No. 36

About the No. 36

The Mark Levinson No. 36 is a digital processor and DAC featuring dual differential 20-bit conversion and HDCD decoding. It supports multiple digital inputs including AES/EBU on XLRs, S/PDIF coaxial (RCA and BNC), and optical (ST and TosLink). Outputs include balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) analog outputs, digital out, an RJ-45 communications port, and an IR repeater port. The internal circuitry is fully balanced in both analog and digital domains, with 36 shunts that unselect digital inputs to ground to minimize interference. It has a frequency response of 10Hz to 20kHz, dynamic range of 98dB, signal-to-noise ratio of 105dB, and channel separation greater than 110dB. The device weighs 35 lbs and measures approximately 15.75" W × 14.3" D × 3.75" H. It is praised for its smooth, natural, and warm sound character, often described as more analogue and warmer than many modern DACs. The No. 36 incorporates a proprietary Intelligent FIFO buffer to reduce jitter to less than 20 picoseconds, enhancing sound definition and musicality. It was originally released around 1995 and remains a respected classic in high-end audio circles.