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    • August 19, 2009
    New Mark Levinson N˚500H Series Power Amplifiers Embody Powerful, Sensitive Type

    A new balanced current-feedback circuitry design is at the heart of the new N˚500H Series, creating unparalleled sensitivity and sound.

    By Gary Reber

    Mark Levinson, manufacturer of the world’s finest audio and video systems and a division of the Harman Performance AV Group, today unveiled the company’s new N˚500H series of audiophile power amplifiers.  The N˚500H array of amplifiers redefines the concept of outstanding performance in their categories by drawing on the Mark Levinson heritage of superb design and engineering as well as the incorporation of a new balanced current-feedback amplifier (CFA) circuitry design.  The result is a power amplifier that meets and exceeds the expectations of even the most demanding listener, and one worthy of the name Mark Levinson.
     
    The new circuitry design used in the N˚500H Series amplifiers is the key to their amazing performance.  CFA design uses a circuit topology that emphasizes current-mode operation, which is inherently much faster than more conventional voltage-mode operation.  With CFAs, amplifier gain may be controlled independently of bandwidth, a major advantage over conventional VFA topologies.  By embracing new technology with Mark Levinson’s traditional passion for excellence, the N˚500H Series amplifiers combine truly impressive output
    capabilities with Mark Levinson’s characteristically high power efficiency.  Other features of the N˚500H Series include reliable high power in four different channel configurations that provide ideal solutions for any type of system, independent power supply components for each channel to maximize isolation and improve imaging, isolated chassis and signal grounds that minimize noise and optimize sonic detail even at lower listening levels, and balanced and single-ended inputs. Furthermore, custom home systems integrators will appreciate the N˚500H Series’ Ethernet and 12-Volt trigger control capability, allowing for easier integration into home networks.
     
    There are four amplifier models in the N˚500H Series all offering different numbers of channels.  The N˚531H (300 Watts) = 1 channel, the N˚532H (600 Watts) = 2 channels and the N˚533H (900 watts) = 3 channels. They all feature extremely low Total Harmonic distortion (<0.5%) excellent signal-to-noise ration, and frequency response from 10 Hz to 20 kHz.  The N˚535H is rated for 1,000 Watts and offers five balanced XLR inputs per channel, five unbalanced RCA inputs per channel, and five pairs of
    loudspeaker outputs with banana-plug sockets per channel.  All N˚500H Series amplifiers feature an Ethernet 10Base-T port, a 3.5mm mono mini-plug trigger input, a 3.5mm mono mini-plug trigger output, and a 3-pin IEC standard power connector.
     
    “With their combination of innovation and time-tested design techniques, the new N˚500H Series amplifiers live up to the heritage of all Mark Levinson audio products,” states Phil McPhee, Marketing Manager, Harman Performance AV Group.  “Now, the custom home systems integrator has another beautiful color for their upscale home theater palette.”
     
    The Mark Levinson N˚ 500H Series amplifiers will be available for delivery in October 2009.


    Tags: - equipment - - Mark Levinson - - N500H Series power amplifier - - N531H - - N533H - - N535 -

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