Mark Levinson N32 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Nº32

Reference

Preamplifier

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. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or another apparatus
that produces heat.

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has
two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong is provided for safety. If the provided plug does
not fit into the outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, or the point where it exits from the apparatus.

i

11. Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer.

12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer
or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/appa­ratus combination to avoid injury or tip over.

13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as when the power cord or plug has been damaged; liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus; or the apparatus has been exposed to rain
or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

15. Ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items such as
newspapers, table cloths, curtains, and so on.

16. No naked flame sources, such as candles, should be placed on the apparatus.

17. The power cord is intended to be the safety disconnect device for this apparatus. Ready access to
the power cord should be maintained at all times.

18. Terminals marked with this symbol may be considered HAZARDOUS LIVE and the
external wiring connected to these terminals requires installation by an INSTRUCTED
PERSON or the use of ready-made leads or cords.

Warning!

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. Appa­ratus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing. No objects filled with liquids, such as vases,
shall be placed on the apparatus.

FCC Notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pur­suant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will
not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

• 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’s authority to operate the equipment.

Canada
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

3 Oak Park
Bedford, MA 01730-1413 USA

Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.marklevinson.com

Customer Service

Telephone: [phone]

Sales Fax: [phone]
Service Fax: [phone]

Product Shipments

16 Progress Road
Billerica, MA 01821-5730 USA

“Mark Levinson” and the Mark Levinson logo are registered trademarks
of Harman International Industries. U.S. patent numbers and other
worldwide patents issued and pending.

“Madrigal Audio Laboratories” and the Madrigal Audio Laboratories
logo are registered trademarks of Harman International Industries. U.S.
patent numbers and other worldwide patents issued and pending.

©2004 Harman Specialty Group. All rights reserved.

This document should not be construed as a commitment on the part
of Harman Specialty Group. The information it contains is subject to
change without notice. Harman Specialty Group assumes no responsi­bility for errors that may appear within this document.

ii

Part No. 070-630349 Rev 4

Table of Contents

Important Safety Instructions ............................. i

Section 1: Getting Started

Documentation Conventions ............................................1-1

Special Design Features ...................................................1-2

Highlights ........................................................................ 1-4

Installation Considerations ...............................................1-4

Unpacking ....................................................................... 1-5

Product Registration ......................................................... 1-5

Placement and Ventilation ................................................ 1-5

Remote Control Batteries .................................................. 1-6

Power Requirements ........................................................1-8

Warm-up & Break-in Period ...............................................1-8

Continuous Operation ...................................................... 1-8

Quick Setup and Listen ....................................................1-9

Section 2: Basic Operation

Front Panel ......................................................................2-1

Power button ................................................................... 2-2

Standby button ................................................................ 2-2

Preamplifier LED ............................................................... 2-2

Select knob ...................................................................... 2-2

Front panel display ........................................................... 2-3

Polarity LED ...................................................................... 2-3

Mono LED ........................................................................ 2-3

Volume knob ................................................................... 2-3

Record out button & LED .................................................. 2-4

Display intensity button .................................................... 2-4

Setup button & LED .......................................................... 2-4

Enter button .....................................................................2-4

Balance button & LED ...................................................... 2-4

Mute button & LED .......................................................... 2-4

Rear Panel .......................................................................2-5

DC power connectors ....................................................... 2-6

Balanced input connectors ...............................................2-7

Unbalanced input connectors ...........................................2-7

Main output connectors ................................................... 2-7

Record output connectors ................................................ 2-7

Phono Module access panels ............................................2-8

Phono ground connector ................................................. 2-8

Control ports .................................................................... 2-8

RS-232 port ...................................................................... 2-8

Communication ports .......................................................2-8

IR input connector ............................................................2-9

Trigger input / trigger output connectors ......................... 2-9

Nº25/S DC power connector ............................................ 2-9

ac mains connector .......................................................... 2-9

Earth ground connector .................................................2-10

iv

Mark Levinson

Remote Control ............................................................. 2-10

IR transmitter ..................................................................2-11

IR transmitter LED ...........................................................2-11

Setup button ..................................................................2-11

Polarity button ................................................................2-12

Display button ................................................................2-12

Mono button ..................................................................2-12

Enter button ...................................................................2-12

Balance button ...............................................................2-12

Mute button ...................................................................2-12

Select / buttons ........................................................2-12

Volume ± buttons ...........................................................2-13

Standby button ...............................................................2-13

Section 3: Setup Menu

Setup Menu Navigation ................................................... 3-1

setup button .....................................................................3-2

enter button .....................................................................3-2

Select knob & select / buttons ....................................3-2

Volume knob & volume ± buttons .....................................3-3

Set Inputs ........................................................................ 3-3

Name ...............................................................................3-4

Gain .................................................................................3-7

Offset ...............................................................................3-7

Rec.Out ............................................................................3-7

v

Teach IR .......................................................................... 3-8

Setup Parameters .......................................................... 3-10

Mute ..............................................................................3-10

MaxVol ...........................................................................3-10

Trig ................................................................................3-11

Sw ..................................................................................3-11

Section 4: Controls and Modes

Standby .......................................................................... 4-1

Sleep ................................................................................4-1

Display Intensity .............................................................. 4-2

Polarity ........................................................................... 4-2

Balance ........................................................................... 4-3

Mono Playback Mode ...................................................... 4-4

Mode ................................................................................4-4

Record Mode ................................................................... 4-7

Activating Record Mode ....................................................4-7

EQ (Equalizer) Mode ....................................................... 4-7

Making EQ Mode Connections ..........................................4-7

Configuring the EQ Input .................................................4-8

Configuring the Source Input ............................................4-9

Using EQ Mode ................................................................4-9

SSP (Surround Sound Processor) Mode ........................... 4-10

Linking ......................................................................... 4-13

Link Connections ............................................................4-14

Creating a Slave Chain ....................................................4-14

Link Controls ...................................................................4-18

Section 5: Troubleshooting & Maintaining

Troubleshooting ..............................................................5-1

No Power ......................................................................... 5-1

No Remote Control Operation .......................................... 5-1

No IR Learning ................................................................. 5-2

No Main Output ...............................................................5-2

No Record Output ............................................................5-2

“Missing” Input ................................................................. 5-2

No Link Controls ............................................................... 5-3

Audible Hum .................................................................... 5-3

Erratic Behavior ................................................................ 5-3

If All Else Fails... ................................................................ 5-3

Restoring Factory-default Settings ....................................5-4

Care & Maintenance .........................................................5-4

Appendix

Specifications .................................................................. A-1

Power Consumption .........................................................A-1

Operating Voltage ............................................................A-1

Preamplifier Connectors .................................................... A-1

Controller connectors .......................................................A-1

Gain ................................................................................. A-1

Volume Control Range ..................................................... A-1

Gain Resolution ................................................................A-2

Input Overload .................................................................A-2

Input Impedance .............................................................. A-2

Output Impedance ........................................................... A-2

Maximum Main Output ....................................................A-2

THD + N ...........................................................................A-2

Crosstalk ........................................................................... A-2

Residual Noise ..................................................................A-2

Frequency Response .........................................................A-2

Overall Dimensions ...........................................................A-2

Shipping Weight .............................................................. A-2

Declaration of Conformity ............................................... A-3

Nº32 Controller Dimensions ............................................ A-4

Nº32 Preamplifier Dimensions ......................................... A-5

Installation Worksheet .................................................... A-6

vi

Index

1

Getting Started

Documentation Conventions

This document contains general safety and operation instructions
for the Nº 32 Reference Preamplifier. It is important to read this
document before attempting to use this product. Please pay particu­lar attention to safety instructions.

Appears on the component to indicate the presence
of non-insulated, dangerous voltages inside the
enclosure – voltages that may be sufficient to consti­tute a risk of shock.

Appears on the component to indicate important
operation and maintenance instructions included in
the accompanying documentation.

Appears on the component to indicate compliance
of with the EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility)
and LVD (Low-voltage Directive) standards of the
European Community.

1-1

Warning! Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition,

or the like that, if not correctly performed or
adhered to, could result in personal injuries or
death.

Caution! Calls attention to a procedure, practice, condition,

or the like that, if not correctly performed or
adhered to, could result in damage or destruction
to part or all of the component.

Note Calls attention to information that is essential to high-

light.

Note Within this owner’s manual, the term “controller” is used to refer to the

Nº32 Controller chassis and the term “preamplifier” is used to refer to
the Nº32 Preamplifier chassis. These terms are consistent with the
names engraved on the components themselves. The term “Nº32” is
used to refer to the dual-chassis combination.

1-2

Getting Started Mark Levinson

Special Design Features

Thank you for purchasing the Nº32 Reference Preamplifier, featur­ing a unique dual-chassis design that allows the audio circuits to
deliver unrivaled musical reproduction. The Nº32 preamplifier
chassis isolates the audio circuits so that only audio signals and
extremely pure DC power are present. The power supply and
control circuits are combined in the other chassis, protecting the
sensitive audio signals.

Like most high-performance audio components, the Nº32 relies on
clean, noise-free power to deliver maximum performance. Unfortu­nately, most AC power does not meet these standards. Common
household appliances such as refrigerators, TVs, and computers
often contaminate AC power lines with line noise, spikes, and other
irregularities that make it difficult for audio circuits to perform up
to their full potential.

To protect audio circuits from contamination, the Nº32 generates
its own “secondary” DC power. An independent, high-quality
power supply is dedicated to each audio channel, generating DC
power for a special power amplifier optimized to reproduce just one
frequency: 400Hz. This 400Hz frequency is rectified, filtered, and
regulated again to create extraordinarily clean DC power.

An advanced dual-mono design allows the Nº32 to achieve excep­tional channel separation. Both audio channels use independent
power supplies, communication circuits, and audio circuits. The
preamplifier chassis provides complete isolation between the left
and right channels, which are physically and electrically separated
by a die-cast aluminum wall. This innovative approach isolates
each channel, allowing the Nº32 to produce vividly detailed, three­dimensional sonic images.

For even greater isolation, the Nº32 effectively deactivates unused
inputs to prevent interference from other components. Discrete “T­switch” input switching, special shielding, and optimal circuit
board placement allow the Nº32 to “unplug” inputs not in use –
achieving more than 120dB separation between even adjacent
input connectors. As a result, input signals pass through the Nº32
with remarkable freedom from interference.

The Nº32 offers eight configurable inputs, each of which is assigned
to one of its three balanced (XLR) or five unbalanced (RCA) stereo
connectors. Unbalanced input signals are converted to balanced
signals upon entering the preamplifier chassis, and processed as
balanced signals thereafter. During this rigorous conversion
process, meticulously balanced circuits preserve all input signal
information, passing it to the associated power amplifier without
the limitations of asymmetrical designs.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Getting Started

A Mark Levinson-designed discrete volume attenuator controls the
master volume level with unprecedented accuracy and sonic
neutrality. Constructed from Arlon® circuit boards with local
power supply regulation and bypass capacitors, this volume attenu­ator generates optimal power and isolation for even the most
sensitive adjustments. Sixty-six surface-mounted, precision resistors
per channel provide more than 65,000 possible settings between
0dB and 80dB (maximum attenuation), accommodating adjust­ments in 1.0dB increments up to 23.0dB and in 0.1dB increments
above 23.0dB.

Unlike most stereo preamplifiers, the Nº32 is designed to integrate
with multi-channel surround sound processors without the compli­cations associated with competing stereo and multi-channel
volume controls. A unique surround sound processor (SSP) mode
deactivates Nº32 volume controls and sends line-level input signals
to the associated processor. With no interference from the Nº32, the
processor controls the relative volume level of all channels, main­taining its carefully calibrated output levels.

To maximize channel separation, left-channel and right-channel
connectors are located on opposite sides of the rear panel. The
connector complement includes separate main and record stereo
outputs, available on both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA)
connectors. Balanced and unbalanced main output connectors are
independently buffered, allowing them to be used simultaneously
without performance degradation. In addition, balanced main
output connectors are wired in-parallel with one another (as are
unbalanced main output connectors) to accommodate bi-amplifica­tion and other applications.

1-3

The Nº32 represents the ultimate combination of compelling
performance and limitless potential. Its unique dual-chassis struc­ture shields audio circuits to create truly spectacular sound, while
its advanced design – including eight configurable inputs, separate
main and record outputs, complete surround sound processor inte­gration, and extensive control possibilities – accommodates even
the most demanding applications. All of this makes the Nº32 a
reference-quality component befitting the most sophisticated
music reproduction systems.

Getting Started Mark Levinson

Highlights

• 8 configurable inputs

• Advanced dual-chassis design

• Maximum channel separation

• Multi-channel surround sound processor integration

• 8 stereo input connectors (3 balanced, 5 unbalanced)

• 4 main stereo output connectors (2 balanced, 2 unbalanced)

• 3 record stereo output connectors (1 balanced, 2 unbalanced)

• “Secondary” DC power generation

• Separate chassis for audio circuits

• Independent power supplies, communication circuits, and
audio circuits for each channel

• Discrete volume attenuator

• Deactivation of unused inputs

• Balanced conversion for unbalanced input signals

• Mono or stereo playback

1-4

• Selectable output signal polarity

• Balance control

• Intuitive setup menu

•Standby sleep timer

• Large front panel display with selectable display intensity

• Link communication ports

• Trigger input connector

• Configurable trigger output connector (12V or 5V)

•IR input connector

• RS-232 port

• Optional phono module

Installation Considerations

The Nº32 requires special care during installation to ensure optimal
performance. Pay particular attention to instructions included in
this section and to precautions included throughout this owner’s
manual.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Getting Started

Unpacking When unpacking the Nº32:

DO save all packing materials for possible future shipping needs.

