Introduction, Unpacking Your Amplifier

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of this precision audio component and thank you for your selection of Parasound. Your HCA-1500A was designed by renowned circuit designer John Curl to meet or surpass the stringent standards required by Lucasfilm for use in THX Home Cinema systems. Each precision component within your HCA-1500A is carefully selected for optimum sound quality on even the most challenging music and film soundtracks.

Parasound amplifiers have greater operational flexibility and power than most other amplifiers you may have used, so please take a few moments now to read these instructions thoroughly so you may fully understand the various capabilities of your new Parasound power amplifier.

Unpacking Your Amplifier

Carefully unpack your amplifier and remove all the enclosed accessories including the remote control and detachable AC cord. Be sure to inspect the unit for any possible shipping damage. If you see any, contact your Parasound Dealer immediately. Be sure to save both cartons and the packing inserts for future transport and always pack the inner carton into a protective outer carton before shipment.

Before you proceed, find the serial number located on the rear panel of your unit. Record it here for future reference. ____________________

Installing and Rack Mounting Your Amplifier

Place your amplifier away from heat sources such as air ducts or radiators. Always mount the amplifier horizontally and make sure that your cabinet or shelf can support its weight. It is best to provide a separate shelf for your amplifier rather that stacking it directly above or below your other components.

The HCA-1500A occupies three rack spaces (5 1/4") into a standard 19 inch equipment rack. Be sure to use heavy duty mounting bolts to and nylon shoulder washers on both sides of the faceplate to avoid scratching the amplifier’s front panel and prevent ground loops. Call Middle Atlantic Products at

(201)839-1011 to obtain information about a wide variety of rack mounting hardware. When mounting equipment into an equipment rack, it is always a good idea to have someone help support the unit while you bolt it to the rack rails.

Ventilation Requirements for Your Amplifier

To insure safe and reliable operation, it is very important that the amplifier has plenty of ventilation to prevent overheating and automatic shut down from its thermal protection circuitry. Please observe the following ventilation guidelines when installing your Parasound amplifier in a cabinet or other enclosed area: 1) If you are not using a fan, allow at least six inches on each side and above the amplifier, and do not close off the front with a cabinet door or panel. 2) If you are enclosing the amplifier within an equipment cabinet, use a fan to draw in cool air and exhaust warm air. In either case, two vent holes are required: one for intake and one for exhaust. 3) Do not place the amplifier on carpeting that will obstruct the air flow into the bottom of the amplifier chassis and heatsinks. 4) Avoid stacking components. If you do, you must use a fan to circulate the warm air that quickly becomes trapped between them.

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HCA-1500A specifications

The Parasound HCA-1500A is a highly regarded power amplifier that has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional audio performance at an affordable price. This robust amplifier is particularly popular among audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts for its excellent build quality, advanced technology, and impressive sound reproduction capabilities.

One of the standout features of the HCA-1500A is its power output. It delivers 150 watts per channel into 8 ohms and up to 225 watts per channel into 4 ohms, ensuring that it can drive a wide range of speakers with ease. This level of power makes it suitable for both stereo and multi-channel setups, allowing for a versatile listening experience. The amplifier's high current capability is particularly noteworthy, providing the necessary muscle to handle transient peaks and dynamic musical passages without distortion.

The HCA-1500A employs a fully discrete output stage, which helps minimize signal distortion and enhances sonic clarity. This architecture is complemented by high-quality components, including a toroidal transformer and large filter capacitors, which contribute to its impressive performance. The use of a toroidal transformer not only helps to keep the amplifier compact but also reduces electromagnetic interference, leading to cleaner sound reproduction.

In addition to its impressive technical specifications, the HCA-1500A features a user-friendly design. The rear panel includes a variety of input options, including RCA and XLR connections, allowing for flexibility in connecting different audio sources. Its robust construction, with a heavy-duty chassis and professional-grade binding posts, ensures durability and reliability over time.

Another key characteristic of the HCA-1500A is its thermal management system. The amplifier is designed with ample ventilation and heat sinks to dissipate heat efficiently, allowing for sustained performance even during extended listening sessions. This attention to thermal design ensures that the amplifier remains cool and operates within its optimal performance range.

Overall, the Parasound HCA-1500A stands out as a powerful, reliable, and sonically rich amplifier. Its combination of high power output, discrete circuitry, and thoughtful engineering make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking to enhance their audio system's performance. Whether used in a dedicated home theater or a high-fidelity music setup, the HCA-1500A is sure to impress with its ability to deliver a dynamic and immersive listening experience.