Mark Levinson N432 N431 User's Manual
Contents
1. 14 15 16 ALWAYS disconnect your entire system from the AC mains before connecting or disconnecting any cables or when cleaning any component This product must be terminated with a three conductor AC mains power cord that includes an earth ground connection To prevent shock hazard all three connections must ALWAYS be used AC extension cords are not recommended for use with this product NEVER use flammable or combustible chemicals for cleaning audio components NEVER operate this product with any covers removed NEVER wet the inside of this product with any liquid NEVER pour or spill liquids directly onto this unit NEVER block airflow through ventilation slots or heat sinks NEVER bypass any fuse NEVER replace any fuse with a value or type other than those specified NEVER attempt to repair this product If a problem occurs contact your Mark Levinson retailer NEVER expose this product to extremely high or low temperatures NEVER operate this product in an explosive atmosphere ALWAYS keep electrical equipment out of the reach of children ALWAYS unplug sensitive electronic equipment during lightning storms In CE countries this amplifier is considered professional equipment In order to comply with CE requirements the customer is required to obtain permission from the local supply authority before connecting this equipment ZME LE eVINSOM MADRIGAL AUDIO LABORATORIES 3 Oak Park B2. Break in Period uuaaaaaa aaa aaa aaa i 9 Operating States ii oiiaii aaa aaa ia 10 Continuous Operation siasii okina a aa ee 10 Special Design Features o ooooooooooommmanan 11 Massive Power Supply Lauaaaaaaa aaa ee 11 Balanced Design i eiai amaia a eka aaa aaa ee 11 Extensive Protection uaaaaaaaaaaaa aaa aaa tee 12 Front Panel 260 e080ue bee vee tee ede eee iw i 13 Rear Panel 22c48i4ce00 u ew ee vee eee eet dae een 15 LINKING circa arar bate eae 20 Making Link Connections 0 0 0 0 0 eee 20 Constructing Link Communication Cables 21 Creating a Slave Chain isai auaa ee 21 LINK CONOIS ssai diria dade phat add aa pba 24 Troubleshooting 0 000 eee ee 25 Care Maintenance ooo ooo 28 Specifications muros A Www wii 29 Declaration of Conformity o ooooooococococoomm 30 Dimensions N 432 0 oooooooooccornnnn o 31 Dimensions N431 o ooooooooococrnna o 32 Rack Mounting o o ooooooccooo es 33 Warning Caution Product Registration Unpacking DO NOT attempt to lift or move the N 432 431 without adequate assistance Failure to follow the procedures included in this section may result in personal injuries and or product damage The N 432 431 are massive power amplifiers The N 432 ships at 125 pounds 57kg and the N 431 ships at 105 pounds 48kg Rear panel handles are provided for safe convenient lifting and
3. Each supply includes a high capacity low noise toroidal transformer and four large low ESR Equivalent Series Resistance capacitors Heavy oxygen free copper bus bars enhance the efficiency of power distribution within the amplifier and eliminate variances introduced by the wiring harnesses that are commonly found in even high performance amplifiers High frequency power supply bypass is accomplished on individual PC boards by components of several film types The resulting uniformly low power supply impedance seen by the various circuits within the amplifier lays the foundation for massive power and extraordinary finesse that characterizes Mark Levinson amplifiers 11 A truly balanced input topology eliminates the need for an input buffer amplification stage allowing the first stage differential amplifier to be driven directly by the source Matched impedances are presented to the source Both signals travel through identical circuit paths Meticulous attention to the layout of the amplifier including careful mirror imaging of circuits to cancel magnetic fields was essential to minimize magnetic field distortions that can occur with such a massive power delivery system A balanced input signal remains balanced throughout the voltage gain stages Rejection of common mode noise and distortion is achieved in the final current gain stage 12 Extensive Protection The N 432 431 is designed to shut itself down if it senses an
4. B Connect the control communicatio port on the first power amplifier to the Link input communication port on the Link Link second power amplifier input control M N 431 Power Amplifier Step C Connect the control communicatio port on the second power amplifier to tt Link input communication port on the third power amplifier This step can be repeated to include up six power amplifiers in the slave chain no additional power amplifiers are inclu in the slave chain the last power amplifi Link control communication port is noi connected 3 When Link connections have been made power on linked 23 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 B C D Digital Transports Digital Audio Processors Preamplifier Power Amplifiers begin with the first power amplifier in the slave chain At this point the front panel standby LEDs on all linked components should be blinking in unison Linked components must be powered on ONE AT A TIME in the specific order listed in step 3 above to ensure proper functioning of Link controls DO NOT use a power strip switch to power on several components at once X hen power is supplied to a power strip connected components that do not include a power button will automatically power on 24 Component 4 Take the linked preamplifier out of
