Mark Levinson 31 Owners Manual

About Compact Disc

Direction the disc rotates

Direction the laser pickup travels

Digital Audio…

To most people, a Compact Disc (CD) looks like a small, silver phonograph record. In fact, there are some important differences between records and CDs.

Phonograph records

vs. compact discs

The information on a phonograph record is contained within its grooves. This

analog

information is

read by a stylus riding along in the grooves and transmitted via a cartridge. The

digital

information on a CD, though arranged in similar grooves, is read by a laser mechanism (called a

pickup

). A phonograph’s stylus must be in contact with the record, but a CD player’s pickup never touches the CD. The information on the CD is transmitted via complex decoder circuitry.

The CD rotates counterclockwise, and the laser pickup reads the underside of the CD (the side opposite the label) beginning at the center and travelling toward the outer edge. As the pickup moves away from the center, the speed of rotation gradually decreases from 500 to 200 revolutions per minute.

Tracks and indexes

Programs on CDs are organized into

tracks

, usually corresponding to

songs or movements. This allows you to select a part of a program

easily and precisely,

Lindsay's First Symphony

First Movement Second Movement Third Movement

(Track 1) (Track 2) (Track 3)

with virtually no wear and tear on the CD. There may be as many as 99 tracks on a CD.

Index Numbers from Track 2

01 02 03 04 05 06 94 95 96 97 98 99

On some CDs, tracks are further broken down into

indexes

. These

"tracks within tracks" allow even more precise selection and programming. A single track may have up to 99 indexes.

2 43

display

intensity

repeat A

repeat disc repeat track program clear program review program save index mode

7 9

track index time

B preview program + program –

13 14

display

mode

elapsed time

time remaining

1086

Front panel

1 standby

When the Nº31 is connected to AC power and the main power switch on the rear panel is in the "|" position (see "Rear panel"), pressing this button takes the Nº31 out of "standby" mode and enables the front-panel controls.

on track

on disc

MADRIGAL AUDIO LABORATORIES

REFERENCE

CD TRANSPORT

Nº 31

standby

111 12 15

When the Nº31's main power switch is first turned on (or when power is restored after an interruption), the Nº31 will be ready to operate (that is, it won't be in standby mode).

Pressing standby again places the Nº31 into standby mode and disables the front-panel controls.

While the Nº31 is in standby mode, the Display is dark and the standby LED flashes slowly. When the Nº31 is ready to operate (not in standby mode), the standby LED remains lighted.

Note: When going into standby, the Nº31 deactivates its digital outputs. With some digital processors, this may result in a low-level "pop" on the audio outputs (

linked

Mark Levinson

digital processors aren't subject to this effect).

To prevent this low-level "pop" from coming through your system's speakers or headphones, adjust the volume to its lowest level before placing the Nº31 into standby.

2 display intensity

time remaining on track

display

mode

time remaining on disc

elapsed time on track

elapsed time on disc

Pressing this button varies the brightness of the Display. Four brightness levels are available.

When the Nº31's main power switch is first turned on (or when power is restored after an interruption), the Display is automatically set to its second-brightest level.

Pressing display intensity once dims the Display one level; pressing it again dims it further; pressing it again turns the Display off. Pressing display intensity once more returns the Display to its brightest level.

display intensity also affects the Nº31's front-panel LEDs. When the Display is turned off, however, the LEDs still glow dimly.

3 Top-panel controls

See "Top panel."

4 Display

See "Display."

5 display mode

This button allows you to change the type of information shown in the time part of the Display. (See "Display.")

When a CD is loaded and ready for play, the time part of the Display shows the time remaining on the CD; the time remaining and on disc LEDs are lighted.

Press display mode to change the time part of the Display:

The information in the time part of the Display corresponds to the lighted LEDs to the right of the display mode button. After play begins, the Display will reflect the last display mode you selected.

Along with program + (13) and program – (14), the display mode button is also used to change the link settings. (See "Linked functions.")

6 repeat disc

To repeat (continuously) all tracks on a CD (or all tracks in a program), press this button.

While repeat disc is active, the LED above the button is lighted.

To return to normal play, press repeat disc again or press Stop..

7 repeat A>B

This function allows you to repeat (continuously) a particular phrase or passage on a CD.

While a CD is playing, press repeat A>B at the beginning of the passage you'd like to repeat. At the end of the passage, press repeat A>B again. The passage you selected will repeat continuously.

While repeat A>B is active, A then B will alternate appearing in the space preceding the track number on the Display. (See "Display.")

To return to normal play, press repeat A>B again.

8 repeat track

To repeat (continuously) the track in play, press this button.

While repeat track is active, the LED above the button is lighted.

To return to normal play, press repeat track again.

9 preview

This function allows you to play only the introduction of each track on a CD or in a program.

Once a CD is loaded and ready for play, press preview. Beginning with the first track on the CD (or the first track in the program), the Nº31 will play the first ten seconds of the track, skip to the second track and play the first ten seconds of that track, and so on.

While preview is active, the track part of the Display flashes. (See "Display.")

To return to normal play, press preview again, or press Play. (See "Top panel.")

10 program clear

Pressing this button erases any temporary program, and also temporarily overrides a previously saved program. (See "Programming.")

Pressing program clear, followed by pressing program save (12), permanently erases a program from the Nº31's memory.

After pressing program clear, the Display will show PROG CLEARED.

If you press program clear when there is no program in the Nº31's memory, the Display will show NO PROGRAM.

11 program review

This function allows you to review the selections in the current program. (See "Programming.")

Press this button once to view the first selection in your program. To view the next selection, press program review again, and so on.

After you view the last selection in the program, the Display will show PROGRAM END.

If you press program review when there is no program in the Nº31's memory, the Display will show NO PROGRAM.

12 program save

Pressing this button records a program in the Nº31's memory. (See "Programming.")

After pressing program save, the Display will show NEW PROGRAM,

PROG CHANGED, or PROG DELETED.

13 program

Pressing this button adds a selection to a program. (See "Programming.")

Along with display mode (5), the program + button is used to change the link settings. (See "Linked functions.")

14 program –

Used along with program review (11), pressing this button erases a selection from a previously saved program without erasing the entire program. (See "Programming.")

Along with display mode (5), the program – button is used to change the link settings. (See "Linked functions.")

15 index mode

When you're playing a CD recorded with indexes, the Nº31's index mode allows you to use those indexes to select more precisely the music you want to play. (See "About Compact Disc Digital Audio" and "Basic operation.")

After pressing index mode before playing the CD, the Display will show INDEX SEARCH.

While the index mode function is active, the LED above the button flashes.

While the Nº31 is in index mode, pressing Next or Previous skips the laser pickup to the next or previous index on the CD (see "Top panel"), and you may use the Remote Control's numbered buttons to select indexes (see "Remote Control").

To cancel this function, press index mode again, press Play, or press Stop.

Top panel

1 Laser Isolation Device (LID)

The LID covers the CD transport assembly, the mechanism that holds the CD during play. Its operation is controlled by the LID Open/Close button (2).

