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Linn History
This page is a copy of the great information posted by charlie1 at the Linn Forum.
Bits'n'pieces of information regarding various Linn product histories
.. Now at a new location. I hope everyone got here OK.
Latest updates: AV5105, Intek, Unidisk/Kinos
All this information here have been collected from various Linn-related discussion forums and personal emails. I do not have access to the Linn dealer site "Linfo", so I cannot verify any information. If in doubt, contact Linn for an authorative answer (and then tell me  ).
I'd like to add one personal note on revisions here: it's nice to know, especially when deciding between two versions of the same product, i.e. "is the newer one really worth that much more money?", but I really hope that it does not make anyone turn down a good offer on a piece of Linn gear just because there happens to be a later version of that product available. Early samples of Linn products are far from useless; in many cases the differences can even be considered academic at best. In general though, Linn do have a habit of constantly improving their products; often without mentioning it or including information about it in their revision history documents. I'm just saying that even though you can generally assume that a product has in fact been improved during its life cycle, the improvements made need not be huge, nor do they make older versions sound bad in comparison.
Note: I'm not responsible for this information, I'm just collecting it, and mostly by just pasting stuff onto here that I receive in personal emails. I do not have access to Linfo, so I cannot confirm the information I receive. When I get conflicting information, I have no special way of telling which one is correct. Therefore, sometimes both versions are posted (see the Kan information, for instance).
I do this, maintain this site, because I think the information provided here is really useful when about to buy used Linn gear. I also do it because Linn themselves are too ignorant to realize and/or care that their customers want this kind of information. They make great hifi and home theater gear - the absolute best at many price levels - and they do manage to stay afloat, something that many of their competitors couldn't. Considering how their very poor excuse for a support department seems bent on scaring customers away, it's quite impressive, actually.
Note2: I have no information apart from what is entered here. I promise.
Note3: See note 2.
--Daniel < (non-spam-inviding means of contact to be added shortly)>
Sondek CD12, introduced January 1999, discontinued August 2004
There is an upgrade/modification which includes a hardware and software update to correct some early bugs, and a new cd engine. This allowed quicker track access, and improves the CD12 sonically. This might be the July 1999 serial #331 "CD Engine Upgraded" update.
Someone commented on the above: "I do not think the engine changes are worth worrying about, the software change is straight forwards, but imagine the chip change is a new circuit board, and probably not warrantied as an upgrade."
The latest CD12 have a new DAC, this eliminates the jitter setting on the user options.
CD Engine upgraded July 1999 331
PIC (U3 on main board) software upgraded to eliminate a very intermittent fault that caused the sound to occasionally 'drop out'. Sept. 1999 379
Interconnect leads upgraded from standard (black) to silver interconnect leads. Jan 2000 445
Change of processor from 20 to 24-bit due to Linn not being able to get the original part anymore. 496
Ikemi, introduced January 1999
Mekk transport software change Oct 1999 1892
an EFM adjustment pot was added to allow fine tuning of the laser Jan 2001 617218
Karik, introduced Jan 1992, discontinued May 1999
Introduction of Kyle board (internal D-A converter). Previous to this serial number, the Karik could only be listened to via an external D-A converter. May 1992 3000
Fitting of conical spring to laser guide rod as the laser would occasionally fail to engage on the drive cog. Oct 1992 3238
Static protection of Kyle board mar-93 4200
Change to earthing R121 shorted out as it was discovered that the Karik function could be affected by RF interference. Upgrade available see Karik RF Interference Modification Procedure aug-93 4388
Guide rod spring removed & slipping clutch cog fitted to Mekk improved the reliability of the Mekk. Sep 1993 approx 5000 approx
Karik-O introduced whereby the Mekk was replaced by the Optomekk. The main difference was that the mechanical switches were replaced by electronic optical switches (Optical switches are more reliable.) jun-93 6000