5. Full output 2 58V for N 432 1 82V for N 431 N 432 power consumption u 650W in on 130W in standby 10W in sleep N 431 power consumption u 375W in on 100W in standby 10W in sleep Mains voltage determined by the needs of country for which the unit was manufactured cannot be reset by dealer or user Overall dimensions u See Dimensions N 432 shipping weight a 125 Ibs 57 kg each N 431 shipping weight m 105 Ibs 48 kg each N 432 net weight u 115 Ibs 52 kg each N 431 net weight a 95 Ibs 43 kg each Connector complement four custom binding posts two 3 pin XLR balanced input connectors u two RCA input connectors u two 18 mini jacks for remote turn on u one RS 232 port on RJ 11 u two Mark Levinson communications ports on RJ 11 RJ 45 a one IEC standard AC receptacle Output impedance less than 0 02Q from 20 20 000 Hz Damping factor greater than 400 20 20 000 Hz 8Q 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 55103 1 1996 EN 55103 2 1996 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 30 Type of Equipment Power Amplifiers Models Mark Levinson N2432 and N2431 Date May 2004 Harman Specialty Group Vice President of Engineering 3 O
6. and fingerprints from the N 432 431 exterior surface Do not use a cloth made with steel wool or metal polish 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 N 432 431 exterior surface in the same direction as the grain of the brushed aluminum Do not apply liquid directly to the N 432 431 exterior surface Doing so may damage electrical components e Refer to Installation Considerations for information about preventative maintenance Specifications The correlation between published specifications and performance is unreliable Measurements of your amplifier yield excellent results by any standards However only those specifications that apply to its actual operation are included here All specifications are subject to change at any time N 432 rated power output u 400 w ch rms power 8Q u 800 w ch rms power 40 N 431 rated power output u 200 w ch rms power 8Q u 400 w ch rms power 40 All above power ratings from 20 Hz 20kHz at lt 0 5 THD assuming that the AC mains can deliver adequate current without its own voltage sagging Frequency response a within 3 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz Signal to Noise ratio better than 65 dB ref 2 83V Input impedance u 100kQ balanced u 50kQ unbalanced Voltage gain u 26 8 dB Input sensitivity u 2 83V output 130 mV for both models 29 a
7. appropriate output pin Pin 1 Signal ground Pin 2 Signal non inverting Pin 3 Signal inverting Connector ground lug chassis ground Note Before making balanced connections remove the U shaped shorting straps between pins 1 and 3 on the N 432 431 XLR inputs and save them for possible future use These shorting straps are installed when the N 432 431 is shipped 17 5 RS 232 Communications Port Provides serial control performing flash memory software upgrades and facilitating external control in AMX and Crestron systems One connector labeled control is available 6 Link Communication Ports Provide links to compatible Mark Levinson preamplifiers and power amplifiers allowing the N 432 431 and linked preamplifiers or power amplifiers to share Link controls Two 6 pin modular RJ 11 jacks labeled Link input and Link control are available The Link input communication port can be connected to a compatible Mark Levinson preamplifier that offers Link or Link communication ports Both the Link input and ink control communication ports can be connected to a compatible Mark Levinson power amplifier that offers Link communication ports Note Refer to Linking BEFORE linking the N 432 431 to other Mark Levinson components 18 Important 7 trigger in and out connectors Provide DC trigger control One 1 8 inch mini jack labeled trigger in is available to receive 12 o
8. 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 interference to radio or television reception which can be determined by turning the equipment on and off the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures e Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna e Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver e Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected e Consult the dealer or an experienced radio TV technician for help This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications Le present appareil numerique n emet pas de bruits radioelectriques depassant les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de la class B prescrites dans le Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada CAUTION Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user s authority to operate the equipment Important Safety Instructions Please read all instructions and precautions carefully and completely before operating your Mark Levinson power amplifier 10 11 12 13
9. not attempt to adjust the operating voltage Consult an authorized Mark Levinson dealer if the operating voltage is incorrect or if the operating voltage must be changed for relocation purposes Be advised that different operating voltages may require the use of different power cords and or attachment plugs Contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer for assistance Important Warm up amp Break in Period The N 432 431 is capable of passing remarkable musical signals regardless of signal and loudspeaker demands On either an instantaneous or continuous basis these power amplifiers can drive exceptional power levels into most all loudspeaker loads Depending on listening habits loudspeaker demands and the number of power amplifiers present in the system it is possible for the electrical service to become the limiting performance factor In this case consider installing a dedicated AC circuit for the home entertainment system Contact a licensed electrician for assistance If more than one AC circuit is providing power to the system contact a licensed electrician to ensure that all components are operating with the same solid low impedance ground reference Building regulations and electrical codes differ from location to location making it impossible to anticipate the requirements of high current AC circuits such as the N 432 431 are capable of using Contact a local licensed electrician for information Although the N
