Audio T Verdict
The Linn 360 Passive with Aktiv Bass is the version of Linn's flagship loudspeaker for listeners who want to retain control over the external amplification used to drive the main speaker array.
Its tweeter, midrange and upper-bass drivers operate through an exceptionally low-resonance passive crossover, while the two lower-bass drivers in each cabinet are powered by Linn's integrated Power DAC system.
It combines the freedom of a high-quality separates system with the scale, depth and control of an active bass loudspeaker. Careful amplifier matching and professional setup are essential, but the result can be a remarkably transparent and physically convincing musical performance.
Linn 360 Passive with Aktiv Bass Floorstanding Speakers
The Linn 360 Passive with Aktiv Bass, also known as the 360 PWAB, is a four-way floorstanding loudspeaker combining externally powered upper-frequency drivers with an internally amplified lower-bass system.
The tweeter, midrange and upper-bass drivers form Linn's 360 Array. These drivers are connected to a specially developed passive crossover and require suitable external power amplification.
The two lower-bass drivers in each loudspeaker are controlled by Linn's integrated Power DAC technology. This allows the bass system to be optimised specifically for its drive units and enclosure rather than relying entirely on the partnering amplifier.
This arrangement makes the 360 PWAB particularly suitable for customers who already own reference-level amplification or who want the freedom to build a system around their preferred source, pre-amplifier and power amplifiers.
What Does Passive with Aktiv Bass Mean?
The 360 PWAB is not a fully passive loudspeaker and it is not the same as Linn's fully integrated Exakt version.
The upper three drive units use an analogue passive crossover and are powered by an external amplifier. The two lower-bass drivers use dedicated amplification and digital control built into each loudspeaker.
Externally Amplified
- Thin-ply woven carbon-dome tweeter
- Thin-ply woven carbon-dome midrange driver
- Aluminium upper-bass driver
- Ultra-low-resonance passive crossover
- External power amplifier required
Internally Amplified
- Two long-throw lower-bass drivers
- Integrated Linn Power DAC technology
- Independent bass control in each speaker
- Balanced XLR or speaker-level signal input
- Mains connection required for each cabinet
The Linn 360 Array
The upper section of each loudspeaker contains Linn's three-driver 360 Array.
It consists of a 19 mm thin-ply woven carbon-dome tweeter, a 64 mm thin-ply woven carbon-dome midrange driver and a 190 mm aluminium upper-bass driver.
The use of dedicated drive units allows each part of the frequency range to be reproduced by a diaphragm developed for that particular task.
The tweeter handles the highest frequencies, while the larger midrange dome reproduces voices and instruments through the central part of the audible spectrum. The upper-bass driver provides weight and impact while integrating the Array with the internally powered lower-bass system.
Both dome drivers are designed to provide wide and controlled dispersion. This helps the loudspeaker create a stable and spacious stereo image without restricting the best listening experience to an excessively narrow central position.
Thin-Ply Woven Carbon Diaphragms
Linn uses thin-ply woven carbon for the tweeter and midrange diaphragms.
The material combines low mass with high strength and stiffness, allowing the diaphragms to respond quickly while resisting unwanted flexing.
Controlling the behaviour of the diaphragm helps reduce resonances that could otherwise add an identifiable character to voices, instruments and high-frequency detail.
The intention is not to make the loudspeaker sound artificially bright or analytical, but to allow more of the recording's tonal detail, space and dynamics to be heard without obvious colouration from the drive units.
190 mm Aluminium Upper-Bass Driver
The 190 mm aluminium upper-bass driver operates between the large midrange dome and the two lower-bass units.
It provides the speed and physical scale needed to reproduce drums, bass instruments and the lower harmonics of voices without asking the midrange driver to move through an unnecessarily large excursion.
Its integration with the active lower-bass system is particularly important. The transition between the passive and active sections must remain controlled so that the listener hears one coherent loudspeaker rather than separate upper and lower-frequency systems.
Twin Pistonik Lower-Bass Drivers
Two 220 mm long-throw aluminium bass drivers are positioned in the lower section of each cabinet.
These drive units use Linn's Pistonik motor system, developed to maintain controlled and highly linear movement across an unusually wide range of excursion.
The drivers can therefore move a substantial volume of air while remaining under close control during demanding low-frequency passages.
This gives the 360 the ability to reproduce the scale and physical impact of large instruments, electronic bass and orchestral recordings without allowing the low frequencies to become detached from the rest of the music.
Linn Power DAC Bass System
The two lower-bass drivers in each loudspeaker are powered by Linn's Power DAC technology.
In a conventional digital system, the signal normally passes through a digital-to-analogue converter before being sent to a separate analogue power amplifier.
