Mark Levinson JC-2 Preamplifier - Legendary John Curl Design

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This is a legendary preamp designed by John Curl and built in the USA by Mark Levinson.

In our opinion two piece preamps are the way to go. Keeping the noisy power supply in a separate housing results in the best performance you can get. Just about every flagship preamp follows this design philosophy.

That’s the first thing you’ll notice about this unit... the power supply is housed separately and linked by a super high quality mil spec umbilical cable that clicks into place.

You’ll notice that this pre uses Camac/Fischer connectors. Many believe that these laboratory grade connectors are the way to go but unfortunately ML could not persuade the industry to change over.

The good news is that we have included two sets of converters, one for the output and one for the input. These are readily available for sale from us if you should need more.

On the inside you’ll notice that ML loves to use modules for the input and output stages. You’ll find a bunch in this unit including the phono section.

These solid potted units ensure the lowest noise floor and greatest reliability and thermal stability. You’ll also notice the super high quality potentiometers and switches.

It’s rare that we see a vintage preamp that doesn’t require the pots to be cleaned. This unit was dead quiet and scratch free as you turn the volume and balance.

Cosmetically then unit is super clean and does not have any noticeable signs of wear or use. The lettering is intact, the faceplate is beautiful, and it has been obviously well cared for and a true survivor.

All functions work as they should and has been tested thoroughly on our bench. It’s super quiet and very composed.

Here are some of the features they promote on their literature:

Hand matched active components

Special thermal epoxy potting compound for modules

1% low noise metal film resistors

1% tolerance polycarbonate capacitors in the audio path

Gold plated contacts and switches

Teflon insulated wiring throughout

Conductive plastic input and output pots

Aluminum anodized chassis throughout

On the literature it states that this preamp was available with several optional phono boards. We're uncertain which model is installed but it seems to have the correct gain for both MC and MM inputs and internal switches for loading the cartridge. We're betting a savvy connoisseur will chime in with the details.

This unit belonged to a well known speaker designer from the 70’s and is well documented. It comes with the most comprehensive document set We've ever seen in a vintage piece.

Included are the original manual, large fold out brochure, power supply instructions, second brochure, cable assembly instructions, etc.

Here is your chance to own a piece of audio history which is sure to appreciate over the years.

Please click here for detailed specifics regarding our specialized packing process that separates us from the rest.