DO inspect the Nº32 for signs of damage during shipment. If

damage is discovered, contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer
for assistance making appropriate claims.

DO locate and remove the accessory box from the carton. Make

sure it contains all of the items listed in the table below. If not,
contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer.

Item Quantity

Detachable AC power cord 1

Multi-pin DC power cables 2

Nº32 remote control 1

5/64-inch Allen key 1

Product Registration

Placement and

Ventilation

3/32-inch hex driver 1

AAA alkaline batteries* 2

White gloves** 1

Warranty & Product Registration Card 1

* The remote control comes with two AAA alkaline batteries that should be replaced as needed.

** One pair of white gloves is provided to assist with the initial unpacking and installation of the
Nº32.

Please register the Nº32 within 15 days of purchase. To do so, regis­ter online at www.marklevinson.com or complete and return the
included product registration card. Retain the original, dated sales
receipt as proof of warranty coverage.

DO install each Nº32 chassis on its own shelf for proper

ventilation.

DO install each Nº32 chassis on a solid, flat, level surface.

DO install the preamplifier chassis close to associated components

to keep interconnecting cables as short as possible.

1-5

Note In some cases, it is better to use longer interconnecting cables

between the preamplifier and the power amplifier to allow for shorter
loudspeaker wires.

DO select a dry, well-ventilated location out of direct sunlight.

Getting Started Mark Levinson

DO allow at least 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10cm) of clearance above each

Nº32 chassis for proper heat dissipation.

DO see See “Care & Maintenance” on page 5-4 for information

about routine care and maintenance.

DO see “Nº32 Controller Dimensions” on page A-4 and “Nº32

Preamplifier Dimensions” on page A-5 for assistance with custom
installations.

DO NOT place either Nº32 chassis on a thick rug or carpet or

cover either chassis with a cloth, as this might prevent proper
cooling.

DO NOT expose either Nº32 chassis to high temperatures, humid-

ity, steam, smoke, dampness, or excessive dust. Avoid installing
either Nº32 chassis near radiators and other heat-producing
appliances.

DO NOT install either Nº32 chassis near unshielded TV or FM

antennas, cable TV decoders, and other RF-emitting devices that
might cause interference.

1-6

DO NOT place either Nº32 chassis on a windowsill or in another

location in which it will be exposed to direct sunlight.

DO NOT obstruct the IR receiver/transmitter located on the right

side of the controller front panel display. When the Nº32 is not
using the IR input connector, the remote control IR transmitter
must be in line-of-sight with the front panel display IR receiver/
transmitter for proper remote control operation. See “Remote
Control” on page 2-10 for additional information.

Caution! BEFORE moving the Nº32, make sure it is powered off with the

power button. Then, make sure the power cord is disconnected
from the ~ac mains connector and the electrical outlet.

Warning! MAKE SURE all components are properly grounded. Do not

defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding-type plugs
with “ground-lifter” or “cheater” adaptors. Doing so may cause
dangerous voltages to build up between components. The pres­ence of these voltages may result in personal injuries and/or
product damage.

Remote Control

Batteries

The remote control comes with two AAA alkaline batteries that
should be replaced as needed. It is recommended to use alkaline
batteries, which do not leak and last longer.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Getting Started

Note In some cases, the remote control IR transmitter LED will light more

dimly (or not at all) if the remote control batteries need to be replaced.

To replace the remote control batteries:

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the
remote control (the end opposite the IR transmitter).

2. Use the supplied 5/64-inch Allen key to remove the two screws
identified in Figure 1-1.

Figure 1-1: Remove the two screws to open the battery cover.

Screws

3. Remove the battery compartment cover.

4. Remove the old batteries in the battery compartment (if appli­cable).

5. Insert two AAA alkaline batteries as shown in Figure 1-2. Make
sure the batteries are correctly inserted observing the proper
polarity.

Figure 1-2: Insert the batteries, observing polarity.

6. Align the battery compartment cover with the guide on the bot­tom of the remote control.

1-7

7. Replace the two screws removed in step 2.

8. Properly dispose of the old batteries (if applicable).

Getting Started Mark Levinson

Power Requirements

When shipped, the Nº32 is configured for 100, 120, 220, 230 or
240VAC power operation at 50 or 60Hz. Before operating the Nº32,
make sure the ~ac mains connector label indicates the correct oper­ating voltage for the current location.

Caution! DO NOT attempt to adjust the operating voltage. Consult an

authorized Mark Levinson dealer if the operating voltage is incor­rect or must be changed for relocation purposes.

Different operating voltages may require the use of different
power cords and/or attachment plugs. Contact an authorized
Mark Levinson dealer for additional assistance.

1-8

Warm-up & Break-in

Period

Note When powered on with the power button, the main output

Although the Nº32 delivers superior performance from the first
time it is powered on, this performance will continue to improve as
the Nº32 reaches its normal operating temperature and various
components “break in.” The greatest performance improvements
will occur within the first 25 to 50 hours of use. Sound quality will
continue to improve for about 300 hours.

After this initial period, performance will remain consistent unless
power is disconnected from the Nº32. Power is disconnected when
the Nº32 is powered off with the power button; the power cord is
disconnected from the ~ac mains connector or the electrical outlet;
or an extended power failure or power outage occurs. Power is not
disconnected when the Nº32 is in standby.

When power returns, it is recommended to allow the Nº32 and
other audio components to stabilize for about 2 minutes. The Nº32
will require a brief warm-up and break-in period (not the full 300
hours).

connectors mute while the Nº32 executes its initialization sequence.
The Nº32 automatically enters standby after completing its
initialization sequence.

Continuous Operation

The Nº32 should be unplugged during lightning storms and
extended periods of non-use. Otherwise, it is designed for continu­ous operation. For best performance, make sure power is connected
to the Nº32 at all times. During normal operation, do not use the
power button to power off the Nº32. Instead, use the standby
button to place the Nº32 into standby, which allows the Nº32 to
remain warmed-up to deliver optimal performance at all times.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Getting Started

Quick Setup and Listen

These instructions are intended to accommodate immediate use of
the Nº32. However, it is important to read this owner’s manual
before attempting more extensive use. This owner’s manual
includes information about features that enhance operation and
performance, as well as important safety, installation, and opera­tion instructions designed to prevent personal injuries and product
damage.

Caution! Never make or break connections to the Nº32 unless it and all

associated components are powered off and disconnected from
electrical outlets.

To begin using the Nº32:

1. Make sure the Nº32 and all associated components are powered
off and disconnected from electrical outlets.

2. Using one of the supplied DC power cables, connect the Con-
troller left-channel DC power connector to the preamplifier
left-channel DC power connector.

3. Using the other DC power cable, connect the Controller right-
channel DC power connector to the preamplifier right-channel
DC power connector.

Note The Nº32 offers balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) connectors. For

best performance, use balanced connections whenever possible.

4. Connect the desired Nº32 input connectors to the source com­ponent (for example, a CD player) output connectors.

•Use the Nº32 balanced input connectors numbered 1, 2, or

3 if the source component offers balanced output connec­tors.

•Use the Nº32 unbalanced input connectors numbered 4, 5,

6, 7, or 8 if the source component does not offer balanced
output connectors.

5. Connect the desired Nº32 main output connectors to the asso­ciated power amplifier input connectors.

1-9

• Use the Nº32 balanced main output connectors if the asso-

ciated power amplifier offers balanced input connectors.

• Use the Nº32 unbalanced main output connectors if the

associated power amplifier does not offer balanced input
connectors.

Getting Started Mark Levinson

6. Reconnect the Nº32 and all associated components to electrical
outlets.

7. Power the Nº32 and all associated components on. Power
amplifiers should be powered on last.

8. Rotate the Nº32 select knob or press the select / buttons on
the remote to select the Nº32 input that corresponds to the
Nº32 input connectors that were selected in step 4 on page 1-9.

• The Nº32 front panel display indicates the name and

volume level of the selected input.

• Factory-default input names correspond to their assigned

stereo input connector. For instance, Input 1 is assigned to
the input connectors numbered 1, Input 2 is assigned to the
input connectors numbered 2, and so on.

9. Make sure Nº32 master volume is set to a reasonable level.
Then, begin playing the desired input source.

1-10

2

Basic Operation

Front Panel

The numbers in the front panel illustration shown in Figure 2-1
correspond with the summary list items below.

Figure 2-1: N°32 Preamplifier and Controller front panels.

4

power

1 9 10 11 12 13 14

select

6

polarity

record out

display intensity setup

1. power button

2. standby button

5

enter balance mute

REFERENCE PREAMPLIFIER

Nº32

3

7

mono

volume

8

REFERENCE CONTROLLER

Nº32

standby

2

2-1

3. preamplifier LED

4. select knob

5. front panel display

6. polarity LED

7. mono LED

8. volume knob

9. record out button & LED

Basic Operation Mark Levinson

10. display intensity button

11. setup button & LED

12. enter button

13. balance button & LED

14. mute button & LED

Below is a description of each item listed above. Unless otherwise
specified, the following descriptions are of commands accessed
from the front panel during normal operation. See Section 3,
“Setup Menu” and Section 4, “Controls and Modes” for informa­tion about other commands accessed from the front panel.

2-2

Power button

Note Before operating the Nº32, make sure the ~ac mains connector label

Standby button

Powers the Nº32 on and off when the supplied power cord is
connected to the ~ac mains connector and an electrical outlet.

• When the Nº32 is powered on, pressing the power button
powers the Nº32 off and disconnects power from the compo­nent.

• When the Nº32 is powered off, pressing the power button
powers the Nº32 on and connects power to the component.
The Nº32 automatically enters standby after completing its
initialization sequence.

indicates the correct operating voltage for the current location.

Places the Nº32 into standby and takes the Nº32 out of standby,
which allows the Nº32 to remain warmed-up to deliver optimal
performance at all times. The standby LED lights when the Nº32 is
not in standby and blinks in unison with the preamplifier LED
when the Nº32 is in standby. See “Standby” on page 4-1 for addi­tional information. Note that power is still connected to the Nº32
when it is in standby.

Preamplifier LED

Select knob

Lights when the preamplifier is receiving DC power from the
controller and blinks in unison with the standby LED when the
Nº32 is in standby.

Selects the desired input to send to the main output connectors.
Rotating the select knob scrolls through all inputs for which the
Name parameter has not been set to unused. The front panel
display indicates the name and volume level of the selected input.
Select knob scrolling does not include inputs for which the Name
parameter has been set to unused.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Basic Operation

Note When record mode is activated, the select knob selects the desired

input to send to the record output connectors. See “Record Mode” on
page 4-7 for additional information.

Front panel display

Polarity LED

Mono LED

Volume knob

Includes 12 alphanumeric characters that provide one-line viewing
of status information. During normal operation, the front panel
display indicates the name and volume level of the selected input.

The right side of the front panel display includes an IR receiver/
transmitter that receives infrared commands from the remote
control IR transmitter when the Nº32 is not using the IR input
connector. The IR receiver/transmitter also sends Nº32 IR
commands to a learning remote control during IR learning. See
“Teach IR” on page 3-8 for additional information.

Lights when main output signal polarity has been inverted with the
remote control polarity button. See “Polarity” on page 4-2 for addi­tional information.

Lights when mono playback has been activated with the remote
control mono button. See “Mono Playback Mode” on page 4-4 for
additional information.

2-3

Adjusts master volume level. Rotating the volume knob increases
and decreases master volume in 1.0 increments up to 23.0dB and in

0.1dB increments above 23.0dB. The minimum master volume
level is OFF. The MaxVol parameter determines the maximum
master volume level in 0.1dB increments between OFF and 80dB.
The factory-default maximum master volume level is 80dB.

The Offset parameter determines individual input volume level
offsets in 0.1dB increments between –20.0dB and +20.0dB. The
factory-default input volume level offset is 0.0dB. Whenever an
input is selected, the Nº32 automatically applies the Offset param­eter setting to master volume level.

Note the following about using the volume knob:

• Rotating the volume knob quickly accelerates the rate of
change to accommodate large adjustments. Rotating the
volume knob too quickly decelerates the rate of change to
prevent accidental adjustments that could send dangerous
signal levels to the loudspeakers.

• Rotating the volume knob slowly decelerates the rate of change
to accommodate fine, precise adjustments.

Note Nº32 volume controls do not affect record output levels.

Nº32 volume controls are deactivated when SSP mode is activated.

Basic Operation Mark Levinson

2-4

Record out button &

LED

Display intensity

button

Setup button & LED

Enter button

Balance button & LED

Note When the balance control is closed, the balance LED remains lit if the

Activates and deactivates record mode, which allows the select
knob and select / buttons to select the input to send to the
record output connectors. The selected input is sent to all record
output connectors that have not been deactivated with the Rec.Out
parameter. The record out LED lights when record mode is acti­vated. See “Record Mode” on page 4-7 for additional information.

Controls the illumination level of front panel display characters as
well as the front panel standby and preamplifier LEDs. See “Display
Intensity” on page 4-2 for additional information.

Opens and closes the setup menu, which can be used to customize
the Nº32 to suit individual preferences and listening spaces. The
setup LED lights when the setup menu is open. See “Setup Menu”
on page 3-1 for additional information.

Selects and deselects menu items when the setup menu is open. The
enter button performs no function during normal operation.

Opens and closes the balance control, which adjusts the left-to­right channel balance of the main output connectors. The balance
LED lights when the balance control is open. See “Balance” on
page 4-3 for additional information.

left-to-right channel balance of the main output connectors is offset.

Mute button & LED

Note Rotating the volume knob or pressing the volume ± buttons unmutes

Mutes and unmutes master volume level. Pressing the mute button
attenuates master volume by the selected mute level. The mute LED
lights when master volume level is muted. Pressing the mute
button again restores master volume to its original level.

The Mute parameter determines the amount of master volume level
attenuation that occurs when master volume level is muted. The
mute level can be set in 0.1dB increments between –10.0 and
–80.0dB. The factory-default mute level is –20.0dB.

master volume level, adjusting master volume from the muted volume
level.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Basic Operation

Rear Panel

The numbers in the rear panel illustration shown in Figure 2-2
correspond with the summary list items below.

Note For maximum channel separation, all left and right-channel connectors

are located on opposite sides of the rear panel.

Figure 2-2: N°32 Preamplifier and Controller rear panels.

DC power

right channel

DC power

PHASTLink™ compa tible

112 3

inputs

1

2 3

main outputs

1

4

8

control p orts

4

record outputs

2 3

5

9

RS-232

RIGHT CHANNEL

657

10 11

communica tions por ts

master amplifierslave in

8

6

phono

ground

7

ir input trig intrig out

8 7 6 5 4

1. DC power connectors

12

LEFT CHANNEL

6

13

Nº25/S

DC power

Nº32 Ref erenc e Controller

ac mains earth

s/n

3

record outputs main outputs

1

3 2 1

2 3

5

1514

left channel

DC power

2

MARK LEVINSON REFERENCE

inputs

PREAMPLIFIER Nº32
s/n

4

DC power

2-5

2. balanced input connectors

3. unbalanced input connectors

4. main output connectors

5. record output connectors

6. phono module access panels

7. phono ground connector

8. control ports

9. RS-232 port

Basic Operation Mark Levinson

10. communication ports

11. IR input connector

12. trigger input / trigger output connectors

13. N°25/S DC power connector

14. ac mains connector

15. earth ground connector

Below are descriptions of the connectors and ports listed above.

2-6

DC power connectors

Note DC power cables are not directional.

Allow the Controller to provide DC power to the preamplifier using
the supplied DC power connectors. Two DC power connectors
labeled left-channel and right-channel DC power are available on
the Controller, and two DC power connectors labeled DC power are
available on the preamplifier.

1. Using one of the supplied DC power cables, connect the Con-
troller left-channel DC power connector to the preamplifier
left-channel DC power connector.

2. Using the other DC power cable, connect the Controller right-
channel DC power connector to the preamplifier right-channel
DC power connector.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Basic Operation

Balanced input

connectors

Figure 2-3: N°32 Balanced
Connector Pin Assignments.

Push

Pin 2

Pin 1

Pin 3

Balanced (female XLR)

Input Connector

Pin Assignments

• Pin 1: Signal Ground

• Pin 2: Signal + (Non-Inverting)

• Pin 3: Signal – (Inverting)

• Connector Ground Lug: Chassis Ground

Pin 1

Pin 2

Pin 3

Balanced (male XLR)

Main Output Connector

Accept left-channel and right­channel balanced input signals from
associated components with
balanced (male XLR) output connec­tors. Three balanced (female XLR)
stereo connectors numbered 1, 2, and
3 are available.

For best performance, use balanced
connections whenever possible. Refer
to Figure 2-3 to ensure that Nº32
balanced input connector pin assign­ments correspond to associated
component balanced output
connector pin assignments. If not,
wire the cable so that the appropriate
input pin connects to the appropriate
output pin.

Unbalanced input

connectors

Main output

connectors

Record output

connectors

Accept left-channel and right-channel unbalanced input signals
from associated components without balanced output connectors.
Five unbalanced (RCA) stereo connectors numbered 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
are available.

Provide left-channel and right-channel output to associated compo­nents. Two balanced (male XLR) and two unbalanced (RCA) stereo
output connectors are available.

For best performance, use balanced connections whenever possible.
Refer to Figure 2-3 (above) to ensure that associated component
balanced input connector pin assignments correspond to Nº32
balanced main output connector pin assignments. If not, wire the
cable so that the appropriate input pin connects to the appropriate
output pin.

Provides left-channel and right-channel output at fixed volume
levels to associated recording components such as CD recorders and
tape decks. One balanced (male XLR) stereo output connector
numbered 1 and two unbalanced (RCA) stereo output connectors
numbered 2 and 3 are available.

For best performance, use balanced connections whenever possible.
Refer to the illustration shown on the previous page and to the
associated component documentation to ensure that recording
component balanced input connector pin assignments correspond
to Nº32 balanced record output connector pin assignments. If not,

2-7

Basic Operation Mark Levinson

wire the cable so that the appropriate input pin connects to the
appropriate output pin.

The front panel record out button activates and deactivates record
mode, which allows the select knob and select / buttons to
select the input to send to the record output connectors. The
selected input is sent to all record output connectors that have not
been deactivated with the Rec.Out parameter. The record out LED
lights when record mode is activated. See “Record Mode” on
page 4-7 for additional information.

Note Nº32 volume controls do not affect record output levels.

2-8

Phono Module access

panels

Phono ground

connector

Note Listen to the associated phono cartridge both with and without the

Control ports

Accommodate the optional Nº32 Phono Module, which adds two
balanced (female XLR) OR two unbalanced (RCA) phono input
connectors to the rear panel. No matter which connectors are
selected, all phono input signals are converted to balanced signals
upon entering the chassis and processed as balanced signals.
Contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer for additional infor­mation about the Nº32 Phono Module.

Provides an earth-reference ground connection for the associated
phono cartridge. Connecting the associated phono cartridge
grounding wire to the phono ground connector grounds the associ­ated phono cartridge to the preamplifier chassis, which sometimes
reduces audible hum and other noise that results from multiple
grounding paths. Otherwise, the ground connection between the
associated phono cartridge and the preamplifier chassis is isolated.

phono ground connection. Then, select the connection that results in
the best performance.

Provided for possible future expansion.

RS-232 port

Communication ports

Provides serial control, performing flash memory software upgrades
and facilitating external control in AMX™ and Crestron™ systems.
One 6-pin modular RJ-11 jack labeled RS-232 is available.

Provide “links” to compatible Mark Levinson components,
allowing the Nº32 and other linked components to share Link
controls such as display intensity, standby, playback, input selec­tion, and record mode. Three 8-pin modular RJ-45 jacks labeled
master, slave in, and amplifier are available.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Basic Operation

Note The master port is provided for possible future expansion and SHOULD

NOT be used when making Link connections. See “Linking” on page 4­13 BEFORE attempting to link the Nº32 to other Mark Levinson
components.

IR input connector

Trigger input / trigger

output connectors

Accepts 5V infrared input signals with no more than 100mA of
current from standard infrared distribution equipment such as IR
repeaters. One 1/8-inch (3.5mm) mini-jack labeled IR input is avail­able. The mini-jack requires a mini-plug (Tip/ Sleeve) connection in
which the tip of the mini-plug has positive polarity as shown below
in Figure 2-4.

Figure 2-4: Mini-plug tip polarity for the IR input connector.

3 to 15V @ <100mA

Provide trigger control. One 1/8-inch (3.5mm) mini-jack labeled
trigger input is available to accept 3-12V DC trigger signals from
associated components, and one 1/8-inch (3.5mm) mini-jack
labeled trigger output is available to pass these trigger signals to
associated components OR to send Nº32-generated 12 or 5V DC
trigger signals to associated components. Both mini-jacks require
mini-plug (Tip/Sleeve) connections.

If a component is connected to the trigger input connector, the
Nº32 passes the incoming trigger signal to the component
connected to the trigger output connector, creating a “daisy chain”
of trigger control. If no component is connected to the trigger input
connector, the Nº32 sends its own trigger signals to the component
connected to the trigger output connector. The Trig. parameter
configures the Nº32 to generate 12V level or 5V pulse trigger
signals.

2-9

Nº25/S DC power

connector

ac mains connector

Note Before operating the Nº32, make sure the ~ac mains connector label

Provide DC power to the Nº25 or Nº25S Phono Preamplifiers. One
DC power connector labeled Nº25/S DC power is available. Use the
DC power cable supplied with the Nº25/S to connect the power
supply input on the Nº25/S to the Nº25/S DC power connector on
the Nº32.

Provides power to the Nº32 when the supplied power cord is
connected to the ac mains connector and an electrical outlet. One
IEC-standard AC mains receptacle labeled ac mains is available.

indicates the correct operating voltage for the current location.

Basic Operation Mark Levinson

Earth ground

connector

Provides an earth-reference ground connection in countries where
the AC mains does not establish its own earth ground connection.
In these countries, use a grounding wire to connect the Nº32 to a
known earth ground such as a water pipe running through the
ground or a copper spike driven into the ground. Contact an autho­rized Mark Levinson dealer for additional assistance.

Remote Control

The Nº32 remote control provides full operation of the Nº32. It
requires special consideration during operation to ensure optimal
performance. Pay particular attention to instructions included in
this section and to precautions included throughout this owner’s
manual.

The right side of the front panel display includes an IR receiver/
transmitter that receives infrared commands from the remote
control IR transmitter when the Nº32 is not using the IR input
connector. The IR receiver/transmitter also sends Nº32 IR
commands to a learning remote control during IR learning. See
“Teach IR” on page 3-8 for additional information.

2-10

Note The items below are not applicable when the Nº32 is using the IR

input connector.

When operating the remote control:

DO eliminate obstructions between the remote control IR trans-

mitter and the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter.

DO position the remote control within ±45° of a line that is

perpendicular to the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter. At
more severe angles, attempt to “bounce” the remote control signal
off a wall or another surface so the signal is received at the IR
receiver/transmitter at a reasonable angle.

DO position the remote control within 17 feet (5m) of the front

panel display IR receiver/transmitter. If the Nº32 is placed inside a
glass cabinet, tinted glass will reduce the remote control range.

DO replace the remote control batteries as needed. In some cases,

the remote control IR transmitter LED will light more dimly (or not
at all) if the remote control batteries need to be replaced. See
“Remote Control Batteries” on page 1-6 for instructions.

DO NOT obstruct the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter,

which must be in line-of-sight with the remote control IR trans­mitter for proper remote control operation.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Basic Operation

DO NOT expose the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter to

strong sunlight, halogen light, or fluorescent light. This can cause
IR reception to become unreliable.

DO NOT use remote controls for different components at the

same time. Remote controls for different components can interfere
with one another.

Figure 2-5: Remote Control. The numbered items in the Nº32 remote control illustration (Figure

2-5) correspond with the numbered items listed below.

1

1. IR transmitter

2. IR transmitter LED

2

3

4 8

9

10

display

setup

polarity

select volume

mono

mute

standby

enter

balance

5

6

7

11

12

3. setup button

4. polarity button

5. display button

6. enter button

7. mono button

IR transmitter

IR transmitter LED

8. balance button

9. mute button

10. select / buttons

11. volume ± buttons

12. standby button

Below is a description of each item listed above. Unless otherwise
specified, the following descriptions are of commands accessed
from the remote control during normal operation. See Section 3,
“Setup Menu” and Section 4, “Controls and Modes” for informa­tion about other commands the remote control executes.

Sends infrared signals to the front panel display IR receiver/ trans­mitter when the Nº32 is not using the IR input connector. See
“Remote Control” on page 2-10 for additional information.

Lights when IR signals are transmitted. In some cases, the IR trans­mitter LED will light more dimly (or not at all) if the remote control
batteries need to be replaced. See “Remote Control Batteries” on
page 1-6 for instructions.

2-11

Setup button

Opens and closes the setup menu, which can be used to customize
the Nº32 to suit individual preferences and listening spaces. The

Basic Operation Mark Levinson

front panel setup LED lights when the setup menu is open. See
Section 3, “Setup Menu” for additional information.

2-12

Polarity button

Display button

Enter button

Mono button

Balance button

Note When the balance control is closed, the balance LED remains lit if the

Controls the polarity of the main output signal. The front panel
polarity LED lights when main output signal polarity is inverted.
See “Polarity” on page 4-2 for additional information.

Controls the illumination level of front panel display characters as
well as the front panel standby and preamplifier LEDs. See “Display
Intensity” on page 4-2 for additional information.

