Went to sunny Sussex to meet a few old friends, retailers from all across Britain, listen to a presentation about the new Linn Akubarik speakers and then some demos of the speakers themselves. Here are the tech details, apologies if it is too much detail!

Akubarik uses a 5 way system with on-board Chakra amplification, aktiv filter s, dynamik power supplies, and a down-firing Isobarik twin bass speaker system. The amplifier module is mounted on the rear, and has the aktiv filtering and the chakra power amps all in one board. This is powered by the latest Linn Dynamik power supplies. The 'chimney' construction means that no fans are needed for silent operation. The 3k array for mid/treble has been seen before in both Akurate and Klimax speakers. The new addition is the 6.5" low mid unit which then crosses over to 2 of 8" bass units in the Isobarik configuration firing down inside the cabinet. This omni-directional layout makes placement easier, and helps bass output. The bass can also be controlled by amplifier settings to optomise for any room. The cabinet is curved, and beautiful. The stainless 4 pillar system at the base give space for the bass unit porting and also make the cabinets look smaller than the 242s, which they aren't. They are the same size. Connections can be balanced or unbalanced by either phono or XLR.

And what about the sound? We started with aktiv akurate 242s and played a few tracks with both 16 bit and 24 bit sources. The comparison when changing to the Bariks was striking. The new mid unit added more presence to vocals and more openness. Bass was definitely improved in both depth and control. These Akubariks will do really well, a welcome addition to the range and a bridge between majik isobarik/akurate 242 and klimax, which are a huge jump up in performance and price. Passive Akubariks will follow later in the year, price not yet set. This will open a new debate- passive with Klimax Twin vs aktiv built-in. Answers on a postcard please!

Note, months after this was written the Akubarik passive arrived at a lower than expected £ 8750