Technical Data

real world operational stability with the widest range of loudspeakers, including models
that feature lower than normal impedances over portions of the frequency range.
Listen Testing & Evaluation
At each stage of the №53’s development, extensive listen testing and thorough
measurements ensured that our goal of Mark Levinson Reference Class performance
was attained. In addition to multiple rounds of in-depth critical listen-testing over a
period spanning many, many months, a differential amplifier comparison methodology
was also employed. A low power, mostly passive reference amplifier design was
programmed with the №53’s transfer function, and differentially (subtractively)
compared against the №53 itself. By subtracting the signal output from the №53, and
comparing against the reference transfer function design, our engineers were able listen
to any differential components between the two, and evolve the №53’s design to
improve sound quality even further.
Efficiency
Our Interleaved Power Technology provides substantial benefits in terms of electrical
efficiency, in addition to the lower operational thermal characteristics described earlier.
Compared against an equivalently powerful conventional Class AB amplifier, the №53
provides significantly reduced energy consumption:
Power Output №53 power consumption Equivalent Class AB amplifier
500 watts into 8 ohms 785 watts 995 watts
1,000 watts into 4 ohms 1,465 watts 2,085 watts
This increased electrical efficiency provides greater installation flexibility, especially in
multi-channel amplifier configurations, reducing the number of dedicated AC outlets that
may be required. Note that with actual audio program material, the average power draw
over time will typically be much, much lower for both amplifier types – the above test
bench examples simply illustrate the improved efficiency of the №53.
Summary
Mark Levinson was established in 1972 with the singular goal of producing reference
class solid state audiophile components that would be the first to provide superior audio
quality, compared to that era’s vacuum tube-based audiophile components that were
favored by audiophiles and reviewers at the time.
Each of the company’s first three products – phono preamplifier, stereo preamplifier and
Class A power amplifier – were hailed as breakthrough designs, and were quickly
adopted by audiophiles and reviewers around the world as the ultimate in reference
class components.