A linear compressor that is operated at a frequency greater than the natural frequency of the spring-mass system of the compressor. Operating the compressor at such a frequency can increase the output of the compressor. In one embodiment, the linear compressor includes a cylinder block having a cylinder bore, a piston positioned within the cylinder bore, first and second springs for positioning the piston where the piston and the first and second springs comprise the spring-mass system, and an armature operably engaged with the piston to drive the piston at a frequency greater than the natural frequency of the spring-mass system. The linear compressor can also include a controller which monitors the instantaneous natural frequency of the spring-mass system and modulates the frequency of the current passing through the armature such that it exceeds the natural frequency of the spring-mass system.