Linn Sondek CD12 Glossary

Brand: Linn

Model: Sondek CD12

Type: Glossary

Glossary of terms

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July 2001

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.

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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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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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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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.

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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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).

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.

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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Helix

A Linn Loudspeaker - introduced 1988, Discontinued 1993. There were 2 versions - Helix & Helix II.

Home Theatre

See AV

(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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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.

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.

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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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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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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Kyle

(Karik) - The name for the PCAS 059 - the DAC board found inside early Kariks.

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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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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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.

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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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’.

(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.

(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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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.

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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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 Sondek CD12 Glossary

Linn Sondek CD12 Glossary

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