Parasound Halo C1 Controller manual Getting Started, Making Connections a Preview

Page 5

GETTING STARTED

5

 

 

 

The Parasound C 1 Controller is a complete home theater control center. With it, you can feed signals from any of four analog and digital audio and six audio/video components to your surround sound and video system, simultaneously feeding video and stereo audio (even from a different source) to rooms in a second entertainment zone, and integrate the C 1 into multi-room home-control systems. You can adjust volume, bass, and treble separately for each zone. In the main zone, you can use any of 15 sound patterns, commonly referred to as modes, from 7.1-channel surround (Dolby Digital EX or dts ES) to mono; in the remote zone, only modes that work with two-channel signals are available.

The 7.1-channel analog input allows full surround operation with surround-sound sources having no digital surround output, such as multichannel DVD-Audio or SACD players, which have only analog multichannel outputs, and any future formats with up to eight channels. The output section already has 7.5 channels, including two additional dedicated bass channels and two channels which can be programmed for even more bass functions or a variety of other uses.

A full-color, 5" video screen can display the current video program and operating status for either the local or remote zone. It also speeds and simplifies setting up the C 1 by showing you complete control-menu pages. The front panel screen on the C 1 is particularly convenient for setup if your primary video screen is connect- ed via component video jacks, since component video doesn’t carry on-screen display information. Like the TFT screen on a notebook computer, the C 1 screen should be viewed from directly in front. Its picture qual- ity is degraded when viewed from more than 15° to either side or more than 30° above or 10° below.

An RS-232 serial interface allows the C 1 Controller’s settings to be stored on and modified by a PC; it also allows the software built into the C 1 to be updated as need be. The digital surround processor engine can also be upgraded. And an expansion port allows for technologies that haven’t even been invented yet.

Any product this versatile is complex (which is why this manual is so thick), but we’ve made operation as simple as we can. As you learn more about the C 1, you’ll be able to optimize its performance for your system and your tastes.

You’ll find complete directions further on, but here’s all you need to get started:

Making Connections – A Preview

If you’re installing the C 1 yourself, the following should be helpful; if it’s already been installed for you, you may prefer to skip straight to the chapters on “Using the Main Controls” and “Using the Master and SideKick Remotes,” later in this manual.

Component Video

S-Video

Digital Audio

Balanced Analog Audio

Inputs & Outputs

Inputs & Outputs

Outputs & Inputs

Inputs & Outputs

 

 

Component Video Inputs and Outputs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pr

Y

Pb

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAUTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2 Controller

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Input 1

 

SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Parasound Products, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SERVICE PERSONNEL.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

San Francisco, California, USA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balanced Analog Audio Inputs

 

 

 

Balanced Analog Audio Outputs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Input 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Left

Right

Left

Right

Center

Subwoofer

Left Surround

Right Surround

Left Back

Right Back

Pro 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Input 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Composite

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Video Outputs

 

 

 

 

 

Output

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

& Inputs

Red

Green

Blue

H

Sync

V

 

 

 

Coax

Digital Audio Inputs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Composite Video Inputs

Video Outputs

S-Video Inputs

S-Video Outputs

 

 

Made In

Expansion Port For

Video 1 Video 3 Video 5

Record

Zone

Video 3 Video 4 Video 5 Video 6

Record

Main

Coax 1 Coax 3

 

Finland

FutureTechnologies

 

 

Video 1 Video 2

Optical 1

Optical 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Digital Out

External Control

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RS-232 Control

IR Inputs

– 12VTriggers –

Video 2

Video 4

Video 6

OSD Main NoOSD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OSD

No OSD

Optical

Coax 2

Coax 4

Optical 2

Optical 4

 

RS-232 Control

Main

Zone

P1

P2

On-Off

Video 1

Video 2

Video 3

Video 4

Video 5

Video 6

Audio 1

Audio 2

Audio 3

Audio 4

Audio 5

Record 1 Record 2

Zone

Front

Surround

Center

Back

Front

Surround

Center

Back

Pro 1

Pro 2

AC Power

 

 

L

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

L

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

R

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

R

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Play/In

Rec/Out

 

 

 

 

 

Sub

 

 

 

Sub

 

Pro 3

Pro 4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Analog Audio Inputs

 

 

 

 

Tape Monitor

Analog Audio Outputs

7.1 Analog Audio Inputs

Main Analog Audio Outputs

Programmable Out

 

 

 

 

Control

Jacks

AC Cord

Inlet

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AC Power

Unbalanced Analog

Tape

Zone &

7.1 Channel

Main Analog Programmable

Switch

Audio Inputs

Monitor

Record

Analog Inputs

Outputs

Outputs

 

 

 

Input &

Outputs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outputs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When you connect the C 1’s audio and audio-video inputs and outputs to the rest of your system (including your second entertainment zone, if you have one), you’ll find it easier if you start with the unbalanced analog audio jacks, which are on the bottom row, then work your way up the panel from there. It’s a good idea to write down which component each jack is connected to, so you can program the C 1 to display each source’s name (see “Adjustments, Menus, and Setup” on page 32) rather than just “Audio 1,” “Video 3,” and so on.

