FAQ - Power Amplifiers

Can I use a mixture of different amplifiers in my system?
You can mix different Linn power amplifier models in your system with no problem as all Linn power amplifiers have very similar gain settings. There may be complications if Linn power amplifiers were to be mixed with other brands in an audio system and this may also compromise sonic performance.

Can I power more than one set of loudspeakers from one amplifier?
Linn amplifiers are primarily designed to drive only one pair of loudspeakers. Driving more than one set of loudspeakers means that the amplifier will work harder than normal and this may cause it to overheat. No harm should come to your equipment if this happens, as Linn power amplifiers and integrated amplifiers incorporate sophisticated protection circuitry that will temporarily shut down the amplifier as a safety measure. It is usually possible to drive more than one set of loudspeakers; however, it is advised that certain precautions are taken to minimise the possibility of problems arising. These include:

1. Evaluate the combined input impedance of the loudspeakers: the lower the combined impedance, the harder the amplifier will have to work. For example, two sets of 4 ohm speakers in parallel equals a combined impedance of 2 ohms.
2. Be aware of your volume setting, the type of music being played and the length of time for which it is played. For example, playing aggressive music at volume 95 for 2 hours will work the amplifier much harder and heat it up much more than playing relatively tranquil music at volume 15.
3. Is the amplifier well ventilated? Poor ventilation and/or airflow around the amplifier does not allow generated heat to escape and overheating may occur.
4. Keep ambient temperature in the vicinity of the amplifier low if possible. The warmer the air around the amplifier, the hotter it will become as it also generates its own heat.

The secret, when driving more than one set of loudspeakers, is to maximise the favourable factors (good ventilation, sensible volume levels, favourable combined speaker impedance etc).

Should I daisy-chain multiple amplifiers or connect them in parallel?
There are no sonic differences between either the daisy-chained or parallel method. Daisy chaining would be necessary if you are using more power amplifiers than you have outputs from your pre-amplifier. The signal line input is directly connected to the line output of the same amplifier and therefore in the daisy-chain method, it is not critical which amplifier is connected to the output of the pre-amplifier, provided that the treble power amplifier is connected to the treble input of the loudspeaker and the bass power amplifier is connected to the bass input of the loudspeaker.

What are the benefits of multiple amplifiers?
When multi-amping, separate amplifiers are connected to the loudspeakers drive units or sets of drive units. This technique not only provides more power, but also results in better control of the drivers and reduces any possibility of interaction between the drive units. The result is a significant improvement in performance and is also the interim step before Aktiv configuration.

Please note – it is vital that the links at the rear of a Linn loudspeaker are properly configured before multi-amping to prevent possible damage to the power amplifiers. If you are in any doubt, please contact your retailer.

What is Chakra?
Chakra is the name given to a revolutionary circuit topology used in newer Linn amplifiers which combines bi-polar transistors with a monolithic circuit. The result is a highly efficient circuitry which runs cooler than any previous design. Chakra technology was first introduced as an upgrade to the Klimax Twin amplifier and later incorporated in the Sizmik sub-woofer. It is now used in our range of Majik and Akurate amplifiers which are available with various numbers of channels and power ratings.

How do I fit Aktiv modules?
Aktiv modules are fitted internally to Linn amplifiers and require specialist tools and training. As such we only recommend that they be fitted by an authorised retailer.

Which Aktiv modules should I choose for my system?
There are a number of different factors which determine the type of Aktiv module that is needed in an audio system. The majority of modules are specific to the loudspeaker used but may also be different depending on the type of amplifier used. In all cases, your retailer will be able to advise and supply the correct type.

What’s the difference between Majik 2100 and the discontinued Chakra 2100?
The Majik 2100 offers the same performance level and functionality as a C2100 did. The main differences are a more solid build from the updated metalwork to match the other Majik products and a new vent design for better airflow and cooling. The C2100 will no longer be manufactured, but the other Majik amplifiers remain.