Mark Levinson N 326S Owner's Manual
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Mark Levinson N 326S Owner's Manual

N326s preamplifier owner's manual
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Owner' s Manual
Nº326S
Preamplifier

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  • Page 1 Owner’ s Manual Nº326S Preamplifier...

  • Page 2: Important Safety Instructions

    Important Safety Instructions 1. Read these instructions 2. Keep these instructions. 3. Heed all warnings. 4. Follow all instructions. 5. Do not use this apparatus near water. 6. Clean only with a dry cloth. 7. Do not block ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. 8.

  • Page 3: Fcc Notice

    Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. • Consult an authorized Mark Levinson dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Caution! Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Nº326S Preamplifier Table of Contents Documentation Conventions ....vii Section 1: Getting Started Special Design Features ......1-1 Highlights •...
  • Page 6 Installation Worksheet ......A-4 Declaraton of Conformity ..... . . A-5 Index Mark Levinson...

  • Page 7: Documentation Conventions

    Nº326S Preamplifier Documentation Conventions This document contains general safety, installation, and operation instructions for the Nº326S Preamplifier. It is important to read this document before attempting to use this product. Pay particular attention to safety instructions. Appears on the component to indicate the presence of uninsulated, dangerous voltages inside the enclosure –...

  • Page 9: Section 1: Getting Started

    Getting Started Special Design Features Thank you for purchasing the Nº326S Preamplifier. The Nº326S features audio circuits, controls, architecture, and optional phono modules based on the critically acclaimed Nº32. In fact, some audio circuits, such as the proprietary discrete volume attenuators, are identical to those found in the Nº32.
  • Page 10 Two Link communication ports make it possible to link the Nº326S to compatible Mark Levinson components, while a trigger output connector, ir input connector, and RS-232 port offer even more control possibilities.
  • Page 11 Following the Mark Levinson tradition, the Nº326S exceeds all reasonable expectations for a stereo preamplifier. Its flexible design – including seven configurable inputs, separate main and record output connectors, and complete surround sound processor integration –...

  • Page 12: Installation Considerations

    • inspect the Nº326S for signs of damage during shipment. If damage is discovered, contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer for assistance making appropriate claims. • locate and remove the accessory box from the carton.
  • Page 13 Nº326S Preamplifier Placement Item Detachable AC power cord Link communication cable 1/8-inch hex key Phillips-head screwdriver (size 1) Nº326S remote control * White gloves (pair)** Warranty & Product Registration Card The remote control comes with two AAA batteries, which should be replaced as needed. ** The white gloves are provided to assist with the initial unpacking and installation of the Nº326S.
  • Page 14 These screws are identified in the illustration to the left. 3. Remove the battery compartment cover from the remote control. 4. Remove the old batteries inserted in the battery compartment (if applicable). Mark Levinson...

  • Page 15: Power Requirements

    CAUTION • DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ADJUST THE OPERATING VOLTAGE. CONSULT AN AUTHORIZED MARK LEVINSON DEALER IF THE OPERATING VOLTAGE IS INCORRECT OR IF THE OPERATING VOLTAGE MUST BE CHANGED FOR RELOCATION PURPOSES. •...

  • Page 16: Quick Start Guide

    Nº326S. However, it is important to read this owner’s manual before attempting more extensive use. This owner’s manual contains information about features that enhance operation and performance, as well as important safety, installation, and operation instructions designed to prevent personal injuries as well as product damage. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 17 Nº326S Preamplifier CAUTION NEVER MAKE OR BREAK CONNECTIONS TO THE Nº326S UNLESS IT AND ALL ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS ARE POWERED OFF AND DISCONNECTED FROM ELECTRICAL OUTLETS. To begin using the Nº326S: 1. Make sure the Nº326S and all associated components are powered off and disconnected from electrical outlets.
  • Page 18 • Factory-default input names correspond to their assigned stereo input connectors. For instance, Input 1 is assigned to the stereo input connectors labeled 1, Input 2 is assigned to the stereo input connectors labeled 2, and so on. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 19: Section 2: Basic Operation

