Linn Klimax System Hub

The Klimax System Hub is the hub variant of Linn's Klimax tier — built into the same machined aluminium enclosure as the Klimax DSM, but configured specifically for use at the centre of a Klimax Exakt active system. At £17,500, it is for those who are building around Klimax 350 speakers or an Exaktbox with external Organik DAC, and who do not need the Klimax DSM's internal full-output DAC because the DAC is already in the speakers or the Exaktbox itself.

It is the correct choice when Exakt Link is the primary output path and the DAC performance will be provided by the endpoint, not the source hub.

What the System Hub Does Differently

The Klimax DSM and the Klimax System Hub share the same chassis, the same Utopik power supply, the same ADC for analogue sources, and the same connectivity — including Exakt Link outputs, balanced XLR and RCA analogue outputs, HDMI eARC, and full network streaming capability. The distinction is in the primary output architecture.

The Klimax System Hub is designed for Exakt systems where the Organik DAC resides in the loudspeaker or Exaktbox — Klimax 350 speakers, for example, carry their own Organik DAC on board. In this configuration, the digital signal leaves the System Hub via Exakt Link as a bitstream and is converted to analogue inside the speaker or Exaktbox, as close to the drive unit as possible. The hub manages the source, the network, the analogue inputs, and the system control — and passes the digital signal downstream with the minimum of interference.

The same enhanced low-distortion ADC found in the current Klimax DSM is present in the System Hub, giving connected analogue sources — a turntable, a CD transport, an analogue source of any kind — the best possible conversion before the signal enters the digital domain.

Connectivity and Integration

The Klimax System Hub provides the full Klimax connectivity suite: Exakt Link outputs for Linn Exakt speakers and Exaktboxes, balanced XLR and RCA analogue outputs for conventional amplification where needed, HDMI with eARC for television audio, and a USB Type-B input for direct computer connection as a standalone DAC.

Network connectivity covers Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45 and SFP optical), Wi-Fi 802.11ac, and Bluetooth 4.2. Supported streaming services include Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Deezer, and Roon Ready. Maximum digital resolution is 24-bit/384 kHz, with DSD256 support.

Space Optimisation is built in — the same mathematical room correction available across the DSM range, applied at source before the signal leaves for the speakers. At Klimax system level, Space Optimisation is not optional; it is integral to getting the system to perform correctly in a real room.

The precision-cut glass dial with customisable smart buttons and high-resolution display are shared with the Klimax DSM — the physical interaction is identical. Each Klimax product is assembled and signed at Linn's Glasgow factory.

Technical Specifications

Who Is It For?

The Klimax System Hub is for the listener building a complete Klimax Exakt active system — specifically those using Klimax 350 speakers or an Exaktbox with Organik DAC, where the conversion is handled at the endpoint rather than at the hub. In that configuration, the System Hub is the correct and more cost-efficient choice over the full Klimax DSM.

Those who need the Klimax DSM's full internal DAC for use with conventional passive speakers and separate amplification should choose the Klimax DSM instead. If the destination is a fully active Exakt system, the System Hub is designed precisely for that.

Paired with the Linn 360, the Klimax System Hub is the hub component of Linn's reference system — the 360's own Organik DAC handles conversion, and the Hub manages everything upstream.

Buying from Martin's Hi-Fi

Martin's Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968, and the Linn range has been part of what we do for years. We are still family-run — Ted Martin's daughter Elizabeth runs the business today — and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind.

Choosing between the Klimax System Hub and the Klimax DSM depends on what is downstream — it is a conversation worth having properly before ordering, and we can demonstrate both configurations in Norwich.

Reach them at dave@martinshifi.co.uk, chris@martinshifi.co.uk, info@martinshifi.co.uk, call on 01603 627010, or WhatsApp Dave or Chris directly on 07554 687137. You can read more about who we are and how we work on our Why Martin's page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY, open six days a week.

Contact: info@martinshifi.co.uk | 01603 627010 | WhatsApp: 07554 687137 | 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY