Linn DSM vs Naim Tidal Connect

Streaming Audio
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I am doing the groundwork for a retirement splurge on a new hifi.

I’ve listened to a lot and the Linn Selekt Edition DSM/Organik is top of the list so far.

However, I understand that it does not support Tidal/Qobuz Connect and uses Linn’s own app, which has some restrictions.

Anyone know about this and could you say whether this is a problem, logistically but more importantly with regards to SQ.

I understand that Naim does support Connect, but on my Atom I always go via the Focal/Naim app - is the Connect happening underneath?

I have yet to hear the 332/333!

Thanks,
Tony

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On the Atom, Connect is an option when you choose the music in the Qobuz app and then select the Atom to play it. The Qobuz interface is a bit nicer and the search seems better, but like you I usually use the Naim app directly.

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Really, I had no idea. Assuming Tidal’s the same I’ll give it a go tomorrow.

Thanks HH :smiley:

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I run the Selekt and use Qobuz. Connect is not currently implemented in any Linn products (in spite of AI hallucinating the opposite). Linn are apparently “looking into it”. Make of that what you will.

The main advantage of Connect is the convenience of using the Qobuz app to search for and control music replay. What I often do instead is to search in the Qobuz app then favourite albums or tracks at which point I can play them directly from the Linn app.

As for SQ when I’ve bothered to compare direct from manufacturer’s app vs Qobuz Connect on my other systems, they sound the same to me. I believe that’s how it should be, but a few listeners do reckon they can hear a difference. You could try this on your Atom.

Whilst it would be nice to have Qobuz Connect on the Linn, it wasn’t around when I got my Selekt and it wouldn’t be a deal breaker for me.

Roger

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Great thanks

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What do you mean by “underneath”?

Regarding sound quality using Connect vs alternatives, it will depend on how these things are implemented. So if anyone has a preference for the Naim app or Qobuz Connect, it might be completely different on a Linn streamer.

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With the Atom I just go to the Naim app.

I was vaguely aware that there was something called Tidal Connect and that it was generally a good thing, Naim seems to promote it as a feature, but thought it ‘happened’ automatically in the background whilst using the Naim app.

I guess I’m a bit naive but I had no idea I could use the Tidal interface, which I like a lot, but play through the Naim app (which I guess needs to be open too??).

Anyway, I’m hoping to have a few hours in between potting-on sessions in the greenhouse, mooching around on Tidal, so I’ll give it a crack!

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The Tidal, Qobuz and Spotify apps are entirely independent of the Naim app, which doesn’t need to be opened if you are using Connect. Just use whichever you prefer.

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Ok, thanks. I’ll give it a try.

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For all its failings, the Naim App appears to be one of the better hybrid control/players.

You don’t have to resort to mconnect or similar to get to your music after using the app to configure the Naim hardware.

None of the above are deal breakers if you like the sound of particular hardware, however, once experienced the integrated functionality will be different to give up.

ATB, J

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We use Tidal extensively and haven’t opened the naim app in forever.

Exclusively Connect, giving us the slick Tidal app for all playlists and searches.

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Just by way of a conclusion, since my original post I did hear the 332/333, liked them and have bought them.

I have been using Tidal Connect via the Tidal app and it’s great - can’t hear any SQ difference, but I prefer the options, layout etc. but I still use the Naim app for radio.

I am pleased to still be in the Naim ecosystem, which I’ve been using for the last 7 years.

Thanks for all your responses.
Tony :grinning_face:

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