Mark Levinson No. 626 Dual-Monaural- Pre Amplifier

The Mark Levinson No. 626 is a sophisticated preamplifier that uncompromisingly combines the analog and digital audio worlds. Designed for discerning music lovers, it embodies technical expertise, audiophile tradition, and modern design aesthetics in a single unit. Its target audience: connoisseurs who do not want to compromise on signal processing, sonic purity, or flexibility.

The dual-monaural design is the heart of this system. Each channel has a completely separate signal path, from the input stage to the outputs. This consistent separation minimizes crosstalk, increases channel separation, and ensures a wide, stable soundstage—a feature that is particularly beneficial with orchestral material and complex instrumentation.

Pure Path – uncompromising circuit technology

At the heart of the system is the so-called "Pure Path" design, a completely discrete, directly coupled signal architecture with a fully symmetrical design. This relies on meticulously linear transmission of all input signals without coupling capacitors in the signal path. A mechanically high-precision R-2R resistor ladder in a symmetrical configuration is used for volume control – a system that ensures both channel uniformity and the finest level resolution.

Flexible analog connection variety

The No. 626 offers five high-quality analog inputs – two balanced XLR connectors and three unbalanced RCA inputs. There's also a phono input for MM and MC cartridges. The built-in Class-A phono preamplifier is discrete and designed for a wide variety of cartridge systems. The phono stage's quality is at a level that makes many external phono preamplifiers unnecessary – a true highlight for vinyl lovers.

State-of-the-art digital signal processing

On the digital side, the No. 626 integrates the new Precision Link III DAC with an ESS ES9039PRO Hyperstream IV converter. The DAC is embedded in a circuit with fully balanced I/V conversion and specially developed jitter elimination. The six digital inputs – AES/EBU, USB-C audio, two optical, and two coaxial connections – allow direct connection to all high-end digital sources, from CD transports to high-resolution streamers. Formats up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD are supported, allowing native playback of even the latest high-resolution files.

Subwoofer-friendly and system-open

Another feature is the configurable output stage: It can deliver either the full frequency spectrum or, by adding an 80 Hz high-pass filter, a customized signal for subwoofers. This makes the No. 626 ideal for integration into systems with active bass support—a capability that is particularly advantageous in living room-friendly setups.

Housing construction and insulation at the highest level

The technical excellence continues in the mechanical design. The chassis is modular, with separate sections for power, digital, and analog technology. All critical components are mounted on vibration-damping mounts to prevent microphonic effects. The unit's feet feature a new, multi-stage damping system for further vibration isolation—ideal for use on sensitive hi-fi racks.

The exterior appearance is uncompromisingly high-quality: CNC-milled aluminum, glass front with integrated red LED accent lighting, silver controls and generous ventilation openings in the lid – all in the Tectonic design, which appears modern, luxurious and technical at the same time.

Operation and integration

A high-quality remote control is included, which controls all of the device's functions. The No. 626 can also be integrated into larger systems via trigger and RS-232 interfaces—be it in a classic stereo setup or in complex multi-room installations. Thanks to its high linearity and stability, the device is also suitable for studio applications.

Technical data

• Dual monaural, fully balanced preamplifier design
• Pure Path circuit with direct, discrete signal routing
• Volume control via symmetrical R-2R ladder network
• 5 analog inputs: 2x XLR, 3x RCA
• Integrated Class A phono preamplifier for MM/MC
• 6 digital inputs: 1x AES/EBU, 2x Coax, 2x Optical, 1x USB-C Audio
• ESS ES9039PRO DAC with jitter reduction and I/V balancing
• PCM up to 32-bit / 384kHz, DSD compatible
• Configurable analog outputs with subwoofer filter (80Hz)
• Ultra-low noise toroidal power supply
• Modular design with decoupled signal paths
• Vibration-isolating feet, glass front with LED accents
• Tectonic aluminum housing with ventilation slots
• RS-232, trigger, remote control included
• Designed and manufactured in the USA