PRECAUTION

Never hold onto the LID while it’s opening or closing.

2 LID Open/Close

Pressing this button opens the LID (1); pressing it again closes the LID.

Pressing LID Open/Close while a CD is playing stops play and opens the LID.

3 Stop

Pressing this button while a CD is playing stops play. Pressing Stop also cancels repeat disc and repeat track, if they're active.

Pressing Play (5) after pressing Stop begins play again with the first track on the CD (or the first track in a program).

4 Search Reverse

Holding this button down during play moves the laser pickup rapidly toward the beginning of the CD.

During search, the pickup moves at two different speeds, increasing the longer you hold down Search Reverse, and the volume is reduced.

Note: If your Nº31 is connected to a compatible Mark Levinson digital processor (via the communication ports), you may mute the volume completely during search. (See "Linked functions.")

When you release Search Reverse, play normally resumes. If you have reached the beginning of the disc, the Nº31 will Stop and wait for your next command.

5 Play

After a CD is loaded and the Disc Damper is in place, pressing this button begins play with the first track on the CD (or the first track in a program).

If you press Play while the LID is open, the LID closes and play starts beginning with the first track on the CD (or the first track in a previously saved program).

Pressing Play while a CD is playing suspends play, returns to the beginning of the current track, and replays that track.

6 Search Forward

This button works in the same way as Search Reverse (4), except that it moves the laser pickup rapidly toward the end of the CD.

7 Pause

While a CD is playing, pressing this button suspends play; pressing it again resumes play at the point where Pause was first pressed.

While Pause is active, the LED above the button is lighted and ❙❙

appears preceding the track number on the Display. (See "Display.")

("❙❙") flashing on and off. Alternatively, this Long Term Pause feature

may be engaged by pressing and holding the Pause button until the indicator begins to flash in the display. Pressing Pause again will resume play at the point where Pause was first pressed, (after a short delay to allow the disc to get up to speed).

To "cue up" the beginning of a CD or track, press Pause

pressing Play (5). To begin play, press Pause again. (You may also select another track or index while play is suspended.)

8 Previous

This button's function depends on whether or not the Nº31 is in index mode. (See "Front panel.")

While the Nº31 is in index mode, pressing Previous "skips" the laser pickup to the previous Previous skips the laser pickup to the previous

Pressing Previous while a CD is playing suspends play, skips the laser pickup to the previous track or index on the CD (or in a program), and begins play there.

Note: If you press Previous while the first track on the CD (or in a program) is playing, the Display will show FIRST TRACK, and play will resume with that track.

Pressing Previous before play begins skips the laser pickup to the beginning of the last track or index on the CD; pressing Play (5) begins play there (temporarily overriding any existing program).

9 Next

This button works in the same way as Previous (8), except that it skips to the

track or index.

index

. If index mode is inactive, pressing

track

before

While the Nº31 is in index mode, pressing Next skips the laser pickup to the next laser pickup to the next

Pressing Next while a CD is playing suspends play, skips the laser pickup to the next track or index on the CD (or in a program), and begins play there.

Note: If you press Next while the last track on the CD (or in a program) is playing, the Display will show LAST TRACK, and play will resume with that track.

Pressing Next before play begins skips the laser pickup to the beginning of the next track or index on the CD; pressing Play (5) begins play there (temporarily overriding any existing program).

index

. If index mode is inactive, pressing Next skips the

track

1 1432

CD transport assembly

1 Finger wells

These cutouts make it easy to grasp a CD by its edges when placing it on or removing it from the spindle.

Levelling screws

For the best performance, the Nº31's transport assembly should be level. Four levelling screws (one inside each finger well) allow you to adjust the transport assembly.

With the supplied 3/32" hex driver, and using the Nº31's bubble level (3) as a gauge, adjust one or more of these screws to bring the transport assembly to level. To lower a corner, turn the corresponding screw clockwise; to raise a corner, turn the screw counterclockwise.

2 Spindle

This is the device that spins the CD, and on which the CD rests during play. The CD must be centered on the spindle, and it must be clamped to the spindle by the Disc Damper.

3 Bubble level

Use this bubble level, along with the four levelling screws (1), to make sure that the Nº31's transport assembly is level.

4 Laser assembly

This assembly contains the Nº31's laser pickup, the device that reads the underside of the CD.

PRECAUTION

Disc Damper

Installing the Disc Damper

Never touch or attempt to clean the laser assembly.

To clamp a CD onto its spindle, the Nº31 uses a Disc Damper held in place by a strong magnet.

Always make sure that the Disc Damper is in place before closing the LID. If you close the LID without the Damper in place, the display will show NO DAMPER and you'll be unable to play the CD.

When loading a CD for play, install the CD on the spindle, then place the Disc Damper on top of the CD.

Disc damper

Compact disc

Spindle

The CD and the Damper must be centered on the spindle. You'll feel the Damper's magnet "catch" when they're centered.

Removing the

Disc Damper

When removing a CD from the spindle, first remove the Disc Damper. To prevent damage to the CD, gently hold it down by the edge while pulling

straight up

on the Damper's knob.

Pull

straight up

on the

damper's knob…

…while gently

holding down

the edge of

the CD

To overcome the magnet, you'll need to give it a firm pull.

Note: When the Disc Damper clamps the CD onto the spindle, its strong magnet forces the air from between the Damper and the CD. If you don't follow the removal procedure outlined above, the CD may stick briefly to the Damper's energyabsorbing surface after the magnet is released.

If the CD is stuck to the Damper when you remove them from the spindle, take care not to let it fall.

timetrack index

1 2 3 4

Display

1 track

Before play begins, this part of the Display shows the total number of tracks on the CD.

During play, this part of the Display shows the number of the track in play.

While a program is in the Nº31's memory, the letter P will appear preceding the track number. A small P indicates a saved polarity setting (possible only when the Nº31 is linked to a compatible Mark Levinson digital processor).

While random play is active, the letter R will appear preceding the track number.

While repeat A>B is active, the letters A then B will alternate appearing in the space preceding the track number.

While Pause is active, " will appear preceding the track number (as pictured above).

While preview is active, the track part of the Display will flash.

2 index

If a CD includes indices, this part of the Display shows the index in play, beginning with 01 and increasing as the CD plays. If the CD in play doesn't include indexes, this part of the Display shows 01 throughout play. For information on how to use indexes, see "Basic operation."

Tracks may also be played from Index 00. (See "Linked functions.")

3 time

Before play, this part of the Display shows the total playing time for all tracks on the CD. When play begins, this part of the Display shows time-related information about the CD or the track.

You may vary the information in this part of the Display using the

display mode button. (See "Front panel.")

4 Remote sensor

This part of the Display accepts commands from the Nº31's Remote Control. (See "Remote Control.") Always keep this window clean and unobstructed.

Display messages

The Display also shows messages about the Nº31's status and operation. Here are some of the messages you'll see, and what they mean.

■ CLOSING: The LID is in motion (closing); appears after the

LID Open/Close button is pressed.

