Bass is not as tight and clean as the higher-end amps and it seems to emphasize mid-bass. Soundstage and dynamics are right on par or better for its pricerange. I've used this amp at full capacity for extened periods of time. I'm giving it an extra star for its no hastle, no repair longevity and value for the money. Christmas Tree Lights Installation

None . .

highs,mids,lows,harmony rythym.

haven't really noticed any yet.

Guys, I’ve just finished my first evening with my new Linto. I have a vahalla/cirkus/ittok II/klyde and a kairn(phono/brillant) and klout. This thing seems to have made a bigger improvement than any of the other source upgrades I’ve made (from a linn axis to LP12, I think I went through every one I possibly could). All I know is this thing seems to change the character of every record in my collection in terms of harmony, tempo, and general high/mid/low sonics. The bass is not quite as strong, but it is much more articulate and tuneful. That seems to let me go a little louder on the volume which is really in fact like getting a bit larger power amp in the deal to boot. I got lucky and got mine used from a guy who is now running an asthetix IO (megabuck) phono. He says the linto does surprisingly well against it (although not quite the equal of course). Even though I got mine for $1000 slightly used, I would have to admit that the full new price of $1700 still makes it a really economical upgrade. A used kairn pro w/brilliant (easily had for $1000) and a new linto has got to be a tough duo to beat at only $2700. Oh, BTW, I’ve come across lots of people that claim that the linn stuff is way overrated and way overpriced. Well then, why do I have to spend THREE TIMES THE PRICE OF MY EXISTING COMPONENT if I want to upgrade to ANY different brand? I have even myself questioned my dealers sales pitch that “even if I spend more on a different brand it won’t sound as good “, so I do it anyway, and damn it, that’s exactly how it ends up! Oh well, I can’t wait to abscound on a lingo and ekos. I think I read in a linto review a while back that after getting one of these you’ll end up with records everywhere all over the tables & floor from listening to one after another nonstop. I’m having the same problem.

Similar Products Used:

Audio Research Krell (auditions)

Quiet, dynamic, musical

Too neutral?

First I used the Linto with my Troika cartridge and it was an amazing improvement compared to the Wakonda. Resulution, dynamics and I got a whole new record collection! I still sensed that the level of out put was on the low side and I did not really get the macro dynamics that I wanted.

Then I changed to the Arkiv B and everything snapped into place. I Basically have no complains. It was clear that the limitations I percieved earlier were on the cartridge side not the phono stage.

I now have basically a "master tape" feel from my LP playback. It is definitly not "bloomy" or "rosy" or "warm" - it just sounds right - for me. It is the natural upgrade for all Linnies with Karins or Wakondas and you will not be disipointed.

Similar Products Used:

Wakonda phono stage, Home built phone stage

perfect for low output Linn moving coil cartridges

only good with a LP12/Linn cart? maybe I don't know

System
LP12/Ittok/Klyde or Troika
Croft Vitale SC pre amp (line only
Quad II valve power amps
Quad 57's

various cables I can't be arsed to name.

The outputs of my Linn Klyde and Troika MC carts is too low for any normal preamp that I've come across - so I needed a drastic, affordable solution. I listened to the EAR 834,whilst good it's a bit woolly to use with the LP12 and Quad stuff.

The Linn Linto seemed the only way to go, the box is as boring as you can get- one black box and an on and off switch, BUT the improvement in sound over other MC stages was phenominal, after 3 yrs it still amazes me.

IF you use any low output MC I'd recommend it.

tim

Similar Products Used:

Rotel RQ970, Quad phono stages, EAR 834