Mark Levinson № 626 Dual-Monaural Preamplifier

The Mark Levinson № 626 dual-monaural preamplifier combines unsurpassed analog audio performance with advanced digital audio processing to push the reproduction of your source material to new levels of realism. At the heart of the № 626 is its proprietary Pure Path fully discrete, direct-coupled, fully balanced, dual-monaural signal path design with a discrete, balanced R-2R ladder volume control for the highest level of accuracy and best possible sonic performance. Line stage inputs feature individual signal switching relays for each of its analog stereo inputs: two balanced (XLR) and three single-ended (RCA), plus MM/MC phono input. These low-noise analog switches offer the widest possible bandwidth and maximum signal integrity. Additionally, the power supply circuit and digital source circuits are carefully shielded from the analog and phono circuitry maintaining signal integrity at the highest level. System integration and expansion is possible via a host of analog outputs, which can operate full-range or with a user selectable fourth order 80Hz filter allowing for seamless integration with powered subwoofers. The № 626 is the first Mark Levinson model to incorporate the new Precision Link III digital-to-analog converter supporting all digital inputs. At the heart of Precision Link III is the ES9039PRO, an 8-channel Hyperstream IV DAC from ESS Technology, supported with proprietary Mark Levinson jitter elimination circuitry and fully balanced, discrete I/V circuitry rounding out the foundation of the digital processing stage. Six digital inputs are provided including one AES/EBU, two coaxial and two optical plus a USB-C audio processor capable of asynchronous data transfer of high-resolution DSD and PCM at up to 32-bit / 384kHz resolution. The chassis of the № 626 utilizes a modular architecture to isolate low-level analog and digital circuitry from the power supply with critical components isolated on rubber mounts. The № 626 utilizes Mark Levinson’s latest vibration-damping, mechanically isolated foot design to provide the most stable and decoupled connection from the surface upon which it sits. The Tectonic exterior design features an aluminum and steel chassis anodized in black with a silver plinth. A glass center panel accented with red lighting on either side forms the focal point of the front panel. The top panel includes the glass Core element with red accent lighting surrounded by generous ventilation for maximum thermal efficiency.