Audio T Verdict
The fifth-generation Linn Majik DSM is a genuinely versatile one-box music system. It combines high-resolution network streaming, digital-to-analogue conversion, pre-amplification and a powerful stereo Class D amplifier within one compact enclosure.
Its wide range of connections is one of its strongest features. You can add a moving magnet or moving coil turntable, television, computer, CD transport, headphones, subwoofer and other analogue or digital sources without needing a rack full of separate components.
With 100W per channel available into 4 O, built-in Space Optimisation and a straightforward upgrade route through its line outputs and Exakt Link, Majik DSM can form the heart of anything from a simple streaming system to a more advanced Linn installation.
Linn Majik DSM 5th Generation Streaming Amplifier
The Linn Majik DSM is an all-in-one network music player, DAC, pre-amplifier and integrated stereo power amplifier.
Introduced in 2025, this fifth-generation version combines Linn's current streaming platform with precision digital processing, efficient Class D amplification, comprehensive analogue and digital connectivity, and Space Optimisation room-correction technology.
Simply connect a pair of suitable passive loudspeakers and Majik DSM can provide the complete electronic centre of a high-quality Hi-Fi system.
It can also accommodate a turntable, television, games console through the TV, computer, CD transport, subwoofer, headphones and music stored on a network server.
A Complete One-Box Hi-Fi System
Majik DSM combines several components that would traditionally require separate enclosures.
Built-In Music Sources
- High-resolution network music streaming
- Integrated streaming services
- Internet radio
- AirPlay 2
- Bluetooth audio
- Roon Ready network playback
Built-In Electronics
- Digital-to-analogue converter
- Analogue and digital pre-amplifier
- Moving magnet phono stage
- Moving coil phono stage
- Stereo Class D power amplifier
- Space Optimisation processing
This integrated approach reduces the number of boxes, cables and mains connections required while retaining the flexibility to add external amplification, subwoofers or compatible Linn Exakt products later.
High-Resolution Network Streaming
Majik DSM can play music stored on a compatible network server or computer connected to the same home network.
Supported formats include FLAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, AIFF, AAC, MP3, OGG, WMA and DSD.
PCM playback is supported at resolutions up to 24-bit/384kHz, while compatible network files can include DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256.
The actual resolution available depends on the music file, network source, streaming service and chosen connection.
DSD Has Some Processing Limitations
DSD playback is available through the analogue outputs, but Linn does not apply Space Optimisation or other digital signal processing to native DSD playback.
DSD is also not supported through the external HDMI, Toslink or USB inputs, Exakt Link or digital outputs.
Integrated Streaming Services
Majik DSM works with a broad range of popular music and radio services.
- TIDAL
- Qobuz
- Spotify Connect
- Deezer
- AirPlay 2
- Roon Ready
- airable
- TuneIn
- Calm Radio
Service availability, available sound quality and subscription requirements are controlled by the individual provider and may change over time.
Linn App Control
The Linn App provides control from a compatible smartphone, tablet or computer.
You can browse network music, access supported streaming services, create playlists, select inputs, adjust the volume and manage music throughout a compatible Linn multi-room system.
System configuration, source settings, output options and Space Optimisation are managed through Linn's current setup tools.
The Majik DSM can receive free software updates through its network connection, allowing Linn to add supported features, compatibility updates and performance improvements.
Precision Digital-to-Analogue Conversion
Every digital source must be converted into an analogue signal before it can be amplified and played through conventional passive loudspeakers.
Majik DSM uses Linn's standard current DAC architecture, shared with the standard DAC option available for Selekt DSM.
Linn applies proprietary precision clocking and upsampling before the converted signal is sent to the pre-amplifier and integrated power-amplifier stages.
Precise clock management helps reduce timing errors during conversion, while upsampling allows Linn's digital processing and filtering to operate under carefully controlled conditions.
100W Class D Stereo Amplifier
Majik DSM contains a two-channel bridged Class D power amplifier with post-filter feedback.
Linn specifies a maximum output of 100W per channel into a 4 O loudspeaker load or 50W per channel into 8 O.
Class D amplification uses high-frequency switching to provide efficient power conversion with lower unnecessary heat generation than many conventional amplifier designs.
Post-filter feedback allows the amplifier circuitry to monitor the signal after its output filter, helping control the final signal supplied to the connected loudspeaker.