Software upgrade. Improved the reliability of the drawer action, reduced the chance of the drawer jamming. Upgrade also allows the Karik to be used in a Knekt system. Upgrade available. mar-94 6778
Karik/SPS introduced Brilliant Switch-mode Power Supply (SPS) fitted to the Karik as standard jun-94 8000
Brilliant enhancement kit fitted as standard (including the small Gizmo board) this improved the sound quality of the Karik/SPS nov-94 8745
Karik III introduced main board changed from Thru-hole to Surface mount . Also around this serial number, new control board fitted with new type remote receiver, which requires no sensitivity adjustment dec-94 9000
Modifications to the Line Remote Out drive current. To remedy the problem (found on Karik III only) whereby in multi-room applications, very occasionally the line remote out could not supply sufficient current to drive the other products it is connected to. Upgrade available. dec-94 9619
Brilliant SPS upgraded to Slimline Brilliant SPS. Upgrade available. Oct 1995 11000
Software upgrade fixed the programming bug whereby if a sequence of tracks was programmed, which included a track ending in 0 (e.g. 10, 20 etc), the Karik would not always follow the programmed sequence). Upgrade also allows Karik to respond to the Repeat function from the remote control handset. Upgrade available. aug-96 12226
Optomekk upgraded to Mekk 4. The main difference is a more reliable laser tray considerable changes were made to the Optomekk to incorporate this. nov-96 13000
Disc readability mod introduced whereby the ability of the Karik to read poor or damaged CD s was improved by upgrading the cable between the laser and the main board. Upgrade available -- see Discread Modification Procedure. Oct 1997 14200 approx
Optomekk upgraded to replace bungees with a mechanical assembly this removed the bungees (which were prone to compression over time) and decreased noise levels when the jack lifted and lowered. apr-98 15400 approx
Driver IC s (U22 and U23) changed from thru -hole to surface mount type. sep-98 15700 approx
Numerik, introduced 1991, discontinued Sep 1999
NUKI (Numerik Upgrade Kit) fitted as standard -- DAC ICs upgraded -- sound improvement mod May 1993 1300 approx
Brilliant Switch Mode Power Supply fitted as standard. Part no changed to Numerik/SPS May 1994 3000
Brilliant SMPS enhancement fitted as standard (sound improvement) Oct 1994 3307
Slimline Brilliant SMPS fitted as standard. Power supply upgrade. Oct 1995 4000
NUKI introduction S/N has been quoted by two different sources as #1354 and #1398.
Mimik, introduced 1993, discontinued 1999
"Mimik II". Main difference: the usage of surface mount (SMD) electronics in the MimikII, and the usage of through hole components in the MimikI. 1999 (stated year seems wrong) 4000
Sondek LP12, introduced 1973
[ 2,000] 1974 Main bearing liner changed, sub-chassis strengthened, motor control and mains switch changed.
[23,000] 1978 Top plate modified (Linn claim Nirvana kit available this year)
[27,000] 1979 Lid and hinges changed.
[31,826] 1981 February. Nirvana mechanical components. This consisted of 1 new spring kit (3 springs and 6 grommets), 3 large locknuts, 6 small locknuts, 5 black chassis bolts, 2 motor mounting screws, domes, and nuts allowing it to be positioned with better accuracy. 1 motor thrust bearing kit (endcap, spring, ball bearing). 1 new drive belt. The springs changed from zinc coloured to black.
[38,794] 1982 May Valhalla crystal driven electronic power supply made standard.
[53,000] 1984 Enlarged plinth corner bracing.
[54,101] 1984 June. Sub-chassis strengthening bar epoxy glued instead of spot welded.
[60,383] 1985 August. Cap head screws on bearing housing.
[61,090] 1985 September Diode modification to Valhalla.
[n/a] 1985 December. Strengthening blocks on corners of plinth.
1986 Suspension springs improved.
[n/a] 1986 May. New clear lid.
[69,161] 1987 March New Formica and MDF armboard.
[n/a] 1987 March New bearing housing.
[69,591] 1987 April New springs.
[70,000] 1987 Bearing improved with better lining material and tighter tolerances. Change to black oil. Suspension springs improved. Arm board composition improved.
[79,160] New MDF armboard.
[79,700] 1989 Motor thrust pad changed. Valhalla surge guard modification. PCB mains lead (UK).
[81,000] 1989 Harder suspension grommets fitted.
[n/a] 1990 Lingo power supply available as add-on.
[87,047] 1991 Valhalla with 45.
[87,047] motor thrust pad cap added to Lingo models.
[87,206] motor thrust pad cap added to Valhalla models.
[87,672] Introduction of LP12 Basik, Trampolin available.
[87,672] Solid base board replaces hardboard.
[88,950] 1992 Improved top plate fixing.
Linn LP12 Basik introduced.
[90,582] 1993 Cirkus upgrade fitted as standard.
