Mark Levinson 5206 preamplifier

The Mark Levinson No 5206 preamplifier is an analog and digital hub with the exceptional high quality that we are accustomed to from Mark Levinson. The No 5206 offers extensive connectivity options and a highly accurate conversion to audio signal for sublime music reproduction. With carefully selected discrete components, the Mark Levinson No 5206 delivers unparalleled class A sound quality that captures the nuances of every note.

DAC

The No 5206 integrates Levinson's Precision-Link II DAC. The ESS Saber 32-bit D/A converter with jitter elimination circuitry and a fully balanced, discrete current-to-voltage converter form the heart of the digital audio processing stage. The user can choose from 7 PCM decoding settings available and 4 for DSD.

In addition to PCM and DSD, it is also possible to play MQA streams with the Mark Levinson No 5206. For high-quality streaming from a smartphone or tablet with Bluetooth, aptX-HD is available. There are six digital audio inputs: one AES, two coaxial, and two optical S/PDIF, and one asynchronous USB for playing high-resolution PCM (up to 32 bit/384 kHz) and DSD (up to 11.2 MHz) files.

Analog technology

In the Mark Levinson No 5206, we find fully discrete, dual-mono line-level preamplifiers for the analog inputs. This circuitry is patented as PurePath circuitry. Maximum signal integrity and the widest possible bandwidth are guaranteed by volume control that combines a unique single gain stage with a digitally controlled resistor network.

The No 5206 has 6 analog inputs: two balanced XLR and two single-ended - with custom Mark Levinson RCA connectors - and both MM and MC inputs. Each input has its own individual, highly reliable signal switching relays.

The phono stage is the highly acclaimed 500-series Pure Phono stage with low-noise integrated circuits for high performance and space efficiency. And, like the more expensive 500-series, the hybrid active/passive RIAA equalizer of the 5000-series also uses precision resistors and polypropylene capacitors for exceptional accuracy and sonic clarity. The choice for MM or MC amplification and infrasonic filter is made in the setup menu, while the settings for capacitance and resistance for used cartridges are easily accessible via the rear panel.

Control

System integration and communication ports include Ethernet, USB, RS-232, IR input, and 12V trigger input and output. A newly designed, solid aluminum IR remote control is included with the Mark Levinson No 5805. Finally, you can perform configurations, import and export configurations, and software updates using a PC and a standard web browser via an internal web page. Third-party drivers are also available.

Features of the Mark Levinson No 5206The Mark Levinson No 5206 is available in black. A remote control is included.

The ideal combination can be made with the Mark Levinson No 5302.