Second successive Linn audio player to benefit from Wolfson’s WM8741 DAC; announcement follows inclusion in Linn’s flagship Klimax DS 

Las Vegas, CES NV, 7th January 2008 – Wolfson Microelectronics (LSE:WLF.L) today announced that the flagship WM8741 chip of its AudioPlus™ Pure Sound range, the world’s best sounding DAC, is pivotal to the sound experience in Linn’s new Akurate DS digital streaming source. The WM8741 manages the high bit rate audio conversion in the Akurate DS - the ‘future of music’ and a new source product that elevates the performance of their most flexible, high performance Akurate separates system, to unprecedented levels of accuracy and value. It is the second successive Linn product design to utilise the benefits of the WM8741.

Linn cited the WM8741 as the “most accurate sounding” and “the only chip out there that fully meets our needs.” The WM8741 has also been selected for Linn’s flagship system, the Klimax DS, in a five way competition.

‘Pure Sound’ is part of Wolfson’s AudioPlus™ strategy, adding incremental mixed-signal technologies that comprise key elements of the audio signal chain. The flagship WM8741 chip builds on Wolfson’s established track record and audio expertise to deliver its best ever sound. The DAC is capable of delivering 128dB SNR (mono) and is configurable to meet the most demanding application requirements. It achieves low out of band noise and world leading linearity to improve sound quality and has a range of interface options for SACD and CD playback.

“The Akurate System is targeted at the audio enthusiast who builds their system step by step and demands exceptional audio performance at every step of the process,” commented Gilad Tiefenbrun, Linn’s Director of Engineering. “Wolfson’s expertise in digital audio conversion enables us to take a no compromise approach to designing each part for the ultimate sound quality.”

“The WM8741 is Wolfson’s flagship in audio quality” said Peter Frith, Wolfson’s CTO. “That Linn’s demanding engineers have used the WM8741 in successive product designs, speaks volumes about what we as a company can deliver. The knowledge gained during the WM8741 design will also be used to deliver even better audio throughout the Wolfson range, and everything from phones through to game consoles and portable navigation devices will reap the benefits from the leaps made in the WM8741’s design.

The Akurate DS will be launched at the CES show in Las Vegas and will retail for approximately $6,850 ex tax.

About Wolfson Microelectronics
Wolfson Microelectronics plc is a leading global provider of high performance, mixed-signal semiconductors to the consumer electronics market.

Renowned worldwide for its high performance audio and ultra low power consumption, Wolfson devices are at the heart of many of the world’s highest profile consumer electronics products, including mobile phones, mp3 players, flat panel TVs and in-car infotainment systems. Wolfson technology enables exciting new end-user experiences by connecting the digital world to the human senses.

Headquartered in Edinburgh, UK, Wolfson has sales and engineering offices in the USA, Japan, China, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and India.

Wolfson Microelectronics plc is listed on the London stock exchange (LSE: WLF.L).

For more information about Wolfson Microelectronics, please visit:
www.wolfsonmicro.com or sign up for Wolfson eNews at:
www.wolfsonmicro.com/enews

About LINN
LINN is recognised as the performance leader in pitch-accurate sound reproduction. Its authenticity comes from its original design, technology and manufacturing capabilities. LINN works exclusively with the world’s leading specialist retailers and installers - people committed to providing the highest quality and performance solutions for their clients. LINN entertainment systems can be found in the world’s finest homes, superyachts and commercial applications. In 2002 LINN was granted Royal Warrant status, as suppliers of entertainment systems to the Royal Household. www.linn.co.uk


Contacts
Rob Ashwell
EML
Tel: +44 (0) 208 408 8000
Email: wolfson@eml.com

Anne Connolly
Wolfson Microelectronics plc
Tel: +44 (0) 131 272 7000
Email: anne.connolly@wolfsonmicro.com

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