Selects and deselects menu items when the setup menu is open. The
enter button performs no function during normal operation.

Activates and deactivates mono playback. The front panel mono
LED lights when mono playback is activated. See “Mono Playback
Mode” on page 4-4 for additional information.

Opens and closes the balance control, which adjusts the left-to­right channel balance of the main output connectors. The front
panel balance LED lights when the balance control is open. See
“Balance” on page 4-3 for additional information.

left-to-right channel balance of the main output connectors is offset.

Mute button

Note Rotating the volume knob or pressing the volume ± buttons unmutes

Select / buttons

Mutes and unmutes the master volume level. Pressing the mute
button attenuates master volume by the selected mute level. The
front panel mute LED lights when master volume level is muted.
Pressing the mute button again restores master volume to its
original level.

The Mute parameter determines the amount of master volume level
attenuation that occurs when master volume level is muted. The
mute level can be set in 0.1dB increments between –10.0dB and
–80dB. The factory-default mute level is –20.0dB.

the master volume level, adjusting master volume from the muted
volume level.

Select the desired input to send to the main output connectors.
Pressing the select / buttons scrolls through all inputs for which
the Name parameter has not been set to unused. The front panel
display indicates the name and volume level of the selected input.
Select / button scrolling does not include inputs for which the
Name parameter has been set to unused.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Basic Operation

Note When record mode is activated, the select knob and select /

buttons select the desired input to send to the record output
connectors. See “Record Mode” on page 4-7 for additional
information.

Volume ± buttons

Note Nº32 volume controls do not affect record output levels. When SSP

Standby button

Adjust master volume level. Pressing the volume ± buttons
increases and decreases master volume in 1.0 increments up to

23.0dB and in 0.1dB increments above 23.0dB. The minimum
master volume level is OFF. The MaxVol parameter determines the
maximum master volume level in 0.1dB increments between OFF
and 80dB. The factory-default maximum master volume level is
80dB.

The Offset parameter determines individual input volume level
offsets in 0.1dB increments between –20.0dB and +20.0dB. The
factory-default input volume level offset is 0.0dB. Whenever an
input is selected, the Nº32 automatically applies the Offset param­eter setting to master volume level.

Pressing and holding the volume ± buttons for longer than 1.5
seconds accelerates the rate of change to accommodate large adjust­ments. Pressing and quickly releasing the volume ± buttons
accommodates fine, precise adjustments.

2-13

mode is activated, volume controls are deactivated.

Places the Nº32 into standby and takes the Nº32 out of standby,
which allows the Nº32 to remain warmed-up to deliver optimal
performance at all times. The front panel standby LED lights when
the Nº32 is not in standby and blinks in unison with the preampli­fier LED when the Nº32 is in standby. See “Standby” on page 4-1 for
additional information.

Note Power is still connected to the Nº32 when the Nº32 is in standby.

3

Setup Menu

Setup Menu Navigation

Figure 3-1: Mapping of the one-line front panel Setup Menu displays

No32 Setup
Set Inputs
Teach IR
Mute = -20.0
MaxVol= 80.0
Trig.= 12v,L
Sw 1.08 1.06

VOLUME UP
VOLUME DOWN
SELECT NEXT
SELECT PREV
INTENSITY
MUTE KEY
MONO KEY
POLARITY KEY
STANDBY KEY
ENTER KEY
SETUP KEY
BALANCE KEY
RECORD KEY
EXIT STANDBY
GO STANDBY
GO INPUT 1
GO INPUT 2
GO INPUT 3
GO INPUT 4
GO INPUT 5
GO INPUT 6
GO INPUT 7
GO INPUT 8
GO PHONO 1
GO PHONO 2
GO MUTE
GO UNMUTE
GO MONITOR
GO RECORD
GO BALANCE
EXIT BALANCE
DISPLAY OFF
DISPLAY DIM
DISPLAY HALF
DISPLAY FULL

-80.0 TO -10.0 40.0 TO 80.0 12v,L
5v,P

Name=INPUT 1
Gain= +6 dB
Offset= 0.0
Rec.Out=NONE

Name=INPUT 5
Gain= +12 dB
Offset= 0.0
Rec.Out=NONE

Input names can be
customized using
the Custom Names

List or Character
List.

Name=INPUT 2
Gain= +6 dB
Offset= 0.0
Rec.Out=NONE

Name=INPUT 6
Gain= +12 dB
Offset= 0.0
Rec.Out=NONE

0 dB
+6 dB
+12dB
+18dB

Name=INPUT 3
Gain= +6 dB
Offset= 0.0
Rec.Out=NONE

Name=INPUT 7
Gain= +12 dB
Offset= 0.0
Rec.Out=NONE

-20.0 to +20.0

Set Input 1
Set Input 2
Set Input 3
Set Input 4
Set Input 5
Set Input 6
Set Input 7
Set Input 8

Name=INPUT 4
Gain= +12 dB
Offset= 0.0
Rec.Out=NONE

Name=INPUT 8
Gain= +12 dB
Offset= 0.0
Rec.Out=NONE

NONE
#1
#2
#3

3-1

Setup Menu Mark Levinson

The setup button provides convenient access to the setup menu
shown in Figure 3-1, which can be used to customize the Nº32 to
suit individual preferences and listening spaces. The front panel
display provides one-line viewing of setup menu items.

To open the setup menu:

Press the setup button.

When the setup menu is closed, pressing the setup button opens
the setup menu on the front panel display. The front panel setup
LED lights when the setup menu is open.

Both the front panel and remote control can be used to navigate
the setup menu. Unless otherwise specified, the items below
describe commands executed from the front panel and remote
control when the setup menu is open. See “Front Panel” on page 2­1 and “Remote Control” on page 2-10 for information about
commands executed from the front panel and remote control
during normal operation.

3-2

setup button

enter button

Note When a parameter is deselected, the message NO CHANGE will

The setup button:

• Returns to the previous menu, eventually closing the setup
menu.

• Deselects the selected parameter without saving setting adjust­ments that have not been previously stored. The RESTORING
message appears on the front panel display to indicate that new
adjustments are not being stored.

The enter button:

• Advances to the next menu.

• Selects the current parameter. When a parameter is selected, the
equal sign (=) between the parameter label and the parameter
setting will blink to indicate that setting adjustments can be
made with the volume knob or volume ± buttons.

• Deselects the selected parameter, saving setting adjustments
that have not been previously stored. The SAVING DATA
message appears on the front panel display to indicate that new
adjustments are being stored.

appear on the front panel display if no changes have been made to
the parameter’s last stored setting.

Select knob & select

/ buttons

Scroll through menu items. Rotating the select knob or pressing the
select / buttons scrolls upward and downward through all

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Setup Menu

menu items available on the open menu. The front panel display
indicates the current menu item.

Volume knob &

volume ± buttons

Adjusts the selected parameter setting. Rotating the volume knob or
pressing the volume ± buttons increases and decreases the selected
parameter setting in the designated increment. The front panel
display indicates the current setting. (If the current parameter has
not been selected with the enter button, rotating the volume knob
or pressing the volume ± buttons automatically selects the current
parameter before making adjustments.)

Set Inputs

Selecting Set Inputs prompts the selection of the desired input (e.g.,
Input 1). Selecting an input opens the corresponding set inputs
menu (Figure 3-1 on page 3-1), which can be used to change input
names, optimize input gain levels, offset input volume levels, and
deactivate record output connectors.

Parameter Default Setting Possible Settings

Name

Gain

Offset

INPUT Factory-default, Custom

+6dB or +12dB* 0dB, +6dB, +12dB, +18dB

0.0dB –20.0dB to +20.0dB

3-3

Rec.Out

* The factory-default Gain parameter setting is +6dB for balanced inputs (1-3) and +12dB for
unbalanced inputs (4-8).

NONE NONE, #1, #2, #3

Set Inputs Menu shortcut

The Set Inputs menu “shortcut” provides convenient access to the
Set Inputs menu for the selected input. When this shortcut is used,
the four Set Inputs menu parameters for the selected input – Name,
Gain, Offset, and Rec.Out – are available. No other setup menu
items are available.

To shortcut to the Set Inputs Menu for the selected input:

1. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons to select
the desired input.

The front panel display indicates the name and volume level of
the selected input.

2. Press and hold the setup button until the Name parameter for
the selected input appears on the front panel display.

The front panel setup LED lights when the setup menu is open.

Setup Menu Mark Levinson

Name Factory-default, Custom

Determines the name of the selected input. Factory-default input
names correspond to their assigned stereo input connector. For
example, Input 1 is assigned to the input connectors labeled 1,
Input 2 is assigned to the input connectors labeled 2, and so on.

Custom input names should be based on the component with
which the input is associated. For example, DVD is a suitable
custom name for an input associated with a DVD player. Two
methods are available for customizing input names: the custom
names list and the character list.

Note Linked Mark Levinson components must have recognizable input

names to share Link controls. For example, an input associated with a
Nº360S Digital Audio Processor should be named No360S. In some
cases, linked components will assign correct input names for other
linked associated components. Otherwise, use the custom names list
to enter the correct input name.

3-4

Custom Names List

The custom names list shown in Tab le 3-1 provides convenient
access to 26 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 deactivate
unused inputs, activate SSP mode, or activate EQ mode.

Table 3-1: Custom Names List.

Custom

Description

Name

Input 1-8

unused

SSP

Identifies the factory-default input name. This name can
be customized one character at a time using the character
list.

Removes the selected input from select knob and select
/ button scrolling.

Activates SSP (surround sound processor) mode, which
configures the selected input for complete integration
with a multi-channel surround sound processor.

Caution!

Before activating SSP mode, set the associated surround
sound processor volume to a low level to prevent dan­gerous signal levels from reaching the loudspeakers.

EQ

Activates EQ (equalizer) mode, which configures the
selected input to route an input signal through a dedi­cated equalizer using the record output connectors.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Setup Menu

Table 3-1: Custom Names List.

Custom
Name

DAT

VCR

CASS

RtoR

MD

CD-R

SAT

LD

CD

TUNER

AUX

DAC

Description

Identifies an input associated with a digital audio tape
transport.

Identifies an input associated with a video cassette
recorder.

Identifies an input associated with a cassette deck.

Identifies an input associated with a reel-to-reel player.

Identifies an input associated with a mini-disc player.

Identifies an input associated with a compact disc
recorder.

Identifies an input associated with a satellite receiver.

Identifies an input associated with a laser disc player.

Identifies an input associated with a compact disc player.

Identifies an input associated with a tuner.

Identifies an input associated with an auxiliary
component.

Identifies an input associated with a digital-to-analog con­verter.

3-5

TAPE

DVD

N°30
N°30.5
N°30.6
N°35
N°36
N°36S
N°360
N°360S
N°39
N°40

Identifies an input associated with a tape deck.

Identifies an input associated with a digital versatile disc
player.

Identifies an input associated with the corresponding
Mark Levinson component. Linked Mark Levinson com­ponents must have recognizable input names to share
Link controls. For instance, an input associated with a
Nº360S Digital Audio Processor should be named No360S.
In some cases, linked components will assign correct
input names for other linked, associated components.
Otherwise, use the custom names list to enter the correct
input name.

Setup Menu Mark Levinson

Character list

Figure 3-2: Character list.

3-6

A a B b C c
D d E e F f
G g H h I i
J j K k L l
M m N n O o
P p Q q R r
S s T t U u
V v W w X x
Y y Z z _ 0
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 & ‘ *
+ – . / : ?
( ) , _

The character list (left) provides access to 76 charac­ters that can be used to enter custom input names
one character at a time. Custom input names can
consist of up to 7 characters, including letters,
numbers, punctuation marks, symbols, and blank
spaces. A custom input name entered with the char­acter list replaces the factory-default name (INPUT)
on the custom names list.

To customize the name of the selected input:

1. Rotate the select knob or press the select /
buttons to select the desired input.

The front panel display indicates the name and volume level of
the selected input.

2. Press and hold the setup button until the Name parameter for
the selected input appears on the front panel display.

The front panel setup LED lights when the setup menu is open.

3. Select one of the following options:

• To use the custom names list, press the enter button once.

The current input name blinks to indicate that a new input
name can be selected from the custom names list.

• To use the character list, press the enter button twice in

succession. The first character in the current input name
blinks to indicate that a new character can be selected from
the character list.

4. Rotate the volume knob or press the volume ± buttons to scroll
through all custom input names included on the custom names
list or all characters included on the character list.

5. When the desired custom input name or character is selected,
press the enter button.

• If you selected the custom names list option in step 3, press

the enter button to assign the selected custom input name.
The SAVING DATA message appears on the front panel
display as the new input name is saved.

• If you selected the character list option in step 3, press the

enter button to assign the selected character. The blinking
cursor automatically advances to the next character space.
Repeat step 4 and step 5 until all desired characters have
been entered. When the seventh character is selected, the

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Setup Menu

SAVING DATA message appears on the front panel display
as the new input name is saved.

Note The factory-default input name must be restored one character at a

time using the character list (unless factory-default settings are
restored).

