Mark Levinson LNP-2
The LNP-2 is a semiconductor preamplifier from Mark Levinson Audio Systems, introduced in the early 1970s. Audio (October 1974, p.41) described it as offering "absolutely unmatched performance and reliability," aimed at the most demanding professional and audiophile applications. Bert Whyte first spotted the unusual design at the 45th AES Convention in Los Angeles and reported on it in the November 1973 issue of Audio. It first found buyers among broadcasters and a few well-heeled audiophiles, and five units were also ordered by Japanese companies.
The preamp uses a separate external power supply, and the main chassis takes up two rack spaces. The volume control is a precision type with 1 dB steps. Frequency response is rated from 10 Hz to 200 kHz. There are no tone controls. The audio research source covering the LNP-2/L2 iteration gives gain as 20 dB single-ended, with two pairs of RCA outputs. Whether that configuration is identical to the base LNP-2 is not fully confirmed. The October 1974 Audio advertisement lists two phono inputs with 250 mV overload at 1 kHz, switchable gain on the low-noise input amplifiers, Weston meters with selectable averaging or peak ballistics, Switchcraft connectors in parallel with phono jacks, and 600-ohm line driving capability. The advertised price was $2,050.
Production years are not documented. A 2015 listing on canuckaudiomart.com offered a unit in near-mint condition with minimal use, complete with its separate power supply, two supplied interconnects, and a spare 12V fuse, at $1,749 CAD. The listing called it "very rare and sought after." No original retail price, detailed specifications beyond the above, or owner reviews have been preserved in the available record.
- Type: Semiconductor preamplifier
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 200 kHz
- Separate external power supply
- No tone controls
- Advertised price (1974): $2,050
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