    select power setup The numbers in the Nº326S front panel illustration shown above correspond to the numbered items in the Front Panel Overview section that begins below. Basic Operation IR Receiver polarity enter display intensity balance Front Panel Overview Unless otherwise specified, the numbered items in this section indicate the commands the front panel performs during normal operating mode.
  • Page 20 Refer to Polarity (page 4-3) for additional information. 6. mono LED Lights red to indicate that mono playback has been activated with the remote control mono button. Refer to Mono Playback (page 4-5) for additional information. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 21 Nº326S Preamplifier 7. volume knob Adjusts master volume level. Rotating the volume knob increases (clockwise) and decreases (counterclockwise) master volume level in 1.0dB increments up to 23.0dB and in 0.1dB increments above 23.0dB. The minimum master volume level setting is OFF. The MaxVol parameter can be used to determine the maximum master volume level setting in 0.1dB increments between 40.0 and 80.0dB.
  • Page 22 The mute level can be set in 0.1dB increments between –10.0 and –80.0dB. The factory-default mute level is –20.0dB. Note Rotating the front panel volume knob deactivates mute, adjusting master volume from the muted volume level. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 23: Rear Panel Overview

    Nº326S Preamplifier MARK LEVINSON record outputs RIGHT CHANNEL PREAMPLIFIER Nº 326S Made in the U.S.A. main outputs inputs The numbers in the Nº 326S rear panel illustration shown above correspond to the numbered items in the Rear Panel Overview section that begins below.
  • Page 24 Nº326S balanced output connector pin assignments correspond to the associated power amplifier balanced input connector pin assignments. If not, wire the cable so that the appropriate input pin connects to the appropriate output pin. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 25 Mark Levinson power amplifier that offers Link communication ports. The slave in communication port can be connected to a compatible Mark Levinson digital audio processor or digital transport that offers Link communication ports. Note Refer to Linking (page 2-9) BEFORE linking the Nº326S to...
  • Page 26 Provides serial control, performing flash memory software upgrades and facilitating external control in AMX™ and Crestron™ systems. One 6-pin modular RJ-11 port labeled RS-232 is available. 10. serial number label Indicates the Nº326S serial number, which is required for product registration and warranty service. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 27: Linking

    Link communication ports, including master, slave in, slave out, communication ports. These communication ports can be used to “link” compatible Mark Levinson components in a slave chain, allowing them to share controls such as display intensity, standby, playback, input selection, and record.
  • Page 28 8 are not used. When linking components with constructed Link communication cables, twist the cable 180˚ as shown in the illustration below for a straight-through (pin 1-to-pin 1) connection. Mark Levinson Preamplifier 8-Pin RJ-45 Plug (Pin 1) Locking Tab 180˚...
  • Page 29 Digital transports CANNOT be included in a slave chain that does not include a compatible Mark Levinson digital audio processor. • Connect multiple digital transports in a “daisy chain” using slave out-to-slave in communication port connections.
  • Page 30 5. Play the input source on the digital transport selected in step 1 (if applicable). • All linked components should automatically come out of standby. • The linked digital audio processor and Nº326S should automatically select the appropriate input. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 31: Link Controls

    Nº432 Power Amplifier The last power amplifier control communication port is not connected. Linking Mark Levinson components allows them to share controls such as display intensity, standby, playback, input selection, and record. Note the following: • Linked components must be powered on ONE AT A TIME in the specific order listed in step 4 (page 2-12) to ensure proper functioning of Link controls.

  • Page 32: Controls

    Configuring the linked digital audio processor for an HDCD recording session automatically attenuates the linked Nº326S master volume level the required –6dB. Mark Levinson Power Amplifier Placing a linked power amplifier into standby also places all other linked power amplifiers into standby.

  • Page 33: Remote Control Overview

    Nº326S Preamplifier Operation Considerations Note The Nº31, Nº31.5, Nº37, and Nº39 remote controls can be used to control Nº326S master volume level. This command is available over IR (not Link connections). Before using one of these remote controls to adjust Nº326S master volume level, make sure the digital transport setup menu volume control parameter is set to fixed.
  • Page 34 Sends infrared signals to the front panel display IR receiver when the Nº326S is not using the rear panel ir input connector. Refer to Operation Considerations (previous page) for additional information. standby enter volume – mute Nº 326S Mark Levinson...
  • Page 35 Nº326S Preamplifier 4. enter button Selects and deselects menu items when the setup menu is open. The enter button performs no function during normal operation. 5. volume ± buttons Adjust master volume level. Pressing the volume ± buttons increases (+) and decreases (–) master volume level in 1.0dB increments up to 23.0dB and in 0.1dB increments above 23.0dB.