10. 432 431 delivers superior performance from the first time it is powered on this performance will continue to improve as the power amplifier 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 ac mains connector Power is considered disconnected when the N 432 431 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 N 432 431 is in standby or sleep mode When power returns the N 432 431 will require a brief warm up and break in period not the full 300 hours It is recommended to allow the N 432 431 and other audio components to stabilize for about 2 minutes 10 Operating States Continuous Operation The N 432 431 has four operating states 1 Off Power is disconnected from the ac mains connector 2 Sleep Mode Power is connected to a small power supply communication circuits and control circuits When taken out of sleep mode the N 432 431 requires a brief warm up and break in period In sleep mode the N 432 431 consumes less than 15W of power 3 Standby Power is connected to the mai
11. 8cm clearance above the N 432 431 for proper heat dissipation through air circulation The N 432 431 is designed for passive convection cooling e DO NOT obstruct the ventilation holes on the top and bottom of the N 432 431 or reduce airflow through the N 432 431 e DO NOT place the N 432 431 on a thick rug or carpet or cover the N 432 431 with a cloth as this might prevent proper cooling If the N 432 431 is placed on the floor use a thick piece of tempered glass to provide firm support and proper ventilation e DO NOT expose the N 432 431 to high temperatures humidity steam smoke dampness or excessive dust Avoid installing the N 432 431 near radiators and other heat producing appliances In general better ventilation is required if the top of the N 432 431 is too hot to touch when the power amplifier is idle Open equipment racks provide the best ventilation for power amplifiers However if the power amplifier must be placed in a cabinet that restricts airflow consider drilling holes in the shelf underneath the power amplifier to improve ventilation or using fans to increase air circulation Power Requirements When shipped the N 432 431 is configured for 100V 120V 220V 230V or 240V AC power operation at 50 or 60Hz based on the country for which it is manufactured Before operating the N 432 431 make sure the ac mains connector label indicates the correct operating voltage for the current location Do
12. CK SHELF FROM THE FRONT UNTIL IT TOUCHES THE BACK WALL OF THE 10 32 SOCKET SCREW SHELF SECURE AMPLIFIER TO 4 SECURE THE AMPLIFIER TO THE RACK RACK SHELF SHELF USING THE TWO REMAINING 10 SOCKET CAP SCREWS PROVIDED SCREWS PASS THROUGH HOLES IN THE BACK OF THE SHELF AND INTO THREADED HOLES IN THE REAR OF THE AMPLIFER 33 RACK SHELF 10 32 SOCKET SCREW RACK SHELF TO RACK 4 PLACES E 1 No 431 OR No 432 AMPLIFIER FEET 4 MUST BE REMOVED FOR RACK INSTALLATION The mounted N 432 amplifier and rack mount kit occupies four standard rack units of height The N 431 amplifier and rack kit takes up three standard rack units of height Notes 35 acres VINSOM MADRIGAL AUDIO LABORATORIES 3 Oak Park Bedford MA 01730 1413 USA Telephone 781 280 0300 Fax 781 280 0490 www marklevinson com Customer Support Telephone 781 280 0300 Sales Fax 781 280 0495 Service Fax 781 280 0499 Product Shipments 16 Progress Road Billerica MA 01821 5730 USA Part No 070 630670 Rev 4 05 04
13. Owners Manual N2432 N2431 arte eVINSOM MADRIGAL AUDIO LABORATO WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN CAUTION TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance servicing instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance the EMC Electromagnetic Compatibility and LVD Low Voltage Directive standards Marking by the CE symbol shown left indicates compliance of this device with of the European Community 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
14. RJ 11 Plug Pin 1 6 Pin RJ 11 Plug Pin 1 Locking Tab 180 Twist Locking Tab Pins 7 and 8 are not used Contact Mark Levinson Customer Service at 781 280 0300 or www marklevinson com for additional assistance making Link connections Making Link connections creates a slave chain that facilitates communication among linked components allowing them to share certain controls All slave chains e Must include compatible Mark Levinson components The N 432 431 is compatible with the components listed on the previous page Refer to the appropriate documentation for Link compatibility information about other Mark Levinson components e Must include components that are connected in a certain order to prevent communication from terminating Power amplifiers such as the N 432 431 must be the last components in a slave chain Note The slave chains in this section include preamplifiers and power amplifiers However slave chains can also include digital audio processors and digital transports Refer to the appropriate documentation for information about including these Mark Levinson components in a slave chain The table below indicates slave chain requirements for preamplifiers and power amplifiers Component Requirements amp Connections Preamplifier No maximum number per slave chain e g N 320S Connect the 2 or slave out communication port on the preamplifier to the Z input communication port on the