AV5103, introduced june 1996
AV5103 upgraded : Main Processor IC (Zoran IC) Upgraded from A2 to A3 spec -- allows the Limbik software upgrade to function correctly. DSP (digital signal processing) section of the circuitry incorporated onto a 'piggy-back' board instead of the main board -- allowing easier future upgrade. Apr 1997 1450 approx
Limbik Software Installed as standard. Upgrade Available. Sep 1998 1672
Silver AV5103 introduced in addition to the standard Black finish Dec 1999 N/A
DTS decoding capability included as standard. Upgrade available for units > s/n 1450 Jan 2000 3000
Software Upgraded and Display Upgraded. Software Upgrade allows AV5103 to support the INLINE video switcher, which adds up to 6 additional video sources and allows new VFD display to function. See http://www.inlineinc.com for details of Inline switcher. Display upgraded from LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) to VFD type (Vacuum Fluorescent Display) which is much brighter, is coloured blue and is more aesthetically pleasing. Jun 2000 3276
Software Upgraded Main changes:
* Inline Video Switcher can now be controlled via RS232
* Improved controllability of Inline Video Switcher
Mar 2001 622550
Software upgrade to R5B18. Main change: Enhancement of subwoofer performance in DTS mode. June 2001 633950
Kairn/Kairn-Pro, introduced Mar 1991/Aug 1992(-Pro), discontinued 2002(-Pro)
Change Date Serial Kairn Serial Kairn-Pro
Back panel changed - clearance around PH1 & PH2 inputs increased to prevent earth loop May 1991 1100
Software changed additional user functions 7- 9 added. Mar 1992 2384
Control board upgraded. Allows Kairn to be used in Knekt system without any hardware modifications. Apr 1992 2490 approx
Kairn-Pro introduced Aug 1992 N/A N/A
Brilliant Switch Mode Power Supply fitted as standard. Part nos changed to Kairn/SPS and Kairn-Pro/SPS. Dec 1993 5000 5000
Brilliant SMPS enhancement fitted as standard (sound improvement) Oct 1994 5545 5309
Software changed additional user functions 10-12 added. Also, this version of software allowed Kairn/Kairn-pro to be used in a Knekt system Nov 1994 5653 5309
Slimline Brilliant SMPS fitted as standard. Power supply upgrade. Oct 1995 7000 6000
Kolektor, introduced Sep 1998
Power supply upgraded. Changed from transformer to on-board switch-mode power supply (not "Brilliant" though, this is a simpler SMPS).
Software upgraded (V1). Main changes: 1) Volume range changed from 0-60 to 0-100 steps (maximum volume level did not change, just the number of steps -- I do not know whether minimum volume level changed), 2) Volume levels are retained from one input to another when using Source select button, 3) Mute delay at power up to minimise audible noise during power-up sequence. Dec 1999 2178
Software upgraded (V2). Main changes: 1) CD commands .STOP. & .OPEN. no longer automatically switch source to CD, 2) Fixed unmuting bug on power up, will now honour the mute state on power down. Feb 2000 2514
Software upgraded (V3). Main changes . modified volume control to ensure that bass & treble settings are correctly set on power-up. Feb 2002 683683
Wakonda
"Circular brilliant" changed to Brilliant Slimline ? 2500
For a period of time, many reported that the Kolektor had a better linestage than the Wakonda, but recent comparison seem to result in the opposite conclusions, so perhaps a recent upgrade of the Wakonda, sonically important, has taken place.
Majik
Linn Helpline said in December 2002: "there has been no sonic improvements made to them since its launch". However, I recently received information claiming quite the opposite: Change Date S/N
Phono input changed from MM/MC to only MM. At the same time, the variable PSU was exchanged for a single voltage Brilliant PSU. Audible change(?). May 1997 7570
But after publishing the above info, one reader who had owned 3 different Majiks commented that the Majik has in fact always used a transformer PSU. Heh.
Intek, introduced Jan 1990, discontinued Jan 1994
Jun 1990 501372 PCB changed from single sided to double sided board. Improved performance & reliability
Nov 1990 502700 Overall gain reduced by 6dB. Improves low level control of volume and provides increase of overload margin for CD input.
Jan 1991 502852 Upgraded output diodes. Improved sonic performance & reduced distortion
Jan 1991 502989 Volume control poten tiometer upgraded Improved reliability of volume control.