Gain 0dB, +6dB, +12dB, +18dB

Optimizes gain levels for the input source using the stereo input
connector for which the selected input is assigned. Increasing the
Gain parameter setting increases gain levels for the selected input,
which sometimes prevents input sources with low gain levels from
producing low signal-to-noise ratios. Decreasing the Gain param­eter setting decreases gain levels for the selected input, which
sometimes prevents input sources with high gain levels from
producing distortion.

Note The Gain parameter should be set before the Offset parameter.

Offset –20.0dB to +20.0dB

Determines individual input volume level offsets in 0.1dB incre­ments between –20.0dB and +20.0dB. The factory-default input
volume level offset is 0.0dB. Whenever an input is selected, the
Nº32 automatically applies the Offset parameter setting to the
master volume level.

In some cases, input sources sound softer or louder than others. If
this occurs, select the Offset parameter setting that compensates for
the volume level difference, allowing all associated components to
output at a comparable volume level.

Rec.Out NONE, #1, #2, #3

Sends the input to all three record output connectors during record
mode, or deactivates the selected record output connectors. The
front panel record out button activates and deactivates record
mode. This allows the select knob and select / buttons to select
the input to send to the record output connectors.

3-7

Selecting a setting deactivates the corresponding record output
connectors when the input is selected during record mode.

See “Record Mode” on page 4-7 for additional information.

Caution! If the recording component offers both record input and output

connectors, set the Rec.Out parameter to NONE to prevent

Setup Menu Mark Levinson

record feedback loops in which the associated component
attempts to record its own output signal. Such feedback loops
produce high-level noise that may damage the associated loud­speakers and other components.

Note If the associated recording component connected to a record output

connector is also connected to a separate ground (such as a VCR with
a cable TV connection), set the Rec.Out parameter to NONE for all
inputs (unless a recording session is in progress). This helps prevent
low-level electrical noise from degrading performance.

Teach IR

Selecting Teach IR opens the Teach IR menu, which prompts the
selection of the desired IR command. Selecting an IR command
sends the associated infrared signal from the left side of the front
panel display to a learning remote control, allowing Nº32 IR
commands to be sent from a learning remote control even if the
Nº32 remote control is not present.

3-8

The Nº32 sends infrared signals at 40kHz, the most common carrier
frequency used in learning remote controls. However, if the
learning remote control seems unable to learn IR commands:

• Eliminate obstructions between the learning remote control
and the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter.

• Adjust the distance between the learning remote control and
the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter.

• Make sure the learning remote control and the front panel
display IR receiver/transmitter are not exposed to strong
sunlight, halogen light, or fluorescent light. This can cause IR
reception to become unreliable.

• Replace the learning remote control batteries.

If problems persist, contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer.

Table 3-2 indicates all available IR commands. For toggle
commands, the Nº32 provides one IR command for the toggle
command as well as separate IR commands for the positive and
negative forms of the toggle command. For instance, the MUTE
KEY IR command teaches the learning remote control to perform
mute button commands, while the GO MUTE IR command teaches
the learning remote control to mute master volume level and the
GO UNMUTE IR command teaches the learning remote control to
unmute the master volume level.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Setup Menu

Table 3-2: IR Command List.

Custom
Name

VOLUME UP

VOLUME DOWN

SELECT NEXT

SELECT PREV

INTENSITY

MUTE KEY

MONO KEY

POLARITY KEY

STANDBY KEY

ENTER KEY

SETUP KEY

BALANCE KEY

RECORD KEY

Description

Executes volume + button commands.

Executes volume – button commands.

Executes select  button commands.

Executes select  button commands.

Executes display intensity/display button commands.

Executes mute button commands.

Executes mono button commands.

Executes polarity button commands.

Executes standby button commands.

Executes enter button commands.

Executes setup button commands.

Executes balance button commands.

Executes record out button commands.

3-9

EXIT STANDBY

GO STANDBY

GO INPUT 1-8

GO PHONO 1

GO PHONO 2

GO MUTE

GO UNMUTE

GO MONITOR

GO RECORD

GO BALANCE

EXIT BALANCE

DISPLAY OFF

DISPLAY DIM

DISPLAY HALF

Takes the Nº32 out of standby.

Places the Nº32 into standby.

Selects the corresponding input.

Selects (the optional) phono module 1.

Selects (the optional) phono module 2.

Attenuates master volume by the selected mute
level.

Restores master volume to its original level.

Deactivates record mode.

Activates record mode.

Opens the balance control.

Closes the balance control.

Sets display intensity to 0%, deactivating the front
panel display.

Sets display intensity to 25%.

Sets display intensity to 50%.

DISPLAY FULL

Sets display intensity to 100% (full brightness).

Setup Menu Mark Levinson

To teach Nº32 IR commands to a learning remote control:

1. Press the Nº32 setup button.

The setup button opens the setup menu. The front panel setup
LED lights red when the setup menu is open.

2. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons until
Teach IR appears on the front panel display.

3. Press the enter button to open the Teach IR menu.

The VOLUME UP IR command will appear on the front panel
display.

4. Rotate the volume knob or press the volume ± buttons to scroll
through all available IR commands.

5. When the desired IR command is selected, press the enter but-
ton to teach this command to the learning remote control.

3-10

The <- SENDING message will appear on the front panel display
to indicate that the associated infrared signal is being sent to
the learning remote control.

6. Repeat step 4 and step 5 until all desired IR commands have
been sent.

Note The Nº31, Nº31.5, Nº37, Nº39, and Nº390S remote controls can

control Nº32 master volume level. This command is available over IR
(not Link connections). Before using one of these remote controls to
adjust Nº32 master volume level, make sure the digital transport setup
menu volume control parameter is set to fixed.

Setup Parameters

Mute –10.0dB to –80.0dB

Determines the amount of master volume level attenuation that
occurs when the mute button is pressed. The mute level can be set
in 0.1dB increments between –10.0dB and –80.0dB. The factory­default mute level is –20.0dB.

MaxVol 40.0dB to 80.0dB

Determines the maximum master volume level setting in 0.1dB
increments between 40.0dB and 80.0dB. The factory-default
maximum master volume level is 80.0dB.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Setup Menu

Trig 12v,L; 5v,P

Configures the trigger output signal when the trigger input
connector is not in use. Selecting the 12v,L setting configures the
trigger output connector to send a 12V, level (constant) signal to
the connected component whenever the Nº32 is taken out of
standby. This signal is not present when the Nº32 is placed into
standby.

Selecting the 5v,P signal configures the trigger output connector to
send a 5V pulse signal, similar to that of a momentary contact
switch, to the connected component whenever the standby button
is pressed. This signal is only present when the standby button is
pressed.

Note The Trig. parameter has no effect when a component is connected to

the trigger input connector. Instead, the Nº32 passes incoming trigger
signals to the component connected to the trigger output connector.

Sw

Indicates the current software version operating in the Nº32.
Software upgrades can be performed with the RS-232 port, allowing
software to be upgraded without disassembling the Nº32 or discon­necting it from other components.

3-11

4

Controls and Modes

Standby

Standby mode allows the Nº32 to remain warmed-up to deliver
optimal performance at all times. The Nº32 cannot be placed into
standby unless it is powered on with the power button. See
“Continuous Operation” on page 1-8 for additional information.

To place the Nº32 into or take the Nº32 out of standby:

When the Nº32 is powered, press and release the standby button.

• When the Nº32 is not in standby, pressing and releasing the
standby button places the Nº32 into standby. The standby LED
on the controller front panel and the preamplifier front panel
LED both blink in unison when the Nº32 is in standby.

• When the Nº32 is in standby, pressing and releasing the
standby button takes the Nº32 out of standby. The controller
front panel standby LED remains steadily lit when the Nº32 is
not in standby.

4-1

Note When powered on with the power button, the Nº32 automatically

enters standby after completing its initialization sequence. Power is still
connected to the Nº32 when the Nº32 is in standby.

Sleep -OFF-, 0h 30m to 4h 0m

Controls the sleep timer, which configures the Nº32 to automati­cally enter standby after a designated amount of time has passed.
The SLEEP parameter can be set to –OFF– or in 30-minute incre­ments between 30 minutes and 4 hours. The factory-default SLEEP
parameter setting is –OFF–.

When –OFF– is selected, the Nº32 does not automatically enter
standby. When a time increment setting is selected, the Nº32 auto­matically enters standby after the designated amount of time has
passed. For example, if the 2h 30m setting is selected, the Nº32
automatically enters standby after 2 hours and 30 minutes have
passed.

To set the sleep timer:

1. With the Nº32 out of standby, press and hold the standby but­ton until the SLEEP parameter opens on the front panel display.

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

2. Press and release the standby button to cycle through all avail­able SLEEP parameter settings.

3. When the desired setting is selected, press the enter button to
close the SLEEP parameter.

Otherwise, the SLEEP parameter automatically closes a few
seconds after the last command is received. If this occurs, the
selected setting is automatically applied.

Note The SLEEP parameter is automatically set to –OFF– whenever the Nº32

is placed into standby.

Display Intensity

Display intensity controls the illumination of front panel display
characters as well as the front panel standby and preamplifier LEDs.
Four illumination levels are available, including FULL (100%),
HALF (50%), DIM (25%), and OFF (0%). The factory-default illumi­nation level is FULL (100%).

4-2

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 and preamplifier LEDs light at the
FULL (100%) illumination level.

To adjust display intensity:

Press the display intensity button to cycle through the four avail­able illumination levels.

Front panel display characters, the front panel standby LED,
and the front panel preamplifier LED automatically adjust to
the selected illumination level.

Polarity

The polarity control sets the polarity of the main output signal. The
polarity control has no affect on the record output signal.

To adjust main output signal polarity:

Press the polarity button on the remote control.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

• When main output signal polarity is non-inverted, pressing the
polarity button inverts main output signal polarity. The front
panel polarity LED lights when main output signal polarity is
inverted.

• When main output signal polarity is inverted, pressing the
polarity button restores main output signal polarity to its non­inverted state.

Note Experiment with main output signal polarity to determine the best

sound for individual recordings. The sound difference between an
inverted and non-inverted output signal ranges from subtle to
inaudible, depending on microphone technique and other recording
factors. In some cases, individual recordings will just sound better one
way than the other.

Balance

The balance control adjusts the left-to-right channel balance of the
main output connectors. The balance control has no affect on the
record output connectors.

The balance control facilitates precise adjustments in 0.1dB incre­ments between 0.1dB and 20.0dB. When the balance offset exceeds

20.0dB, the Nº32 mutes the channel outputting the lower signal

level.

To adjust the main output left-to-right channel balance:

1. Press the balance button to open the balance front panel dis­play.

The front panel balance LED lights when the balance display is
active.

2. Rotate the volume knob or press the volume ± buttons to make
the desired adjustments.

•Rotate the volume knob clockwise or press the volume +

button to decrease the output level of the left channel.

•Rotate the volume knob counterclockwise or press the

volume – button to decrease the output level of the right
channel.

4-3

• Select 0.0 to balance the output levels of the left and right

channels, allowing both channels to output at the same
level.

3. When the desired adjustments have been made, press the bal-
ance button to close the balance control.

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

• Otherwise, the balance control automatically closes a few
seconds after the last command is received. If this occurs,
the selected setting is automatically applied.

The front panel balance LED remains lit if the left-to-right
channel balance of the main output connectors is offset.

Note All Nº32 balance controls are deactivated when SSP mode is activated.

Mono Playback Mode

Mono playback mode sends mono (rather than stereo) signals to
the main output connectors, whether those signals are using the
balanced or unbalanced connectors. The mono playback control
has no affect on the record output connectors.

To toggle (switch) between mono and stereo playback:

4-4

On the remote control, press and release the mono button.

Mode L + R, L ONLY, R ONLY, L – R

Determines the mode of mono playback that is activated when the
remote control mono button is pressed. The factory-default MODE
parameter setting is L + R. Table 4-1 describes all mono playback
modes.

Table 4-1: Mono playback modes.

Mono Mode Description

L + R

Sends an equal combination of left-channel
and right-channel input signals to the
left-channel and right-channel main output
connectors. See “Using the L + R Balance Con­trol during mono playback” on page 4-5 for
additional information.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

Table 4-1: Mono playback modes.

Mono Mode Description

L Only

R Only

L - R

Sends the left-channel input signal to the
left-channel and right-channel main output
connectors. The right-channel input signal is
ignored.

Sends the right-channel input signal to the
left-channel and right-channel main output
connectors. The left-channel input signal is
ignored.

Sends the difference between the left-channel
and right-channel input signals to the
left-channel and right-channel main output
connectors. See “Using L – R mono mode to
align phono cartridge azimuth” on page 4-6
for additional information.

To select the desired mono mode:

1. On the remote control, press and hold the mono button until
the MODE parameter is displayed on the front panel.

Press and release the mono button to cycle through all available
mono playback modes.

2. When the desired mono playback mode is selected, press the
enter button to close the MODE parameter display.

4-5

If you do not press the enter button within a few seconds of
selecting the mode, the display automatically closes. If this
happens, the selected mono mode remains selected.

