Refer to Figure #1, RCA Jack Input Connections

Ventilation Requirements

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 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. 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 stack components, you must use a fan to circulate the warm air that will quickly become trapped between them when they are powered on.

Making Connections to the HCA-3500

Refer to Figure #1

Leave the AC cords disconnected before making any signal or speaker connections. When making connections to the amplifier, make sure there is no strain or tension on the input leads, speaker wires, or AC cord that could cause them to pull loose.

RCA Jack Input Connections

You can connect the output of your preamplifier or processor to the RCA input jacks in a variety of ways:

Normal Unbalanced Non-Inverting Input

Connect the unbalanced outputs of your preamplifier to the left and right positive (+) inputs only. With this connection, the HCA-3500's output is non-inverted; a positive signal at the input results in a positive signal at the output.

Unbalanced Inverting Input

Connect the unbalanced output of your preamplifier to the to the left and right negative (—) inputs only. With this connection, the HCA-3500's output is inverted; a positive signal at the input results in a negative signal at the output.

Balanced RCA Inputs

Connect the left and right positive (+) output of your preamplifier to the left and right positive (+) inputs of the HCA-3500 and connect the left and right negative (—) output of your preamplifier to the left and right negative (—) inputs of the HCA-3500. These balanced connections provide an alternative to using an XLR connector if your preamplifier is equipped with (+) and (—) RCA output connectors.

XLR Input Connections

If your preamplifier is equipped with balanced XLR output connectors, you can use these connections as an alternative to the RCA jacks. The industry standard pin assignment for the

HCA-3500's XLR input connector is Pin 1: Ground, Pin 2: Positive (+), and Pin 3: Negative (—) .

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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.