Image 5
Contents Controller Parasound Staff Keeping Records for Future Reference Thank YOUCongratulations, and Thank You for Choosing Parasound Table of Contents Placement Guidelines Unpacking and Placement Guidelines for the CUnpacking Your C Rack Mounting Your Parasound CMaking Connections a Preview Getting StartedGetting Started AC Connection and PowerN t r o l l e r Controls and OperationGetting Started On-Off Using the Main ControlsMain Operations On-Off, Volume, Source Selection Volume and Muting Using the Main ControlsChanging Your Listening and Viewing Source Using Audio RecordersSelecting Sound Patterns Listening Modes Online Sources for Further Information DTS Listening Modes and the Signals They Work WithDual-Zone Operation Using the Status and Info Buttons and the DisplaysMaster Remote and the C 1 Controller Using the Master and Sidekick RemotesUsing the Master and Sidekick Remotes 2 of the C1/C2 Menu Using the Master and Sidekick Remotes3 of the C1/C2 Menu Printed Buttons and the CCircular thumbpad on the Master remote changes the C Controlling Other Components In Your System Using the SideKick For Further Information Navigating the Setup Menus ADJUSTMENTS, MENUS, and SetupADJUSTMENTS, MENUS, and Setup Dolby/DTS Setup Audio SetupWoofers sound distorted and could, in very rare cases Preset SetupSpeaker Setup Distance Setup Level SetupAux Programmable Channel Setup Mix Levels Ch 9 or 10 Config Setup brings up this submenuProgramming Aux Channels 9 Level and Distance Autocalibrate Front-panel knob on the C2. When you have changed Source SetupPlay some music that you know has high peak levels, Ntsc Display SetupTHX Audio Setup Trigger SetupParasound Halo Setup Halo Setup SoftwareConnection Types Connecting Audio and Video Sources and RecordersGeneral Rules When Connecting Sources to the C Connecting Audio and Video Sources and RecordersWhat You May Need Connecting a CD or Other Audio Source Component to the CConnecting a DVD Or Other Video Source Component to the C Component Component Video Inputs and Outputs Connecting a Multichannel Source to the COutput Connecting a Balanced-Output Audio SourceComposite Video Digital Audio Record Out Outputs Connecting RecordersAnalog Recording Via the Tape Monitor Jacks Connecting a Digital Audio Recorder Video Inputs Video Outputs Connecting a Video RecorderMain Audio Outputs Connecting the Audio and Video OutputsAmplifier Alternatives Connecting the Audio and Video OutputsConnecting Video Displays Connecting the Audio and Video OutputsParasound Products, Inc Connecting a Second Entertainment ZoneProgramming New Channels Input/Output Summary IR Inputs Control ConnectionsRS-232 Control Volt Triggers Control ConnectionsTrouble Probable Cause Remedy Troubleshooting GuideHeadphones Troubleshooting GuideRemote control does Servicing Your C Procedure for Returning your C 1 to Parasound for ServiceIf All Else Fails Call Us for Help Important Notice Shipping the CBalanced and Unbalanced Analog Audio Connections Technically SpeakingPreventing or Minimizing Hum and Buzz Technically SpeakingUsing Unmatched Power Amplifiers Helpful Web Addresses Audio and Video Circuit Path Topologies Parasound C 1 Design OverviewParasound C 1 Design Overview Parasound C 1 Specifications Index Index Parasound Products, Inc Battery Street, San Francisco, CA

Halo C1 Controller specifications

The Parasound Halo C1 Controller emerges as a premium choice for audio enthusiasts seeking high-performance home theater solutions. This exceptional product combines innovative technology with user-friendly features, ensuring an unparalleled listening experience for both music and movie lovers.

At its core, the Halo C1 Controller serves as a powerful preamplifier and processor, designed to manage and control audio and video signals effectively. It is equipped with a balanced XLR input and multiple RCA inputs, allowing seamless integration with various audio sources. With support for high-resolution audio formats, including PCM and DSD, the Halo C1 delivers pristine sound quality that enhances the listening experience.

One of the defining characteristics of the Halo C1 is its advanced digital processing capabilities. The unit features Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, along with several proprietary audio technologies that elevate its performance. Its ability to upmix stereo signals into multi-channel formats contributes to an immersive surround sound experience, making it an ideal companion for both music playback and movie watching.

The Halo C1 also boasts an intuitive user interface, complete with an easy-to-navigate on-screen display. This feature simplifies the setup and configuration process, allowing users to personalize their audio experience to suit their preferences. For added convenience, the C1 supports remote control operation, enabling users to adjust settings without leaving their seats.

In terms of connectivity, the Halo C1 provides an impressive array of options. It includes HDMI inputs and outputs, ensuring compatibility with modern AV equipment and facilitating the transmission of high-definition video alongside high-fidelity audio. Additionally, it features variable and fixed outputs, making it adaptable for different system configurations.

Another standout feature of the Halo C1 is its robust power supply. The unit employs a toroidal transformer, ensuring clean and stable power delivery that translates into superior sound performance. This design choice minimizes power supply noise, which can adversely affect audio quality.

In conclusion, the Parasound Halo C1 Controller is a sophisticated and versatile audio solution that caters to both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. With its exceptional performance, advanced technology, and user-friendly features, the Halo C1 stands out as a key component for creating a high-quality audio and video experience in any home entertainment system. Its ability to adapt and enhance the listening experience makes it a worthy investment for anyone serious about sound quality.