Amplifier Output
- Two stereo amplifier channels
- 100W per channel into 4 O
- 50W per channel into 8 O
- 20dB power-amplifier gain
- 106dB specified dynamic range
Speaker Connections
- Two pairs of binding posts
- Compatible with 4mm banana plugs
- Compatible with suitable spade connectors
- Compatible with carefully prepared bare cable
- Speaker outputs are always full range
Switch Off Before Changing Speaker Cables
The bridged Class D speaker outputs should only be connected or disconnected while Majik DSM is switched off or in its sleep state.
Loose strands, incorrect polarity or shorted speaker terminals could damage the amplifier or connected loudspeakers.
Loudspeaker Matching
Majik DSM can power a wide range of compatible passive standmount and floorstanding loudspeakers.
The most suitable speaker depends on impedance, sensitivity, room size, listening distance and preferred playback level.
Linn recommends Majik DSM as a natural partner for its
Linn 119 standmount speakers
and
Linn 150 floorstanding speakers
.
Linn
K200 speaker cable
can also be considered for a suitably matched installation.
Check Electrostatic Speaker Compatibility
Some electrostatic loudspeakers present an unusual capacitive load and may require manufacturer-approved modifications or connection guidance before use with a bridged Class D amplifier.
Check with Audio T or the speaker manufacturer before connecting an electrostatic design.
Space Optimisation Room Correction
Linn Space Optimisation is included as standard.
It models the room, loudspeaker position and relevant speaker characteristics to reduce the effect of unwanted low-frequency room interactions.
The system does not simply apply a generic tonal setting. It calculates filters according to information about the room dimensions, construction and speaker placement.
Space Optimisation can be especially useful where loudspeakers cannot be positioned in their theoretical ideal location because of furniture, doorways or the practical use of the room.
Room Information
- Room dimensions
- Wall construction
- Doors and windows
- Listening position
- Speaker location
System Information
- Compatible loudspeaker model
- Speaker distance from surrounding walls
- Available placement constraints
- Subwoofer configuration where used
- Personal listening adjustments
Audio T can measure the installation details and configure Space Optimisation as part of a demonstration, delivery or home installation.
HDMI eARC for Television Sound
A single HDMI eARC connection allows compatible television audio to play through the Majik DSM and connected Hi-Fi speakers.
Games consoles, Blu-ray players and set-top boxes are normally connected to the television, with the TV returning stereo audio to Majik DSM through its eARC socket.
HDMI CEC support can allow compatible televisions and connected equipment to coordinate functions such as power and volume control.
Linn recommends a certified Premium High Speed HDMI cable for reliable eARC operation.
Configure the Television for Stereo Audio
Majik DSM is a stereo product rather than a multichannel home-cinema receiver.
The television should be configured to return compatible two-channel PCM audio rather than an unsupported multichannel bitstream.
Built-In Moving Magnet Phono Stage
Majik DSM provides a dedicated RCA moving magnet input and turntable earth connection.
The MM input has a specified impedance of 47kO and capacitance of 100pF, with 40dB of gain.
This makes it suitable for a broad range of conventional moving magnet cartridges, subject to the cartridge manufacturer's loading requirements.
A turntable with a moving magnet cartridge can therefore connect directly without requiring a separate external phono stage.
Built-In Moving Coil Phono Stage
A separate moving coil RCA input is provided for compatible low-output MC cartridges.
Linn specifies an input impedance of 100 O, capacitance of 470pF and gain of 54dB.
Cartridge output and loading requirements should be checked before connection, as not every moving coil cartridge uses the same optimum electrical settings.
The input level can be adjusted through the Majik DSM setup software to suit the output of the connected cartridge.
Use the Correct Phono Input
Moving magnet and moving coil cartridges require different gain and electrical loading.
Connecting a low-output MC cartridge to the MM input will normally produce very low volume, while using the MC input with an unsuitable high-output cartridge may overload the input.
Partnering Linn Majik LP12
Majik DSM can be partnered directly with the
Linn Majik LP12 with Adikt moving magnet cartridge
.
The Adikt version connects to the dedicated MM phono input.
The
Linn Majik LP12 with Koil moving coil cartridge
can connect to the dedicated MC input, subject to correct input-level configuration.
Audio T can assemble and install the turntable, configure the correct phono input and check turntable grounding.
Two RCA Line Inputs
Two stereo RCA line-level inputs are provided for conventional analogue sources.
Suitable products may include a CD player, tuner, cassette deck, external DAC or a separate phono stage.
Input sensitivity can be selected between 1V, 2V and 4V RMS to help accommodate the output level of the connected source.