■ FIRST TRACK: The Previous button was pressed while the first track

on the CD (or in a program or a random sequence) was playing.

■ INDEX SEARCH: The Nº31 is scanning the CD for indexes; appears

after index mode is pressed.

■ INSERT DISC: The LID is open; appears after the LID has stopped

opening.

■ LAST TRACK: The Next button was pressed while the last track on

the CD (or in a program) was playing.

■ NEW PROGRAM: A new program was recorded in the Nº31's

memory; appears after program save is pressed.

■ NO DAMPER: The LID is closed and the Disc Damper isn't installed

on the spindle; appears after the LID has closed.

■ NO PROGRAM: There's no program in the Nº31's memory;

appears after program review or program clear is pressed.

■ OPENING: The LID is in motion (opening); appears after the

LID Open/Close button is pressed.

■ P01 IS 1st: Indicates a track's place in a program; appears after

program review is pressed.

■ P02 02 IS 2: Indicates an index's place in a program; appears

after program review is pressed.

■ PROG CHANGED: Changes to a program were recorded in the

Nº31's memory; appears after program save is pressed.

■ POLARITY PRG: A program including only the polarity invert

function was saved; appears after program save is pressed.

■ PROG DELETED: A previously saved program was erased from the

Nº31's memory; appears after program clear is pressed, followed by pressing program save.

■ PROG CLEARED: The temporary program was erased, or the

previously saved program was temporarily overridden; appears after program clear is pressed.

■ PROGRAM END: There are no more selections in the program

being reviewed; appears after program review is pressed.

■ READING: The Nº31 is reading track and time information from

the CD; appears after the LID has closed.

MADRIGAL AUDIO LABORATORIES

stop pause track

index

123

456

789

prg / time

A–B

d/a

polarity

display

mode

rpt trackrpt disc

display

intensity

Remote Control

1 Each of these buttons performs the same function as its

counterpart on the Nº31. (See "Top panel" and "Front panel").

Note: Used alone, the + and – buttons perform the Next and Previous functions, respectively. When pressed after prg/time (3), the + and – buttons perform the program + and program – functions, respectively.

The index button performs the index mode function.

When no CD is playing, pressing stop opens the LID.

2 Numbered buttons

These buttons may be used to select tracks or indexes (instead of using Next or Previous) or, along with prg/time (3), to begin play at a specific time in a track.

Note: If the Nº31 is in index mode, the numbered buttons select indexes. If the index mode is inactive, the numbered buttons select tracks.

To select a one-digit track or index number, you may press either one or two buttons. For example, for track 1, you may enter either 1 or 01. To select a two-digit track number, enter both digits. Track numbers you select will appear in the track part of the Display; index numbers you select will appear in the index part of the Display.

Entering a number before play begins play with that track or index and plays the remaining tracks as ordered on the CD.

Entering a number during play skips to that track or index and begins play, then plays the remaining tracks as ordered on the CD.

The numbered buttons may also be used to begin play at a specific time; see prg/time (3). In this case, the numbers you select will appear in the time part of the Display.

3 prg/time

This function, used with the numbered buttons (2), allows you to begin play at a specific index. Used with the + and – buttons, prg/time allows you to add or erase selections from a program via the Remote Control.

To begin play at a specific time, use Next or Previous (or the numbered buttons) to select a track. Press prg/time, then press the numbered buttons corresponding to when you'd like play to begin. (The numbers you select will appear in the time part of the Display.) To begin play at that point, press Play.

time

— whether or not it corresponds to an

Note: The time you select depends on the selection you've made with the display mode button: elapsed or remaining, CD or track.

For example, if you want to begin play one minute and thirty seconds into track 2, first press display mode until the elapsed time and on track LEDs light. Then select track 2 by pressing Next or Previous (or by entering 02). Press prg/time, enter 130, then press Play.

To add or erase selections from a program, first select a track. Press prg/time, then press + to add a selection or – to erase a selection. (See "Programming.")

4 d/a polarity

Some recordings simply "sound better" when polarity is inverted. When the Nº31 is linked to a compatible Mark Levinson digital processor (via their communication ports), pressing this button inverts polarity on the digital processor. (See "Rear panel" and "Linked functions.")

5 Transmit LED

This LED indicates when a command is transmitted by the Remote Control. It lights when you press any button on the Remote Control.

Note: This LED indicates when the Remote Control sends a command, not necessarily that the Nº31 received it.

If this LED fails to light when a button is pressed, replace the Remote Control's batteries. (See "Set-up and installation.")

6 Battery compartment cover

This cap covers the compartment that holds the Remote Control's batteries.

(Rear of

Remote Control)

–

Using the supplied 1/16" hex key, remove the two screws securing the cover. Insert two AA batteries according to the symbols on the inside of the battery compartment cover. Replace the battery compartment cover.

7 Projection lens

Infrared (IR) commands from the Remote Control to the Nº31 are transmitted through this lens. (See "Set-up and installation.")

30 feet

or less

30˚ 30˚

Always keep the projection lens clean.

main power

REFERENCE CD TRANSPORT Nº 31 designed and manufactured in U.S.A. by MADRIGAL

communication ports digital outputs

slave

out

S/N

eiaj st spdif

aes/ebu

operating voltage, 50-60Hz:

90 - 110VAC~ 105 - 125VAC~ 180 - 220VAC~ 210 - 240VAC~ 230 - 250VAC~

WARNING: BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS DEVICE, REFER TO OWNER'S MANUAL FOR PROPER OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. HAZARDOUS VOLTAGE AVAILABLE INSIDE; DISCONNECT AC ~ MAINS CABLE BEFORE OPENING UNIT.

PRECAUTION

65 7

9 10 132 4

Rear panel

Disconnect all associated equipment from the AC mains BEFORE making any signal connections and applying power to the Nº31.

1 Operating voltage indication

The Nº31 is set internally for 100, 120, 200, 220, or 240VAC mains operation @ 50 or 60Hz. Make sure that this label indicates the correct AC operating voltage for your location. (See "Set-up and installation").

2 main power

This switch turns the Nº31 on and off. The switch must be in the "|" (on) position for the Nº31 to function. (See "Set-up and installation.")

Never operate the main power switch without first making sure that power is turned off to your receiver, integrated amplifier, or preamplifier/power amplifier.

PRECAUTION

3 AC power cord socket

This socket accepts AC mains power via the supplied AC power cord.

4 Fuse compartment

The panel surrounding the main power switch is also a hinged cover for the Nº31's fuse compartment. The Nº31 uses two 1.0ampere slow-blow fuses.

Never open the fuse compartment without first disconnecting the Nº31 from AC power. If you need to replace the fuses, always use the same type of fuse.

To open the fuse compartment, insert the tip of a small, flat-bladed screwdriver into the slot at the top edge of this panel. Gently pry open the top edge of the compartment cover.

5 slave out 6 slave in

These communication ports allow the Nº31 to "link" to certain compatible Mark Levinson components. (See "Linked functions.")

Using the Link cable, connect the Nº31's slave in port to the master port on the Mark Levinson digital processor.