Linn Power DAC combines digital conversion and amplification within a more direct process. This extends the digital signal path, reduces the number of separate conversion stages and allows the amplifier to be developed specifically for the connected bass drivers.
The system also gives Linn precise control over the low-frequency response of the drive units and cabinet. The result is designed to provide deep bass extension, substantial output and lower levels of audible distortion without requiring an excessively large enclosure.
Ultra-Low-Resonance Passive Crossover
The tweeter, midrange and upper-bass drivers are controlled by an analogue passive crossover developed specifically for the 360 PWAB.
Instead of mounting the crossover components on a conventional printed circuit board, Linn installs them on a dense structure using vibration-absorbing adhesive.
The components are connected directly to one another using point-to-point wiring and substantial conductive bonds.
Reducing the number of connections and avoiding a conventional circuit board helps minimise resistance, vibration and electrical interference within the signal path.
The quality of the external amplifier remains important. The passive crossover cannot compensate for unsuitable or underperforming amplification, so system matching should be considered before the speakers are ordered.
Choosing Suitable Amplification
The external power amplifier drives the complete 360 Array, including the tweeter, midrange and upper-bass driver.
Amplifier quality, current delivery, gain, noise performance and control are therefore more important than the headline power figure alone.
Linn's
Klimax Solo 800
mono power amplifiers provide Linn's reference amplification option for the 360 PWAB.
Alternative Linn or non-Linn amplification may also be considered, but the complete system should be assessed carefully. The gain of the external amplifier must also be taken into account when the active bass section is configured.
Amplifier Matching Is Essential
The Linn 360 PWAB should not be treated like an ordinary passive loudspeaker that can simply be connected to any available amplifier.
The chosen amplifier must provide the control, quality and compatibility required by the 360 Array, while the active bass gain must be matched correctly to the rest of the system.
Speak to an Audio T Linn specialist before selecting or connecting the external amplification.
Active Bass Connection Options
The active lower-bass section requires an audio signal in addition to a mains connection.
It can receive this signal through a balanced XLR connection from a suitable source or pre-amplifier. It can also derive the signal from the speaker-level connection used by the external power amplifier.
Balanced XLR Connection
- Direct line-level connection to the bass system
- Requires a suitable balanced output
- Allows the bass gain to be matched to the power amplifier
- Preferred where the system configuration supports it
- Requires appropriate balanced interconnects
Speaker-Level Connection
- Bass signal derived from the speaker terminals
- Useful where a suitable line-level output is unavailable
- Follows the signal sent to the external amplifier
- Requires correct terminal configuration
- Should be installed and checked professionally
The most appropriate method depends on the source, pre-amplifier, power amplifier and cabling used in the system.
Audio T can plan the complete connection arrangement and ensure the bass system is correctly balanced against the externally amplified 360 Array.
Wide and Controlled Dispersion
The front of the Linn 360 cabinet narrows gradually from the bottom towards the top, with the curvature around each drive unit shaped to suit its individual dispersion requirements.
The drive units are mounted flush with the surrounding baffle. This reduces the number of raised edges that could obstruct or reflect the sound as it leaves the cabinet.
The machined aluminium trim around the 360 Array also incorporates carefully designed waveguides to help control the way sound travels into the room.
These features help the speaker maintain a consistent tonal balance over a wider listening area while supporting precise stereo positioning and a convincing impression of depth.
Designed to Disappear into the Soundstage
Linn describes the 360 as audibly invisible.
This does not mean that the speaker produces a small or understated presentation. The intention is that the physical cabinets become difficult to identify as the source of individual voices and instruments.
A recording should appear between and beyond the loudspeakers, with performers positioned independently of the cabinets.
The low levels of distortion, wide dispersion and controlled bass system are all intended to preserve the scale and spatial relationships contained within the original recording.
Curved Three-Dimensional Laminate Cabinet
The cabinet is formed from carefully shaped three-dimensional laminates rather than relying solely on conventional flat panels.
This construction allows Linn to create a strong and rigid enclosure with a curved front baffle that continues around the sides of the speaker.
The shape is not purely decorative. It supports the dispersion of the individual drive units while reducing the sharp edges and flat surrounding surfaces that can contribute to unwanted reflections.
The substantial cabinet and stand assembly also provide a stable foundation for the drive units during demanding musical passages.
Machined Aluminium Array Trim
The trim surrounding the 360 Array is machined by Linn from 5754-grade aluminium.
A series of concentric arcs is machined into its surface, creating a pattern inspired by the grooves of a vinyl record and referencing the Sondek LP12 turntable on which Linn was founded.
