Linn KLIMAX AKTIV, Owner'S Manual

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6
Introduction (continued)
Power supply
The KLIMAX AKTIV crossover incorporates the proprietary Linn Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS).
The SMPS takes the place of the noisy, bulky and inefficient power supply normally found in conventional
audio products (consisting mainly of a transformer, voltage rectifiers and reservoir capacitors). SMPS
provides excellent tolerance to lesser quality mains supplies, allowing it to perform at close to its best, even
with mains supplies that are quite badly corrupted.
Further benefits of switch mode technology are compactness, high efficiency, fast response, good mains
input tolerance, good load tolerance, low acoustic noise and, with its low material use, environmental
friendliness.
The SMPS is housed in its own distinct machined-from-solid chamber within the product casing. This
arrangement very effectively shields the audio circuitry from the power supply circuitry and the electrical
noise that unavoidably emanates from it.
Audio circuitry
The KLIMAX AKTIV crossover is a no-compromise Linn product so you can be certain that only the very best
components and technologies available, as well as renowned Linn design innovations, are used throughout.
The audio filters utilise the very latest technology, including ‘surface-mount’ printed circuit manufacture.
Surface-mount components are, as the name suggests, mounted and soldered on the surface of the circuit
board. The other type of component – thru-hole – has pins which are passed through holes on the circuit
board and soldered on the reverse side. This may seem like a minor distinction, but surface-mount
manufacture allows the components to be dramatically reduced in size. Very small integrated circuits and
tiny discrete components are combined in a configuration that makes the audio path as compact as
possible. This provides the audio signals with the shortest and easiest route and also minimises the
possibility of extraneous noise or distortion being introduced.
The use of surface-mount technology also allows the process to be automated, which improves the quality
and consistency of the manufacturing process.