15. Refer to Rack Mounting for additional information e DO position the N 432 431 close to associated loudspeakers to keep loudspeaker wires as short as possible Use longer interconnecting cables between the preamplifier and the power amplifier This is preferable because interconnecting cables pass low voltage signals which transmit over distances with greater accuracy than the high voltage signals required by loudspeakers e DO allow at least a 6 inch 15cm clearance behind the N 432 431 for the power cord and signal cables to bend without crimping or straining e DO refer to Dimensions for assistance with custom installations e DO NOT position the N 432 431 near low level compo nents These power amplifiers are capable of producing mas sive output currents which could generate significant magnet ic fields that induce noise in some sensitive components e DO NOT place the N 432 431 on a windowsill or in another location in which it will be exposed to direct sunlight Before moving the N 432 431 make sure it is powered off with the front panel power button Then make sure the power cord is disconnected from the ac mains connector and the electrical outlet Do not attempt to move the N 432 431 without adequate assistance Proper lifting requires at least two people Ventilation Note Caution e DO select a dry well ventilated location out of direct sunlight e DO allow at least a 2 to 3 inch 5 to
16. ak Park Bedford MA 01730 1413 USA Telephone 781 280 0300 Fax 781 280 0490 www harmanspecialtygroup com Dimensions N 432 1775 45 09 cm a gt SEA Z 175 44 45 cm 5 25 133cm gt 31 18 5 47 cm 19 83 50 37 cm RIGHT CHANNEL outputs 6 75 1715 cm Dimensions N 431 1775 A 45 09 cm 175 R 44 45 cm 5 25 13 3cm 7 18 5 32 47 cm 19 83 50 37 cm Rack Mounting If you need or prefer to rack mount your amplifiers contact your Mark Levinson dealer about the optional rack mount kit This purpose designed assembly provides the needed ventilation for the heat sink chimneys of the amplifiers as well as the support required for this heavy component To use the rack mount kit simply bolt the shelf securely to the rack remove the four feet from the bottom of the amplifier slide the amplifier into place and then secure the amplifier to the shelf using the two remaining screws provided with the kit Slots on the rear of the shelf may be used for dressing cables or using cable ties The drawing below will help you visualize the assembly 1 SCREW RACK SHELF TO RACK WITH 4 10 SOCKET CAP SCREWS PROVIDED 2 REMOVE THE FOUR FEET FROM THE BOTTOM SEO S CUN THE BACK OF THE RACK SHELF OF THE AMPLIFIER ARE FUR CABLE 3 CAREFULLY SLIDE THE AMPLIFIER INTO MANAGEMENT THE RA
17. communication cables Refer to Constructing Link Communication Cables for additional information Link connections must be made using Link or Link communication ports and supplied or constructed Link communication cables Connections made with other connectors or cables may damage the N 432 431 and other linked components possibly voiding the manufacturers warranty and or standard repair policies Constructing Link Communication Cables Note Note Creating a Slave Chain Link communication cables can be constructed using an 8 conductor modular telephone cable with the appropriate plug crimped on each end Use an 8 pin RJ 45 plug when connecting to a preamplifier RJ 45 plugs provide an 8 pin connection Use a 6 pin RJ 11 plug when connecting to a power amplifier RJ 11 plugs provide a 6 pin connection in which connector pins 7 and 8 are not used BEFORE making Link connections refer to the appropriate documentation for Link or Link communication port specifications for other Mark Levinson components When linking components with constructed Link communication cables twist the cable 180 as shown in the illustration below for a straight through pin 1 to pin 1 connection Mark Levinson N 432 431 Preamplifier Power Amplifier lt 6 Pin R 11 Plug Pin 1 8 Pin R 45 Plug Pin LL Locking Tab 180 Twist Locking Tab 21 N 432 431 Mark Levinson Power Amplifier Power Amplifier 6 in
18. curs a Power the N 432 431 off with the power button b Disconnect the input signal and loudspeaker wires c Wait 10 seconds d Power the N 432 431 on with the power button If the N 432 431 powers on without entering standby or sleep mode a fault condition is present at the input or the output To isolate the problem a Power the N 432 431 off with the power button b Reconnect the loudspeaker wires c Power the N 432 431 on with the power button 27 If the N 432 431 powers on into standby or sleep mode the fault condition is present at the input If not the fault condition is present at the output 9 If all else fails a Power cycle the N 432 431 with the power button waiting at least 10 seconds between powering the N 432 431 off and on a Contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer Contact Mark Levinson Customer Service at 781 280 0300 or www marklevinson com 28 Note Caution Care amp Maintenance The N 432 431 requires routine care and maintenance to ensure optimal performance The bulleted items included in this section indicate maintenance procedures that should be performed on a regular basis Failure to perform the maintenance procedures included in this section may void the manufacturers warranty and or standard repair policies e Usea feather duster or a low pressure blower to remove dust from the N 432 431 exterior surface e Use a soft lint free cloth to remove dirt
