Polarity, Mono Mode Hookup, Mono/Stereo Switch

Polarity

It is important to observe correct polarity when using in stereo mode. One side of the speaker lead will have some sort of mark, either printing, a raised ridge on the insulation or different color of conductor. This permits you to know which wire you had connected to the + and which to the speaker terminals so you can do exactly the same at the power amplifier terminals.

Mono Mode

Hookup

For mono, you will use only the red + speaker terminals for your speaker. In this case, you must also move the recessed mono/stereo slide switch to mono before turning on to avoid damage to your amplifier. You will only need to connect the mono input lead to the amplifier's R channel.

Mono/Stereo Switch

This switch is recessed so it cannot accidentally be moved. Never move this switch while the amplifier is turned on!

Minimum Impedance

The minimum recommended load for mono is 8 Ω. If you know that your speakers have a uniform imped- ance curve and do not attempt to drive the unit to high sustained levels, you may use a 4 Ω load. To be safe, it is better to use a minimum 8 Ω load.

These restrictions result from the mathematics of the bridging circuitry: in bridge mode each channel of the amplifier functions for either the + or - half of the musical waveform. Thus, each channel "sees" one half the speaker's impedance. Use of an 8 Ω speaker means that the load for each channel is 4 Ω. And for a 4 Ω speaker, it results in only 2 Ω.

Use good wire

For best results you should never use speaker wire thinner than 16 gauge. You may also wish to experiment with audiophile-grade speaker wire and interconnects. Each will have a different characteristic sound and some may be more compatible with the sonic signature of your various components. The HCA-1200 is stable with any reputable brand of wire.

AC Line cord

You can plug this into a wall socket or an AC outlet on your preamplifier. If you plan to leave the HCA-1200 power switch on and turn it on and off with the preamp, make sure its power switch is rated for the full current draw of the HCA-1200. The HCA-1200 has a surge resistor in its power supply so it is less likely to damage a preamp's on/off switch. The bigger risk is during turn off while music is playing at high levels. This situation could send a damaging surge back down the amp's AC cord as the power supply "collapses" and burn out the preamp's on/off power switch.

Connecting the HCA-1200 to a preamp which has a relatively light duty power cord or extending its power cord with a flimsy extension cord will impair the sound reproduction of the HCA-1200.

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HCA-1200 specifications

The Parasound HCA-1200 is a high-performance power amplifier that has garnered a reputation in the audio community for its impressive sound quality and robust build. It is part of Parasound's Halo series, which is known for delivering music with clarity, control, and dynamics. The HCA-1200 is designed to drive a wide range of speakers efficiently, making it a versatile choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of the HCA-1200 is its dual-channel design, which allows it to output 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms and up to 200 watts per channel at 4 ohms. This power output enables the amplifier to handle demanding speaker loads, ensuring that listeners experience a full-bodied sound across various types of music and film soundtracks. The amplifier also includes a robust power supply, which is crucial for maintaining stability and performance during dynamic passages.

The HCA-1200 incorporates advanced technology such as a high-quality toroidal transformer, known for its low magnetic interference and high efficiency. This transformer contributes to the amplifier's ability to produce low distortion levels, resulting in a clean and powerful audio output. Additionally, the amplifier features a balanced XLR input, allowing for reduced noise and improved signal integrity, particularly in complex audio setups.

Another significant characteristic of the HCA-1200 is its thermal management system. The amplifier is equipped with oversized heatsinks and advanced circuitry that help prevent overheating, even during extended listening sessions. This thoughtful design promotes longevity and reliability, making it a long-term investment for any audio system.

The build quality of the HCA-1200 is exceptional, featuring a hefty chassis and quality components that reflect Parasound's commitment to craftsmanship. The front panel includes user-friendly controls and LED indicators, while the rear panel provides various connectivity options, including speaker binding posts and RCA inputs.

Overall, the Parasound HCA-1200 stands out as an impressive amplification solution, marrying high performance with solid construction. It caters to those who seek an audiophile-grade experience in their home audio or theater systems. With its powerful output, sophisticated technology, and refined design, the HCA-1200 continues to be a top choice for discerning listeners who value both sound quality and reliability.