Using the L + R Balance Control during mono playback

Precise left-to-right channel balance is critical to achieving an accu­rate soundstage. When L + R mono playback is activated, the
balance control can be used to compensate for output level imbal­ances that occur after the Nº32 in the signal chain, including those
that result from asymmetrical loudspeaker placement and slight
mismatches in loudspeaker sensitivity.

To use the L + R balance control:

1. On the remote control, press and hold the mono button until
the MODE parameter is displayed on the front panel.

Press and release the mono button to cycle through all available
mono playback modes until the L + R mono mode is selected.

2. Press and release the enter button to close the MODE
parameter display.

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

If you do not press the enter button within a few seconds of
selecting the mode, the display automatically closes. If this
occurs, the selected mono mode remains selected.

3. With the MODE parameter display closed, press and release the
mono button to activate L + R mono playback.

4. Play the desired recording.

5. Press and release the balance button to display the balance con­trol on the front panel.

The front panel balance LED lights when the balance control is
displayed.

6. Rotate the volume knob or press the volume ± buttons to cen­ter the image between the front left and right loudspeakers.

7. When you are finished making adjustments, press and release
the balance button to close the balance control display.

4-6

If you do not press the enter button within a few seconds of
setting the balance, the display automatically closes. If this
occurs, the selected setting is automatically applied.

8. Press and release the mono button to cancel L + R mono play­back and return to stereo playback.

Using L – R mono mode to align phono cartridge azimuth

L – R mono playback simplifies the process of aligning phono
cartridge azimuth.

To use L – R mono playback to align phono cartridge azimuth:

1. On the remote control, press and hold the mono button until
the MODE parameter is displayed on the front panel.

Press and release the mono button to cycle through all available
mono playback modes until the L – R mono mode is selected.

2. Press and release the enter button to close the MODE
parameter display.

If you do not press the enter button within a few seconds of
selecting the mode, the display automatically closes. If this
occurs, the selected mono mode remains selected.

3. With the MODE parameter display closed, press and release the
mono button to activate L – R mono playback.

4. Play the desired mono recording.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

5. Using the L – R output signal, adjust the associated phono car­tridge azimuth to achieve a minimal output signal.

Playing a mono recording when L – R mono playback is acti­vated should result in silence (no output signal). Because phono
cartridges differ, it is recommended that you adjust azimuth to
achieve a minimal output signal.

6. Press and release the mono button to cancel L – R mono play­back and return to stereo playback.

Record Mode

Record mode allows the select knob and select / buttons to
select the input to send to the record output connectors. The
selected input is sent to all record output connectors that have not
been deactivated with the Rec.Out parameter.

Activating Record

Mode

To activate record mode:

1. Press the front panel record out button.

The front panel record out LED lights when record mode is acti­vated.

2. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons to select
the input to send to the record output connectors.

3. Select NONE to send no input to the record output connectors.

The selected input is sent to all record output connectors that
have not been deactivated with the Rec.Out parameter. See
“Rec.Out” on page 3-7 for additional information.

4. When the desired input is selected, press the record out button
to deactivate record mode.

EQ (Equalizer) Mode

Configures the selected input to route an input signal through a
dedicated equalizer using the record output connectors.

4-7

Making EQ Mode

Connections

To make EQ mode connections:

1. Make sure the Nº32 and all associated components are powered
off and disconnected from electrical outlets.

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

Note The Nº32 offers balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) connectors. For

best performance, use balanced connections whenever possible.

2. Connect the desired N°32 input connectors to the equalizer
output connectors. This will be referred to as the EQ input.

3. Connect the desired N°32 record output connectors to the
equalizer input connectors.

4. Connect the desired Nº32 input connectors to the source com­ponent output connectors. This will be referred to as the source

input.

Note DO NOT use the same Nº32 input connectors selected in step 2.

5. Reconnect the Nº32 and all associated components to electrical
outlets. Then, power the Nº32 and all associated components
on.

4-8

Configuring the EQ

Input

To configure the EQ input

1. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons to select
the EQ input (the input assigned to the Nº32 input connectors
selected in step 2 of “Making EQ Mode Connections” above).

2. Press and hold the setup button until the Name parameter
appears on the front panel display.

The front panel setup LED lights when the setup menu is
displayed.

3. Press the enter button once to select the Name parameter and
access the custom names list.

The current input name blinks to indicate that a new input
name can be selected from the custom names list.

4. Rotate the volume knob or press the volume ± buttons to scroll
through all custom input names included on the custom names
list until the EQ name is displayed on the front panel.

5. When the EQ name appears, press the enter button to select
this name and activate EQ mode.

The SAVING DATA message will appear on the front panel
display to indicate that the EQ name is being saved.

Note When the Name parameter is set to EQ, the Gain and Offset

parameters are not available for the selected input.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

6. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons until
the Rec.Out parameter displays on the front panel. Then, press
the enter button to select this parameter.

7. Rotate the volume knob or press the volume ± buttons to scroll
through all available settings until the NONE (default) setting
displays on the front panel.

8. When the NONE setting appears, press the enter button to
select this setting.

The SAVING DATA message will appear on the front panel
display to indicate that the new setting is being saved.

9. Press and release the setup button until the setup menu is
closed.

Configuring the

Source Input

To configure the source input:

1. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons to select
the source input (the input assigned to the Nº32 input connec­tors selected in step 4 of “Making EQ Mode Connections” on
page 4-7).

2. Press and hold the setup button until the Name parameter
appears on the front panel display.

The front panel setup LED lights when the setup menu is open.

3. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons until
the Rec.Out parameter appears on the front panel display.
Then, press the enter button to select this parameter.

4. Rotate the volume knob or press the volume ± buttons to scroll
through all available settings until the NONE setting displays
on the front panel.

5. When NONE appears, press the enter button.

The SAVING DATA message will appear on the front panel
display to indicate that the new setting is being saved.

4-9

Using EQ Mode

6. Press and release the setup button until the setup menu is
closed.

To record and playback with EQ mode:

1. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons to select
the input named EQ.

Selecting the source input could cause a feedback loop.

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

2. Press the front panel record out button to activate record
mode.

The record out LED lights when record mode is activated.

3. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons to select
the source input (the input assigned to the Nº32 input connec­tors selected in step 4 of “Making EQ Mode Connections” on
page 4-7).

The front panel display indicates the name and volume level of
the selected input.

4. Press the record out button to deactivate record mode.

5. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons to select
the EQ input.

6. Play the source input.

• The source input is routed through the EQ input using the

record output connectors, allowing the source input to pass
through a dedicated equalizer.

4-10

• The volume control now controls the output of the source

and EQ signal.

• The source input is monitored on the record output signal

path.

• The Gain and Offset parameters are NOT available for the

EQ input. However, the record output connectors pass the
source input at variable levels. The volume knob and
volume ± buttons can be used to adjust master volume
level.

SSP (Surround Sound Processor)
Mode

The SSP mode configures the selected input for complete integra­tion with a multi-channel surround sound processor.

In the past, the difference between the number of channels in
each component made integration difficult.

Sending multi-channel processor output signals to a stereo
preamplifier distorts calibrated processor output levels. Multi­channel processor volume controls adjust the relative volume
level of all channels in unison. But, stereo preamplifier volume
controls adjust the relative volume level of just the front left

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

and right channels, leaving the center, surround, and
subwoofer channels unaffected.

Different techniques have been used to compensate for this,
including marking a calibrated point on the preamplifier
volume control or using Dolby Pro Logic for volume level
adjustments. But these techniques are crude, time consuming,
and imprecise, resulting in an inconsistent performance at best.

Sending stereo preamplifier output signals to a multi-channel
processor interferes with some Dolby noise reduction process­ing. Processors that feature Dolby Pro Logic decoding some­times also feature a form of Dolby noise reduction similar to the
Dolby B noise reduction found in cassette decks. Designed to
respond to input sources based on their strength, Dolby noise
reduction requires input sources to be calibrated to Dolby stan­dards. Variable preamplifier output signals cause Dolby noise
reduction to mis-track and, in extreme cases, Dolby circuits to
overload.

To avoid these problems, SSP mode allows input sources to pass
through the Nº32 without interference. When SSP mode is
activated:

The front panel display indicates that the Nº32 is sending line­level input signals to the associated processor.

The Gain parameter for the selected input is set to a fixed level
of +0dB for inputs using balanced connectors and +6dB for
inputs using unbalanced connectors.

All Nº32 volume controls are deactivated to prevent the Nº32
from distorting channel balance. As a result, the processor
controls the relative volume level of all channels while main­taining its calibrated output levels.

To setup and select SSP mode:

1. Make sure the Nº32 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.

For example, if the source component is a DVD player, connect
the output connectors on the DVD player to the input connec­tors on the surround sound processor.

4-11

3. Connect the center, surround, and sub woofer output connec­tors on the processor to the appropriate input connectors on
the power amplifier(s).

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

4. Connect the front left and right output connectors on the pro­cessor to the desired stereo input connector on the Nº32.

For best performance, use balanced connections whenever
possible.

5. Connect the desired main output connectors on the Nº32 to
the appropriate input connectors on the power amplifier.

Caution! Before activating SSP mode, set the associated surround sound

processor volume control to a reasonable level to prevent send­ing dangerous signal levels to the associated loudspeakers.

6. Rotate the select knob or press the select / buttons to select
the Nº32 input for which the stereo input connector selected in
step 4 is assigned.

The front panel display indicates the name and volume level of
the selected input.

4-12

7. Press and hold the setup button until the Name parameter for
the selected input displays on the front panel.

The front panel setup LED lights when the setup menu is
displayed.

8. Press the enter button to select the Name parameter and access
the custom names list.

The current input name blinks to indicate that a new input
name can be selected from the custom names list.

9. Rotate the volume knob or press the volume ± buttons to scroll
through all custom input names included on the custom names
list until the SSP name displays on the front panel.

10. When the SSP name appears, press the enter button to select
this name and activate SSP mode.

The following two events happen:

a. The SAVING DATA message displays on the front panel to

indicate that the SSP name is being saved.

b. Then the SSP ____OFF message displays, indicating that the

SSP mode has been selected, but is disabled.

This is by design, so that no potentially damaging signals pass
through unintentionally. Before activating SSP mode, check the
surround sound processor volume control mode and reduce the
level if necessary.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

To activate and use SSP mode:

1. Place the Nº32 into standby, then take it out of standby.

The SSP ____LINE message displays, indicating that the SSP
mode has been activated, and the surround sound processor is
in control.

Linking

Linking is available for all Mark Levinson components with Link
communication ports, including slave in, slave out, and amplifier
communication ports. These communication ports “link” compati­ble Mark Levinson components in a slave chain, allowing them to
share Link controls such as display intensity, standby, playback,
input selection, and record mode.

The Nº32 offers three Link communication ports labeled master,
slave in, and amplifier.

• The master port is provided for possible future expansion and
SHOULD NOT be used when making Link connections.

• The slave in port can be connected to a compatible Mark
Levinson digital audio processor or digital transport.

• The amplifier port can be connected to a compatible Mark
Levinson power amplifier.

The Nº32 is compatible with:

• All power amplifiers that offer Link communication ports.

• Nº30, Nº30.5, and Nº30.6 Reference Digital Audio Processors

• Nº31 and Nº31.5 Reference CD Transports

• Nº36, Nº36S, Nº360, and Nº360S Digital Audio Processors

• Nº39 and Nº390S CD Processors (can be used as either digital
audio processors or digital transports in a slave chain)

•Nº37 CD Transport

Refer to the appropriate owner’s manual for Link compatibility
information about other Mark Levinson components.

4-13

Note Linking is not available for Mark Levinson digital transports unless a

Mark Levinson digital audio processor is included in the slave chain.
Certain digital transport and digital audio processor combinations are
not Link compatible. Refer to the appropriate owner’s manual for
additional information.

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

Link Connections DO use Link communication ports, such as slave in, slave out, and

amplifier ports. DO NOT use RS-232 ports or other rear panel
connectors.

DO use Link cables, which are available at authorized Mark

Levinson dealers.

DO use constructed Link cables. “Constructing Link Cables” below

for additional information.

Caution! Link connections must be made using Link communication ports

and Link cables. Connections made using other connectors or
cables may damage the Nº32 and other linked components, pos­sibly voiding the manufacturer’s warranty and/or standard repair
policies.

Constructing Link Cables

Link cables can be constructed using an 8-conductor modular tele­phone cable with the appropriate plug crimped on each end.

4-14

• Use an 8-pin RJ-45 plug to connect digital audio processors,
digital transports, and the Nº32.

• Use a 6-pin RJ-11 plug to connect to power amplifiers. If the
plug on the other end is an RJ-45, do not use the wires from
pins 7 and 8.

When linking components with constructed Link cables, twist the
cable 180° as shown in Figure 4-1 for a straight-through (pin 1-to­pin 1) connection.

Figure 4-1: Constructed link cables.

