Nº5805

Analog Input

The foundation of the Nº 5805 is the proprietary PurePath signal path - a fully discrete, direct-coupled, dual-monaural preamplifier circuit for which the Shelton design team holds two pending patents. A unique gain stage combined with a digitally controlled resistor network for volume adjustment maintains maximum signal integrity and the widest possible bandwidth. Each of the three line inputs - one balanced XLR and two single-ended, using special Mark Levinson RCA connectors - has its own separate high-reliability signal relay.

A new phono stage design features a hybrid gain topology, combining key discrete components from the prized 500 Series phono system with low-noise integrated circuits for high performance at lower cost. Like the 500 Series, a hybrid active/passive RIAA equalizer uses precision resistors and silicon devices for exceptional accuracy and sonic clarity. The user can select MM/MC gain and infrared filter from the setup menu, while consumer and load resistance settings are easily accessible from the rear panel.

Amplification

The fully discrete, direct-coupled, class AB amplifier channels are powered by an oversized (500+ VA) toroidal transformer with separate secondary windings for the left and right channels. The voltage gain stage uses a topology derived directly from the prized Nº 534 amplifier, combined with an output stage that includes two high-speed driver transistors operating in class A and six 260V, 15A output transistors. Two Thermal-Trak devices in a unique arrangement ensure stable bias output regardless of load or temperature. Four 10,000 microfarad capacitors per channel, mounted directly on the output stage circuit board, easily supply enough current for 125W/channel into 8 ohms, nearly 250W/channel into 4 ohms, and stable operation down to 2 ohms. Variable analog RCA outputs allow system expansion and flexibility.

Digital Audio

Leveraging the outstanding analog platform, the Nº 5805 adds excellent digital audio capabilities with the Mark Levinson PrecisionLink II DAC. The latest generation 32-bit ESS Sabre D/A converter with jitter elimination circuits and a fully balanced, discrete current-to-voltage converter form the heart of the digital audio processing stage. Four digital audio inputs are provided: one coaxial and two optical S/PDIF, and one asynchronous USB for playback of high-resolution PCM files (up to 32 bit/384kHz) and DSD (up to 11.2MHz). The No 5805 includes MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) technology, allowing playback of MQA audio files and streams. A Bluetooth receiver equipped with aptX-HD permits the best available Bluetooth playback quality.

Control

System integration and communication ports include Ethernet, USB, RS-232, IR input, and 12V trigger input/output. A newly designed, solid aluminum IR remote control is included with the Nº 5805. Finally, an internal web page allows setup, import and export of settings, and software updates using a PC and standard web browser. Third-party drivers are also available.

Bold New Industrial Design

Durable materials, rich finishes, and striking geometry are hallmark features of Mark Levinson design. The one-inch thick aluminum front panels, milled and black anodized, are designed to flow seamlessly into the elegant glass display, which is housed within a transparent aluminum enclosure. The iconic Mark Levinson rotary knobs have been revolutionized - engineered with a gentle curved profile transitioning to a round front, with matching feet. With open ventilation holes on top, a logo printed behind the glass surface, and aluminum buttons, no detail has been overlooked. A sleek aluminum 5000 series IR remote control is included.

Key Features of the Nº 5805

Digital Inputs

• 1 x USB 2.0
• 1 x coaxial S/PDIF
• 2 x optical