Unpacking the GFA-555se, Installing the GFA-555se

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your decision to purchase the GFA-555se power ampliﬁer. By use of updated components in the classic ADCOM GFA-555 design, we have reestablished our heritage of high performance and audiophile quality at the greatest possible value. You have made a wise choice that will reward you for years to come with exceptionally accurate and musical sound reproduction. To realize the full potential of your new ampliﬁer, and before making any connections to it, please read these operating and installation instructions thoroughly.

UNPACKING THE GFA-555se

Before your new ADCOM ampliﬁer left our factory, it was carefully inspected for physical imperfections and tested for all electrical parameters as a routine part of ADCOM’s systematic quality control. This, along with full operational and mechanical testing, should ensure a product ﬂawless in both appearance and performance. After you have unpacked the GFA-555se, inspect it for physical damage. Save the shipping carton and all packing material as they are intended to reduce the possibility of transportation damage, should the ampliﬁer ever need to be shipped again. In the unlikely event damage has occurred, notify your dealer immediately and request the name of the carrier so a written claim to cover shipping damages can be initiated. THE RIGHT TO A CLAIM AGAINST A PUBLIC CARRIER CAN BE FORFEITED IF THE CARRIER IS NOT NOTIFIED PROMPTLY IN WRITING AND IF THE SHIPPING CARTON AND PACKING MATERIALS ARE NOT AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION BY THE CARRIER. SAVE ALL PACKING MATERIALS UNTIL THE CLAIM HAS BEEN SETTLED.

INSTALLING THE GFA-555se

During normal home operation the internal heatsinks of the GFA-555se may become warm. However, there are instances during high-level playback into low impedances when the heatsinks will become much warmer than usual. To ensure the ampliﬁer’s long-term, trouble-free operation it is necessary to provide adequate ventilation for the heatsinks. Therefore, the GFA-555se should be kept away from external sources of heat such as radiators and hot-air ducts. The GFA-555se should never be placed with other heat-producing components in a cabinet or enclosure lacking free air ﬂow. The top and bottom panel of the ampliﬁer’s chassis have been provided with vents to allow the necessary cooling of the internal components. It is imperative that these vents are not obstructed in any way.

We recommend that you do not stack other components on top of the GFA-555se. This is particularly important if your system includes low-impedance loudspeakers which are difﬁcult to drive, or if you will consistently demand high volume levels from the ampliﬁer and speaker system. Not only will heat generated by the ampliﬁer affect the performance of equipment stacked on top of the GFA-555se, but the free ﬂow of air through the ventilating slots in the ampliﬁer may be partially obstructed.

If you observe these recommendations, the GFA-555se will perform reliably in any reasonable environment. You should also pay attention to such normal considerations as protection from excessive dust and moisture. Occasional vacuuming of accumulated dust on the chassis, panels and around the ventilating slots should be all that is required. The optimal performance of your new GFA-555se will ultimately depend on the care with which you make the connections between the ampliﬁer, preampliﬁer and the loudspeakers. All input and output signal connections should be made only with high quality, low-loss, low capacitance cables following the recommendations in the Inputs and Outputs section of CONNECTING THE GFA-555se.

GFA-555se specifications

The Adcom GFA-555se is a high-performance audio power amplifier that stands out for its robust design and exceptional sound quality. Renowned among audiophiles, it offers a blend of remarkable power output and fidelity, making it suitable for a wide range of audio systems.

One of the main features of the GFA-555se is its impressive power output, rated at 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 330 watts per channel into 4 ohms. This ample power allows it to drive a variety of speakers efficiently, delivering dynamic and impactful sound reproduction. The amplifier is designed to handle both high and low frequencies with precision, ensuring a balanced audio experience.

In terms of technology, the GFA-555se employs a classic Class AB design, which is known for its ability to combine the efficiency of Class B operation with the linearity of Class A. This results in lower distortion and better thermal management, contributing to a cleaner sound, particularly at high volumes. The amplifier also incorporates a high-speed output stage, which enhances transient response and enables the reproduction of fast-paced musical passages without degradation.

Another notable characteristic of the GFA-555se is its build quality. The chassis is constructed from heavy-duty aluminum, which not only results in durability but also helps to dissipate heat effectively. This is crucial in maintaining performance and longevity, as overheating can lead to shortened component life. Additionally, the amplifier features a massive power supply with a large transformer, providing stable voltage and current to the output stage, which further enhances audio performance.

The GFA-555se is equipped with unbalanced RCA inputs and can be easily integrated into existing audio setups, making it a versatile choice for both home theater and stereo systems. With its impressive parasitic rejection and low noise floor, it ensures that the audio signal remains clean and unaffected by external interference.

In conclusion, the Adcom GFA-555se is a powerful and reliable amplifier that combines advanced technologies with robust construction. Its ability to deliver high-quality sound across a broad range of frequencies, along with its impressive power output and efficient design, makes it a popular choice among music enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether used as part of a high-end audio system or in a home theater setup, the GFA-555se continues to be a respected component for achieving an immersive listening experience.