Correct sensitivity helps provide consistent volume between sources while reducing the risk of overloading the analogue input.
Toslink Optical Digital Input
The Toslink optical input can accept stereo digital audio from compatible televisions, CD transports, games systems and other digital sources.
Supported sample rates extend from 32kHz to 192kHz.
Optical connections provide electrical isolation between the source and Majik DSM, although performance can depend on the quality and length of the optical cable.
Configurable SPDIF Input or Output
The coaxial SPDIF connection can be configured as either a digital input or a fixed-level digital output.
As an input, it can accept stereo PCM at supported sample rates up to 192kHz from a compatible digital source.
As an output, it can feed compatible digital loudspeakers or another digital component.
The SPDIF Output Has No Volume Control
When configured as a digital output, the SPDIF connection operates at fixed level.
Connected digital loudspeakers or equipment must provide their own safe volume control.
USB-C Audio Input
The USB-C Audio Class 2 connection allows a compatible computer, tablet or smartphone to send digital audio directly to Majik DSM.
USB PCM playback is supported at sample rates from 44.1kHz to 192kHz.
Majik DSM appears as an audio playback device when connected to a compatible computer and selected within its operating-system sound settings.
The USB Socket Is Not for Storage Drives
The USB-C connection is an asynchronous audio input for a compatible computer or mobile device.
It is not designed for connecting a USB memory stick or hard drive containing music files.
Ethernet and Wi-Fi Networking
Majik DSM can connect to the home network through wired Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi supporting standards up to 802.11ac.
A wired Ethernet connection normally provides the most predictable network performance and may be required during initial setup.
Wi-Fi can provide a practical alternative where installing a network cable is difficult, provided that the wireless signal is strong and stable at the product location.
The music server, internet router and control device must be connected to the same network for reliable operation.
Bluetooth 4.2
Bluetooth provides a convenient way to play audio from a compatible phone, tablet or computer without opening the Linn App.
The Bluetooth 4.2 connection uses SBC audio encoding.
Bluetooth is useful for visitors, podcasts and casual listening, while direct network streaming normally provides access to higher-resolution music and more complete Linn system control.
Majik DSM does not include native Google Cast support.
AirPlay 2
AirPlay 2 allows compatible Apple devices and applications to send audio to Majik DSM through the home network.
It also supports grouping with other compatible AirPlay 2 products through Apple's control system.
AirPlay 2 provides broad application compatibility, while the Linn App remains the principal control method for Linn's integrated streaming services and network music library.
Roon Ready Playback
Majik DSM is Roon Ready and can operate as a network audio endpoint within a compatible Roon system.
Roon provides music-library management, metadata, streaming-service integration and multi-room playback from a separate Roon Server.
A Roon subscription and compatible server are required and are not included with Majik DSM.
Variable RCA Line Output
A stereo RCA line output allows Majik DSM to operate as a network music player and pre-amplifier with an external power amplifier.
The output shares Majik DSM's volume control and provides 2V RMS at volume setting 80, with a specified output impedance of 300 O.
This provides an upgrade route where the connected loudspeakers require greater power or where the customer wants to add a separate amplifier later.
The internal power amplifier can be disabled during a suitably configured pre-amplifier installation.
Dedicated Subwoofer Outputs
Two RCA subwoofer outputs are provided for stereo bass reinforcement.
These line-level outputs allow one or two compatible powered subwoofers to be connected without using the Majik DSM speaker terminals.
Subwoofer level, placement and integration should be adjusted alongside the main loudspeakers and Space Optimisation configuration.
Do Not Use a Grounded High-Level Subwoofer Input Without Advice
Majik DSM uses bridged Class D speaker outputs, so its negative speaker terminals are not conventional earth connections.
Connecting a grounded high-level subwoofer input incorrectly could damage the amplifier or subwoofer. Use the dedicated RCA subwoofer outputs or follow manufacturer-approved connection guidance.
Full-Range Speaker Outputs
The internal Majik DSM power-amplifier outputs always provide a full-range signal.
Connecting a subwoofer does not automatically convert the main speaker outputs into high-passed outputs.
The main loudspeakers continue to reproduce their normal full frequency range while the subwoofer adds low-frequency output according to its settings and system configuration.
Quarter-Inch Headphone Output
A front-mounted 6.35mm quarter-inch headphone socket provides personal listening without requiring a separate headphone amplifier.
Linn specifies a maximum output of 61mW RMS into 16 O or 83mW RMS into 32 O, with an output impedance of 57 O.
