Break-in Period

Although no damage is likely to result to either CD player or preamplifier, the sound will be badly distorted and the volume may be much louder than you expect.)

4a. If going direct from the Nº390S to an amplifier!

See Special Functions setup on page 47 to set the Nº390S to variable output mode.

5.Power up the rest of the system, leaving the power amplifiers for last.

Always turn the power amplifier(s) off first, and on last. This good habit minimizes the opportunity for unexpected tran- sients to be passed to your loudspeakers. Another good habit is to reduce the volume on your preamplifier to minimum value before you restore power to the system. When the Nº390S is in its variable preamp mode, it powers up at a low volume to minimize sudden changes in volume.

6.Load a disc in the drawer and press Play; slowly raise the volume on your preamplifier.

Congratulations! You should now be able to enjoy your favorite music while reading the rest of this manual. (Please, do read the rest of this manual.)

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Although your Mark Levinson Nº390S CD Processor delivers outstanding performance straight out of the box, you should expect to hear it continue to improve as it reaches its normal operating temperatures and its various components “break-in.” It has been our experience that the greatest changes occur within the first 300 hours, as the Nº390S reaches thermal equilibrium and capacitors become fully formed. After this initial break-in, its performance will remain quite constant.

The only exception to this rule is if power is removed from the unit for more than a few minutes, allowing it to cool down. Depending on the degree of cooling involved, you should expect a brief warm-up period before the Nº390S’s sound quality is at its best. Unless your Nº390S was allowed to become quite chilled, subsequent thermal re-stabilization should not take long.

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Mark Levinson N390S owner manual Break-in Period, 4a. If going direct from the Nº390S to an amplifier
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N390S specifications

The Mark Levinson N390S is a high-performance digital to analog converter (DAC) and audio processor that exemplifies the brand's commitment to superior sound quality and advanced technology. Renowned for its exceptional build quality and cutting-edge engineering, the N390S stands out as a centerpiece in high-end audio systems.

At the heart of the N390S is its state-of-the-art DAC architecture. It employs advanced multibit Delta-Sigma architecture, which ensures a precise and accurate conversion of digital audio signals into analog. This results in an incredibly clean and detailed sound signature, allowing users to experience their music as it was intended by the artist. The N390S supports high-resolution audio formats, making it compatible with a wide range of digital sources, including CDs, streaming devices, and high-resolution audio files.

One of the remarkable features of the N390S is its comprehensive connectivity options. It includes multiple digital inputs, such as optical, coaxial, and AES/EBU, as well as USB input for connecting modern computers and media servers. This versatility ensures that users can easily integrate the N390S into their existing audio systems, regardless of the source devices they use.

The N390S is equipped with a sophisticated digital signal processor (DSP) that provides advanced processing capabilities. It includes features like digital filtering and upsampling, which enhance the audio quality by improving the timing and precision of the sound. Users can customize the sound to their liking, providing a tailored listening experience that can adapt to different musical styles and preferences.

In terms of build quality, the N390S features a robust chassis designed to minimize vibrations and external interferences, further preserving audio integrity. The premium components used in its construction lend to its durability and long-lasting performance.

Finally, the user-friendly interface of the N390S, combined with its high-resolution display, makes navigation simple and intuitive. Overall, the Mark Levinson N390S is a remarkable piece of audio technology that delivers exemplary sound quality, luxurious design, and impressive flexibility, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles seeking the ultimate listening experience.
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