Land of the giants - Linn Klimax DSM v Naim ND555 network streamer/DACs

/ Audio T Brighton/

Linn Klimax DSM v Naim ND555...

Hello everyone, and welcome to the March blog from Audio T Brighton! For this month’s article we are going to give our full attention to a battle in the Land of the Giants - a face-off between the Linn Klimax DSM and the Naim ND555 network players.

It’s not often one gets the chance to witness a heavyweight contest like this without paying a viewer fee, so sit back and enjoy the ringside seat!

I have written at length about the Linn Selekt DSM streamer range in one of my earlier blogs and a lot of the latest Linn technology employed in the Linn Klimax DSM is used in the Linn Selekt Edition DSM, so to avoid repeating myself I’ll direct you to my blog here.

Both of these streamers sit at the top of their respective ranges, each offering something a little different. Let’s explore what they bring to the table and equip you, the listener, with the information to help you make an informed decision.

Linn Klimax DSM - all things to all men...

The Klimax DSM is Linn’s flagship digital product, offering a different approach to the Naim ND555. It functions as a streamer, DAC, and pre-amp in one, with optional AV capabilities via HDMI/eARC and USB connections for those who want added versatility. Interestingly, alongside standard Ethernet and wireless connectivity, the Klimax DSM features an SFP optical Ethernet connection — designed to minimise network-induced digital noise that can compromise sound quality. I’ve previously written in detail about the impact of Ethernet switches on reducing digital noise in an earlier blog here.

For those who value a compact design with few compromises the Linn Klimax DSM is an almost perfect product with great looks, great sound and functionality, just add a power amp. What’s not to like?

For the purpose of this blog, we’re evaluating it purely as a streamer/DAC by fixing the volume output and running it through our in-house pre/power setup — a Naim NAC 552/552 PS and Naim NAP 500DR/500PS — paired with the brilliant high-end loudspeakers, the Dynaudio Confidence 50.

A key feature of the Linn Klimax DSM is its in-house room correction DSP software, Space Optimisation. Whilst room EQ has its uses — particularly in tackling challenging spaces — we generally recommend starting with as little processing of the original signal as possible. Simple domestic items like rugs, bookcases, curtains, and plants can go a long way in managing room acoustics before resorting to more complex room correction software.

It’s a useful option to have, but since the Naim ND555 doesn’t include this technology, we’ll keep things fair by running both streamers without DSP for this comparison.

The Klimax DSM also features Linn’s proprietary Organik DAC and Utopik power supply, eliminating the need for external boxes — a definite space saver, with no discernible compromise in sound quality. It’s impressive what Linn has achieved sonically, especially given the limited internal space. The unit itself is housed in a beautifully inert case, precision-cut from a solid block of aluminium to minimise electrical and microphonic vibrational interference.

Naim ND 555 & 555PS...

The Naim ND555 network streamer, paired with the 555PS power supply (ideally two 555PS DR units), stands as Naim’s flagship digital streamer/DAC.

While the Linn Klimax DSM embraces a compact, all-in-one design with internal power supplies and filtering, Naim takes a more traditional approach, focusing on external power supplies — specifically the Naim 555PS DR. Naim’s long-standing audio philosophy revolves around using dedicated power supplies to enhance sound quality, with the extra shelf space seen as a worthwhile trade-off.

At the heart of the ND555 is Naim’s in-house 40-bit SHARC processor, employing custom filters alongside a Burr-Brown R2R ladder DAC to achieve that signature Naim “house sound.” The DR (discrete regulator) power supply ensures a stable, low-noise performance for optimal sonic results.

Naim has also undergone some design changes in recent years to align with its newer 200 and 300 Series, as well as the Uniti range. However, for those with existing Original Classic (OC) kit, there’s good news — you can still choose between the traditional green or the newer white logo for this heavyweight network player (correct as of March 2025).

Ali versus Frazier - battle of the giants...

So, in this battle of heavyweight giants — who came out on top?

It might surprise you to hear that it’s a case of ‘six of one, half a dozen of the other.’ Much like the legendary Ali vs Frazier bouts, this contest was incredibly close, with the winner ultimately coming down to personal preference — and who’s judging.

We found both players to be exceptional: the Linn Klimax DSM delivered a slightly more transparent and spacious presentation in the mids and highs, while the Naim ND555/555PS DR offered greater gravitas and rhythmic drive in the bass. We could wax lyrical about both streamers endlessly — their performance varied depending on the musical genre — and we tested them through Focal Kanta 2s, Dynaudio Confidence 50s, and ATC SCM50s. Our personal favourites shifted with each speaker and streamer combination, who was listening, and the music choice. Suffice to say, both are so impressive they need to be heard to be believed.

The final decision may come down to practicalities like rack space or system matching, with amplifier and speaker combinations playing a major role. For this comparison, the Naim ND555/555PS DR had a slight edge in synergy thanks to our use of a Naim NAC552DR pre-amp and Naim NAP500DR power amp. Unfortunately, we didn’t have a comparable Linn pre/power setup on hand, which naturally tilted things in Naim’s favour. On the other hand, until a second power supply is added to the ND555, the Linn Klimax DSM remains the more expensive option — so perhaps it’s a score draw on that front.

Ultimately, whichever you choose at this level will open your ears and stir your soul. Both players come highly recommended by us here at Audio T in Brighton.

As always, the proof of the pudding is in the eating — so get in touch to book a demonstration and hear for yourself.

Thanks for reading.

Ade, John and Paul - Audio T Brighton

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

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