  • Page 36: Mono Playback

    The front panel mute LED lights red to indicate that mute is activated. Pressing and releasing the mute button again restores master volume to its original level. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 37 Nº326S Preamplifier Basic Operation The Mute parameter can be used to determine the amount of master volume level attenuation that occurs when mute is activated. The mute level can be set in 0.1dB increments between –10.0dB and –80.0dB. The factory-default mute level is –20.0dB.

  • Page 39: Navigating The Setup Menu

    VOLUME UP -80.0 to -10.0 VOLUME DOWN SELECT NEXT SELECT PREV INTENSITY MUTE KEY MONO KEY POLARITY KEY STANDBY KEY ENTER KEY SETUP KEY Name=INPUT 1 BALANCE KEY Gain= +6 dB EXIT STANDBY Offset= 0.0 GO STANDBY Rec.Out=NONE GO INPUT 1 GO INPUT 2 GO INPUT 3 GO INPUT 4...
  • Page 40 Note When a parameter is deselected, the NO CHANGE message will appear on the front panel display as shown to the left if no changes have been made to the parameter’ s last stored setting. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 41: Volume Knob & ± Buttons

    Nº326S Preamplifier select knob & ± buttons volume knob & ± buttons Scroll through menu items. Rotating the select knob or pressing the select ± buttons scrolls upward (clockwise/+) and downward (counterclockwise/–) through all menu items available on the open menu. The front panel display indicates the current menu item.
  • Page 42 28 custom input names that can be used for the most common associated components, including other Mark Levinson components. It also includes custom input names that can be used to deactivate unused inputs or to activate SSP mode.
  • Page 43 Nº30, Nº30.5, Identifies an input associated with the corresponding Mark Nº30.6, Nº35, Levinson component. Linked Mark Levinson components Nº36, Nº36S, must have recognizable custom input names to share Link Nº360, Nº360S, controls. For instance, an input associated with a Nº360S Nº39, Nº390S...
  • Page 44 • Select this custom input name (if the custom names list option was selected in step 3). The SAVING DATA message will appear on the front panel display to indicate that the new input name is being saved. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 45 Nº326S Preamplifier Gain +0dB, +6dB, +12dB, +18dB Offset –20.0dB to +20.0dB • Select this character (if the character list option was selected in step 3). The blinking cursor will advance to the next character space. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all desired characters have been entered.

  • Page 46: Rec.out

    Selecting an IR command sends the associated infrared signal from the left side of the front panel display to a learning remote control, allowing Nº326S IR commands to be sent from a learning remote control even if the Nº326S remote control is not present. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 47 Nº326S Preamplifier enter No326S Setup VOLUME UP Set Inputs VOLUME DOWN Teach IR Teach IR SELECT NEXT Mute = -20.0 SELECT PREV MaxVol= 80.0 INTENSITY Trig.= 12v,L MUTE KEY Sw 1.00 B.18 MONO KEY POLARITY KEY STANDBY KEY ENTER KEY SETUP KEY BALANCE KEY EXIT STANDBY...
  • Page 48 Nº326S master volume level. This command is available over IR (not Link connections). Before using one of these remote controls to adjust Nº326S master volume level, make sure the digital transport setup menu volume control parameter is set to fixed. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 49: Setup Menu Parameters

    Nº326S Preamplifier Mute –10.0dB to –80.0dB MaxVol 40.0dB to 80.0dB Trig. 12v,L; 5v,P Non-adjustable Setup Menu Parameters Default Parameter Setting Mute -20.0dB MaxVol 80.0dB Trig. 12v,L x.xx Determines the amount of master volume level attenuation that occurs when mute is activated with the front panel or remote control mute button.

  • Page 51: Section 4: Controls & Modes

    SLEEP -OFF-, 0h 30m to 4h 0m Controls & Modes Standby Allows the Nº326S to remain warmed-up to deliver optimal performance at all times. The Nº326S cannot be placed into standby unless it is powered on with the front panel power button.

