Linn have just announced the replacement of the current Majik DSM with a new "super" version. The new version features 11 digital inputs, including 4 HDMI inputs, bringing it in line with the other DSM models. The pricing of the new version in the US will be $4750 and it will start shipping April 16th. The current version will still be available to order at the current $4200US price until April 16th for those not interested in the additional functionality.
In addition to the functional changes there will also be cosmetic and usability updates to the Majik DSM AND all the rest of the Majik electronics line. All units will now have a power switch located underneath the front panel, similar to the Akurate gear, allowing easier turn off of components to reduce energy consumption. The feet have been made taller to accommodate this change. The front fascias of the Majik components will now be metal instead of plastic and the black units will have black fascias (Yeah!). Finally all units other than power amps will come with the new simplified remote control REM 020 pictured below. This started shipping with the Klimax and Akurate DSM models but is also now shipping with the KK/2 and likely others. It looks to become the standard remote for all Linn products now that the AV products are gone. I have to say we are all happy about the change here as we find the new remote much less cluttered and easier to use. Software for newer Linn electronics allows assigning three of the new buttons to the most often used inputs. The remote is slimmer than the model it replaces and I generally find the buttons most often used are conveniently placed.
Is there any word about improved performance on the new majik series? I am less interested in hdmi and digital connections, more in SQ.
I image the sturdier and full metal casework could have an influence.
But seeing the EU pricebump from 3000 to 3500 euro I would expect more than a different casework, extra connections and a reworked remote. That's over 16% price increase on what actually is Linns entry level integrated model. I can see it may drive starters away from their first Linn purchase, now that there are so many other streaming competitors on the market.
Unless Linn is to introduce a Sneaky DS with inputs shortly afterwards....or start promoting the Sekrit DSI as a real option. Now it is just hidden as an installers thing, while it could be a perfect alternative for Naims Uniqute. Linn needs to have an all-in-one device in the lower range as well.
If this were all, I may be temted to pick up one of those ex-dealer MDSIs who are going now for 2200 euro, and are probably gone by the time the new Majik series are being introduced on the 27th of April
Any idea if the olders series can be updated to the newer casework?
Would be cool if I could finally have an all-black 6100.
I thinks the Akurate line actually did have this option?
SInce Linn still have not put out full details on the new Majik DSM my answers here will be mostly speculative. To the best of my knowledge there are no performance improvements in the new unit. One of the Linn employees stated on their forum that he was unaware of any performance improvements as well so I suspect it is just the addition of the HDMI inputs. The only way we will know for sure is when some of the dealers start getting them and comparisons can be made.
As to the casework, I don't believe the main casework will actually be changing. On the black units with displays the display section will change from silver to black but the rest of the casework remains the same if I am correct. I get no sense from the announcement that the casework will be anything like the Akurate design and it was stated that only the units with displays would have the facia change (in other words, the power amps and Lingo will remain the same). The only other difference will be the taller feet since the power switch will be on the bottom in the front.
From the sound of it the power amps will probably still have the small silver nameplate on the front but I'm not sure. If they do change it I would think you would be able to order a new replacement.
We are honestly less than thrilled with the price increase as well. It just makes it a bit further step for those looking at an affordable system. I can only hope that a more full-featured Sneaky or similar will fill in the gap between the current Sneaky and the MDSM. We shall see.