Sep 1991 504695 Major upgrade:
Reduction in THD (total harmonic distortion) in power amp stage
Gain increase of 6dB in pre-amp section
Power amp idling current reduced
Thermistor raised up off board (reliability enhancement)
Klout, introduced Jun 1992, discontinued Oct 2002
"Klouts, as with many long standing Linn products, have undergone several changes - none have been as earth shattering as say putting a brilliant power supply in a Kairn but have improved the sound of the amp. Notably, serial number 2700 there was a shim mod that improved sound qualtiy, serial number 4700 (approx) shake proof washers were added to improve grounding and serial number 5179 they added a capacitor on the transformer connector on the main board which further improved sound qualtiy. The new ones do sound better but the old ones are still great. As far as the crossovers, from serial numbers 200 -1165 there is a tad bit of mucking around to convert them to aktiv but under 200 serial number and over 1165 it is a very basic procedure - quite a similar connection as the LK140."
Aktiv connector replaced with new type. Aktiv link now soldered in place (previous to this it was a mechanical link) Nov 1992 530
Shake-proof washers added to screws that hold transformer in place to improve earth continuity. This improved the sound quality. Dec 1992 592
Added cut-out under rear foot to allow easier access to right hand channel Aktiv link. Apr 1993 1165
Aktiv link added to board (previously Aktiv link had been soldered, as an addition, onto the socket) Mar 1993 1201
Piggy-back board (PCAS 161) upgraded to improve stability of protection circuitry. Nov 1993 1800
Main board (PCAS 160) upgraded to improve Aktiv card compatibility
Shim mod (Mica washers) fitted as standard between power transistors on main board and coupling block. Sound improvement mod. Nov 1994 2700 approx.
Chokes (ferrite rings) fitted to transformer output leads to solve a problem found in a small percentage of Klouts whereby a short mechanical buzz is heard when unit switched on. Mar 1996 3796
Extrusion finish changed to textured paint cosmetic change only Jun 1997 4586
Shake-proof washers added to screws that hold base-plate on to extrusion to improve earth continuity and prevent screws loosening in transit. This improved the sound quality. Jun 1997 4700 approx
Speaker sockets changed to safety compliant type. Mar 1998 5000
Capacitor added to Transformer connector on main board to improve the Klout's immunity to electromagnetic emissions. This improved the sound quality. Jul 1998 5179
2250, introduced sept 2002, discontinued april 2005
Somewhere along the line the 2250 performance is said to have improved markedly. S/N unknown to me. The talk of this change as an important mk1/mk2-distinction is judged by some as pure nonsense.
AV5125, introduced 2001, discontinued april 2005
I know of two changes to the 5125:
* 1) thermal protection circuits of the first versions were apparently a little too eager, making it shut down needlessly often - this has been fixed.
* 2) somewhere along the line the 5125 performance is said to have improved markedly.
For both of these changes, unfortunately I do now know the S/N.
AV5105, introduced June 1996, discontinued March 2002
Speaker sockets changed from 4mm sockets to binding posts Sep 1996 ?
Speaker sockets changed from binding sockets to "Safety Compliant" type sockets Aug 1997 ?
LK85/LK140, introduced mar 1998
LK140: Monolithic (power amplifier) IC's changed. This was mainly due to supply problems with original type but this also gave us the opportunity to change over to a slightly more robust part. Feb 2000 6154
"If your LK140 is post S/N 6300 (April 2000 approx) which is when Linn made a significant improvement to the power amp"
It is worth mentioning that LK85 and LK140 are very similar amps; they even share the very same circuit board! Any information here regarding one of them probably applies to the other aswell, although I can't guarantee it. Do not be fooled into thinking they sound the same though. Although logic suggests they should, they don't. LK85 is a very good amp, but LK140 is better.
A sales ad claimed the LK140 up for sale had been updated in 2003.
LK100
Early specimens had a nice Holden&Fischer transformer, while later ones got a somewhat less good irish transformer. Don't know the S/N for this change.
The earthing of the case has changed a few times, an improvement might be realized by scraping and cleaning the connection points between screw holes and case (below board)
Sn <3000 needs re-soldering to unconnect the aktiv wire harnessess which connect directly to the main board and some resistor reinsertion into the board.
