The Mark Levinson № 526 is the ultimate preamplifier for the modern music enthusiast. Twelve analog, phono, and digital inputs run through Mark Levinson's discrete, direct Pure Path connection, providing smooth clarity and performance. With precise control and processing, including a discrete, balanced R-2R Ladder volume control, the renowned DAC Precision Link 32-bit, Pure Phono Class-A stage, and HARMAN Clari-Fi® music restoration technology, the № 526 preamplifier offers unparalleled performance regardless of the source. Housed in 6000 series aluminum steel, like all Mark Levinson equipment, the № 526 is designed and handcrafted in the USA.

Pure Path Circuit Design

Since 1972, Mark Levinson has been dedicated to the unparalleled art of sound, with a defining principle of musical purity. To achieve this goal, Mark Levinson engineers developed a circuit design philosophy called Pure Path. Conceptually, the standout features include a discrete, direct connection with full balance and dual monaural signal path, providing unlimited sonic purity.

Top elements of the Pure Path in the № 526 include Folded Cascodes, R-2R Ladder volume control, the renowned DAC Precision Link, the Pure Phono stage, and the Main Drive headphone amplifier output.

Analog Perfection: Folded Cascode

Mark Levinson components are designed around the concept of the Pure Path amplifier using a circuit design element called a cascode. Initially created to improve the bandwidth of vacuum tube circuits in radios, Mark Levinson engineers use cascodes to enhance bandwidth and boost linearity.

Engineers connect the output of the cascode to another transistor of the opposite "gender." The current flows through it in reverse to "fold" the direction of the signal current. This special connection is called a Folded Cascode and is a feature of the Pure Path circuit: high gain with low noise, wide range, and exceptional linearity.

Superior Volume Control: R-2R Ladder

The basis of many volume controls is the analog potentiometer, a device with several flaws. The mechanical connection wears out, creating noise; it is nearly impossible to manufacture a pair with identical performance; and due to the variability in their response to parasitic capacitances at different volume settings, the sound changes depending on the setting. Instead of trying to improve this design, Mark Levinson engineers invested in innovative solutions.