PS Audio GCA-250, GCA-500 manual Check for porper polarity, Push the front panel logo to turn it on

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Quick Start Guide

Owner’s Reference GCA Power Amplifier Series

Check for porper polarity

Pay close attention to the polarity on the rear panel binding posts. It is critically important that you match plus and minus (red and black) of the GCA Series Power Amplifi er to the plus and minus of your speaker. Carefully observe the polarity. The plus or red terminal of the GCA Series Power Amplifi er must eventually be tied to the plus or red terminal of your loudspeaker. The GCA Series Power Amplifi er is a non-inverting amplifi er design meaning it is in phase with the input signal.

Be careful when connecting a subwoofer

Locking binding posts

Most subwoofers have low level inputs only, as in an RCA or XLR connector. Some subwoofers have high level inputs where the output of the amplifi er can be connected as an input to the subwoofer. Generally there is no problem. In a few rare instances there may be a problem, whcih will show itself as problematic if the amp’s protection comes on after hooking up the sub. REL subwoofers and some Sunfi re subwoofers can be problematic. Please check with the factory or your dealer if you encounter these subwoofers or any problems.

These binding posts, on the rear panel of the GCA Series Power Amplifi er, will accept either spade or banana type connectors. To use a spade or forked connector, simply unscrew the binding post, place the tongs of the spade over the threaded binding post and tighten the outer barrel of the binding post. It is permissible to us a wrench to tighten the binding post down.

Connecting a banana style

Do not ground the outputs

Plug it into a power source

The banana style connectors should be inserted into the center hole on the rear of the binding post. The PS Audio binding post is a unique locking design for banana style connectors. You should not attempt to insert a banana connector into the GCA Series Power Amplifi er’s binding post while the binding post is locked closed. To insert a banana style speaker cable connector, loosen the outer barrel of the GCA Series Power Amplifi er’s binding post, insert the banana connector and then tighten. Note that once this has been tightened, the banana connector is locked securely in place. Do not attempt to remove the banana connector without fi rst loosening the outer barrel of the binding post.

Make sure that neither the + nor the – terminals of the amplifi er come in contact with each other, or ground, or anything other than the speaker terminals when the amplifi er is on. This will shut the amp off and place it in a protection mode.

Plug the GCA Series Power Amplifi er into the power source using the AC power cable you selected. It is advisable to use as short a power cable as possible to the GCA Series Power Amplifi er. We do not recommend plugging the GCA Series Power Amplifi er into an extension strip or plug extender unless it is of the highest quality and heavy duty design, such as the PS Audio Juice Bar or device with similar properties.

Push the front panel logo to turn it on

Turn your equipment back on. Make sure everything is powered up properly with the GCA Series Power Amplifi er between the AC receptacle and your AV equipment.

Make sure the preamplifi er or surround processor that is feeding the GCA Series Power Amplifi er is turned on fi rst. Then, press the front panel PS logo on the GCA Series Power Amplifi er to power up the GCA Series Power Amplifi er. There is a normal 2 second delay for the amplifi er once powered up.

At this point you should be ready to enjoy the benefi ts of the GCA Series Power Amplifi er and enjoy!

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

Quick Start Guide 3

PH: 720.406.8946 service@psaudio.com www.psaudio.com

 

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

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Contents Document Owner’s ReferenceIntroduction Introduction Important Safety InstructionsTable Of Contents What you can expect Cool and efficient running Power ratingsThank you Three modelsGetting Started Isolation Power Cables ConditionersGetting Started LocationQuick Start Guide Quick Start GuidePush the front panel logo to turn it on Check for porper polarityIsolation? Front panel blue light Placement?Front panel power button Questions and AnswersWhat voltages can the amp run on? Troubleshooting Finding a ground loop Try a cheater plug If the amp shuts down while playing music Warranty WarrantyConditions Remedy Miscellaneous Outside the US WarrantyService ServiceService

GCA-100, GCA-250, GCA-500 specifications

PS Audio has long been recognized as a leader in high-fidelity audio equipment, and their line of power amplifiers, specifically the GCA-250, GCA-500, and GCA-100, showcases the company’s commitment to quality sound reproduction and cutting-edge technology. Each model in this series is designed to deliver exceptional performance, making them suitable for both audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

The GCA-250 is known for its impressive power output, delivering 250 watts per channel into 8 ohms. This power allows it to drive a variety of speakers effortlessly, providing dynamic sound with precision and clarity. One of the standout features of the GCA-250 is its Class AB amplifier design, which combines the best characteristics of both Class A and Class B amplification. This results in low distortion levels and high efficiency, enabling the amplifier to produce warm and rich audio without excessive heat generation.

Moving up the line, the GCA-500 takes performance to another level with its 500 watts per channel output into 8 ohms. This amplifier is built to handle more demanding speaker loads, making it ideal for larger systems or for those who prefer a more powerful sound experience. It incorporates advanced feedback control technologies that help minimize signal degradation, ensuring that the audio remains pure and detailed even at higher volumes. The GCA-500 also features a balanced input option, enhancing connectivity and reducing noise interference for a cleaner sound.

At the entry level, the GCA-100 offers a commendable 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms. Despite being the most compact model, it still embodies PS Audio’s high standards of construction and sound quality. The GCA-100 is perfect for smaller listening spaces or as part of a multi-room audio setup. It maintains a robust build quality and utilizes a simplified design to focus on delivering a straightforward yet enjoyable listening experience.

All three models share key characteristics such as their robust chassis construction, which helps minimize vibrations and interference, and their ultra-silent operation thanks to premium components and design considerations. They also offer seamless integration with other PS Audio products, making them versatile components in a complete audio system.

In summary, the PS Audio GCA series of amplifiers—GCA-250, GCA-500, and GCA-100—combine innovative technologies, high-quality materials, and powerful performance to cater to diverse audiophile needs. Whether for casual listening or serious audio pursuits, these amplifiers stand out as durable and high-performing choices that bring music to life with stunning fidelity.
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