Mark Levinson N390S owner manual Digital inputs, Balanced analog outputs

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3. digital inputs

These inputs accept digital audio signal (DAS) via cables equipped with either EIAJ optical or RCA (S/PDIF) coaxial connectors from digital sources such as a compact disc transport, laser disc transport, digital audio tape transport, or digital broadcast receiver.

The EIAJ input accepts digital audio signal (DAS) via optical cable equipped with the EIAJ optical connector (sometimes called “Toslink™”) from digital sources such as a compact disc transport, laser disc transport, digital audio tape transport, or digital broadcast receiver.

The RCA input accepts digital audio signal (DAS) via cables equipped with RCA-type connectors from digital sources such as a compact disc transport, laser disc transport, digital audio tape transport, or digital broadcast receiver.

The RCA input conforms to the Sony/Phillips Digital Interface Standard (S/PDIF), which calls for a 75Ω transmission of the DAS. Use a digital interconnecting cable specifically designed for the 75Ω S/PDIF standard when using this input.

4. balanced analog outputs

These outputs normally provide balanced line-level analog audio (via cables equipped with XLR-type connectors) to a preamplifier, integrated amplifier, or receiver equipped with balanced inputs (see “Setup and Installation”). The pin assignments used are AES-standard, as shown below:

Pin 1: Signal ground

Pin 2: Signal + (non-inverting)

Pin 3: Signal – (inverting)

Connector ground lug: chassis ground

Alternatively, you may elect to use the variable output capability of the Nº390S as a volume control, driving the power amplifier in your system directly. For a digital-only system, the Nº390S is an excellent preamplifier.

Since many people have at least one analog source, they will be better off having a full preamplifier to coordinate the operation of the entire system—digital and analog. In this case, you would leave the Nº390S in its factory-default setting of having a fixed (line level) output.