Mark Levinson N390S - Manual (Page 29)

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Electrically, the Link connection between the preamplifier and
the power amplifier(s) in the system is independent of and
distinct from the communications Links between various
source components and the preamplifier. The reason for this is
simple: the power amplifiers, lacking any microprocessor of
their own, are dependent on the intelligence of the preamplifier
for their Linked functionality. This remains true even when
you employ the Nº390S as your “preamplifier.”
The modular cable needed for the Link connection between
the Nº390S and other Link components may be purchased
from your Mark Levinson dealer. It may also be easily made to
length using two modular connectors and the appropriate
length (up to 100 feet/30 meters) of flat, eight conductor
cable.
Modular cables and connectors are used throughout the world
for both telecommunications and computers, and are widely
available. The connectors are crimped on to the ends of the
cable such that pin 1 at one end is connected to pin 1 at the
other end. Such a “straight-through” connection is made
(counter-intuitively) by introducing a 180° twist in the cable
between the two ends, as shown below.
Standard Link Cables
A different Link cable configuration is used when connecting
the Nº390S to a power amplifier as though it were a preamplifier.
It uses six-conductor cable (rather than eight), with a six-
conductor modular plug at one end and an eight-conductor
modular connector at the other end (using pins 1 through 6
of the latter), as shown below:
Amplifier Link Cables
(Note that the pins are numbered 1 through 8 from left to right
when the locking tab is down and the metal contacts are pointing
away from you.)