Make sure that the Link cable's locking tabs engage securely in the components' communication ports.

If linking a second Nº31, connect the second Nº31's slave in port to the first Nº31's slave out port.

PRECAUTION

Connecting the communication ports other than as described in this manual will damage the Nº31 and the digital processor, and will void the products' warranties.

7 digital output, EIAJ optical

This output provides digital audio (DAS, via a cable equipped with TOSLINK-type optical connectors) to a digital processor, digital audio tape recorder, preamplifier, integrated amplifier, or receiver equipped with EIAJ optical digital inputs.

8 digital output, ST optical

This output provides digital audio (DAS, via a cable equipped with ST-type optical connectors) to a digital processor, digital audio tape recorder, preamplifier, integrated amplifier, or receiver equipped with ST optical digital inputs.

9 digital output, SPDIF electrical

This output provides digital audio (DAS, via a cable equipped with RCA-type connectors) to a digital processor, digital audio tape recorder, preamplifier, integrated amplifier, or receiver.

10 digital output, AES/EBU electrical

This output provides digital audio (DAS, via a cable equipped with XLR-type connectors) to a digital processor, digital audio tape recorder, preamplifier, integrated amplifier, or receiver equipped with XLR-type digital inputs.

Pin 1: System Ground

Note: The quality of the cables and connectors that you use with your Nº31 can noticeably affect sound quality. For electrical interconnection, we recommend Madrigal MDC cable.

MDC-1 Pro is designed for AES/EBU interconnection; MDC-2 FatBoy is designed for SPDIF interconnection. MDC is

available in various lengths, pre-terminated with RCA and XLR connectors. See your Mark Levinson dealer for more information.

Pin 2: DAS + (Non-inverting) Pin 3: DAS – (Inverting) Connector Ground Lug: Chassis Ground

Set-up and installation

PRECAUTION

Unpacking

For your protection, review "Important Safety Instructions" before you install your Nº31.

Carefully open the shipping carton and remove the contents. You should have:

■ Mark Levinson Nº31 Reference Digital Transport

■ Remote control

■ Two AA batteries

■ Disc damper

■ Four spikes

■ AC power cord

■ Link cable (2m)

■ Two spare 1.0-ampere slow-blow fuses

■ One 1/16" hex key

■ One 1/8" hex key

■ One 3/32" hex driver

■ Owner’s manual

Save the shipping carton and all packing material. Though it may be inconvenient to store, it’ll come in handy for shipping if you move, or if the Nº31 needs to be shipped for service.

PRECAUTION

To set up your Nº31, you’ll need:

■ A soft cloth or towel (step 2)

■ A digital-audio cable (step 9)

1. Make sure that the Nº31 is unplugged from the AC power supply and disconnected from your digital processor.

2. Place the Nº31 upright on a flat, stable surface. Carefully tip it so it rests

on its side

Never turn the Nº31 upside-down (onto its top). Doing so will damage the transport mechanism and will void the warranty.

; protect its finish with a soft cloth.

Installing the spikes

(optional)

3. The Nº31 is shipped so that it rests solidly on its four feet, one under each corner of the unit.

You may want to explore the potential sonic advantages of installing the specially designed "spikes" supplied with the Nº31.

Removing the

transport screws

Install the spikes one at a time.

remove the screw securing the foot to the Nº31's chassis. Insert the threaded end of the spike through the hole in the foot into the threaded hole in the chassis, then turn the spike clockwise until it’s hand-tight. (Be careful not to over-tighten it.)

Repeat this procedure for the other three spikes.

4. Locate the two transport screws on the bottom of the Nº31.

Using the supplied 1/8" hex key,

Nº31 chassis

Foot

Spike

Remove these

screws and washers

Warning tag

(protects finish)

5. Remove both transport screws by turning them counterclockwise (no tools are necessary).

Save the transport screws, washers, and warning tag with the packing material. If you ever need to ship the Nº31, you must replace them.

with its feet supported on raised blocks and the transport screws inserted from underneath.

This is easiest when the Nº31 is level and upright,

Placement

7. Turn the Nº31 upright.

To keep interconnect cabling as short as possible, place the Nº31 as close as possible to your digital processor. You may place it on a shelf or in a cabinet where it's convenient to operate.

The Nº31 should rest on a level, stable surface. Avoid placing it where it'll be exposed to shocks or vibration (such as on an unstable table or near large loudspeakers). In general, place it as you would a turntable.

You should also place other associated equipment so that it doesn't induce hum in the Nº31 and other sensitive components.

PRECAUTION

About IR communication

Interfering with the Nº31’s ventilation or that of another component could cause either to overheat, resulting in damage to your system. To allow heat dissipation through air circulation, allow 3 to 4 inches of clearance above the vents on the top of the Nº31. Never block the vents on the bottom of the Nº31.

To help with special installations and custom cabinetry, drawings are included in this manual. (See "Dimensions").

The Remote Control sends infrared (IR) commands through its projection lens, and the Nº31 receives IR commands through its Remote sensor window. (See "Display").

30 feet or less

30˚ 30˚

IR communication between the Remote Control and the Nº31 will be affected by:

■ Direct sunlight

■ Interior lighting

■ Wall, window, ceiling, and floor treatments

■ The angle of the Remote Control relative to the Nº31

If the Nº31 will be subject to direct sunlight, place it no more than 10 feet from where you’ll normally operate the Remote Control. Where bright sunlight virtually floods the room, IR communication may not be possible.

In a room lighted primarily with incandescent fixtures, place the Nº31 no more than 25 feet from where you’ll normally operate the Remote Control. In a room with fluorescent fixtures, this range will be reduced. Where bright fluorescent lighting virtually floods the room, IR communication may not be possible.

IR, like visible light, reacts differently when it meets different surfaces. Carpeting and draperies, for example, tend to diffuse (scatter) IR and interfere with its transmission. Glossy or reflective surfaces, such as mirrors and smooth walls, "bounce" (reflect) IR and won’t interfere with its transmission. When placing the Nº31, it’s important to account for potential IR bounce and diffusion.

Bare wall

(bounce)

(For example, in a room with thick carpeting, heavy draperies, and many pieces of furniture, you'd place the Nº31 closer to where you’ll normally operate the Remote Control than you would in a sparsely furnished room with bare walls and hardwood flooring.)

If possible, install the Nº31 directly opposite where you’ll normally operate the Remote Control. In practice, the Remote Control will operate the Nº31 at up to 30 degrees to either side of this direct line. To either side of this line, successful IR communication will depend on bounce and ambient lighting.

Draperies (diffusion)

Before making any audio connections, make sure that power is turned off to both the Nº31 and your receiver, integrated amplifier, or preamplifier/power amplifier.

Connectors and cable

Audio connection

Connecting the

communication ports

(optional)

The Nº31 incorporates RCA-type and XLR-type electrical connectors, and EIAJ-type and ST-type optical connectors for digital-audio signal output.