Sn >3000 (approx), the aktiv cards are hooked up similarily to the LK140 connection and the wire harnesses are simply removed and the links resoldered
LK2 (75/80/+Spark), introduced Oct 1985, discontinued Dec 1992
Silicone pads removed from heatsink to improve heat transfer Apr 1986 202505
LK2-75 Introduced upgraded boards from 60 watt to 75 watts per channel Apr 1987 203900
Power supply reservoir capacitors upgraded from 6800uF to 10000uF.Power supply capacitors changed from 4700uF to 10,000uF Mar 1988 203900
LK280 introduced upgraded boards from 75 watt to 80 watts per channel (changed boards from PCAS 003s to PCAS 020s) Jul 1988 205272
Cannon sockets screwed onto board instead of soldered U bracket Dec 1989 208610
Paintwork changed from smooth finish to hard textured finish Jun 1989 208700
Spark power supply introduced. LK280/Spark introduced (no transformer) as an option and LK280 upgrade kit for spark made available. May 1990 N/A
Ninka, introduced October 2000
There are two Katan/Ninka/Trikan tweeter versions around, SPKR 038/1 (with plastik body and very small magnet) and SPKR 038/2 (metal body and larger magnet).
Katan, introduced 2000
There are two Katan/Ninka/Trikan tweeter versions around, SPKR 038/1 (with plastik body and very small magnet) and SPKR 038/2 (metal body and larger magnet).
Also, the passive filter has changed atleast once.
Trikan, introduced 2001
There are two Katan/Ninka/Trikan tweeter versions around, SPKR 038/1 (with plastik body and very small magnet) and SPKR 038/2 (metal body and larger magnet).
Keilidh, introduced Sept 1992
Treble Unit change (From SPKR 015/1 to SPKR 015/2) Oct 1994 23647/8
Treble unit upgraded to SPKR 015/3* Dec 96 39727/8
Bass/mid units upgraded from SPKR 013/2 to /4 Feb 97 40657/8
Tri-amp Keilidh considerations
When using two amplifiers for the Mid/Bass drivers of the Keilidh loudspeaker we recommend that you use matching Aktiv boards, as this will ensure the best performance from the system. Treble boards are not affected.
MONO Boards Part Number Description Serial
Keilaktbass [Original Mono Boards] below serial number 7040
Keilaktbass [New Mono Boards] above serial number 7040
STEREO Boards Part Number Description Serial
Keilaktbass/s [Stereo Board(REV1)] below serial number 2089
Keilaktbass/s [Stereo Board(REV2)] above serial number 2089
Aktiv BASS Board Combinations RECOMMENDED
Amplifier No.1 Amplifier No.2
New Mono Boards & Stereo Board (REV2)
Stereo Board (REV1) & Stereo Board (REV1)
Stereo Board (REV2) & Stereo Board (REV2)
NOT Recommended
Amplifier No.1 Amplifier No.2
Original Mono Boards & New Mono Boards
Original Mono Boards & Stereo Board (REV1)
Original Mono Boards & Stereo Board (REV2)
New Mono Boards & Stereo Board (REV1)
Stereo Board (REV1) & Stereo Board (REV2)
Kaber LS500/2, introduced Sept 1992, discontinued 1999
From Kaber/1 to Kaber/2
New crossovers and midrange unit.
Treble Unit change(From SPKR 015/1 to SPKR 015/2) Oct 1994 12067/8
Mid-range unit upgraded from SPKR 007/4 to /5 Dec 95 13389/90
Treble unit upgraded to SPKR 015/3* Dec 96 14021/2
Kaber, introduced 1989
Kaber LS500/2 introduced
Major upgrade including new treble unit, mid range unit and crossovers. Cabinet damping improved. Mid range inserts changed from M4 to M5. June 1991 6813/4
Crossover: Changed treble response - resistor value changed from 2.7 ohm to 3.3 ohm. Feb. 1991 6,245/6
Cabinet: Design change - baffle attached with screws and glue. Bass Unit: Improved sound quality - unit changed from SPKR 007/1 to SPKR 007/2. Sep. 1989 2,967/8
Index, introduced 1985, discontinued 1992
Grille: Changed from twopart cloth and facade to facade moulded complete with Grille cloth. April 1991 11,435/6
Crossover: Resistor in treble section changed to improve treble response. Feb.1991 9,339/40
Index II
New Design: Index II introduced incorporating changes to the crossover to allow bi-wiring options; new style cabinet with removable facia; change to new type speaker connectors. March 1990 1,001/2*
Treble Unit: Front mountingplate made thicker and larger. Now incorporates the Linn Logo. Aug. 1987 18,701/2
Bass Unit: New style unit, strengthened surround and new cone material June 1987 17,947/8
Crossover: Improved layout May 1987 17,319
Index Plus
Index Plus introduced incorporating cabinet material change: Drive unit positioning changed;crossover modification, improvement in treble response. Sept.1986 10,137/8
*Serial number re-started at 1,001/2 for the Index II
Helix, introduced 1988, discontinued 1993
Bass Unit Upgrade SPKR001/M2 replaced by SPKR 001/M3. Now includes flux ring. M2 no longer available, so if replacing do so in pairs. Aug 1991 16,087/8
Crossover: Treble response improved by changing a resistor value on crossover Feb. 1991 13,395/6
Stand Inserts: Two inserts added to accommodate Ku-stone stand. Mar. 1990 10,599/60
Helix II:
Helix II introduced incorporating changes to cabinet facia, crossover and treble units (SPKR 011/2) now ferro-cooled. Feb. 1990 1,001/2
Note: For spare purposes, original Helix 1 treble unit (SPKR 005/1) has been upgraded to Nexus treble unit (SPKR 010/1) . This will improve performance and slightly increase power handling.
