6. Other Operational Buttons

• time

Pressing this button (followed by appropriate numbers from the numeric keypad) allows direct access to any particular time on a disc. Note that this is a context-sensi- tive control—the time accessed will be according to the currently selected time display mode, e.g., 30:00 with the time remaining and time on disc LEDs lit will take you to that point where thirty minutes remains to the end of the disc.

• polarity

Pressing this button on the Nº390S remote control will transparently and automatically invert the polarity of both channels. Some recordings sound better with one polarity than the other; on many, the difference is subtle. In any case, the best place to judge the better polarity for any given recording is from the listening position (hence the placement of this feature on the remote control).

• rpt disc/trk

Press once to enter disc repeat mode (repeating the entire disc, or an entire play list if one is entered). This action

will illuminate the disc repeat LED. Press a second time to 33 enter the track repeat mode (repeating a single track ad nauseam). A third press will cycle you back to normal

operation, as will pressing stop.

• mute

Pressing this button will engage the mute function of a compatible Mark Levinson preamplifier without stopping the transport. Pressing it a second time will restore the volume to its previous setting. Since this function depends on the ability of the Nº390S to pass the instruction to the Nº380 (for example), the two components must be connected by a Link cable, and operate within a system which has a “master” digital processor. (See Special Functions for more information.) If you are using the Nº390S’s preamp (variable output) feature, the Nº390S will engage its own mute circuitry instead.

• intensity/ standby

Pressing this button momentarily cycles the Nº390S (and any Linked Mark Levinson components) through their four levels of display intensity (bright, medium, dim, off). When pressed and held (denoted by the bold dot •), this button will place the Nº390S into standby. When pressed and released, this button will take the Nº390S out of standby.

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Mark Levinson N390S owner manual Other Operational Buttons Time, Polarity, Rpt disc/trk, Mute, Intensity/ standby

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.