The quality of the cables and connectors that you use with your Nº31 can noticeably affect the quality of the sound that you hear from your speakers or headphones. For electrical interconnection, we recommend Madrigal Audio Laboratories MDC cable.

MDC-1 Pro is designed for AES/EBU interconnection (via XLR-type connectors); MDC-2 FatBoy is designed for SPDIF interconnection (via RCA-type connectors). MDC is available in various lengths, pre-terminated with RCA and XLR connectors. See your Mark Levinson dealer for more information.

9. Using a high-quality digital-audio cable, connect the

digital output of the Nº31 to the digital input of your digital processor.

10. If connecting your Nº31 to a compatible Mark Levinson digital processor, you'll want to take advantage of certain "linked" functions. (See "Linked functions.")

Using the Link cable, connect the Nº31's slave in port to the master port on the Mark Levinson digital processor.

PRECAUTION

To Nº31

Make sure that the Link cable's locking tabs engage securely in the components' communication ports.

If linking a second Nº31, connect the second Nº31's slave in port to the first Nº31's slave out port.

To Mark Levinson

digital processor

Locking tabLocking tab

Connecting the communication ports other than as described in this manual will damage the Nº31 and the digital processor, and will void the products' warranties.

Quick-reference:

Connecting the Nº31 to a

Mark Levinson

digital processor

In summary, then, this diagram shows the connections you need to make to link your Nº31 to a Mark Levinson digital processor.

Nº30

Nº35

digital input

Audio

connections

digital output

master

Link

cable

slave in

slave out

Link

cable

digital output slave in

Nº31

Voltage setting

11. The Nº31 is set internally for 100V, 120V, 200V, 220V, or 240V AC mains operation @ 50 or 60Hz. Make sure that the label on the rear panel of your Nº31 indicates the correct AC operating voltage for your location. (See "Rear panel.")

If the voltage indicated is incorrect, or if you wish to change the AC operating voltage of the Nº31, see your Mark Levinson dealer.

The Nº31 can be powered by a normal 15-ampere AC mains line. If other devices are also powered from the same AC line, their additional power consumption must be taken into account.

Connecting the

AC power cord

Connect the AC cord to the AC power cord socket on the rear panel of the Nº31 (see "Rear panel"), then connect the AC cord to the AC mains.

To Nº31 To AC mains

1 = Line (hot)

132

2 = Neutral 3 = Earth ground

Main power switch

PRECAUTION

12. Set the main power switch to the "|" (on) position; the standby LED

on the Nº31 will light. Allow the Nº31’s circuitry to stabilize for several minutes, then connect all associated equipment to the AC mains and activate it.

Never operate the main power switch without first making sure that power is turned off to your receiver, integrated amplifier, or preamplifier/power amplifier.

Note: The Nº31 won’t achieve its sonic potential right away — sonic performance is close to the optimum after 350 hours (or about two weeks of normal use). For the best performance, you may leave the main power switch on at all times, except when you won’t be using your Nº31 for a long period. (See "Important Safety Instructions").

The Nº31 may be turned on and off without significantly affecting its longevity. When it is turned on after being left turned off, allow about one hour before expecting optimal sonic performance.

Levelling the

transport assembly

13. Press the LID Open/Close button on the top panel.

For the best performance, the Nº31's transport assembly should be level. Four levelling screws (one inside each finger well) allow you to adjust this.

With the supplied 3/32" hex driver, and using the Nº31's bubble level as a gauge, adjust one or more of these screws to bring the transport assembly to level. To lower a corner, turn the corresponding screw clockwise; to raise a corner, turn the screw counterclockwise.

Levelling

screws

Bubble level Levelling

screws

14. Place the Disc Damper on the spindle, then press LID Open/Close again to close the LID.

Installing batteries in the

Remote Control

15. Using the supplied 1/16" hex key, remove the two screws securing the cover of the Remote Control’s battery compartment (the end opposite the projection lens).

Projection

lens

(Rear of

Remote Control)

–

16. Insert two AA batteries according to the symbols on the inside of the battery compartment cover. Replace the battery compartment cover and screws.

Basic operation

Before operating your Nº31, become familiar with its controls and their locations. (See "Front panel," "Top panel," "CD transport assembly," and "Remote Control.")

Loading a CD

Temporarily overriding a

previously saved program

To load a CD for play:

1. Make sure that the main power switch is set to the "|" position.

2. Enable the Nº31's controls by pressing standby.

3. Press LID Open/Close to open the LID.

4. Remove the Disc Damper from the spindle.

5. Place a CD onto the spindle, label side up. Handle the CD by the outer edges only.

6. Place the Damper on top of the CD. Make sure that it's centered and seated securely.

7. Close the LID by pressing LID Open/Close again.

In a few seconds, the Display will show the total number of tracks and their total playing time. The CD is now ready for play.

Note: If you'd previously saved a program for the CD, the letter P will appear preceding the track number on the Display. (See "Programming.")

To override a previously saved program, press program clear; or on the Remote Control, press the 0 (zero) numbered key, then press prg/time. All of the CD's tracks will be accessible for basic operation, but the program will still be retained in the Nº31's memory.

Playing all tracks in order

Beginning play with other

than the first track

To play all tracks on the CD, press the Play button. All tracks will play in order. Play will stop automatically at the end of the CD.

To begin play with a track other than the first track:

1. Before pressing Play, press Next until the number of the desired track shows on the Display. If you pass the track you want to play, you can "back up" by pressing Previous. (You may also select the track using the numbered buttons on the Remote Control.)

2. Press Play to begin playing that track. The remaining tracks will play in order. Play will stop automatically at the end of the CD.

Replaying a track To return to the beginning of a track while it's playing, press Play. Play

will be suspended briefly, then that track will replay followed by the remaining tracks on the CD.

Playing tracks at random

Skipping to another track

Searching for a

specific passage

Using the Remote Control, you may have the Nº31 play tracks totally at random. To do this, press the 0 (zero) numbered key, then press Play.

While random play is active, the letter R will appear preceding the track number on the Display.

To cancel random play, press Stop.

You may skip to another track any time while a CD is playing. To move to another track, press Next (to go forward) or Previous (to go backward) until the number of the track you want to play shows on the Display. (You may also select the track using the numbered buttons on the Remote Control.) Play will resume as soon as the pickup reaches that track.

You may search for a particular passage on the CD using Search Forward and Search Reverse. Scan the CD until the laser pickup reaches the passage you want to hear. The search speed increases when you hold down Search Forward or Search Reverse, and the volume is reduced.

Note: If your Nº31 is linked to a compatible Mark Levinson digital processor (via the communication ports), you have the option of muting the volume completely during search. (See "Linked functions.")

Previewing a CD

As soon as you release the button, play resumes.

If you search past the beginning or end of a track, the laser pickup will move on to the previous (or next) track.

If you try to search forward past the end of a CD or program, the laser pickup will stop at the end of the last track.

If you try to search backward past the beginning of a CD or program, the laser pickup will stop at the beginning of the first track. When you release Search Reverse, play will resume beginning with the first track.

Using the Nº31's preview function, you may play only the introduction of each track on a CD, then resume normal play when you hear the track you like.