The trim also contains the waveguide profiles used to control dispersion from the surrounding drive units.
A protective feature bearing the Linn icon is positioned in front of the tweeter, helping protect the delicate diaphragm while forming part of the loudspeaker's visual design.
Positioning the Linn 360 PWAB
The 360 has been designed to provide controlled dispersion and can be configured using Linn Space Optimisation, but its physical position within the room still has a major effect on performance.
Distance from the rear and side walls influences low-frequency balance, while speaker spacing and toe-in affect image focus, soundstage width and listening-area consistency.
Initial Positioning
- Place both speakers symmetrically within the room
- Keep the cabinets level and completely stable
- Begin with moderate clearance from the rear wall
- Avoid positioning one cabinet much closer to a side wall
- Allow suitable access to mains and signal connections
Fine Adjustment
- Move both speakers by the same amount
- Adjust toe-in gradually
- Listen for bass balance as well as image focus
- Change one part of the setup at a time
- Refine Space Optimisation after physical positioning
The speakers should be placed in the best practical physical position before electronic room optimisation is used. Space Optimisation is intended to improve the available setup, not replace careful positioning.
Linn Space Optimisation
When the 360 PWAB is used with a compatible
Linn network music player
,
the system can benefit from Linn Space Optimisation.
Space Optimisation models the interaction between the loudspeakers and the room using information about room dimensions, wall construction, doors, windows, speaker positions and the listening location.
It can then reduce the influence of problematic low-frequency room behaviour through digital processing.
This can improve clarity and bass definition where the practical speaker positions do not correspond with the acoustically ideal locations.
Audio T can measure the room, enter the required information and configure the optimisation profile as part of a professional installation.
Professional Delivery and Installation
Each Linn 360 weighs approximately 66.4 kg including its stand.
The speakers require careful handling, suitable access into the property and sufficient space for unpacking and assembly.
Once installed, the cabinets must be positioned, levelled and stabilised before the signal connections, mains supply and active bass settings are checked.
Do Not Attempt to Install the Speakers Alone
The Linn 360 is an exceptionally heavy and precisely finished loudspeaker. Moving or assembling it without the correct equipment and assistance risks injury or damage to the cabinet, floor and surrounding property.
Professional delivery, installation and system configuration should be discussed with Audio T before the order is completed.
Planning Your Installation
Room and Access
- Check doors, corridors and stairways
- Confirm the final listening-room location
- Consider the weight and type of flooring
- Allow space for unpacking and assembly
- Confirm that both speakers can be positioned symmetrically
System and Cabling
- Confirm the external amplifier choice
- Plan speaker cable and balanced interconnect routes
- Provide mains power close to both speakers
- Confirm the bass signal connection method
- Allow for source and pre-amplifier placement
Choice of Linn 360 Finishes
Linn offers the 360 in a selection of expressive and understated cabinet finishes.
The curved shape of the cabinet causes light to fall differently across its surface depending on the viewing angle, making the final finish a particularly prominent part of the overall design.
Glasgow Collection
Clyde Built, Single Malt and Linn Heritage are distinctive finishes developed to celebrate Linn's Scottish origins.
Their appearance can change noticeably under different lighting conditions and from different positions within the room.
Classic Collection
Piano Black, Alpine White and Walnut provide more traditional and understated choices.
Walnut is a natural material, so colour, grain and pattern will vary between individual pairs.
Signature Collection
Triton is a dramatic artistic finish created in collaboration with artist Ran Ortner.
Availability and production times should be confirmed before ordering.
Custom Colours
Linn can also produce the 360 in specially requested colours.
Custom orders may involve additional cost and a longer production period.
The 360 Array trim can be supplied in black or silver anodised aluminium. The chosen trim should be considered alongside the cabinet finish, room decoration and surrounding equipment.
Finish Availability
The finish options shown in the Audio T selection menu may not represent every standard, Signature or custom option available from Linn.
Contact your local Audio T store
to confirm finish combinations, pricing and current production times.
PWAB or Exakt Integrated?
The Linn 360 is available in two main configurations.
Both versions use the same fundamental cabinet design and drive-unit arrangement, but they differ significantly in the way the upper three drive units are processed and amplified.
360 PWAB
- Passive crossover for the 360 Array
- External power amplification required
- Internally powered lower-bass system
- Greater freedom when choosing amplification
- Can be integrated into an existing separates system
- Potential future external Exakt conversion
360 Exakt Integrated
- Exakt digital crossover processing
- Organik digital-to-analogue conversion
- Integrated amplification for every drive unit
- No external power amplifiers required
- Designed for use with a Klimax DSM System Hub
- More tightly integrated Linn system
View the
Linn 360 Exakt Integrated with Klimax DSM System
for further information about the fully integrated version.