Nexus, introduced 1987, discontinued 1993
Bass Unit Upgrade: SPKR 001/M2 replaced by SPKR 001/M3. Now includes flux ring. M2 no longer available, so replace in pairs. Aug 1991 26,443/4
Crossover: Change to treble response on crossover. Resistor value changed. Feb. 1991 24,833/4
Stand Inserts: Two inserts added to accommodate the Ku-stone stand. (except serial nos. 19,555 - 19,578) Feb. 1990 19,487/8
Bass Unit: Change from M1 to M2 - improved spider. Nov. 1989 18,409/10
Nexus/4:
Introduced Nexus/4. New crossover and treble unit. (2E-140/H repl by SPKR 010/1) Aug. 1989
Vinyl 17,219/20
Wooden cabinets introduced in walnut and black ash finishes. Walnut
Black Ash 15,721/2
15,723/4
Cabinet:Changed from back panel mounted crossover to internally fitted on back of cabinet. Sockets changed to colour coded type. Dec. 1988 12,129/30
Stand Insert:Changed to diagonal layout on base of speaker. Oct. 1988 11,611/2
Baffle:Colour changed from light gray to dark grey. Oct. 1988 11,216/2
Crossover:Added two capacitors. Damping added in speaker port. Sep. 1988 10,617/8
Kan, introduced 1979, discontinued 1993
KU-STONE Fitted to speakers, units now fitted with gaskets instead of silicone. (Upgrade not retrofittable) Sept.91 48,489/90
Crossover: Revision no. changed to PCAS 134/L4R4 Mar. 1989 42,601/2
Kan II:
Kan II introduced. Incorporates changes to crossover; bi-wired option; change in position of treble unit. Jan. 1989 41,905/6
Crossover: Capacitors improved to Bennic type. Feb. 1988 39,005/6
Bass Unit: Improved performance. Dec. 1985 33,005/6
Sockets: Changed to Linn 4 mm metal socket. Crossover change. Feb. 1985 26,791/2
Treble Unit: Smoother response. Linn logo incorporated on front plate. Crossover revision. May 1984 24,077/8
Crossover: Resistor added in parallel to treble coil. Feb. 1983 20,005/6
Unit Damping: Unit painted with sound deadening material.
Cabinet: Material changed to medite. May 1982 19,153/4
Drive Units: Bass units painted with sound deadening paint - silicone sealant Mar. 1982 18,501/2
Cabinet: Damped with KuStone and drive units are mounted with discrete gaskets instead of mastic. This was the final incarnation of the Kan. Sep 1991 48489
MajorRevision: Kan II introduced: this involved a change to a biwirable crossover (with 4 sockets) and a move in the tweeter positioning (mounted 7mm more forward than before on an substantially improved front baffle). Jan 1989
Bass Unit: Change to new long throw low frequency driver Kef B110B. May 1985
Connections: Changed from binding posts to the new style 4mm sockets. Feb 1985
Tweeters: Change to Hiquphone tweeters, which gave a flatter response. Having the Linn logo printed on the front plate, along with "LINN PRODUCTS" identifies these. The plate also has 2 concentric circles printed on it. May 1984 24077
Cabinets: Changed to Medite cabinet and began doping the B110 with some sticky black mastic for damping purposes. 1982
Introduction: Scanspeak tweeter. Original unmodified KEF B110 bass drivers. Cabinet essentially made of chipboard. The speaker used 4mm binding posts. Pre 1982
KAN UPDATE
David Neel (2010-12-30) Wrote:The very early Kan serial numbers appear to be wrong. I have access to two sets currently - s/n 214xx/y were bought April 83, so this tallies with the history. But, s/n 168xx/y were bought in Sep 82. Linn have confirmed the manufacturing date (Sep 82) and dealer, and that they differ from the newer pair only in lacking the treble resistor. The info I've quoted above would suggest that s/n 168xx/y were much earlier, and with the chipboard cabinet.
Isobarik, introduced 1973, discontinued 1992
Speaker, Major Upgrade: Addition of KU-STONE ceramic absorber, units and back now sealed with gaskets instead of silicone, improved cabinet bracing (Upgrade not retrofittable) Dec. 1991 8293/4
Crossover: New 4 ohm external fitted in stand. Facility for tri-wiring. DMS no longer made as PMS can be used with either passive (4 ohm) or Aktiv crossover. 1988 6701/2
Treble Unit: Cosmetic improvement. Fitted with countersunk screws. Sept.1987 6201/2
Cabinet: Crossover now in bottom of speaker - accessible from underneath. Facility for converting easily to tri-wiring or to active. 1987 5575/6
Midrange Units: Improved rubber surround to harder rubber. Apr.1986 4953/4
Cabinet: Construction improved (internal sealing and damping) Dec. 1985 4825/6
Crossover/Treble Units: Improved pcb with wider tracks and better layout. Treble units also changed to give a smoother response. Linn logo incorporated on front plate. May 1984 3939/40
Bass/Midrange Units: Sound deadening material painted on bass and midrange units. Mar.1983 3000/1
Cabinet: Changed from chipboard to MDF and veneered on both sides. Jan. 1982 2859/60
Treble Unit: Fitted with t-nuts. Oct. 1981 2741/2
Wiring: Changed internally to common earth at cannon socket. Mar. 1980 11,035/6
Treble Unit: Scanspeak treble unit replaced with Hiquphon unit. Recognised by two concentric rings on unit. Feb. 1980 10,925/6
Midrange Unit: Vented. Nov. 1979 10,800/1
Damping: Midrange enclosure and cabinet damping changed. Sep. 1978 10283/4
Current cabinet style adopted. Sep. 1976
Sara, introduced 1978, discontinued 1989
Crossover: Bi-wiring introduced to Sara 9 Oct. 1988 20,913/4
Sara 9: Introduced, incorporating changes to treble unit (countersunk screws), bass unit (white disc removed and plastic surround changed to thicker rubber), crossover (now 4 ohm) Sept. 1987 18,299/300
Sockets: Replaced cannon sockets with two 4 mm sockets. Jun. 1985 16,300/1
Bass Unit: Surround changed to plastic material. May 1985 16,051/2
Treble Unit: Smoother response. Incorporates Linn logo on front plate. May 1984 14,731/2
Crossover: Resistor added in parallel with treble coil. Feb. 1983 13,249/50
Unit Damping: Painted with sound deadening paint. Cabinet Material: Material change; now has rounded front. Mar. 1982 10,850/1
Drive Unit: Sealer changed from mastic to silicone sealant. Jan. 1980 10,440/1
Baffle: Changed from welded plastic to one piece moulded carbon filled ABS with removable ring for front bass unit. Bass unit venting increased. Oct. 1979 10,280/81
Sekrit IN-Wall, introduced April 94
Sekrit ON-Wall, introduced Dec 94
Centrik, introduced July 94, discontinued April 96 (replaced by AV 5120)
Treble Unit change (From SPKR 015/1 to SPKR 015/2) Oct 1994 1262
Tukan, introduced Nov 93
Treble Unit change (From SPKR 015/1 to SPKR 015/2) Oct 1994 5277/8
Treble unit upgraded to SPKR 015/3* Dec 96 15127/28
Keltik, introduced nov 1991
KELTIK AKTIV crossover replaced by KELTAKTAMP Aktiv crossover boards. See Install manual for details. Aug 1993 N/A
Metal stand changed to Composite material. Sept 1994 1043/44
Treble unit changed from SPKR 015/1 to 15/2 Oct 1994 1099/100
KELTAKTAMP Upgrade to Aktiv Bass boards May 95 (Keltaktamp sn 605)
Mid-range unit upgraded from SPKR 007/4 to /5 Jan 96 1519/20
Treble unit upgraded to SPKR 015/3 - New treble unit easily identified by 'Bull-bars' instead of Mesh grill. Dec 96 1729/30
There are also additional upgrades available that are not officially endorsed by Linn themselves but often recommended by Linn dealers (will void your warranty):
* Treble unit upgrade to SPKR 038/2 (the so called "Ninka tweeters")
* Mid-range unit upgrade to 007/6
One reader said that there was also a midrange driver upgrade somewhere around 2000, but that it was of no great sonic importance.
