Linn proclaims the worldwide launch of its Klimax Solo 800 reference monoblock energy amplifier.
Linn’s Klimax Solo 800 is the Glasgow-based agency’s first passively cooled mono energy amplifier. It guarantees “distinctive readability” from 400W into 8Ω, 800W into 4Ω, proper as much as 1.2kW into 2Ω.
We’re informed that Linn’s digital engineers targeted on reaching final ‘consistency’ and ‘accuracy’ that includes novel and authentic Linn applied sciences which mix to “produce staggeringly low distortion measurements (THD+N, 8Ω 0.0004% 1kHz, 400W), with excellent signal-to-noise ratio (98 dB Ref 1W, 20kHz A-wt), and unimaginable effectivity”.
The low distortion measurements are as a result of dynamic monitoring and error-correcting in real-time through a number of digital and analogue suggestions loops deployed all through the amp, so says the producer.
Gilad TiefenbrunLinn’s CEO, informed StereoNET:
As that is our first foray into the high-power, passively cooled amplifier class, we’re acutely conscious that we have now to outperform some robust, established incumbents. The problem was to use our distinctive experience in each analogue and digital electronics engineering to set a brand new normal in audio amplification. The ensuing distortion and noise measurements are decrease than something the trade has seen. Solo 800 drives even essentially the most demanding loudspeakers extra assuredly than its competitor amplifiers. We’re assured that prospects will hear the distinction.
Klimax Solo is a Class AB amplifier, and as such, it requires a ‘candy spot’ bias present to minimise transistor crossover distortion. Nevertheless, this bias present can drift removed from ultimate over the amplifier’s lifespan, so the Solo 800 is provided with the corporate’s Adaptive Bias Management know-how (debuted in Linn’s 2023 flagship 360 Exakt Built-in loudspeaker).
Linn tells us that the optimum bias present is established dynamically by measuring, sampling and digitising the present equipped to the transistors. This information is handed to an FPGA that calculates the bias corresponding to those measured present ranges. It then implements a digital management loop to carry this measured bias level at its ultimate degree for every transistor.
The obvious result’s that Linn’s Solo 800 ensures the optimum bias is utilized and persistently adjusted to be ultimate – at any temperature, no matter quantity or demanding dynamic modifications within the supply materials – all through the product’s lifespan.
Moreover, using “Linn’s distinctive mixture of digital and analogue experience”, the Solo 800’s inside levels have been optimised and linearised to supply “exceedingly excessive efficiency” constantly in all circumstances.
The Solo 800’s analogue output stage is blessed by “solely the perfect transistors obtainable.” Linn combines eight pairs of them in parallel to make sure linearity as much as and past the amplifier’s spectacular ranking. Linn states that this leads to the the amp’s output impedance being divided by eight, giving Solo 800 the flexibility to drive massive audio system with tough masses proper throughout the audio band with no tail-off in efficiency as the amount is turned up. The truth is, we’re assured that the louder it goes, “the extra astonishingly managed it’s”.
The Solo 800 additionally sports activities Linn’s all-new Utopik switch-mode energy provide topology, boasting precision-regulated, independently remoted energy rails. In line with the spec sheet, this generates 2kW most energy output while retaining pace, responsiveness and consummate effectivity.
Moreover, if the mains enter varies, the output all the time stays steady and ultra-pure. Linn says it favours switch-mode energy provides for his or her amplifiers as they’re extra environment friendly and have higher electromagnetic isolation. Lastly, any noise they generate happens exterior the band of human listening to.
With Utopik for Solo 800, Linn has progressed a step additional to minimise switching noise and enhance effectivity by utilising a way referred to as ‘soft-switching’; a resonant tank circuit ensures that voltage throughout the ability provide swap falls to zero earlier than the swap is thrown.
Klimax Solo 800 options excellent warmth administration by straight mounting the amplifier and energy provide circuitry to the critically environment friendly, massive floor space heatsinks. This cool-running design is crucial to delivering distinctive readability as much as 1.2kW into 2Ω.
Inside parts share warmth evenly and additional profit from pure aspiration. Easy convection attracts cool air into hidden decrease vents, absorbing warmth earlier than being expelled silently from the low-profile rectangular vent on the Klimax Solo 800’s prime floor.
The fascia contains a back-lit roundel highlighted by 100 particular person cool-toned LEDs. Along with trying fabulous, the Linn roundel communicates the amplifier’s standing to the seated listener. Brightness might be set at three ranges through a easy swap on the product’s rear.
Klimax Solo 800 is offered in two finishes – black-anodised or pure silver anodised faceplate – and offered in pairs for £75,000.