Once a CD is loaded and ready for play, press preview. Beginning with the first track, the Nº31 will play the first ten seconds of the track, skip to the second track and play the first ten seconds of that track, and so on. While the preview function is active, the track part of the Display will flash.

To resume normal play, press preview again or press Play.

Using indexes If a CD has indexes, you may use them to begin play in the middle of

a track.

1. Press index mode. (If there was no CD in play, the Display will show INDEX SEARCH.) In a few seconds, the LED above the button will flash.

2. Using Next and Previous (or the numbered buttons on the Remote Control), select an index.

3. Press Play to begin play at the index you selected.

Beginning play in the

middle of a track

The Pause function

You may use prg/time on the Remote Control to begin play at a specific

1. Using Next and Previous (or the numbered buttons on the Remote

2. Press prg/time, then press the numbered buttons corresponding to

3. To begin play at that point, press Play.

To suspend play while a CD is playing, press Pause. To resume play at the same point, press Pause again.

If left in Pause for several minutes, the transport will stop spinning and the laser will turn off (thereby enhancing the longevity of both). This will be indicated by the Pause indicator in the display ("yy") flashing on and off. Alternatively, this Long Term Pause feature may be engaged by pressing and holding the Pause button until the indicator begins to flash in the display. Pressing Pause again will resume play at the point where Pause was first pressed, (after a short delay to allow the disc to get up to speed).

time

— whether or not it corresponds to an index.

Control), select a track.

when you'd like play to begin. (The numbers you select will appear in the time part of the Display.)

Note: The time you select depends on the selection you've made with the display mode button: elapsed or remaining, CD or track.

For example, if you want to begin play one minute and thirty seconds into track 2, first press display mode until the elapsed

time and on track LEDs light. Then select track 2 by pressing Next or Previous (or by entering 02). Press prg/time, enter 130, then press Play.

Repeating the entire CD

Repeating the

current track

To "cue up" the beginning of a CD or track, press Pause pressing Play (5). To begin play, press Pause again. (You may also select another track or index while play is suspended.)

To repeat (continuously) all tracks on a CD, press repeat disc. While the repeat disc function is active, the LED above the button is lighted. To return to normal play, press repeat disc again.

To repeat (continuously) the track in play, press repeat track. While the repeat track function is active, the LED above the button is lighted. To return to normal play, press repeat track again.

before

Repeating a

specific passage

To repeat (continuously) a specific phrase or passage on a CD, press repeat A>B at the beginning of the passage you'd like to repeat. At the end of the passage, press repeat A>B again. The passage you selected will repeat continuously.

While the repeat A>B function is active, A then B will appear preceding the track number on the Display. To return to normal play, press the repeat A>B button again, or press Play.

Inverting playback polarity

Stopping play

If your Nº31 is linked to a compatible Mark Levinson digital processor via the communication ports, you may change the playback polarity. (See "Linked functions.")

After loading a CD, press the polarity invert button on the digital processor's front panel, or press d/a polarity on the Nº31's Remote Control, then press Play. The CD will play with inverted polarity.

If you want this CD to always play with inverted polarity, press

program save before pressing Play. The Display will show POLARITY PRG, a small

the Display, and inverted polarity will be saved as a "program" for that CD. (See "Programming.")

To stop play before the end of the CD, press Stop. The Display will show the total number of tracks and their total playing time.

You may also stop play by pressing LID Open/Close. In this case, play will stop and the LID will open.

P will appear preceding the track number on

Programming

Rather than playing an entire CD, you may choose to play only certain selections. To do this, you create a "program" and store it in the Nº31’s memory.

Before using your Nº31's programming features, become familiar with its controls and their locations (see "Front panel," "Top panel," "CD transport assembly," and "Remote Control"), as well as their basic functions (see "Basic operation").

Note: The Nº31's basic functions operate as described in "Basic operation," except that they affect only the program, not the entire CD.

For instance, pressing Next during play skips to the next track or index in the sequence, whether or not it's the next track or index on the CD.

In the same way, pressing repeat disc will repeat the entire program, not the entire CD.

The Nº31 allows up to 99 selections (tracks and indexes) per program. A program may include both tracks and indexes.

How the Nº31

"remembers" programs

Assembling a program is possible only before play begins.

Note: The only programming functions that operate while a CD is playing are program clear and program save.

When you load a CD, the Nº31 assigns it a unique identification code. If you assemble a program for a particular CD Nº31's memory, the Nº31 "remembers" that CD's program.

The next time you load that CD, the Nº31 will recognize the CD's identification code and automatically loads the previously saved program. (The letter P will appear preceding the track number on the Display.)

Note: Even if you'd previously saved a program for a CD, the Nº31 allows you to override it (and have access to all tracks on the CD) without erasing it from the memory.

The Nº31's memory can store programs for up to 1,300 different CDs. Saved programs remain in memory when you place the Nº31 into standby, when you turn off the main power switch — even if AC power is interrupted.

and

save it into the

Assembling a new program

To assemble a new program:

1. Load a CD, close the LID, and wait for the Display to show the number of tracks and their total playing time.

2. Using the Next and Previous (or the numbered buttons on the Remote Control), select the first track in your program.

You may also include indexes in your program. Press index mode, then use Next and Previous (or the numbered buttons on the Remote Control) to select an index.

Note: If your Nº31 is linked to a compatible Mark Levinson digital processor via the communication ports, you may set the playback polarity independently for each track. (See "Linked functions.") polarity invert button on the digital processor's front panel, or press d/a polarity on the Nº31's Remote Control.

3. Add the first selection to your program by pressing program + (on the Remote Control, press prg/time, then press +). The letter P will appear preceding the track number on the Display, along with

PRG +.

Note: You must press program + within five seconds after

making a selection, or the selection won’t be recorded.

Before continuing to step 3, press the

Shortcut: Ignoring tracks

4. Assemble the rest of your program (up to 99 selections) by repeating steps 2 and 3. Make sure to press program + (or prg/time and +) after each selection.

5. When you've finished adding selections:

a. If you want to play your program without recording it in the

Nº31's memory, go on to step 6.

b. If you want to record your program in the Nº31's memory, press

program save; the Display will show NEW PROGRAM.

6. To play the program, press Play.

If you want to play may want to use this shortcut:

1. Load a CD, close the LID, and wait for the Display to show the number of tracks and their total playing time. (See "Basic operation.")

2. Using the Next and Previous (or the numbered buttons on the Remote Control), select the first track you want to your program.

most

of a CD, and just "ignore" a few tracks, you

eliminate

from

3. "Ignore" the track by pressing program – (on the Remote Control, press prg/time, then press –). The letter P will appear preceding the track number on the Display, along with PRG –.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each track you want to ignore, making sure to press program – (or prg/time and –) each time.

5. When you've finished eliminating tracks:

a. If you want to play your program without recording it in the

Nº31's memory, go on to step 6.

b. If you want to record your program in the Nº31's memory, press

program save; the Display will show NEW PROGRAM.