19. e N 432 431 even when power is disconnected from the ac mains connector DO NOT attempt to open the amplifiers cabinet There are no user serviceable parts inside the amplifier Refer all servicing to an authorized Mark Levinson dealer 2 No audio and the front panel indicator LED is dimly lit u The N 432 431 is in sleep mode To take it out of sleep mode press and release the standby button The N 432 431 will power on or enter standby mode based on the power save mode switch setting A power loss or power outage may have occurred In this case power cycle the N 432 431 with the power button waiting at least 10 seconds between powering the N 432 431 off and on 3 No audio and the front panel indicator LED is blinking slowly u The N 432 431 is in standby To take it out of standby press and release the standby button The N 432 431 will power on 4 No audio and the front panel indicator LED is blinking rapidly remaining lit most of the time Examine ac mains connections to ensure the power cord is connected to the ac mains connector and the electrical outlet e Power cycle the N 432 431 with the power button waiting at least 10 seconds between powering the N 432 431 off and on e Contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer 5 No audio and the front panel indicator LED is blinking rapidly remaining lit about half of the time A signal related fault condition is present probably either a DC off
20. e N 432 431 binding post wings up and over a bent or oversized connector Doing so may result in binding post damage If the connector obstructs wing turning slide it into place when the binding post opening provides a snug fit Then use quarter turns to tighten the connection as needed 3 Unbalanced Input Provides left and right channel audio input One stereo RCA connector is available to accept unbalanced input signals from an associated preamplifier These signals are converted to balanced signals upon receipt and processed as balanced signals thereafter If the associated preamplifier does not support balanced connections connect the RCA output on the preamplifier to the RCA input on the N 432 431 To reduce the chance of noise at the otherwise un terminated inverting XLR input insert the supplied U shaped shorting straps between pins 1 and 3 These shorting straps are installed when the N2432 431 is shipped 4 Balanced Input Provides left and right channel audio input One stereo XLR connector is available to accept balanced input signals from an associated preamplifier For best performance use balanced connections whenever possible Refer to the illustration below and to the associated preamplifier documentation to ensure that N 432 431 XLR input pin assignments correspond to the associated preamplifier XLR output pin assignments If not wire the cable so that the appropriate input pin connects to the
21. edford MA 01730 1413 USA Telephone 781 280 0300 Fax 781 280 0490 www marklevinson com Customer Service Telephone 781 280 0300 Sales Fax 781 280 0495 Service Fax 781 280 0499 Product Shipments 16 Progress Road Billerica MA 01821 5730 USA Part No 070 630670 Rev 4 05 04 From all of us at Mark Levinson thank you for choosing a Mark Levinson Power Amplifier 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 Table of Contents Unpacking Lau aa ne aaa naa n nana a aa ha naa nati 6 Product Registration aaaaaaaaaaa aaa aaa aaa dekka iai 6 Installation Considerations oo oooooooooooo 7 PlaceME t u fo eae dowkaddomd awa 20 bd a bee awa Bob aB 7 Ventilation 5 25 4404 c dow too oo bad deh wani dd 8 Power Requirements 0 000 cee nana a nana es 8 Warm up amp
22. first power amplifier Power Amplifier Maximum of six per slave chain e g N 432 431 Connect the 2 input communication port on the first power amplifier to the 2 or slave out communication port on the preamplifier Connect up to six power amplifiers in a daisy chain using 2 input to m2 control communication port connections The 2 control communication port on the last power amplifier is not connected To create a slave chain that includes the N 432 431 1 Make sure the N 432 431 and all associated components are powered off 2 Connect the Link input communication port on the first power amplifier to the Link or slave out communication port on the preamplifier If desired connect the Link control communication port on the first power amplifier to the Link input communication port on another power amplifier Up to six power amplifiers can be included in a slave chain using daisy chain Link input to Link control communication port connections The Link control communication port on the last power amplifier is not connected Note Refer to the table on the previous page and to the illustration below for additional assistance o N 320S Preamplifier Link Step A Connect the K2 or slave out communication port on the preamplifier to the 2 input communication port on the first power amplifier Link SZA Link input control N2432 a F a Power Amplifier Step