  • Page 52: Display Intensity

    The factory-default illumination level is FULL (100%). When the OFF (0%) illumination level is selected: • The front panel display automatically activates whenever a change in status is detected. • The front panel standby LED lights at the FULL (100%) illumination level. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 53: Polarity

    Nº326S Preamplifier To adjust display intensity: Press and release the front panel display intensity button or the remote control display button to cycle through the four available illumination levels. Front panel display characters and the front panel standby LED automatically adjust to the selected illumination level. Polarity Controls the polarity of the main output signal, whether that signal is using the balanced (XLR) or single-ended (RCA) main...
  • Page 54 The front panel balance LED remains lit if the left-to-right channel balance of the main output connectors is offset. Note All Nº326S volume controls, including master volume and balance, are deactivated when SSP mode (page 4-8) is activated. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 55: Mono Playback

    Nº326S Preamplifier MODE L + R, L ONLY, R ONLY, L – R MODE: L + R Mono Playback Sends mono (rather than stereo) signals to the main output connectors, whether those signals are using the balanced (XLR) or single-ended (RCA) main output connectors. The mono playback control has no affect on the record output connectors.
  • Page 56 The front panel balance LED lights red to indicate that the balance control is open. 7. Rotate the front panel volume knob or press the remote control volume ± buttons to center the image between the front left and right loudspeakers. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 57 Nº326S Preamplifier L – R Phono Alignment MODE: L + R MODE: L – R 8. When the desired adjustments have been made, press and release the balance button to close the balance control. Otherwise, the balance control automatically closes a few sec- onds after the last command is received.

  • Page 58: Ssp (Surround Sound Processor) Mode

    All Nº326S volume controls – including master volume, balance, and volume-related parameters – are deactivated to prevent the Nº326s from distorting channel balance. As a result, the processor controls the relative volume level of all channels while maintaining its calibrated output levels. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 59 Nº326S Preamplifier To activate and use SSP mode: 1. Make sure the Nº326S and all associated components are powered off and disconnected from electrical outlets. 2. Connect the output connectors on the surround sound source component to the input connectors on the surround sound processor.
  • Page 60 10. Press the enter button to select the SSP name, which activates SSP mode. The SAVING DATA message will appear on the front panel display as shown to the left to indicate that the SSP name is being saved. Mark Levinson...

  • Page 61: Section 5: Troubleshooting & Maintenance

    Incorrect operation is sometimes mistaken for malfunction. If problems occur, refer to this section for troubleshooting information. If problems persist, contact Mark Levinson Customer Service at 781-280-0300 or www.marklevinson.com. 1. Examine the power cord to ensure that it is connected to both the ~ac mains connector and a wall outlet.
  • Page 62 Levinson dealer for assistance. 2. Disconnect components one at a time to isolate the problem. Once the problem is identified, make sure the problematic component is properly grounded and connected to the same electrical circuit as the Nº326S. Mark Levinson...
  • Page 63 Make sure the Name parameter for the selected input has not been set to unused. 1. Make sure the slave chain includes Mark Levinson components that are compatible with the Nº326S. 2. Examine Link connections to ensure a solid connection between linked components.

  • Page 64: Restoring Factory-Default Settings

    CANCELLED messages will blink on the front panel display as shown below to indicate that restoration of factory default settings has been cancelled. CLEAR 5. Power on all associated components that were powered off in step 1. Mark Levinson RESTORED CANCELLED...

  • Page 65: Care & Maintenance

    Nº326S Preamplifier Care & Maintenance The Nº326S requires routine care and maintenance to ensure optimal performance. The bulleted items below indicate mainte- nance procedures that should be performed on a regular basis. Note Failure to perform the maintenance procedures included in this section may void the manufacturer’...

  • Page 67: Appendix

    • 4 single-ended (Mark Levinson-RCA) stereo inputs • 1 balanced (male XLR) stereo main output • 1 single-ended (Mark Levinson-RCA) stereo main output • 2 single-ended (Mark Levinson-RCA) stereo record outputs • 2 8-pin RJ-45 connectors for Link communication •...
  • Page 68 • < -94dBV, 20Hz to 20KHz (input terminated) • 20Hz to 20kHz (input terminated < -94dBV) • 10 to 40kHz, ±0.2 dB • 30 pounds (14kg) Specifications are subject to change without notice. Mark Levinson Connectors 0.8V 1.6V 3.3V 6.6V...

  • Page 69: Dimensions

    Nº326S Preamplifier Dimensions Front View 2.92” (74.04mm) power 2.07” (52.45mm) Top View 13.58” (344.91mm) 17.75” (450.85mm) polarity mono volume select setup enter display intensity balance mute 13.62” (345.95mm) 17.50” (444.50mm) Specifications are subject to change without notice. Appendix 2.66” PREAMPLIFIER Nº...

