Digital Servo Control

Digital Input/Output Versatility

Industrial Design

The laser mechanism used in the Nº390S uses all digital servo controls of its operations. Critical functions such as focus and tracking are handled completely in the digital domain with mathematical precision. A digital servo remains stable over time, never needing readjustment under normal conditions.

The Nº390S CD player incorporates two digital inputs, allowing two external digital sources such as a laser disc player and digital cable radio to benefit from the excellent digital processor incorporated within. The two most common digital interfaces are supported for the widest compatibility: EIAJ (sometimes called “TosLink™”) and S/PDIF coaxial, via an RCA connector.

Two high quality digital output configurations are also supported in the Nº390S. A new complementary driver for the balanced AES/EBU electrical output delivers outstanding performance to the high quality XLR connector. A single-ended S/PDIF electrical output is also provided via an RCA connector. These digital outputs may be used to feed the input of digital recorders or an outboard digital processor, and they both benefit from the closed- loop jitter reduction circuitry described above. (In effect, they duplicate the functionality and performance of the corresponding outputs on a Mark Levinson Nº37 CD transport.)

All digital interfaces have been carefully optimized to deliver the

finest performance each interface standard allows. As a direct13 result, the Nº390S performs optimally with any digital processor, without having to resort to techniques which would limit its compatibility with other products.

The Nº390S shares the handsome industrial design of other Mark Levinson components such as the Nº380 preamplifier. The combination of the hand-brushed, black-anodized aluminum faceplate and bead-blasted custom-machined buttons make operating the Nº390S a tactile as well as a sonic pleasure.

A large, easily read display provides information as to the operational status of the Nº390S from across the room, making the supplied remote control more genuinely useful than on products lacking such a display.

In keeping with its sophisticated design, the Nº390S also incorporates a Mark Levinson-designed loading mechanism. Contrasting strongly with the bulky, plastic drawers commonly used, the slim 1⁄8 inch drawer is machined from a solid piece of aluminum and rides on highly polished bearings. Its variable- speed design opens and closes quickly, but without jarring the disc contained within, nor risking a jam from dislodging it.

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Mark Levinson N390S owner manual
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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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