23. g Linking is available for all Mark Levinson components that offer Link or communication ports including master slave in slave out A input and control communication ports These communication ports can be used to link compatible Mark Levinson components in a slave chain allowing them to share Link controls The N 432 431 offers two communication ports labeled input and control The input communication port can be connected to a compatible Mark Levinson preamplifier that offers Link or communication ports Both the Link input and Link control communication ports can be connected to a compatible Mark Levinson power amplifier that offers Link communication ports The N 432 431 can be connected to the following Mark Levinson components e N 30 Series preamplifiers including the N 32 N 38 and N 388 e N 300 Series preamplifiers including the N 320 N 320S N 380 and N 380S e N 400 Series power amplifiers including the N 434 and N 436 e N 39 and N 390S CD Processors e Refer to the appropriate documentation for Link compatibility information about other Mark Levinson components e DO use Link or Link communication ports such as master slave in slave out Link Link input and Link control communication ports DO NOT use RS 232 ports or other rear panel connectors e DO use supplied Link communication cables which are provided in the accessory box e DO use constructed Link
24. hat a power related fault on most of the time has occurred Rapidly blinking Indicates that a signal related fault on half of the time has occurred Rapidly blinking Indicates that a thermal related fault off most of the time has occurred Signal related faults include significant DC offset at the output due to either DC in the input signal or a failed component within the amplifier OR excessive current demands due to a short circuited loudspeaker wire Refer to Extensive Protection for additional information about fault conditions If the amplifier will not power on at all even to sleep mode check ac mains connections or have an authorized Mark Levinson dealer inspect the internal fuses which are not user serviceable 2 Power Button Powers the N 432 431 on and off when the power cord is connected to the ac mains connector and an electrical outlet When the N 432 431 is powered on pressing and releasing the power button disconnects power from the ac mains connector and powers the N 432 431 off When the N 432 431 is powered off pressing and releasing the power button connects power to the ac mains connector and powers the N 432 431 on If the power save mode switch is set to on the N 432 431 enters sleep mode If the power save mode switch is set to off the N 432 431 enters standby Note The N 432 431 must be powered on with the power button to respond to remote trigger commands 3 Standby Bu
25. moving Proper lifting requires at least two people DO NOT attempt to lift the N 432 431 from its packing carton alone DO NOT attempt to lift the N 432 431 while bending at the waist When lifting stand as straight as possible using the leg muscles to lift When unpacking the N 432 431 e DO save all packing materials for possible future shipping needs e DO inspect the N 432 431 for signs of damage during shipment If damage is discovered contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer for assistance making appropriate claims Please register the N 432 431 within 15 days of purchase To do so register online at www marklevinson com or complete and return the included product registration card Product registration serves no warranty purposes Retain the original dated sales receipt as proof of warranty coverage Placement Caution Installation Considerations The N 432 431 requires special care during installation to ensure optimal performance Pay particular attention to the precautions included in this section and to other precautions included throughout this owner s manual e DO review Important Safety Instructions and Power Requirements before installing the N 432 431 e DO place the N 432 431 on a solid flat level surface such as a table shelf or floor OR bolt the N 432 431 into a rack mounting system Use a purpose built rack mounting system to accommodate the weight of the power amplifier
26. n power supply and voltage gain stages Power is not connected to the output current gain stage Because voltage gain stages are kept at their normal operating temperatures the N 432 431 remains warmed up to deliver an optimal performance In standby the N 432 431 consumes about 50W of power 4 On Power is connected to the ac mains connector and all power amplifier components The N 432 431 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 ac mains connector at all times During normal operation do not use the power button to power off the N 432 431 Instead use the standby button to place the N 432 431 into standby which allows the power amplifier to remain warmed up to deliver optimal performance at all times Massive Power Supply Balanced Design Special Design Features Thank you for purchasing the N 432 431 Power Amplifier While these amplifiers are straightforward in everyday use they include several design features that are responsible for their outstanding performance In particular these amplifiers defy the accepted wisdom that it is impossible to design a large powerful amplifier that also has all the finesse of the finest smaller amplifiers A few of the technical highlights that make this possible are described below The N 432 431 features two large robust power supplies
