Linn 119 Bookshelf Speakers

The 119 is Linn's compact bookshelf speaker — a 2-way passive standmount designed to work with the Linn DSM range and built with an upgrade path in mind from the outset. At £2,500 per pair, it sits at the entry point of Linn's speaker range, but it is designed with the same engineering discipline that runs through the 150 and the 360: a crossover that can be bypassed entirely when Exakt is introduced, and cabinet construction that does not create problems for the electronics to solve.

It is a speaker that makes sense both on its own terms and as part of a considered Linn system build.

Design and Drive Units

The 119 uses a 160 mm Nextel-coated paper-diaphragm bass driver and a 19.55 mm soft Sonomex dome tweeter. The bass cabinet is rear-ported, with a 9-litre cabinet volume — compact enough for a bookshelf or stand, but with adequate volume for the bass driver to work properly in a typical room.

The analogue passive crossover handles filtering in standard operation, but its design allows it to be bypassed cleanly when an Exakt module is introduced. At that point, filtering is handled digitally inside the Linn network player, with time alignment and Space Optimisation applied before the signal reaches the drive units. The passive crossover does not become an active compromise in the system — it steps aside.

Two pairs of binding posts allow biwiring or biwiring-ready connections.

Exakt Upgrade Path

The 119 is Exakt-ready, which means it can be used as a conventional passive speaker today and upgraded to Exakt operation later without replacing the cabinet. The upgrade involves fitting an Exakt module — connected to a Selekt DSM or Majik DSM via Exakt Link — which converts the speaker from passive operation to a self-amplified active system with digital crossover.

The difference between passive and Exakt operation on the 119 is not subtle. Time alignment, digital filtering, and Space Optimisation are all applied in the digital domain before amplification, which removes the passive crossover, its phase shifts, and the associated signal degradation from the chain. For a speaker at this price point, it is an unusual capability.

Finishes and Stands

The 119 is available in Walnut, Oak, Satin Black, and Satin White. Dedicated mild-steel pedestal stands are available from Linn in matching black or silver — the speaker includes threaded inserts for stand mounting, and proper stand selection is worth considering at purchase time.

Technical Specifications

Who Is It For?

The 119 suits those who want a compact, well-engineered Linn speaker that works immediately in a passive system and can be upgraded to Exakt operation without replacing the cabinet. It is the natural starting point for a Linn system built around a Majik DSM or Selekt DSM Classic Hub, and it is sized for rooms and positions where a floorstanding speaker is not appropriate.

Those who know they want to go Exakt eventually should factor the Exakt module cost into the overall system budget from the start — the 119 is designed for precisely that kind of long-term planning.

Buying from Martin's Hi-Fi

Martin's Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968, and the Linn range has been part of what we do for years. We are still family-run — Ted Martin's daughter Elizabeth runs the business today — and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind.

When buying the 119, it is worth discussing stand selection and Exakt upgrade timing at the same time — both affect how you configure the system from the outset, and getting that right saves cost later.

Reach them at [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], call on 01603 627010, or WhatsApp Dave or Chris directly on 07554 687137. You can read more about who we are and how we work on our Why Martin's page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY, open six days a week.

Contact: [email protected] | 01603 627010 | WhatsApp: 07554 687137 | 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY