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INSTRUCTION MANUAL
for the
JC-2 PREAMPLIFIER
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
for the
JC-2 PREAMPLIFIER
1. INTRODUCTION
The MARK LEVINSON JC-2 PREAMPLIFIER is the distillation of years of
scientific research and careful listening. The amplification circuitry
designed by John Curl combines the advantages of class A, completely
complementary push-pull operation, high open-loop bandwidth, and low
feedback configurations in order to approach perfect solid-state pre-
amplification of the most demanding recorded musical material. Hand-
matched active and passive components not previously used in consumer
audio equipment eliminate subtle forms of error and distortion which
plague sensitive ears.
Mark Levinson Audio Systems utilizes the finest test equipment in its
product development program. More significantly, a large number of our
staff participate in the evaluation of these developments and refine-
ments. When a product is made available, it is only after it has proved
itself on a wide variety of sophisticated sound systems. To realize the
full potential of these developments is a laborious and difficult task.
But - here is a true designer’s choice for the classic system.
2. UNPACKING THE JC-2
Inspect the unit for damage. It should be physically free of dents and
scratches. If the unit has incurred any damage, contact your dealer
immediately. Retain all packing material for future shipping. Ship-
ments made in anything other than the original carton will invalidate
the warranty, unless authorized by factory.
3. INSTALLATION
3.1. Connectors
The JC-2 is equipped with phono connectors for all audio inputs and out-
puts. There are two cannon receptacles for connection to the power
supply. A binding post is provided for ground connections to the chassis
of the JC-2.
3.2. Power Supply Connection
The power supply for the JC-2 is mounted in a separate chassis to eli-
minate hum pick-up.
Check the voltage the power supply comes a cable with a three
power supply label to be sure they correspond to the voltage of
the power source being used.
From one end of the power supply comes a cable with a three
prong AC plug on the end of it. Connect this end to a wall
outlet, using a ground adapter plug if your wall outlet will
not accept three prongs. From the other end of power
supply comes a cable with a cannon connector on the end of
it. Connect this end to the four-pin male cannon connector
on the rear of the JC-2. This should be done before connecting
the JC-2 to the power amplifier because there is a transient
thump when power is first applied to the unit.
POWER SUPPLY CONNECTOR PIN CONFIGURATION: Pin 1 - ground
Pin 2 - + V
Pin 3 - - V
Pin 4 - no connection
3.3. Rack Mounting
The JC-2 may be mounted in a standard 19" relay rack. (The rubber feet
may be unscrewed if necessary.) 10-32 screw should fit the threads on
most racks. Be sure to use nylon washers when mounting the JC-2 so as
not to scratch the unit.
4. OPERATION
4.1. Description of Controls
INPUT SELECTOR - selects any one of six inputs. AUX., TUNER, TAPE 1,
TAPE 2, and REMOTE PHONO are all high level inputs. PHONO 1 is an RIAA-
equalized low level input. The REMOTE PHONO input is an unequalized
high level input. It is intended for use with phono systems having
their own amplification and equalization, such as the EMT turntable/
cartridge system, or certain of strain gauge cartridge.
INPUT/MONITOR - switches between the program source at the input selector
or either of two tape monitor inputs. This switch will not affect the
tape outputs. When making copies from one machine to another through the
JC-2, the playback machine should be directed through the input selector
rather than the input/monitor switch. Tape copies can be made in this
manner without degradation of signal because there are no amplifiers
between the input selector and the tape outputs.
TAPE 1/TAPE 2 - selects either tape input 1 or tape input 2 for the input/
monitor switch.
MONO/STEREO - selects either a mono or a stereo mode at the main outputs.
HIGH/LOW - selects either 21dB gain (HIGH) or 11dB gain (LOW) in the
output stage. Line level inputs should generally be used only with the
low gain setting. Low level phono inputs can be used with either HIGH or
LOW depending on the output level of the phono cartridge. If when using
the low gain position, the output level control is set close to maximum
for a pleasing level, i. e. above 7 or 8, turn down the output level and
switch to the high gain position. This will give a broader range of
operation for the output level control. Conversely, if in the high gain
position the output level control is set below 1 or 2, switch to the low
position.
This switch does not affect the tape outputs.
BALANCE 1 and 2 - these switches are used to precisely set channel balance
for a correct stereo panorama. There is a total range of nine dB in one dB
steps for each channel. The normal position for these controls is 0dB.
At this position there is a gain in the output stage of 11dB in the LOW
gain setting, and of 21dB in the HIGH gain setting.
These controls do not affect the tape outputs.
OUTPUT LEVEL - adjust volume at the main outputs for both channels
simultaneously.
5. OPTIONS
5.1. The JC-2 Modular Plug in Phono System (from S/N 1122)
The basic JC-2 Preamplifier contains two extremely high performance
ultra-low noise amplifiers encapsulated in special thermal epoxy. The
external regulated power supply and the internal active filter in the
JC-2 make it possible to incorporate very high gain phono circuitry with
great immunity to hum pick-up and other power supply noise. A series of
plug-in cards is available, containing equalization and other circuitry
to match the characteristics of the phono section to practically every
cartridge available now and in the future. The basic amplifiers and the
plug-in cards feature gold-plater pins and sockets for highest reliability.