  • Page 70: Installation Worksheet

    Set Inputs Name Input 1 Input 2 Input 3 Input 4 Input 5 Input 6 Input 7 Setup Menu Parameters Mute Polarity MaxVol Intensity Trig. Balance Mono Playback Mark Levinson Gain Offset Rec.Out Control/Mode Settings Gain Offset Rec.Out Control/Mode Settings...

  • Page 71: Declaration Of Conformity

    Type of Equipment: Model: Date: Harman Specialty Group Vice President of Engineering 3 Oak Park Bedford, MA 01730-1413 USA Tel: 781-280-0300 Fax: 781-280-0490 www.marklevinson.com Appendix Harman Specialty Group 3 Oak Park Bedford, MA 01730-1413 USA Preamplifier Mark Levinson No. 326S June 2004...

  • Page 73: Index

    SYMBOLS , iv, IFC , iv, IFC CAUTION, iv, 1-6, 1-7, 1-9, 2-5, 2-10, 3-5, 3-8, 4-9, 5-5, IFC , iv Note, iv, 1-5, 1-8, 1-9, 2-1, 2-2, 2-3, 2-4, 2-5, 2-6, 2-7, 2-8, 2-9, 2-11, 2-12, 2-15, 2-16, 2-17, 2-18, 2-19, 3-2, 3-4, 3-7, 3-8, 3-10, 4-1, 4-2, 4-3, 4-4, 5-5 WARNING, iv, 1-6, IFC...
  • Page 74 2-14, 3-4 to 3-5 (ill.), 3-6, 4-10 factory-default, 1-7, 1-10, 3-4, 3-5, 3-6, 3-7 Mark Levinson scrolling, 2-2, 2-14, 2-17, 3-5 selected, the, 1-2, 1-10, 2-2, 2-3, 2-14, 2-17, 3-4, 3-5, 3-6, 3-7, 3-8, 4-8, 4-9, 4-10, 5-2, 5-3...
  • Page 75 Nº326S Preamplifier (continued) Link communication cables, 1-5, 2-9, 2-10 (constructing), 5-3 communication ports , 2-7, 2-9, 2-11, 3-10, A-1 control, 2-11 input, 2-11 master, 2-9, 2-11 names, 2-11 Nº326S, 1-2, 1-4, 2-7, 2-9, 2-10, 2-11, 3-10, A-1 slave in, 2-7, 2-9, 2-11 slave out, 2-9, 2-11 compatibility, 2-9, 2-11 connections, 2-9 to 2-10...
  • Page 76 3-6, 3-10, 3-11, 4-10, A-4 shipping the Nº326S, 1-4, IBC shortcut, Set Inputs menu, 3-4 single-ended connectors, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 1-9, 2-6, 2-7, 4-3, 4-5, 4-8, Mark Levinson slave in communication port, 2-7, 2-9, 2-11, 3-10, A-1 slave chains, 2-9, 2-10 to 2-13 (ill.)
  • Page 77 Nº326S Preamplifier VCR input name, 3-5 VCRs, 3-5, 3-8 volume ± buttons, 2-17, 2-19, 3-2, 3-3, 3-6, 3-9, 3-10, 4-4, 4-6, 4-10 volume attenuators, 1-1, 1-2, 1-3 volume control range, A-1 VOLUME DOWN IR command, 3-9 volume knob, 2-3, 2-4, 3-2, 3-3, 3-6, 3-10, 4-4, 4-6, 4-10 VOLUME UP IR command, 3-9, 3- warm-up &...

  • Page 78: Obtaining Service

    Obtaining Service We take great pride in selling Mark Levinson products through a network of well-trained dealers who are dedicated to customer satisfaction. These professionals are ideally suited to design, install, and, if the need arises, facilitate the service of high- performance electronic home entertainment systems.
  • Page 80 3 Oak Park, Bedford, MA, 01730-1413 USA | Telephone: 781-280-0300 | Fax: 781-280-0490 | www.marklevinson.com Customer Service Telephone: 781-280-0300 | Sales Fax: 781-280-0495 | Service Fax: 781-280-0499 Product Shipments: 16 Progress Road, Billerica, MA 01821-5730 USA Part No. 070-16658 | Rev 0 | 06/04...

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