27. oggle the N 432 431 between on and standby Note Warning Danger 9 ac mains connector Provides power to the N 432 431 through the supplied power cord when the supplied power cord is connected to the ac mains connector and the electrical outlet One IEC standard AC mains receptacle labeled ac mains is available Before operating the N 432 431 make sure the ac mains connector label indicates the correct operating voltage for the current location The N 432 431 has been safety tested and designed for operation with a three conductor power cord Do not defeat the third pin or earth ground of the power cord The N 432 431 includes internal fuses as a final stage of protection The protection circuitry is designed so that only a catastrophic failure will cause these fuses to blow If this occurs disconnect the power cord from the N 432 431 ac mains connector and the electrical outlet Then contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer for assistance Do not attempt to replace the fuse There are no user serviceable parts within the N 432 431 19 Potentially dangerous voltages and current capabilities exist within the N 432 431 even when power is disconnected from the ac mains connector DO NOT attempt to open the amplifiers cabinet There are no user serviceable parts inside the amplifier Refer all servicing to an authorized Mark Levinson dealer 20 Making Link Connections Caution Linkin
28. ovative heat sinking and cooling system it will enter and remain in sleep mode until the temperature at the output heat sinks drops below 85 C 158 F or 358K The front panel indicator LED will blink rapidly remaining unlit most of the time Once the fault condition is removed the amplifier can be taken out of sleep mode In addition the AC input to each transformer is fused to protect against excessive current conditions such as driving shorted outputs Inrush limiting prevents premature aging of power supply components during power up and switches off line once the power supply has been charged Finally your amplifier incorporates a controlled clipping circuit that prevents the output devices from saturating The harsh high frequency harmonics generated by hard clipped output devices are avoided by the wave shaping action of this controlled clip circuitry Front Panel The numbers in the front panel illustration shown above correspond with the numbered items that begin below 1 Indicator LED Indicates the operating state of the N 432 431 and provides diagnostic information when a fault condition occurs LED Behavior Description Fully lit Indicates that the power amplifier is 13 powered on Slow ly blinking Indicates that the power amplifier is in standby Dimly lit Indicates that the power amplifier is in sleep mode Not lit Indicates that the power amplifier is powered off Rapidly blinking Indicates t
29. r 5V DC signals from a connected component and one 1 8 inch mini jack labeled trigger out is available to pass these signals along to a connected power amplifier The illustration below shows tip polarity requirements e loo 5 to 12V positive tip polarity Connect the trigger in connector on the N 432 431 to the trigger out connector on a compatible component Toggling the connected component between on and standby will toggle the N 432 431 between on and standby or on and sleep mode depending on the power save mode switch setting Connect the trigger out connector on the N 432 431 to the trigger in connector on a compatible power amplifier The N 432 431 will pass DC signals along to the connected power amplifier creating a daisy chain of trigger control 8 power save mode switch Determines the N 432 431 s response to reductions in DC trigger voltage from high 5 12V to low 0V DO NOT change the power save mode switch setting when the N 432 431 is powered on Make sure power is disconnected from the ac mains connector before making adjustments When the power save mode switch is set to on the N 432 431 powers on in sleep mode If the N 432 431 is configured for trigger control incoming DC signals toggle the N 432 431 between on and sleep mode When the power save mode switch is set to off the N 432 431 powers on in standby If the N 432 431 is configured for trigger control incoming DC signals t
30. rmation DO NOT attempt to lift the N 432 431 from its packing carton alone DO NOT attempt to lift the N 432 431 while bending at the waist When lifting stand as straight as possible using the leg muscles to lift 2 Loudspeaker Binding Posts Outputs Provide left and right channel audio output Two custom made gold plated high current binding posts labeled positive and negative are available for each channel Positive binding posts are red negative binding posts are black 16 Caution Caution NEVER connect power amplifier outputs to any component other than a loudspeaker NEVER short circuit power amplifier outputs NEVER connect power amplifier outputs to another power amplifiers outputs For best performance use high quality loudspeaker cables To connect these cables use a high quality spade or hook lug soldered to the cable or crimped to the cable with extremely high pressure e Connect the positive binding posts on the N 432 431 to positive inputs on the associated loudspeaker e Connect the negative binding posts on the N 432 431 to negative inputs on the associated loudspeaker Spade Lug Hook Lug DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN the N 432 431 binding posts The innovative design of these binding posts provides more leverage than more traditional designs Tight high contact pressure connections can be achieved with finger tightening Special tools are not needed DO NOT FORCE th