As part of this system, MLAS offers a revolutionary moving coil cartridge
amplifier which provides DIRECT input, WITHOUT BOOSTER AMPLIFIER, of even
the lowest output MC cartridges. The input stage accepts 7 millivolts at
1kHz, and 70 millivolts at 20kHz, which allows enough headroom for the
highest peaks it is possible to encounter (80cm/s). Transient distortion
has been greatly reduced, giving a significant increase in transparency
and openness of sound. This system includes one JC-1SM plug-in card and
two Universal Phono plug-in cards (see below).
UNIVERSAL PHONO PLUG-IN CARDS
System:
Gain:
36dB
Overload:
1kHz
20kHz
900mv
A
B
C
Two UP-1A cards are normally sup-
plied with the JC-2 unless other-
wise specified. This system accepts
Input impedance: 47kOhms.
100mv
The UP-1B system offers lower
sensitivity but increased head-
room for the highest output magne-
tic phono cartridges.
30dB
220mv
1.6v
This set provides exact equalization
for the Brüel & Kjaer series of cartridge
measurement records. Information on
request.
D
E
F
This system includes two UP-1D cards
and a JC-1SM module. It offers
DIRECT moving coil cartridge input.
70dB
7mv
70mv
Provides equalization and DC current
source for certain gauge cartridges.
Information on request.
Flat response amplification. Specify
application and requirements.
The JC-2 may be ordered with any set of these plug-in cards. Alternate
sets may be purchased at any time. Custom UP-1 cards can be supplied;
contact the factory regarding your special application.
Frequent changing of the cards is not recommended, but may be done.
If you have any questions concerning the characteristics of a certain
cartridge, please contact your dealer or the factory with regard to
appropriate plug-in cards.
5.2. Wood and Lexan Case
A special case of original design is available for the JC-2 Preamplifier.
The engraving on the top plate of the JC-2 is visible through a lexan
window inset into the of the case.
6. SPECIFICATIONS
Phono Section:
Gain*
OVERLOAD POINT*
1kHz
1kHz
36dB
100mv min.
*(see also Section 5)
MAXIMUM OUTPUT
CHANNEL TRACKING
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
18Hz to 20kHZ
18Hz to 20kHz
-1.5dB down at
6v min.
.5dB ( .2 typ.)
18Hz, 30kHz min.
NOISE
below 10mv, inputs shorted
below 10mv, 600ohms load
18Hz to 20kHz:
85dB
83dB
ASA "A" weighted
90dB min.
88dB
INPUT IMPEDANCE
RECOMMENDED LOAD
OPEN LOOP BANDWIDTH
SLEW RATE
47kOhms*
10kOhms or higher
1500Hz min.
20V/microsecond
NOISE (JC-1SM)
Line Section:
below 1mv input
better than 85dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
MAXIMUM OUTPUT
GAIN
Flat ±.2dB, 20Hz-50kHz, -1dB at 12Hz, 100kHz
10V
HIGH
21dB
LOW
11dB
NOISE
INPUT IMPEDANCE
below 2.5V
HIGH
LOW
100dB min.
10kOhms min.
30kOhms
RECOMMENDED LOAD
OPEN LOOP BANDWIDTH
SLEW RATE
10kOhms or higher
40kHz
100V/microsecond (min.)
POWER SUPPLY
external ±15V at 300ma regulated and
filtered. Internal additinal active
filter for phono section.
CURRENT
SIZE
approx. ±250ma at ±15V
19" X 2"X 6 1/8"
WEIGHT
approx. 6lbs. with power supply
7. WARRANTY
All MARK LEVINSON products are guaranteed for five full years from date
of purchase. Parts and labor will be furnished free of charge. The
manufacture assumes no responsibility for damaged or abused equipment
and reserves the right to determine cause of defects.
IMPORTANT: Addendum to Section 4
An output coupling selector switch is located between the line ampli-
fiers on the main circuit board. When switched to the right (factory
set position) the line outputs are AC coupled for driving direct coupled
power amplifiers. When switched to the left, the line outputs are
direct coupled for friving AC coupled amplifiers.
NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE JC-2
JC-2 Preamplifiers starting with serial number 2148 differ from previous units.
They are equipped with lemo connectors, a new power supply (PLS-150), two phono inputs and new
phono plug-in cards.
PHONO SECTION
The standard systems are now A3, D5 and d6. The plug-in cards contain a two-station
program switch for selection of input and gain characteristics.
System
A3
Rocker Switch
Function
Open
Closed
1
2
input impedance
gain
100k
30dB
50k
40dB
D5
D6
1
2
CRC*
gain
CRC out
54dB
CRC in
60dB
1
2
CRC
gain
CRC out
60dB
CRC in
66dB
System A3 permits optimum loading for cartridges such as the B & O, Grace and Audio Technica
types which are designed for 100kOhms termination. Certain high output moving coil cartridges such
as the EMT, the Supex 901, the Satin and the Ultimo, may be used in more efficient systems with the
40dB gain implemented.
