Mark Levinson Nº 626 – Dual-Monaural Preamplifier

The Next Generation of Mark Levinson Sound.

The Mark Levinson Nº 626 brings more than 50 years of audio engineering into a new generation of reference components. Combining an advanced analog preamplifier, high-resolution digital conversion, a dedicated phono stage, and Class A headphone amplification, it serves as the centerpiece of a sophisticated two-channel music system.

At its heart is Mark Levinson's proprietary Pure Path architecture—a fully discrete, direct-coupled, fully balanced, dual-monaural signal path engineered to preserve the integrity of every recording.

The new Precision Link III DAC supports digital audio up to 32-bit/384kHz, while the Pure Phono stage accommodates both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges.

Wrapped in the striking new Tectonic industrial design, with sculpted aluminum, glass surfaces, and signature red illumination, the Nº 626 represents a new chapter in Mark Levinson's approach to reference audio.

Key Features

• Pure Path Circuit Architecture: Fully discrete, direct-coupled, fully balanced, dual-monaural signal design.

• Precision Link III DAC: Advanced digital conversion using the ESS ES9039PRO Hyperstream IV chipset.

• High-Resolution Playback: Supports digital audio up to 32-bit/384kHz through compatible inputs.

• Six Digital Inputs: USB-C, AES/EBU, two coaxial, and two optical connections.

• Six Analog Inputs: Two balanced XLR, three RCA line-level, and one phono input.

• Pure Phono Class A Stage: Built-in moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridge support.

• R-2R Ladder Volume Control: Discrete, balanced precision volume adjustment.

• Main Drive Headphone Amplifier: Dedicated Class A headphone listening.

• Configurable Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR and RCA outputs with selectable high-pass filtering.

• Subwoofer Integration: User-selectable fourth-order, 80Hz high-pass filter.

• Ultra-Low-Noise Power Supply: Toroidal linear power supply with carefully isolated circuitry.

• Tectonic Industrial Design: Machined aluminum, glass detailing, and signature red accent lighting.

• Professional Integration: Trigger, IR, source-link, and service connectivity.

• American Engineering: Designed and engineered in the USA.

   

Pure Path: The Foundation of Reference Audio

A preamplifier has one essential responsibility: preserve the musical signal while giving the listener complete control over it.

The Nº 626 accomplishes this through Mark Levinson's proprietary Pure Path architecture.

Its fully discrete, direct-coupled, fully balanced, dual-monaural signal path is designed to minimize unnecessary interference and preserve the information delivered by your source components.

The left and right channels follow carefully engineered signal paths, while discrete balanced R-2R ladder volume control provides precise adjustment.

Individual switching relays are used for each analog stereo input, helping maintain signal integrity as you move between sources.

The power supply and digital circuits are also shielded from the sensitive analog and phono circuitry.

Together, these design decisions create a foundation for exceptional transparency, precise imaging, and the dynamic expression expected of a reference preamplifier.

 

Precision Link III: A New Generation of Digital Conversion

The Nº 626 introduces Mark Levinson's Precision Link III DAC.

At its core is the ESS ES9039PRO, an eight-channel Hyperstream IV digital-to-analog converter supported by proprietary Mark Levinson jitter-reduction circuitry.

A fully balanced, discrete current-to-voltage conversion stage completes the digital processing architecture.

The result is a DAC engineered to convert high-resolution digital recordings into an analog signal suitable for the Nº 626's Pure Path circuitry.

Six digital inputs provide extensive flexibility:

• One asynchronous USB-C input

• One balanced AES/EBU input

• Two coaxial RCA inputs

• Two optical TOSLINK inputs

The USB-C audio processor supports high-resolution PCM and DSD playback, with PCM resolution up to 32-bit/384kHz.

 

For streaming enthusiasts: The Nº 626 includes a high-performance DAC, but it is not a standalone network music streamer. Connect a compatible external streamer or music server to enjoy network-based music playback.

Pure Phono: Built for Vinyl Enthusiasts

A serious analog system deserves a phono stage designed with the same attention as the rest of the preamplifier.

The Nº 626 incorporates Mark Levinson's Pure Phono Class A MM/MC phono preamplifier.