6. To play the program, press Play.

Reviewing a program

Erasing a selection

from a program

To review your program before playing it:

1. Load a CD for which you've already saved a program (the letter P

will appear preceding the track number on the Display); or load an unprogrammed CD, then assemble and save a program.

2. Press program review. The Display will show the first selection in

your program.

For example, if track 3 is the first selection in your program, the Display would show P03 IS 1st. If index 2 on track 5 is the first selection, the Display would show P05 02 IS 1.

Note: If you press program review when there is no program in the Nº31's memory, the Display will show NO PROGRAM.

3. To view the next selection, press program review again, and so

on.

Press program review for each selection in your program. After you view the last selection, the Display will show PROGRAM END.

You may erase any selection from a previously saved program. To erase a selection:

1. Load a CD for which you've already saved a program (the letter P

will appear preceding the track number on the Display); or load an unprogrammed CD, then assemble and save a program.

2. Press program review. The Display will show the first selection in

your program.

3. Press program review until the selection you want to erase

appears on the Display.

4. Press program

press –); the Display will show the track you erased, along with PRG –.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for each selection you want to erase from your program.

When you finish erasing selections from your program, press

program save; the Display will show PROG CHANGED.

– (on the Remote Control, press prg/time, then

Adding a selection

to a program

You also may add a selection to the end of a previously saved program. To add a selection:

1. Load a CD for which you've already saved a program (the letter P

will appear preceding the track number on the Display); or load an unprogrammed CD, then assemble and save a program.

2. Using the Next and Previous (or the numbered buttons on the

Remote Control), select the track you want to add to your program.

You may also include indexes in your program. Press index mode, then use Next and Previous (or the numbered buttons on the Remote Control) to select an index.

Note: If your Nº31 is linked to a compatible Mark Levinson digital processor via the communication ports, you may set the playback polarity independently for each track. (See "Linked functions.")

Before continuing to step 3, press the polarity invert button on the digital processor's front panel, or press d/a polarity on the Nº31's Remote Control.

Temporarily overriding a

previously saved program

3. Add the selection to your program by pressing program

Remote Control, press prg/time, then press +).

Note: You must press program + (or prg/time and +) within five seconds after making a selection, or the selection won’t be recorded.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each selection you want to add to your

program. Make sure to press program + (or prg/time and +) after each selection.

5. When you've finished adding selections, press program save; the

Display will show PROG CHANGED.

To override a previously saved program (temporarily), press program clear (on the Remote Control, press the 0 numbered key, then press prg/time); the Display will show PROG CLEARED.

All of the CD's tracks will be accessible for basic operation, but the program will still be retained in the Nº31's memory. (See "Basic operation.")

Note: If you press program save after pressing program clear, the Display will show PROG DELETED and the program will be erased from the Nº31's memory.

+ (on the

Erasing a program

To erase a previously saved program memory:

1. Press program clear; the Display will show PROG CLEARED.

2. Press program save; the Display will show PROG DELETED.

permanently

from the Nº31's

Linked functions

The Nº31 has the ability to "link" seven of its functions to certain compatible Mark Levinson digital processors (like the Nº30 Reference Digital Processor and the Nº35 Digital Processor).

Note: To take advantage of linked functions, you must connect the Nº31 to the digital processor via their communication ports. (See "Rear panel" and "Set-up and installation.")

There are seven linked functions.

Record link

Mute link

■ Record link (Nº30 only): While the Nº31 is selected as the Nº30's

recording source (a CD must be in play), this link helps prevent you from inadvertently disrupting the recording process.

If you attempt to use any of the Nº31's functions that might disrupt the recording process (Stop, LID Open/Close, etc.), the Nº31 will block that function and its Display will show RECORDING.

Likewise, if you attempt to place the Nº30 into standby, the Nº31 will block that function and Nº30's Display will show RECORDING.

To override the record link, press the function button example, if you though it's being recorded, press the Stop button twice in succession.)

When the Nº31 is first turned on, the record link setting is

■ Mute link: This link automatically mutes the volume during search

(that is, whenever you press Search Forward or Search Reverse).

When the Nº31 is first turned on, the mute link setting is

want to stop the CD that's playing, even

twice

off

. (For

Standby link

■ Standby link: This feature links the standby modes of the Nº31

and the digital processor.

If both the Nº31 and the digital processor are in standby mode, pressing the Nº31's standby button will take both components out of standby mode (making them ready to operate).

If both the Nº31 and the digital processor are "on" (not in standby mode), pressing the digital processor's standby button will place both components into standby mode.

When the Nº31 is first turned on, the standby link setting is on.

Alias link

■ Alias link (Nº30 only): The Nº30 allows you to set an "input alias"

for each of its sources; this alias appears on the Nº30's Display.

The Nº31's alias link automatically overrides the alias setting for its input. When you select the Nº31's input, the Nº30 will show No31 on its Display.

Play link

Display link

When the Nº31 is first turned on, the alias link setting is

■ Play link: When you press the Nº31's Play button, this link

automatically selects the Nº31's input on the digital processor.

Note: If you've connected the Nº31 to two or more of the digital processor's inputs, the play link will look first for AES/EBU interconnection, then SPDIF, then ST, and finally EIAJ.

When the Nº31 is first turned on, the play link setting is on.

■ Display link: This links the display intensity functions of the Nº31

and the digital processor.

When the components are linked, both Displays will be set to the same brightness. Pressing display intensity on either component will affect both Displays.

Note: Though the Nº35 has no display intensity button or alphanumeric Display, its LEDs will be linked to the Nº31's LEDs.

Polarity link

Index 0

When the Nº31 is first turned on, the display link setting is on.

■ Polarity link: This links the d/a polarity button on the Nº31's

Remote Control to the polarity invert function of the digital processor.

The polarity link also allows inverted polarity to be saved with a program. When inverted polarity is part of a saved program, this link turns on the digital processor's polarity invert function. (See "Programming.")

The polarity link setting is always on, and can't be changed.

In addition to the Linked Functions, the Nº31 has the ability to play "Index 0," the CD equivalent of the "lead-in grooves" on an LP.

■ Index 0: When this option has been selected, pressing Play will

begin each track at Index 0 rather than at the usual Index 1, resulting in a brief "count-down" to the beginning of the music.

If you prefer all track and index operations to use Index 0 as the effective beginning of a given track (to hear the applause before a song on a live recording, for example), you may select

Index 0 in the Set Options menu, described on the next page.

Changing link settings

The Nº31 allows you to change the Index 0 option and six of its link settings to suit your own preferences.

Note: The polarity link setting is always on, and can't be changed.

1. Make sure that the main power switch is set to the "on" ("|")

position.

2. Enable the Nº31's controls by pressing standby.

Note: To change your Nº31's link settings, your Mark Levinson digital processor also must be connected (linked) and turned on.

3. Press the front-panel display mode button and hold it until SET

OPTIONS appears on the Display.