System D5 and D6 are identical except for the gain. Both offer switchable CRC for flattening the high
frequency response of certain cartridges like the Fidelity Research FR-1Mk3, the Ortofon SL15
(original type), and certain other moving coil types (high frequency response varies from batch to
batch of most MC cartridges.)
System D5 offers 54 and 60dB gain positions. 60dB gain is the same as previously
supplied by our System D and D1. 66dB is especially intended for use with low output MC cartridges
such as the FR-1 Mk2 and Mk3 when used with inefficient systems requiring more voltage gain in the
preamp.
WHEN NOT OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, SYSTEM D6 WILL BE DELIVERED.
Selecting the appropriate gain for the record output level may be accomplished by selecting the right
phono plug-in systems.
Note:
System A3 cards MAY BE USED in earlier units. System D5 and D6 MAY NOT BE USED in
earlier units. To accomplish the switching facility, differences had to be incorporated in the modules
which DO NOT ALLOW Compatibility. For detailed information, contact the factory.
For any questions concerning individual units, give us the SERIAL NUMBER of JC-2 in question.
*CRC: Cartridge Resonance Compensation. The CRC circuit supplied rolls the high frequency
response at 6dB per octave, -6dB at 20kHz. In particular, this curve has been successful in improving
the performance of the FR-1Mk3. Other corrective curves are available on request.
TONEARM CABLE ADAPTOR
From an effort to simplify the connection of existing turntables to MLAS Pre-
amplifiers fitted with Lemo connectors, we have developed the CA-1 cable adap-
tor. The CA-1 is a solid block of aluminum 2X2X .75" machined to exact toler-
ances and finished in our standard brushed black anodized surface. It replaces
the phono connectors of any existing tonearm cable and allows connections to
our preamps with an LL (Lemo to Lemo) cable set. (see page 11 of our 12-1-76
notice. ) The CA-1 contains two female Lemo connectors. You will need LL.6" or
LL-3' cables to complete the connection from the turntable to the preamp.
The CA-1 can be easily installed by anyone who can solder. Tools necessary are
a write cutter and stripper, a soldering iron and solder, a small screwdriver and
an allen wrench (included) for tightening the strain reliefs. A provision is made
for mounting the CA-1 to a turantable base or shelf, with one wood screw.
For tonearm cables having leads less than .1" diameter, the CA-1 is not necessary.
Non-crimp style lemo connectors can be installed easily.
Other applications for the CA-1 include adapting microphone and other kinds of
cables to Lemo termination.
Tonearm cables from Japan generally use thick leads due to their interest in low
capacitance cable. This type cable is not very durable and has some disadvan-
tages in spite of the claims of its proponents. Those cables terminating in gold-
plated phono connectors pose a hazard since gold really mates only with gold; gold
to cadmium-plated phono connectors (the normal type) is worse than the standard
phono connector to standard phono jack. The CA-1 is designed to accept all dia-
meters of tonearm cable from the size just too big for non-crimp Lemos up to the
heaviest Japanese type.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR ASSEMBLING THE CA-1 CABLE ADAPTOR
1.
The CA-1 may be mounted to a shelf, cabinet, or turntable base with one
wood screw. This keeps fragile tonearm leads from breaking or flexing.
2.
3.
Use LL-.6 or LL-3 cables to connect with your JC-2 or LNP-2 preamplifier.
Cut the phono connectors from the tonearm leads, nothing which wire is left
and which is right.
4.
5.
6.
Strip the ends about 1/2" so that a center conductor and shield are prepared
for each end.
Insert the wires through the small holes on the edge of the CA-1 so they
project through the other side.
Solder the leads to the Lemo connectors, left and right. If the center
Conductor wire is 26 gauge or smaller, it will fit in the connector pin;
otherwise, wrap it around the pin and solder it.
7.
Pulling the leads back through the CA-1 gently, install the front plate
with the button head screws and the 1/16" wrench.
8.
9.
Drop the teflon pillows into the strain relief holes.
Insert the strain relief screws and tighten gently.
The system you just assembled is the closest thing to having one continuous
wire from tonearm to the first state of preamplifier electronics.
PLS-150 POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM
JC-2 preamplifiers with Lemo connectors are equipped with the PLS-150 Power
Supply. The PLS-150 Power Supply is considerably larger and heavier than the
ones delivered with previous units. We recommend that it be positioned with
the cable end facing the wall and the front plate facing forwards. In this
way, the two LED' s will be visible. these lights indicate that the power
supply is receiving the correct AC voltage and is delivering the correct DC
voltage. If the AC light blinks or goes off, this indicates that the AC
line voltage has dropped to unacceptable levels. If the DC light goes out
it indicates that the power supply is no longer functioning. Should either of
these lights go out, contact your dealer or factory for service.
The PLS-150 Power Supply is a remote sensing design. This means that the
power supply adjusts the voltage to be accurate at the preamp itself, adjusting
for any effects of the cable and reducing cross modulation of the audio circuits
to virtually zero.
The PLS-150 chassis is removed from its cover by removing the four feet and
single captive screw on top of the unit. Look inside if you want to, but
don' t play with it unless you have specific instructions from the factory.
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