Upgrade to an External Linn Exakt System
The Linn 360 PWAB can be converted for use in an externally amplified Linn Exakt system.
In this configuration, the internal passive crossover for the 360 Array is bypassed. A Linn Exaktbox separates and time-aligns the signal before suitable external amplifier channels drive the tweeter, midrange and upper-bass units directly.
The internally powered Power DAC bass system remains responsible for the two lower-bass drivers.
This provides PWAB owners with a potential future upgrade path without replacing the complete loudspeaker.
Professional Exakt Conversion by Audio T
Exakt conversion requires physical changes to the speaker configuration, compatible Linn processing, sufficient external amplifier channels and correct software setup.
The conversion must be planned and completed by an authorised Linn specialist.
Contact your local Audio T store
to discuss the required Exaktbox, amplification, cabling and installation.
Key Features
- Flagship four-way Linn floorstanding loudspeaker
- Passive upper-frequency array with internally powered lower bass
- External power amplification required for the 360 Array
- 19 mm thin-ply woven carbon-dome tweeter
- 64 mm thin-ply woven carbon-dome midrange driver
- 190 mm aluminium upper-bass driver
- Two 220 mm long-throw aluminium lower-bass drivers per speaker
- Linn Pistonik bass-driver motor system
- Integrated Linn Power DAC bass technology
- Ultra-low-resonance analogue passive crossover
- Point-to-point crossover wiring
- Vibration-controlled crossover construction
- Balanced XLR bass input
- Alternative speaker-level bass signal connection
- Three pairs of binding posts per loudspeaker
- Curved three-dimensional laminate cabinet
- Flush-mounted drive units
- Machined 5754-grade aluminium Array trim
- Integrated drive-unit waveguides
- Black or silver anodised trim options
- Compatible with Linn Space Optimisation
- Can be converted for external Linn Exakt operation
- Glasgow, Classic, Signature and custom finish options
- Professional delivery and installation required
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Linn 360 PWAB a passive loudspeaker?
It is partly passive. The tweeter, midrange and upper-bass drivers use a passive crossover and external amplification, while the two lower-bass drivers are powered internally.
Does the Linn 360 PWAB require an external amplifier?
Yes. A suitable external power amplifier is required to drive the tweeter, midrange and upper-bass 360 Array.
Does each speaker require mains power?
Yes. Each cabinet contains its own active Power DAC bass system and must be connected to mains electricity.
Can I use a non-Linn power amplifier?
A suitable non-Linn amplifier may be considered, but compatibility, gain, current delivery and overall performance must be assessed carefully before installation.
How is the active bass section connected?
It can receive a balanced line-level signal through its XLR input or derive its signal from the speaker-level connections. The best method depends on the source, pre-amplifier and power amplifier used.
Can the internal bass amplifier be bypassed?
No. Linn's internal Power DAC system is specifically designed to drive and control the two lower-bass units.
Does the Linn 360 PWAB support Space Optimisation?
Yes. Space Optimisation can be used when the speakers are partnered with a compatible Linn network music player.
Can the Linn 360 PWAB be upgraded to Exakt?
Yes. The passive crossover can be bypassed as part of a professional conversion to an externally amplified Linn Exakt system.
What is the difference between PWAB and Exakt Integrated?
The PWAB version uses external amplification and a passive crossover for the 360 Array. The Exakt Integrated version contains Linn Exakt processing, Organik digital-to-analogue conversion and amplification for every drive unit.
Can I order a finish that is not shown online?
Linn offers additional standard, Signature and custom finishes. Availability, pricing and production times should be confirmed with your local Audio T store.
Does Audio T install the Linn 360?
Professional installation can be arranged through participating Audio T stores. This can include system planning, delivery, assembly, positioning, levelling, connection, bass configuration and Space Optimisation.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Expert Linn system planning and product advice
- Help choosing between PWAB and Exakt Integrated versions
- Demonstrations through participating Audio T stores
- Advice on Linn and non-Linn amplification
- External amplifier gain and compatibility checks
- Source and pre-amplifier matching
- Speaker cable and balanced interconnect advice
- Help selecting the correct cabinet and trim finish
- Professional delivery, assembly and installation options
- Careful positioning and levelling
- Active bass connection and gain configuration
- Linn Space Optimisation setup
- Planning for future external Exakt conversion
- Home demonstrations may be available where suitable
- Part exchange available on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing Linn system and upgrade support
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange a demonstration or discuss the ideal Linn 360 PWAB system for your room.