Mark Levinson
Digital Transport

8-Pin RJ-45 Plug (Pin 1)

Locking Tab Locking Tab

Nø32 Reference
Preamplifier

8-Pin RJ-11 Plug (Pin 1)

Locking Tab Locking Tab

180û Twist

180û Twist

Nø32 Reference

Preamplifier

8-Pin RJ-11 Plug (Pin 1)

Mark Levinson

Power Amplifier

6-Pin RJ-11 Plug (Pin 1)*

Creating a Slave Chain

Making Link connections creates a slave chain that facilitates
communication among linked components, allowing them to share
Link controls. Table 4-2 on page 4-16 indicates slave chain require­ments for each component.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

Slave chains that include the N°32:

• Must include compatible Mark Levinson components. The
Nº32 is compatible with the components listed on the previous
page. Refer to the appropriate owner’s manual for Link compat­ibility information about other Mark Levinson components.

• Must connect components in the following order to prevent
communication from terminating: digital audio processor, to
digital transport(s), to Nº32, to power amplifier(s).

Note Link communication port names differ among Mark Levinson

components. The Link communication port names used in Table 4-2
on page 4-16 correspond with the component listed in the
Component column.

4-15

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

Table 4-2: Slave chain requirements for components.

Component Slave Chain Requirements

4-16

Digital Audio
Processor

Digital
Transport(s)

Nº32

• Serves as the master component in the slave chain.

• Maximum of one per slave chain.

• Connect the master port on the digital audio
processor to the slave in port on the first digital
transport. If no digital transports are included in
the slave chain, connect the master port on the
digital audio processor to the slave in port on the
Nº32.

• No maximum number per slave chain.

• Must be positioned after the digital audio processor
and before the Nº32.

• Connect the slave in port on the first digital trans­port to the master port on the digital audio
processor. 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 port connec­tions. Connect the slave out port on the last digital
transport to the slave in port on the Nº32.

• No maximum number per slave chain.

• Connect the slave in port on the Nº32 to the slave
out port on the last digital transport. If no digital
transports are included in the slave chain, connect
slave in port on the Nº32 to the master port on the
digital audio processor.

• Connect the amplifier communication port on the
Nº32 to the input port on the first power
amplifier.

Power
Amplifier

The Nº39 and Nº390S CD Processors can serve as either a digital audio processor or a digital
transport in a slave chain.

• Maximum of six per slave chain.

• Connect the input port on the first power
amplifier to the amplifier port on the Nº32.

• Connect up to six power amplifiers in a “daisy
chain” using control port connections.
The control port on the last power amplifier
is not connected.

To create a slave chain that includes the Nº32:

1. Load a disc in a digital transport that will be included in the
slave chain (if applicable).

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

2. Make sure the Nº32 and all associated components are powered
off.

3. Make Link connections while referring to Table 4-2 on page 4­16 and Figure 4-2. In general, components must be linked as
follows: digital audio processor, to digital transport(s), to Nº32,
to power amplifier(s).

Figure 4-2: Sample slave chains.

communication

slave in

input

master

port

amplifier

control

N°360S

Digital Audio Processor

Step A:

Connect the digital audio processor master
port to the digital transport slave in port.

N°32

Reference Preamplifier

Step B:

Connect the Nø32 amplifier communication
port to the first power amplifier input
port.

Nº436

Power Amplifier

Step C:

Connect the first power amplifier
control port to the second power amplifier
input port. If no additional power
amplifiers are included in the slave chain,
the last power amplifier control port
is not connected.

communication

slave in

slave in

input

master

port

slave out

amplifier

control

N°360S

Digital Audio Processor

Step A:

Connect the digital audio processor master
port to the digital transport slave in port.

N°37

Digital Transport

Step B:

Connect the digital transport slave out port
to the Nø32 slave in port.

N°32

Reference Preamplifier

Step C:

Connect the Nø32 amplifier communication
port to the first power amplifier input
port.

N°436

Power Amplifier

Step D:

Connect the first power amplifier
control port to the second power amplifier
input port. If no additional power
amplifiers are included in the slave chain,
the last power amplifier control port
is not connected.

4-17

4. When Link connections have been made, power on linked
components ONE AT A TIME in the order specified below.
Allow each component to complete its initialization sequence
before proceeding to the next component.

A. Digital Audio Processor

B. Digital Transport(s)

C. Nº32

D. Power Amplifier(s)

At this point, the front panel standby LEDs on all linked
components should be blinking in unison.

Note that linked components must be powered on ONE AT A
TIME in the order specified above to ensure proper functioning

Controls and Modes Mark Levinson

of Link controls. Do not use a power strip switch to power on
several components at once. When power is supplied to a
power strip, connected components that do not include a
power button will automatically power on.

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 Nº32 will automati-

cally select the appropriate input.

Note that an input must have a name before it can be auto­matically selected by the Nº32.

4-18

Link Controls

Note The Nº31, Nº31.5, Nº37, Nº39, and Nº390S remote controls can

Linking Mark Levinson components allows them to share Link
controls such as display intensity, standby, playback, input selec­tion, and record mode.

Note the following:

• Linked components must be powered on ONE AT A TIME in the
order specified in step 4 on page 4-17 to ensure proper func­tioning of Link controls.

• Link controls must be enabled on the linked digital transport(s)
linking menu, which allows activation and deactivation of indi­vidual Link controls. Refer to the appropriate digital transport
owner’s manual for additional information.

• Some Mark Levinson digital transports accommodate a
maximum of four front panel display characters. In these cases,
certain input names appear abbreviated on the front panel
display. For example, an input named No320S will appear as
No32 on the digital transport front panel display even though
the input is assigned for the Nº320S.

control Nº32 master volume level. This capability is available over IR
(not Link connections). Before using one of these remote controls to
adjust Nº32 master volume level, make sure the digital transport setup
menu volume control parameter is set to fixed.

Table 4-3 on page 4-19 provides a general description of Link
controls the Nº32 shares with linked components. Some controls
may not be available for certain component combinations. Other
Mark Levinson components may share additional controls. Refer to
the appropriate owner’s manual for additional information.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Controls and Modes

Table 4-3: N°32 shared link controls.

Component

Link Control

Display Intensity
Link

Standby Link

Playback Link

Digital Audio

Processors

Maintains consistent front panel display character illumination among all linked com­ponents. Adjusting display intensity for one linked component simultaneously adjusts
display intensity for all other linked components.

• Placing the
linked digital
audio processor
into standby also
places all linked
digital trans­ports into
standby.

• Taking the linked
digital audio
processor out of
standby also
takes the linked
Nº32 out of
standby.

Pressing the play button on a linked digital transport automatically takes all other
linked components out of standby and selects the associated input on the linked digi­tal audio processor and Nº32.

Digital

Transp o r ts

• Placing a linked
digital transport
into standby has
no affect on
other linked
components.

• Taking a linked
digital transport
out of standby
also takes the
linked Nº32 out
of standby.

N°32

(preamplifier)

• Placing the
linked Nº32 into
standby also
places all other
linked compo­nents into
standby (if those
components are
not involved in
recording).

• Taking the linked
Nº32 out of
standby also
takes all linked
power amplifiers
out of standby.

Power Amplifiers

• Placing a linked
power amplifier
into standby also
places all other
linked power
amplifiers into
standby.

• Taking a linked
power amplifier
out of standby
also takes all
other linked
power amplifiers
out of standby.

4-19

Input Selection
Link

Record Mode
Link

HDCD™ Link

Press and hold the digital transport remote control select button
to toggle between selecting digital inputs on the linked digital
audio processor and selecting analog inputs on the linked Nº32.
Press and release the digital transport remote control select but­ton to scroll through all available digital or analog inputs
(depending on whether the digital audio processor or Nº32 is
selected). The digital transport front panel displays the name
and volume level of the selected input.

Placing the linked Nº32 into standby will not place the linked
Nº 30, Nº 30.5, Nº 30.6, Nº 31, or Nº 31.5 into standby if the
linked digital audio processor is in record mode OR if the linked
digital transport is in record link mode. A message will display
on the linked digital audio processor and digital transport indi­cating that these components are involved in recording.

Configuring the
linked digital audio
processor for an
HDCD recording
session automati­cally attenuates the
linked Nº32 mas­ter volume level
the required –6dB.

N/A Configuring the

linked digital audio
processor for an
HDCD recording
session automati­cally attenuates the
linked Nº32 mas­ter volume level
the required –6dB.

N/A

N/A

N/A

5

Troubleshooting & Maintaining

Troubleshooting

Incorrect operation is sometimes mistaken for malfunction. If prob­lems occur, see this section for troubleshooting information. If
problems persist, contact your Mark Levinson dealer.

No Power

No Remote Control

Operation

1. Examine the power cord to ensure that it is connected to both
the ~ac mains connector and an electrical outlet.

2. Make sure the Nº32 is powered on with the power button.

3. Make sure the Nº32 is not in standby. The controller front panel
standby and preamplifier LEDs blink in unison when the Nº32
is in standby. The standby LED lights red when the Nº32 is not
in standby.

4. Make sure display intensity has not been set to off (0%), deacti­vating the front panel display.

5. Examine the electrical circuit breaker to ensure that power is
being supplied to the electrical outlet to which the Nº32 is con­nected.

1. Eliminate obstructions between the remote control IR transmit­ter and the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter.

2. Make sure the IR input connector is not being used.

3. Make sure the remote control IR transmitter LED lights when
remote control buttons are pressed, indicating that IR signals
are being transmitted.

5-1

4. Make sure the remote control is positioned within 17 feet (5m)
of the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter. If the Nº32 is
placed inside a glass cabinet, tinted glass will reduce the remote
control range.

5. Make sure the remote control signal is being received at the
front panel display IR receiver/transmitter at a reasonable angle.

6. Make sure the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter is not
exposed to strong sunlight, halogen light, or fluorescent light.
This can cause IR reception to become unreliable.

7. Replace the remote control batteries.

Troubleshooting & Maintaining Mark Levinson

5-2

No IR Learning

No Main Output

1. Eliminate obstructions between the learning remote control
and the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter.

2. Adjust the distance between the learning remote control and
the front panel display IR receiver/transmitter.

3. Make sure the learning remote control and the front panel dis­play IR receiver/transmitter are not exposed to strong sunlight,
halogen light, or fluorescent light. This can cause IR reception
to become unreliable.

4. Make sure the learning remote control is configured to learn
commands.

5. Replace the learning remote control batteries.

1. Examine audio cables to ensure a solid connection between the
Nº32 and associated components.

2. Make sure master volume is set to an audible level.

3. Make sure mute is deactivated.

4. Make sure the Offset parameter for the selected input is not
reducing master volume to an inaudible level.

5. Make sure the Nº32 main output connectors are connected to
an operational power amplifier, and that the associated power
amplifier is connected to operational loudspeakers.

No Record Output

“Missing” Input

6. Make sure all associated components are powered on and con­nected to electrical outlets.

7. Make sure the associated component connected to the selected
input is producing an input signal.

1. Activate record mode to make sure the selected input is being
sent to the record output connectors.

2. Make sure the record output connectors have not been deacti­vated with the Rec.Out parameter.

3. Make sure the Name parameter for the selected input is not set
to EQ or SSP.

4. Make sure the associated component connected to the selected
input is producing an input signal.

Make sure the Name parameter for the selected input has not been
set to unused.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Troubleshooting & Maintaining

No Link Controls

1. Make sure the slave chain includes Mark Levinson digital audio
processors and digital transports that are compatible with the
Nº32.

2. Make sure Link connections have been made using Link com­munication ports and Link cables.

3. Examine Link connections to ensure a solid connection
between linked components. Constructed Link cables must be
twisted 180° for a straight-through (pin 1-to-pin 1) connection.

4. Examine the slave chain to ensure that linked components are
connected in the proper sequence.

5. Make sure Link controls have been enabled on the linked digital
transport(s) linking menu, which allows activation and deacti­vation of individual Link controls. Refer to the appropriate digi­tal transport owner’s manual for additional information.

6. Make sure linked components have been powered on in the
proper order – digital transport(s), then digital audio processor,
then Nº32, then power amplifier(s). Linked components must
be powered on ONE AT A TIME in this order to ensure proper
functioning of Link controls.

Audible Hum

Erratic Behavior

If All Else Fails...

1. If a cable TV connection is present, disconnect the cable from
the electrical outlet. If this eliminates the humming sound, a
ground loop isolation device is required. Contact an authorized
Mark 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 Nº32.

1. Power cycle the Nº32, waiting at least 10 seconds between pow­ering the Nº32 off and on.

2. Restore factory-default settings (See “Restoring Factory-default
Settings” on page 5-4).

1. Power cycle the Nº32, waiting at least 10 seconds between pow­ering the Nº32 off and on.

2. Restore factory-default settings (See “Restoring Factory-default
Settings” on page 5-4).

3. Contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer.

5-3

4. Contact Mark Levinson Customer Service at 781-280-0300 or
www.marklevinson.com.

Troubleshooting & Maintaining Mark Levinson

Restoring Factory-default
Settings

Performing this procedure restores all parameters and user-defined
controls to their factory-default settings. Before performing this
procedure, it is recommended to record all custom settings on the
“Installation Worksheet” on page A-6.

To restore factory-default settings:

1. Make sure the Nº32 and all associated components are powered
off.

2. Press and hold the front panel record out and setup buttons.

Remote control buttons cannot be used to restore factory­default settings.

