2. amps-preamps
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Mark Levinson Amplifier Hiss

I am auditioning a Levinson ML-9. I do not have a low noise floor by any means. I am using the ML-9 pre with the amp. When I have the amp idling and no source either playing or even on, I have a hiss coming from the speakers.

As I go through the volume range, the hiss disappears greatly around 2 and to a great, but lesser extent, around 5 (12 o'clock) on the volume knob. I have tried using a 2 prong plug on the pre and the amp, but no change in the hiss. I have also shut down the sub, but have not removed it from the audio chain.

I have hooked up my CDP with variable out to the amp and the noise floor has lowered, but is still noticable.

So, as it stands, I am out of ideas on how to remove the hiss. As you close in on the speakers, the hiss is noticeable. Even as you listen to quiet passages, you can hear it.

What can I do, or is the amp just noisy?

Teanks,
eragot

Showing 1 response by aball

aball
2,016 posts
 
The ML-9 is at least 20 years old and, particularly early Levinsons who ran wide open, the caps may be cooked by now. A dirty volume pot will make scratching noise only when turned. I think the amp probably needs an overhaul which will cost a fortune for Harman to do it.

Shorting plugs on the unused inputs of the preamp are a must so be sure to do that first - it may cure all your hissing problems. I bought a few on ebay from Singapore and they look and work great.
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