Linn Pre-Amp Comparison: Karin vs. Exotik vs. Klimax Kontrol

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I was given an excellent demonstration comparing the Karin vs. the Exotik vs. the Klimax Kontrol at Sound Organisation in York. The system consisted of the following:
Source: Fully upgraded LP12 with Akiva Cartridge and Linto Phono Stage
Amplifiers: 2 Klimax Mono Amps
Speakers: B&W Signature 805s
Music: Fleetwood Mac - Big Lies, Schubert: Quartet No. 14 "Death .."
I presently have the Karin pre-amp and listen exclusively to lps through a fully upgraded LP12 with an Arkiv B cartridge. See my system page for details. When I met Ivor of Linn about a year ago, his first words to me were "You must hear the Klimax Kontrol pre-amp, you will be amazed." Well, I'm finally getting around to it.
My understanding is that the Exotik was derived from the Kontrol and shares much of the circuitry, but not the aluminum Castle Engineering chassis. The Kontrol is really out of my price range, so I was excited to hear about the Exotik.
We started with the Karin. The sound was familiar, and similar to my home system. With the Exotik, dynamics opened way up, but there was also an edginess that reminded me of the 2250 power amp which I found to be less musical than the Klout. While the Exotic is clearly much better than the Karin, I wondered whether the bright edge would be tiring. We then moved to the Klimax Kontrol. Wow! The pre-amp simply disappeared and the music showed through. All the dynamics of the Excite, but without any edgyness - nor any other coloration or character that I could notice, for that matter. The music had incredible dynamics, pacing and liveliness without any bright edginess - all sounding very natural. Ivor was right. I am amazed with this pre-amp. I had no idea a pre-amp could make such a dramatic difference. Keeping in mind that the Karin is an excellent pre-amp, the Kontrol sets a new standard. I'm ready to buy it, as soon as my bank account and my wife are ready for it!
Enjoy!,
Jim E

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Topic - Linn Pre-Amp Comparison: Karin vs. Exotik vs. Klimax Kontrol - Jim E 16:30:08 07/07/04 (0)

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