31. set or an over current condition If this occurs a Power the N 432 431 off with the power button b Disconnect the input signal and loudspeaker wires c Wait 10 seconds d Power the N 432 431 on with the power button e Bring the unit out of standby by pressing and releasing the standby button If the N 432 431 powers on repeat these steps reconnecting input signal and loudspeaker wires one at a time to determine what is causing the fault condition Remember to power the N 432 431 off with the power button before making or breaking connections If the N 432 431 does not power on there is an internal failure Contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer 6 No audio and the front panel indicator LED is blinking rapidly remaining unlit most of the time A thermal related fault condition is present which causes the N 432 431 to enter sleep mode Once the heat sinks have cooled below 85 C 158 F or 358K the N 432 431 can be taken out of sleep mode with the standby button 7 No audio and the front panel indicator LED is lit at full brightness u The N 432 431 is powered on but is not passing a signal Examine signal cables to ensure a solid connection between the N 432 431 and the associated preamplifier and loudspeakers 8 The amplifier keeps powering off A fault condition may be present at the input e g a DC signal from the preamplifier or the output e g short circuited loudspeaker wires If this oc
32. standby e All linked power amplifiers should come out of standby as well If this does not occur repeat steps 3 and 4 If problems persist contact Mark Levinson Customer Service at 781 280 0300 or www marklevinson com Preamplifier Power Amplifier Troubleshooting Incorrect operation is sometimes mistaken for malfunction If problems occur refer to this section for troubleshooting information If problems persist contact Mark Levinson Customer Support at 781 280 0300 or www marklevinson com 1 No audio and the front panel indicator LED is not lit a Examine ac mains connections to ensure the power cord is connected to the ac mains connector and the electrical outlet Make sure the N 432 431 is powered on with the power button u Examine the electrical circuit breaker to ensure that power is supplied to the electrical outlet to which the N 432 431 is connected A power loss or power outage may have occurred In this case power cycle the N 432 431 with the power button waiting at least 10 seconds between powering the N 432 431 off and on A fuse may be blown inside the N 432 431 In this case disconnect the power cord from the ac mains connector and the electrical outlet Then contact an authorized Mark Levinson dealer Do not attempt to replace the fuse There are no user serviceable parts within the N 432 431 25 Danger Potentially dangerous voltages and current capabilities exist within th
33. tton Places the N 432 431 into standby or sleep mode and takes the N 432 431 out of standby or sleep mode When the N 432 431 is powered on pressing and releasing the standby button places the N 432 431 into standby or takes the N 432 431 out of standby allowing it to remain warmed up to deliver an optimal performance at all times Pressing and holding the standby button places the N 432 431 into sleep mode When the N 432 431 is in sleep mode pressing and releasing the standby button takes the N 432 431 out of sleep mode If the power save mode switch is set to on the N 432 431 powers on into sleep mode If the power save mode switch is set to off the N 432 431 enters standby Caution Caution NEK O RIGHT CHANNEL outputs L WA LEFT CHANNEL outputs control power save control input control trigger trigger mode aut in on off rez ac mal ya Rear Panel The numbers in the rear panel illustration shown above correspond with the numbered items that begin below Never make or break connections to the N 432 431 unless it and all associated components are powered off and disconnected from electrical outlets Before making connections to the N 432 431 make sure the associated preamplifier master volume is set to a reasonable level 15 1 Rear Panel Handles Allow for safe convenient lifting and moving of the N 432 431 Refer to Unpacking for additional info
34. y of a number of fault conditions that could cause damage to itself or to associated loudspeakers These fault conditions include e the presence of DC direct current at the output e demand for excessive current at the output indicating a short circuit e over voltage or under voltage conditions 5 to 10 at the ac mains connector e unsafe operating temperatures in any of several critical areas within the amplifier In the case of either significant DC offset or an over current condition the amplifier will shut down to protect itself and the associated loudspeakers The front panel indicator LED will blink rapidly remaining lit about half of the time To restore normal operation remove the cause of the fault and power cycle the amplifier with the power button If the ac mains connector voltage is too high or too low for safe operation the amplifier will automatically enter sleep mode and the front panel indicator LED will blink rapidly remaining on most of the time The amplifier will not come out of sleep mode until the ac mains connector voltage is again within the normal operating range For example a 120V amplifier will operate between approximately 108 132VAC a 230V amplifier will operate between approximately 207 253VAC Outside of these generous limits the amplifier will enter sleep mode Once the fault condition is removed the amplifier can be taken out of sleep mode If the amplifier overheats despite its inn
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