3. Still holding the record out and setup buttons, press and
release the power button to power on the Nº32.

5-4

The CLEAR SETUP? message displays on the front panel.

4. To restore factory-default settings, continue holding the record
out and setup buttons for about 10 seconds. The FACTORY
SETUP RESTORED message blinks on the front panel display
The current software version number will appear on the front
panel display, and the Nº32 will enter standby.

To cancel restoration of factory-default settings, release the
record out and setup buttons before the FACTORY SETUP
RESTORED message appears on the front panel display. The
CLEAR and CANCELLED messages will blink on the front panel
display as shown below to indicate that restoration of factory­default settings has been cancelled.

5. Power on all associated components that were powered off in
step 1.

Care & Maintenance

The Nº32 requires routine care and maintenance to ensure optimal
performance. The bulleted items in this section indicate mainte­nance procedures that should be performed on a regular basis.

Note Failure to perform the maintenance procedures included in this section

may void the manufacturer’s warranty and/or standard repair policies.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Troubleshooting & Maintaining

• To remove dust from the Nº32 exterior surface, use a feather
duster or a low-pressure blower.

• To remove dirt and fingerprints from the Nº32 exterior surface,
use a soft, lint-free cloth. DO NOT use metal polish or a cloth
made with steel wool.

If needed, this cloth can be dampened with isopropyl alcohol.
DO NOT dampen the cloth with Benzene, acetone-based clean­ers, and other commercial cleaners.

Wipe the Nº32 exterior surface in the same direction as the
grain of the brushed aluminum.

Caution! DO NOT apply liquid directly to the Nº32 exterior surface. Doing

so may damage electrical components.

• Replace the remote control batteries as needed. See “Remote
Control Batteries” on page 1-6 for additional information.

• See “Installation Considerations” on page 1-4 for information
about preventative maintenance.

5-5

Specifications

Appendix

Power Consumption

Operating Voltage

Preamplifier

Connectors

Controller Connectors

65W maximum

100V, 120V, 220V, 230V, or 240VAC @ 50 or 60Hz (preset)

3 balanced stereo inputs (female XLR)

5 unbalanced stereo inputs (RCA)

2 balanced main stereo outputs (male XLR)

2 unbalanced main stereo outputs (RCA)

1 balanced record stereo output (male XLR)

2 unbalanced record stereo outputs (RCA)

1 phono ground terminal

2 DC power connectors

1 IEC-standard AC mains receptacle

1 ir input (1/8-inch/3.5mm mini-jack)

A-1

Gain

Volume Control Range

1 trigger input (1/8-inch/3.5mm mini-jack)

1 trigger output (1/8-inch/3.5mm mini-jack)

3 Link communication ports (RJ-45)

1 RS-232 port (RJ-11)

2 control ports (RJ-45)

1 earth-reference ground terminal

2 DC power connectors

0, +6, +12, or +18dB (line-level stage)

80.0dB

Appendix Mark Levinson

A-2

Gain Resolution

Input Overload

Input Impedance

Output Impedance

Maximum Main

Output

1.0dB increments up to 23.0dB in display (-57dB to -80dB)

0.1dB increments above 23.0dB in display (0dB to -57dB)

Gain XLR Inputs RCA Inputs

+18dB 2V 1V

+12dB 4V 2V

+6dB 8V 4V

0dB 16V 8V

100kΩ

<10Ω on balanced (XLR)

<20Ω on unbalanced (RCA)

16V on balanced (XLR)

8V on unbalanced (RCA)

THD + N

Crosstalk

Residual Noise

Frequency Response

Overall Dimensions

Shipping Weight

<0.001% balanced

<120dB (any input to any output, input unterminated)

<140dB (any input to any output, input terminated)

<120dB (20Hz to 20kHz, input terminated) balanced

10Hz to 40kHz (±0.2dB)

See “Nº32 Controller Dimensions” on page A-4 and “Nº32 Pream­plifier Dimensions” on page A-5

Controller: 60 pounds (27kg)

Preamplifier: 46 pounds (21kg)

All specifications are subject to change without notice.

Nº32 Reference Preamplifier Appendix

Declaration of Conformity

Application of Council Directive(s):

89/336/EEC and 73/23/EEC, as amended

Standard(s) to which Conformity is Declared:

• EN 55013 : 2003 • EN 61000-3-2 : 2000

• EN 55020 : 2002 • EN 61000-3-3 : 2002

• EN 55022 : 1998 • EN 60065 : 1998

Manufacturer:

Harman Specialty Group
3 Oak Park
Bedford, MA 01730-1413 USA

The equipment identified here conforms to the Directive(s) and
Standard(s) specified above.

Type of Equipment:

Preamplifier

Model(s):

Mark Levinson Nº32

Date:

July 2004

Harman Specialty Group

Vice President of Engineering

3 Oak Park

Bedford, MA 01730-1413 USA

Telephone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

A-3

www.harmanspecialtygroup.com

Nº32 Controller Dimensions

Figure A-1: Controller front view.

19.5"

(49.5 cm)

A-4

2.75"

(6.99 cm)

0.275"

(0.699 cm)

(4.73 cm)

power

1.862"

Figure A-2: Controller top view.

select

polarity

record out

display intensity setup

enter balance mute

15.75"

(40.01 cm)

19.5"

(49.5 cm)

mono

volume

REFERENCE CONTROLLER

Nº32

standby

1.875"

(4.76 cm)

3.03"

(7.68 cm)

1.7"

(4.32 cm)

11.375"

(28.89 cm)

(4.01 cm)

1.58"

4.025"

(10.22 cm)

9.525"

(24.19 cm)

5.95"

(15..11 cm)

7.675"

(19.49 cm)

2.0"

(5.08 cm)

Nº32 Preamplifier Dimensions

)

Figure A-3: Preamplifier front view.

19.5"

(49.5 cm)

3.99"

(10.1 cm)

0.18"

(0.46 cm)

1.875"

(4.76 cm)

Figure A-4: Preamplifier top view.

0.5"

(1.2 cm)

REFERENCE PREAMPLIFIER

Nº32

15.75"

(40.01 cm)

1.875"

(4.76 cm)

3.187"

(8.09 cm)

1.7"

(4.32 cm)

A-5

11.385"

(28.92 cm)

1.875"

(4.76 cm)

15.75"

(40.01 cm)

1.875"

(4.76 cm)

7.675"

(

19.49 cm)

2.0"

(5.08 cm

Installation Worksheet

Table A-1: Table for recording your controller settings.

Set Inputs Name Gain Offset Rec. Out

Input 1

Input 2

Input 3

Input 4

Input 5

Input 6

Input 7

Input 8

Setup Menu Parameters Control/Mode Settings

A-6

Mute Polarity

Max Vol Intensity

Trig. Balance

Sw

Index

A

ac mains connector, 2-6, 2-9
access panels

phono module, 2-8

B

balance button, 2-2, 2-4, 2-11, 2­12, 4-3

balance LED, 2-2, 2-4
balanced input connectors, 2-5, 2-

7

C

channel balance, 4-5
communication ports, 2-6, 2-8
connectors

ac mains, 2-6, 2-9
balanced input, 2-5, 2-7
DC power, 2-5, 2-6
earth ground, 2-6, 2-10
IR input, 2-6, 2-9
main output, 2-5, 2-7
Nº25/S DC power, 2-6, 2-9
phono ground, 2-5, 2-8
record output, 2-5, 2-7
trigger input, 2-6, 2-9
unbalanced input, 2-5, 2-7

control ports, 2-5, 2-8
controller connectors, A-1
controller display. See front panel

display

crosstalk, A-2

D

DC power connectors, 2-5, 2-6
default settings, 5-4, 5-4
display button, 2-11, 2-12
display intensity button, 2-2, 2-4,

4-2
dual-mono design, 1-2

E

earth ground connector, 2-6, 2-10
earth-reference ground, 2-8
enter button, 2-2, 2-4, 2-11, 2-12
EQ (equalizer) mode, 4-7

F

frequency response, A-2
front panel controls

balance button, 2-2, 2-4
display intensity button, 2-2,

2-4

enter button, 2-2, 2-4
mute button, 2-2, 2-4
power button, 2-1, 2-2
record out button, 2-1, 2-4
select knob, 2-1, 2-2
setup button, 2-2, 2-4
standby button, 2-1, 2-2
volume knob, 2-1, 2-3

front panel display, 2-1, 2-3
front panel indicators

balance LED, 2-2, 2-4
mono LED, 2-1, 2-3
mute LED, 2-2, 2-4
polarity LED, 2-1, 2-3
preamplifier LED, 2-1, 2-2
record out LED, 2-1, 2-4
setup LED, 2-2, 2-4

G

gain, A-1
gain input parameter, 3-3, 3-7
gain levels, 3-3
gain resolution, A-2

I

IEC-standard, 2-9
input impedance, A-2
input overload, A-2
installation worksheet, A-6
IR input connector, 2-6, 2-9
IR transmitter, 2-11
IR transmitter LED, 2-11
isopropyl alcohol, 5-5

L

link cables, 4-14
link communication ports, 4-13
link controls, 4-18

M

main output connectors, 2-5, 2-7
maintenance, 5-4
master volume level, 3-10

maximum main output, A-2
maxvol parameter, 3-10
mini-jack, 2-9
mono button, 2-11, 2-12
mono LED, 2-1, 2-3
mono playback mode, 4-4
mute button, 2-2, 2-4, 2-11, 2-12
mute LED, 2-2, 2-4
mute level, 3-10
mute parameter, 3-10

N

name (an input) parameter, 3-3,
3-4
Nº25/S DC power connector, 2-6,
2-9

O

offset input parameter, 3-3, 3-7
operating voltage, A-1
output impedance, A-2
overall dimensions, A-2

P

phono ground connector, 2-5, 2-8
phono module access panels, 2-5,

2-8

polarity button, 2-11, 2-12, 4-2
polarity LED, 2-1, 2-3
ports

communication, 2-6, 2-8
control, 2-5, 2-8
RS-232, 2-5, 2-8

power button, 2-1, 2-2
power consumption, A-1
power cord, 5-1
preamplifier connectors, A-1
preamplifier LED, 2-1, 2-2

R

rec. out input parameter, 3-3, 3-7
record mode, 4-7
record out button, 2-1, 2-4
record out LED, 2-1, 2-4
record output connectors, 2-5, 2-7
remote control

balance button, 2-11, 2-12
batteries, 1-6
display button, 2-11, 2-12
enter button, 2-11, 2-12

I-1

Mark Levinson

I-2

IR transmitter, 2-11
IR transmitter LED, 2-11
mono button, 2-11, 2-12
mute button, 2-11, 2-12
polarity button, 2-11, 2-12
position, 5-1
select buttons, 2-11, 2-12
setup button, 2-11
standby button, 2-11, 2-13
volume buttons, 2-11, 2-13

residual noise, A-2
RS-232 port, 2-5, 2-8

S

select buttons, 2-11, 2-12
select knob, 2-1, 2-2
setup button, 2-2, 2-4, 2-11
setup LED, 2-2, 2-4
setup menu

enter button, 3-2
input selection, 3-3
select buttons, 3-2
select knob, 3-2
set inputs parameters

gain, 3-3, 3-7
name, 3-3, 3-4
offset, 3-3, 3-7

rec. out, 3-3, 3-7
setup button, 3-2
setup parameters

maxvol, 3-10

mute, 3-10

sw, 3-11

trig, 3-11
teach IR, 3-8
volume buttons, 3-3
volume knob, 3-3

shipping weight, A-2
slave chain, 4-14, 4-16
sleep timer, 4-1
software version number, 5-4
specifications

controller connectors, A-1
crosstalk, A-2
frequency response, A-2
gain, A-1
gain resolution, A-2
input impedance, A-2
input overload, A-2
maximum main output, A-2
operating voltage, A-1
output impedance, A-2
overall dimensions, A-2
power consumption, A-1
preamplifier connectors, A-1
residual noise, A-2
shipping weight, A-2
THD + N, A-2
volume control range, A-1

SSP mode, 4-10
standby button, 2-1, 2-2, 2-11, 2-

13

standby mode

sleep timer, 4-1
Surround Sound Processor. See
SSP mode

sw parameter, 3-11

T

teach IR, 3-8
THD + N, A-2
trig parameter, 3-11
trigger input connector, 2-6, 2-9
trigger output connector, 2-6, 2-9
trigger output signal, 3-11
troubleshooting

"missing" input, 5-2

audible hum, 5-3

erratic behavior, 5-3

if all else fails, 5-3

no IR learning, 5-2

no link controls, 5-3

no main output, 5-2

no power, 5-1

no remote control operation,

5-1

U

unbalanced input connectors, 2­5, 2-7

V

volume buttons, 2-11, 2-13
volume control range, A-1
volume knob, 2-1, 2-3

3 Oak Park, Bedford, MA, 01730-1413 USA | Telephone: [phone] | Fax: [phone] | www.marklevinson.com

Customer Service Telephone: [phone] | Sales Fax: [phone] | Service Fax: [phone]

Product Shipments: 16 Progress Road, Billerica, MA 01821-5730 USA

Part No. 070-630349 | Rev 4| 09/04