Classik, introduced March 1998
It seems the Classik-T had a CD Transport upgrade and at least one OS upgrade to prevent static when changing sources.
Classik Movie DI
A quite large software update is available for all CMS DI's with serial <975037.
Unidisk[1.1/1.2/SC]/Kisto/Kinos/Exotic[+]
The new A/V source and control products have had so many firmware upgrades that I can't keep track. Go to http://linnstuff.proboards19.com/index.c...rd=History for information on these products, Stephen seems to make a brave effort to keep track .
Cables
Power cables are said to have improved over the years (IIRC, Fredrik Lejonklou made some posts about this in the Topica forum, a search should turn them up), while no indications of changes to the standard Linn Black analogue cable have been noted (although newer analogues have a different feel to them). The Silver Cable seems to be unaffected thus far.
Active Cards
There are two types of aktiv board: - mono and stereo.
Mono fit in LK100/200 and channel-1 of the AV5125 Stereo fit in LK85/LK140/AV5125 (channels 2/3 and 4/5), and the 2250
Stereo cards have 2 * bass sections or 2 * treble on the same card, but there is a hybrid card for centre speakers. I.E for 2 stereo speakers you need 4 * mono or 2 * stereo cards for minimum aktiv configuration The cards are all different, except below shows what speakers use the same boards:-
* 5120/Kelidh/Ninka bass mono cards
* Tukan/Sekrit/Katan bass mono cards
* 5120/Tukan/Sekrit/Kelidh/Ninka/Katan treble mono cards
* Kaber/Keltik treble mono cards
*
* Kelidh/Ninka treble stereo cards
* Kelidh/Ninka bass stereo cards
* Tukan/Katan treble stereo cards
Discread Modification Procedure
There's an update kit for the Mimik and Karik called "Discread" that involves changing a wiring harness and a surface mount component. This kit may be obtained from the local importer/ditributor or possibly your local retailer, who should be tried first. This kit improves tracking capability and optimises the performance of the transport to a higher degree than previously attained. The kit improves reading of poor or damaged CD's.
Mimik/Karik spare availability
Karik & Mimik * Some spares now unavailable
Our stock of certain replacement parts * some laser trays & lasers * has now been exhausted (details below). The Linn purchasing team have devoted a considerable amount of time, since the discontinuation of these laser models by the manufacturer, in an attempt to source the parts but have found that they are unavailable for purchase worldwide.
I am sure you will appreciate that this situation is entirely beyond our control and is a result of changes affecting the consumer electronics industry in general. At Linn, we take great pride in the longevity of our products and in our service backup. Service support for products 10 - 20 (and more) years old is highly unusual in this business but is not uncommon for Linn and therefore this situation is one that, while beyond our control, is also disappointing to us.
Linn will continue to support these products in every other way and the issue affects only failures requiring laser or laser-tray replacement. Also, in order to demonstrate our commitment to existing customers, anyone affected by this issue will be offered a guaranteed trade-in price for their Karik or Mimik against the purchase of an Ikemi or Genki. If you have a product that you think may be affected, please contact the staff at Linn Service for advice, who can also advise on the trade-in pricing.
Information * laser trays & lasers
The laser tray is the small platform that supports and guides the laser & drives the disc. It contains the disc motor (which spins the disc), the sled motor (which drives the laser), the guide rods (which hold & guide the laser) and associated wiring and mechanical parts. The lasers can be replaced on the laser tray; hence the two parts are mentioned as separate entities in this instance. The motors on the tray have been known to fail on occasion.
Karik / Mimik models & parts affected:
* Kariks < s/n: 12999 Lasers & laser trays unavailable Linn part no: MCP 584
* Kariks > s/n: 13000 Laser trays unavailable. Lasers available Linn part no: MCP 812
* Mimiks (all ser/nos) Laser trays unavailable. Lasers available Linn part no: MCP 812
LP12 (Radikal, Keel, Ekos SE, Klyde), Linto, Kikkin, 4200, 140s
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