Unpacking Your HCA-3500, Installing Your HCA-3500

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of this precision audio component and thank you for your selection of Parasound. Your Parasound HCA-3500 was designed by renowned circuit designer John Curl and is built using only the finest precision components available for optimum musical quality and performance.

Each channel of the amplifier has its own power supply including an independent 1.4 kVA toroidal power transformer and 97,600 uF of filter capacitance. This dual-mono configuration provides the high levels of power needed for some of today’s more sophisticated speaker systems. The inherently low output impedance of the HCA-3500 easily maintains control of your loudspeakers even during demanding impedance variations.

Unique circuit topology of the direct coupled HCA-3500 includes balanced JFET input transistors, MOSFET drivers and ultra high current output devices. The output delivers a generous 15 watts of pure class A operation. Additionally, there are no inductors or capacitors in the signal path. These design refinements reduce high odd-order harmonic distortion, improve overall clarity and preserve low-level musical details.

Please take a few moments to read these instructions so that you may fully understand the capabilities of your new Parasound power amplifier.

Unpacking Your HCA-3500

Carefully unpack your amplifier and remove all the enclosed accessories. These accessories include two 12 AWG AC cords, rack mount hole plugs, and this manual. Be sure to inspect the unit for any possible shipping damage. If you see any, contact your Parasound Dealer immediately. Save all the packing material in case you need to ship the amplifier for repair. Before you proceed, find the serial number located on the rear panel of your amplifier and record it here for reference:

Serial #____________________

Date of Purchase____________________

Installing Your HCA-3500

Locate your amplifier away from heat sources such as air ducts and 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-3500 occupies four rack spaces (7") in a standard 19 inch equipment rack. When rack mounting the HCA-3500, have someone help support the unit while you bolt the component to the rack rails. Be sure to use heavy duty mounting bolts and nylon shoulder washers on both sides of the faceplate to avoid scratching the amplifier’s front panel and also to help prevent ground loops. Contact Middle Atlantic Products at (201) 839-1011 to obtain any additional rack mounting hardware you may need.

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HCA-3500 specifications

The Parasound HCA-3500 is a high-performance power amplifier renowned for its robust design and exceptional audio quality. This model is part of Parasound's Classic series, aimed at audiophiles seeking both power and fidelity in their audio systems. With a solid build and advanced technologies, the HCA-3500 continues to garner attention for its performance capabilities.

One of the main features of the HCA-3500 is its powerful output, delivering 350 watts per channel into 8 ohms, and an impressive 700 watts per channel into 4 ohms. This ensures that the amplifier can drive a wide range of speakers with ease, particularly those requiring higher power levels to achieve optimal performance. The high current abilities of the HCA-3500 provide agility in dynamic musical passages, making it a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The HCA-3500 employs a fully discrete, Class A/AB output stage. This design minimizes crossover distortion, allowing for a clean, transparent sound signature that captures the nuances of the original recording. The amplifier features a tight feedback loop that enhances stability while maintaining an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, contributing to its pristine audio reproduction.

One of the standout technologies in the HCA-3500 is its use of the proprietary Halo technology, which incorporates advanced circuit design and high-quality components. This includes gold-plated connectors and high-grade capacitors that enhance signal integrity and longevity. Moreover, the parasitic capacitance in the circuitry is minimized to further improve signal clarity.

In terms of build quality, the HCA-3500 is impressively robust, housed in a sturdy chassis that reduces vibration and interference. The amplifier’s layout is designed for efficient heat dissipation, featuring large heatsinks that help maintain optimal operating temperatures even under demanding conditions.

User-friendly features are also a highlight, such as the ability to bridge the amplifier for mono operation, enhancing its versatility in various setups. Additionally, the HCA-3500 includes a 12V trigger input, allowing for seamless integration with home theater systems and automation setups.

In summary, the Parasound HCA-3500 is an exemplary power amplifier that combines power, fidelity, and advanced technology in one package. Its capabilities make it suitable for both high-end audio systems and professional applications, ensuring that listeners enjoy a deeply immersive audio experience. With its commitment to audio excellence, the HCA-3500 continues to be a respected option for those who seek quality in amplifier performance.