Often shortened to ‘uSwitch’
Mimik
Linn CD Player. Introduced 1993.
MM
(Universal Term) - Short for ‘Moving Magnet’. Refers to a type of Phono cartridge and to the Pre-amp input
used to listen to it. MM cartridges are usually the less expensive and inferior sounding of the two types of
cartridge available (the other type being Moving Coil (MC)).
Mogi
The old name for the Linn IR receiver.
Moving Coil
See MC
Moving Magnet
See MM
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Copyright © 2001 Linn Products Limited. All rights reserved.
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July 2001
N
Nexus
Linn Loudspeaker. Introduced 1987, discontinued 1993. There were two versions - Nexus and Nexus/4. The
original Nexus was available in Black/Grey only. Nexus/4 was available in several wooden finishes and also
had an upgraded treble unit.
Ninka
2-way Linn floor-standing loudspeakers, introduced 2000. Replaced the Keilidhs in our product range. Can
be used Passively or Aktiv.
NUKI
Numerik DAC chip assembly. Consists of a pair of small circuit boards that replaced the DAC chip in the
Numerik – fitted as standard from serial number 1300 onwards, but also available as an upgrade for units
previous to that serial number (hence the name – NUKI – Numerik Upgrade Kit). The NUKIs improved the
sound of the Numerik.
Numerik
Most commonly refers to the commercially available Linn Digital to Analogue converter unit, introduced 1991.
Also refers to the “Numerik” D-A converter system pioneered by Linn. This is a professional standard D-A
converter – used in the recording industry on many Linn Records recordings and those of other record
labels. Discontinued 1999.
O
Oktal
See Kivor
Open Circuit
A general Electrical term. Refers to a resistance or impedance measurement that equals infinite ohms – i.e.
between the two terminals of the ohmmeter (or other measuring device), there is absolutely no connection.
An example would be an open switch or a broken wire. The opposite of ‘Short Circuit’.
Optomekk
A type of Karik Mekk, fitted in Kariks > ser/no: 6000. The main difference between Optomekk & Mekk is that
the switches used are ‘Opto-switches’ (see below) instead of mechanical leaf-switches.
Opto-switch
A type of switch, where a ‘flag’ passing through an optical beam triggers the switch. This is, in most
applications, preferable to mechanical switches as there are no moving parts on the switch so it is much
more reliable. Used in the Karik ‘Optomekk’
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Copyright © 2001 Linn Products Limited. All rights reserved.
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P
Parallel
Refers to a type of Knekt Intersekt system set-up (the alternative being ‘Phantom’ – see Phantom below). A
parallel system is where the Intersekt is situated in the main room, using a dedicated Linn pre-amp (Kairn or
AV5103) and the sources are connected in parallel to both the Intersekt and the pre-amp.
Passive
(Universal term) - refers to the basic type of Speaker crossover (see Crossover)
PCAS
(Linn electronic products) - Stands for “Printed circuit assembly” - this is the Linn term for an assembled
PCB, ie taking a blank PCB and fitting all the components, connectors etc to it turns it from a PCB to PCAS.
Used in official Linn part numbers (eg PCAS 082 is an assembled main board for a Karik)
PCB
(Universal term) - Stands for “Printed Circuit Board” - this is the universal name for an electronic circuit board
but at Linn, this term refers more to a board which has not been fitted with components etc (see PCAS)
PCI Musik Machine
See Kivor
Pem
A brand name - short for ‘Penn Engineering & Manufacturing’ Corporation. - A manufacturer of fasteners /
stand-offs etc which come in many shapes & sizes & have many different uses. Linn use PEMs in hundreds
of applications in products e.g. in the Karik Mekk, one is used to stop the drawer from opening when disc
loaded, another is used to hold the subchassis on to the main chassis via a screw, washer and grommet etc.
Phantom
Refers to a type of Knekt Intersekt system set-up (the alternative being ‘Parallel’ – see Parallel above). A
phantom system is where there is effectively no ‘Main’ room – all the “main room” sources are situated in a
cupboard, utility room or some other discreet location and are distributed to all the ‘Local’ rooms. In effect,
this means that every room is a ‘local’ room. ‘Phantom’ refers to the ‘Main ‘ room and the fact that users may
never see it, or know where it is located – so the Main room is ‘phantom’.
Phono
(Universal term) - Short for Phonograph. Refers to all things pertaining to turntables, e.g. Phono cartridge,
phono input.
Refers also to a type of plug & socket - also known as RCA plugs/sockets. The type used as audio (and
other) connections on most Linn electronic products such as Kairn, Karik etc.
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Linn ESPEK Glossary

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Glossary

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