Linear hifi is the name of a new Dutch Leiden based distributor in the field of high-quality audio—and one to keep in mind.
With the name change from One Hifi Distributie to Linear hifi, the owners say the existing distribution activities are being professionalized, allowing greater focus on the current dealer network and its future expansion. While the name is new, the driving forces behind Linear certainly are not. Linear was founded by Rowan Dernee and Vincent van Nimwegen with—according to them—the aim of bringing a contemporary approach to import and distribution. Below is the explanation of the how and why behind Linear, in the company’s own words:
Customer-focused and personal
In a market where many audio brands are part of large international groups, Linear consciously opts for a more personal and accessible approach. The company focuses on long-term partnerships with hi-fi specialists and offers a high level of service, support, and engagement. Thanks to a combination of experience, flexibility, and expertise, Linear can respond quickly to the specific needs of its partners. With more than 20 years of experience in audio distribution, Rowan Dernee has built extensive expertise in consultancy and customer support. For many visitors to annual audio shows, he is a familiar face. In his new role, he will once again be the main point of contact for existing and future Linear customers in the Benelux.
Vincent developed a passion for music and high-quality audio at a young age through his parents. The store has existed since 1982 and has for some time been run by Vincent and his team. The Hifi Studio is a leading retailer with a distinctive brand portfolio. With his background in retail, he understands better than anyone how to meet the needs of hi-fi specialists.
“In the audio world, ‘linear’ stands for pure, undistorted reproduction in which every detail is presented naturally. That principle perfectly reflects what we stand for as a company: clear, consistent, and free from noise in our communication and collaboration. We strive for transparent relationships with our customers, where quality and honesty set the tone,” say Rowan and Vincent.
The Linear brand portfolio
Since 2017, One Hifi has handled distribution of the British audio brand Cyrus. The brand is known for its compact half-width, award-winning audio components made in the United Kingdom. Cyrus is very much on the move and has recently embarked on a new direction with a completely new line-up. This year saw the launch of the award-winning 40 Series. The range includes a high-end network player (40 ST) that uses the BluOS operating system—proven software which, combined with Cyrus’s engaging British sound, forms an excellent match. This was further underlined when the 40 ST received a What Hi-Fi? Award for Best Network Player in its price class.
The line-up also includes a Class A/B power amplifier (40 AMP), CD player (40 CD), phono preamplifier, and an optional power supply, all sharing the same family design. In 2026, the range will be expanded with the 80 Series. This series features the same design language as the 40 Series, but in full-size format and positioned above it. The 80 Series will consist of three models, including an all-in-one integrated amplifier with streaming (80 AMP), a streaming preamplifier (80 PRE), and a bridgeable Class A/B power amplifier (80 PWR). With this expansion, Cyrus demonstrates that it is ready for the future.
Office and warehouse
Linear is based in Leiden at the same location as The Hifi Studio. This makes it possible to support customers almost throughout the entire week and even ship products on Saturdays. In addition, customers can receive telephone support during opening hours.
Contact details
Linear Hifi B.V.
Korevaarstraat 2 E-F
2311 JS Leiden
Tel: 071-5133534
www.linearhifi.com
he***@********fi.com