Headphone sensitivity and impedance should be considered when matching a particular model.
Very insensitive or unusually low-impedance headphones may benefit from a dedicated external headphone amplifier.
Exakt Link
One Exakt Link connection allows Majik DSM to send digital audio and timing information to compatible Linn Exakt products.
Supported options may include compatible Exakt loudspeakers, an external Exaktbox or a Linn Urika II phono stage.
An Exakt system keeps the signal in the digital domain until close to the loudspeaker amplification and applies Linn's digital crossover and timing correction.
Exakt system design, network connections, speaker profiles and channel assignment should be configured by an experienced Linn specialist.
No Internal Aktiv Cards
The 2025 Majik DSM does not accept internal Linn Aktiv cards, and its own speaker outputs remain full range.
External Aktiv amplification can be connected through the line output, or the system can be expanded using compatible Exakt products.
Cut-Glass Control Dial
A cut-glass multi-function rotary dial is positioned on the top of the enclosure.
Rotating the dial changes volume, while directional and central presses can select sources, control playback, skip tracks and place the product into sleep mode.
The illuminated dial also communicates volume and operating information.
This provides useful physical control when a phone, tablet or computer is not immediately available.
Front Display
The optical-grade acrylic fascia contains a monochrome front display.
It can show source, volume, track and operating information before fading back to a less visually intrusive state.
The display and top control allow everyday operation without making the system dependent entirely on application control.
Aluminium Construction
Majik DSM uses a precision-cut and folded aluminium chassis.
Its curved outer sleeve is formed from a single 2mm-thick piece of aluminium, which is punched, cut and folded before receiving its satin-effect powder-coated finish.
Internal circuit boards and the power supply are designed and populated by Linn and mounted to the rigid internal chassis.
Three solid-steel feet with rubber contact pads provide a stable base and help reduce unwanted vibration reaching the internal electronics.
Black Finish
Linn Majik DSM 5th Generation is available in Black.
The satin-finished aluminium enclosure is complemented by the dark optical-grade acrylic fascia and illuminated cut-glass dial.
Linn does not currently list a Silver version of this Majik DSM generation.
Positioning and Ventilation
Place Majik DSM on a rigid, stable and level shelf with adequate space around the enclosure.
Although Class D amplification is efficient, the power supply and internal amplifier still generate heat during operation.
Do not cover the product, place it on a soft surface or install it inside sealed furniture without suitable ventilation.
Leave sufficient space behind the unit for HDMI, speaker, network and analogue cables to bend naturally without pulling against their sockets.
Allow for the Complete Installed Depth
Linn's customer-facing specification gives an overall depth of 372mm, while its technical documentation lists a 350mm chassis depth.
Additional space is required behind the product for plugs and cable bends, particularly when using speaker cables, HDMI and Ethernet.
Majik DSM or Selekt DSM?
Majik DSM provides a fixed all-in-one configuration with streaming, DAC, pre-amplification and stereo power amplification already installed.
The
Linn Selekt DSM Classic Hub
sits above Majik and uses a modular cartridge-based architecture.
Selekt DSM can be configured with different DAC, line-output and amplifier modules and offers a broader range of future hardware upgrade options.
Linn Majik DSM
- Complete fixed all-in-one configuration
- 100W per channel into 4 O
- Built-in MM and MC phono inputs
- Dedicated subwoofer outputs
- Space Optimisation included
- Most accessible current Linn DSM
Linn Selekt DSM
- Modular hardware architecture
- Choice of DAC configurations
- Choice of line output or amplification
- Higher-level power-supply options
- Broader future hardware upgrade route
- Available in Classic and Edition enclosures
Professional Setup
Majik DSM can be used as a straightforward integrated streaming amplifier, but correct setup helps the complete system perform at its best.
Network configuration, streaming-service logins, source sensitivity, phono input level, loudspeaker matching, subwoofer integration and Space Optimisation should all be considered.
Audio T can configure the complete system, install software updates and demonstrate the physical controls and Linn App.
Key Features
- Fifth-generation Linn Majik DSM introduced in 2025
- All-in-one network music player and stereo amplifier
- Built-in DAC and digital pre-amplifier
- Built-in analogue pre-amplifier
- Two-channel bridged Class D power amplification
- 100W per channel into 4 O
- 50W per channel into 8 O
- Post-filter amplifier feedback
- Network playback up to 24-bit/384kHz
- DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 network-file support
- FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, AAC, MP3, OGG and WMA support
- TIDAL integration
- Qobuz integration
- Spotify Connect
- Deezer support
- AirPlay 2
- Roon Ready
- airable, TuneIn and Calm Radio
- Ethernet network connection
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth 4.2 with SBC encoding
- Built-in Space Optimisation
- HDMI 2.0 eARC connection
- HDMI CEC support
- USB-C Audio Class 2 input
- Toslink optical digital input
- Configurable coaxial SPDIF input or output
- Two stereo RCA line inputs
- Dedicated moving magnet phono input
- Dedicated moving coil phono input
- Turntable ground connection
- Variable stereo RCA line output
- Two RCA subwoofer outputs
- One Exakt Link connection
- Quarter-inch headphone output
- Cut-glass multi-function control dial
- Monochrome front display
- Precision-cut and folded aluminium construction
- 2mm aluminium outer sleeve
- Three solid-steel feet with rubber pads
- Available in Black
- Free network software updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Majik DSM a complete amplifier?
Yes. It includes a network music player, DAC, pre-amplifier and two-channel Class D power amplifier. Simply add suitable passive loudspeakers.
How much power does Majik DSM produce?
Linn specifies 100W per channel into 4 O or 50W per channel into 8 O.
Can Majik DSM play high-resolution music?
Yes. Compatible network files are supported at up to 24-bit/384kHz, with DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 support.
Which streaming services are supported?
Current supported services include TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Deezer, AirPlay 2, Roon Ready, airable, TuneIn and Calm Radio.
Does it have Bluetooth?
Yes. Majik DSM includes Bluetooth 4.2 using SBC audio encoding.
Does it support Google Cast?
No. Google Cast is not supported natively.
Can I connect a television?
Yes. A compatible television can connect through HDMI eARC. The TV should be configured to send supported stereo PCM audio.
Can I connect a games console?
Connect the games console to the television, then return its stereo sound from the TV to Majik DSM through HDMI eARC.
Can I connect a moving magnet turntable?
Yes. Majik DSM includes a dedicated 47kO, 100pF moving magnet phono input and turntable earth connection.
Can I connect a moving coil turntable?
Yes. A separate moving coil input provides 54dB gain with 100 O and 470pF loading. Cartridge compatibility should be checked before connection.
Can I add a subwoofer?
Yes. Two dedicated RCA line-level subwoofer outputs are provided.
Can I connect a subwoofer to the speaker terminals?
Do not use a conventional grounded high-level subwoofer connection without manufacturer-approved guidance. The bridged Class D negative terminals are not standard earth connections.
Does Majik DSM include a headphone output?
Yes. A quarter-inch headphone socket is fitted to the front panel.
Can I use an external power amplifier?
Yes. The variable stereo RCA output allows Majik DSM to operate as a streamer and pre-amplifier with a suitable external power amplifier.
Can I connect Linn Exakt speakers?
Yes. The Exakt Link can connect compatible Linn Exakt products, subject to correct configuration by a Linn specialist.
Can Majik DSM accept Linn Aktiv cards?
No. The 2025 version does not support internal Aktiv cards. External Aktiv amplifiers can be connected through its line output, or the system can use Exakt products.
Can I connect a USB memory stick?
No. The USB-C connection is an audio input for a compatible computer or mobile device rather than a socket for storage drives.
What finish is available?
The fifth-generation Linn Majik DSM is available in Black.
Does it include Space Optimisation?
Yes. Linn Space Optimisation room-correction software is included as standard.
Can Audio T install Majik DSM?
Yes. Audio T can configure the network, streaming services, phono inputs, television audio, loudspeakers, subwoofers and Space Optimisation.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Experienced Linn network music player specialists
- In-store demonstrations through participating Linn branches
- Help choosing compatible passive loudspeakers
- Linn 119 and 150 system demonstrations
- Speaker cable and termination advice
- Wired and wireless network configuration
- Linn App and streaming-service setup
- Roon and AirPlay 2 configuration
- Television and HDMI eARC setup
- Turntable and cartridge compatibility checks
- Moving magnet and moving coil input configuration
- Subwoofer connection and integration
- Space Optimisation room setup
- External power-amplifier matching
- Exakt system planning and configuration
- Home demonstrations may be available where suitable
- Professional delivery and installation options
- Part exchange available on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing Linn software and system support
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange a demonstration or discuss the ideal Linn Majik DSM system for your loudspeakers, turntable and listening room.