Its dedicated phono input accommodates compatible moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges, allowing a turntable to connect directly without requiring an external phono stage.

The phono circuitry is carefully isolated from the power supply and digital processing sections to help protect delicate cartridge signals from unwanted interference.

Whether your collection consists of cherished original pressings or new audiophile releases, the Nº 626 provides a dedicated analog path for vinyl playback.

Main Drive: Class A Headphone Listening

Not every listening session requires loudspeakers.

The Nº 626 includes Mark Levinson's Main Drive Class A headphone amplifier, giving headphone enthusiasts a dedicated listening option within the same reference preamplifier.

A front-panel ¼-inch headphone connection makes it easy to switch from your loudspeaker system to compatible headphones.

This integrated approach provides an elegant solution for listeners who want serious headphone performance without adding another component to their equipment rack.

Precision Volume Control

The Nº 626 uses a discrete, balanced R-2R ladder volume control.

Rather than relying on a conventional potentiometer, this architecture uses a precision resistor network to control the signal level.

The design is intended to maintain accurate volume adjustment and channel balance while preserving the integrity of the analog signal.

For a system built around premium source components and reference power amplification, this attention to volume control is an important part of the Nº 626's engineering.

 

Subwoofer Integration for Reference Stereo

The Nº 626 provides balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analog outputs that can operate full-range or with a selectable fourth-order, 80Hz high-pass filter.

This feature allows the preamplifier to work with appropriately configured powered subwoofers, reducing low-frequency demands on the main loudspeakers.

For systems combining premium floorstanding speakers with dedicated subwoofers, the selectable filter offers additional flexibility when designing and calibrating the system.

It is particularly useful in listening rooms where speaker placement, bass management, and low-frequency integration are essential to achieving balanced performance.

 

Tectonic Design: A New Visual Identity

The Nº 626 introduces the visual language of Mark Levinson's 600 Series.

Its machined-aluminum chassis features a black anodized finish, contrasting silver controls, and a glass center panel accented by red lighting.

A distinctive glass Core element sits on the top panel, surrounded by generous ventilation and illuminated with the brand's signature red accents.

The chassis employs a modular internal architecture that separates sensitive analog and digital circuitry from the power supply.

Critical components are isolated on rubber mounts, while mechanically isolated feet help reduce the transmission of external vibration.

The result is a component designed to make an architectural statement while addressing the mechanical and electrical demands of high-performance audio.

 

Built Around a Serious Power Supply

The Nº 626 incorporates an ultra-low-noise toroidal linear power supply.

Its power supply and digital circuits are carefully shielded from the analog and phono sections, helping reduce the potential for electrical interference.

The modular chassis architecture further separates sensitive circuitry, while vibration-damping mounts and mechanically isolated feet provide additional mechanical isolation.

These measures are designed to create a stable operating environment for the preamplifier's low-level audio circuitry.

 

The Centerpiece of a Complete Mark Levinson System

The Nº 626 is designed to complement the new generation of Mark Levinson power amplification.

Pair it with the Nº 632 dual-monaural stereo power amplifier for a streamlined reference system, or use it with a pair of Nº 631 monaural amplifiers for a dedicated monoblock configuration.

Its combination of analog and digital inputs also makes it suitable for systems incorporating a reference turntable, CD transport, external music streamer, and other premium sources.

With balanced and unbalanced outputs, flexible source connectivity, and professional integration features, the Nº 626 provides a foundation for a carefully designed two-channel system.

Technical Specifications

Specifications verified against Mark Levinson's official Nº 626 product page, 600 Series brochure, and published specification sheet.

Experience the Mark Levinson Nº 626 at The Grid HiFi

The Mark Levinson Nº 626 is more than a preamplifier. It is the foundation of a reference music system built around your favorite recordings and carefully selected components.

At The Grid HiFi, we specialize in high-performance two-channel audio, premium loudspeaker matching, reference amplification, analog and digital source selection, and professional system installation.

Whether you're building a complete Mark Levinson 600 Series system or integrating the Nº 626 into an existing reference setup, our team can help you select the right amplification, loudspeakers, sources, and accessories.

Contact The Grid HiFi to discuss the Mark Levinson Nº 626 and design your next reference listening system.