If you continue holding the display mode button, the Display will show each of your Nº31's options, in this order:

INDEX 0 – RECORD LINK – MUTE LINK – STANDBYLINK + ALIAS LINK + – indicates that the option is turned PLAY LINK + DISPLAYLINK +

+ indicates that the option is turned

off

If you continue holding display mode after the Display shows DISPLAYLINK+, the links are shown again beginning with INDEX 0 –,

then RECORD LINK–, then MUTE LINK–, and so on.

4. When the Display shows the link setting you want to change,

release the display mode button.

If you release display mode too soon, simply press display mode once to move to the next link.

Note: In several seconds, if you make no changes to the link settings, the Display will go back into its standard mode. To return to SET OPTIONS, repeat step 3.

5. To turn the link

press the program – button.

6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for each link setting you want to change.

When you've finished, wait several seconds for the Display to return to its standard mode.

Your link settings remain in memory when you place the Nº31 into standby, when you turn off the main power switch — even if AC power is interrupted.

, press the program + button; to turn the link

off

PRECAUTION

Troubleshooting

In general, refer any service problems to your Mark Levinson dealer. Before contacting your dealer, however, check to see if the problem is listed here. If it is, try the suggested solutions. If none of these solves the problem, contact your Mark Levinson dealer.

1. The Nº31 won’t function, and the Display is dark.

■ The main power switch on the rear panel isn't turned on.

Never operate the main power switch without first making sure that power is turned off to your receiver, integrated

amplifier, or preamplifier/power amplifier.

■ The standby button on the front panel isn't turned on.

■ The Nº31 isn’t plugged into the AC mains.

■ The wall socket, adapter, or extension cord is faulty.

■ There’s a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse in the wall

outlet’s circuit.

■ The Nº31's fuse is blown (contact your Mark Levinson dealer).

2. The Nº31's LID won’t close.

■ The Disc Damper is misaligned.

■ The Disc Damper or another object is blocking the LID.

3. The Nº31 won’t play a CD inserted in the player.

■ The CD is inserted upside down.

■ The Disc Damper is missing or misaligned.

■ The transport screws weren’t removed during set-up.

■ There may be condensation (moisture) on the laser pickup. This

can happen if the Nº31 is moved from a cold environment to a warm one. Set the main power switch to its "|" position, and leave it on for an hour before playing a CD.

4. No sound comes out of the speakers or headphones.

■ The proper source isn’t selected on your digital processor.

■ The audio cables are connected incorrectly.

5. When a CD is playing, the sound "skips."

■ The CD is scratched or dirty.

■ The Nº31 is on an unstable surface or is too close to your

speakers.

■ The transport screws weren’t removed during set-up.

6. The sound from the speakers or headphones is distorted.

■ The Nº31 is connected to the wrong inputs of your digital

processor. Check all connections.

7. The Remote Control doesn’t operate the Nº31.

■ The Remote Control is at the wrong angle relative to the Nº31,

and the Nº31 can’t receive the signal.

■ The sensor window on the front panel of the Nº31 is dirty or

blocked.

■ The Remote Control’s projection lens is dirty.

■ Fluorescent lighting or sunlight is interfering with the operation

of the Remote Control.

■ The Remote Control’s batteries are weak and need to be

replaced.

■ The Remote Control’s batteries are installed incorrectly.

8. The linked functions don't work.

■ The Nº31 isn't connected to a compatible Mark Levinson digital

processor.

■ The Link cable is disconnected, or is connected incorrectly.

■ The digital audio cable is disconnected, or is connected

incorrectly.

■ Try turning off/disconnecting AC power from both the Nº31

and the Mark Levinson digital processor. After several seconds, restore AC power to the digital processor, Nº31's main power switch.

then

turn on the

PRECAUTION

Never operate the main power switch without first making sure that power is turned off to your receiver, integrated amplifier, or preamplifier/power amplifier.

9. The Display shows BAD PROGRAMS.

■ Contact your Mark Levinson dealer immediately.

Care and maintenance

Nº31

Remote Control

Compact discs

To remove dust from the cabinet of the Nº31, use a feather duster. To remove dirt and fingerprints, we recommend isopropyl alcohol applied to a soft cloth. Don’t apply water, dusting sprays, solvents, abrasives, or cleaning fluids directly to the cabinet.

Make sure that the Remote sensor window on the front panel and the Remote Control’s projection lens are kept clean and dust-free.

Fluorescent lighting and sunlight may interfere with the operation of the Remote Control. Avoid placing the Nº31 near fluorescent lamps or in direct sunlight.

When the Remote Control’s batteries need to be replaced, use only AA batteries; always replace both batteries at the same time. If you don’t plan to use the Remote Control often, remove the batteries. When not used for an extended period, even "leak-proof" batteries can leak corrosive acids that will damage the Remote Control (and will void the warranty).

A CD, handled carefully, will last indefinitely. A warped, dusty, or scratched CD can cause playback problems or may sound noisy.

Handle a CD by the outer edges only; if necessary, support it with your index finger at the center hole. Don’t touch the bottom (unprinted) side of the CD, and never apply stickers, labels, or adhesive-backed rings to either side of the CD.

If a CD becomes dirty, use a silicone-treated cloth (like those made for cleaning camera lenses) or a special CD cleaning kit. Don’t use solvents, anti-static fluids, or cleaners made for cleaning phonograph records.

When you’re finished playing a CD, always return it to its plastic case. Store your CDs where they won’t be exposed to direct sunlight, high humidity, or extremely high or low temperatures.

Specifications

The correlation between published specifications and sonic quality is unreliable. A list of numbers reveals virtually nothing. All technical measurements must be subject to qualitative as well as quantitative interpretation.

Measurements of the Nº31 yield excellent results by any standards. However, only those specifications that apply to its actual operation are included here.

■ Direct digital output, RCA: SPDIF 75Ω

■ Direct digital output, XLR: AES/EBU 110Ω

■ Direct digital output, ST: AT&T optical standard

■ Direct digital output, EIAJ: TOSLINK™ optical standard

■ Mains voltage: 100V, 120V, 200V, 220V, 240V

■ Mains frequency: 50/60 Hz

■ Overall dimensions: See "Dimensions"

■ Shipping weight: 62 lbs. (28.2kg)

■ Connector complement: 1 female RCA-type connector

1 male XLR-type connector

1 EIAJ-type optical connector

1 ST-type optical connector

2 RJ45 connectors

1 IEC mains connector

If purchased in North America, this Mark Levinson product’s warranty is owner-transferable.

Warranty conditions are valid only in the country where the product was originally purchased.

For warranty information and conditions on products purchased outside of North America,

contact your local dealer or regional distributor.

Dimensions

19.375"

5.560"

1.100"

11.861"

12.261"

13.726"

14.426"

5.432"

.308"

MADRIGAL AUDIO LABORATORIES

2081 South Main Street, P.O. Box 781 Middletown, Connecticut 06457 USA

Telephone: (203) 346-0896

Fax: (203) 346-1540

is a registered trademark of Madrigal Audio Laboratories, Inc.

630110-1 Printed in U.S.A.

Mark Levinson 31 Owners Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual