USING THE MAIN CONTROLS continued

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Using the Status and Info Buttons and the Displays

The C 1 controller’s front-panel display screen can be set to show the current main-zone operat- ing status (source, audio and video signal types, audio mode, and volume setting) continuously. If you wish to see this information when the display is showing the video program currently selected for the main zone, pressing the STATUS button on the front panel or the Master remote, or the INFO button on the SideKick remote, will bring that information to the screen for 5 seconds. The same information will appear on any TV set or projector connected to the composite or S-Video “OSD” output on the rear panel of the C 1.

The same signal will be echoed to the “OSD” composite and S-Video outputs on the rear panel, for display on a video screen. You can choose whether to view the status information against

a plain background or superimposed on the current video program, and whether the information will stay on-screen at all times or switch off after 5 seconds. (For this and other adjustments, see “Display Setup,” in the chapter after next.) Pressing STATUS or INFO on the remotes will bring it back again (or shut it off, if you finish with it before the 5 seconds have elapsed).

Information is also displayed whenever you change a control setting; you can select whether it will fill the screen or only appear near the bottom of the on-screen display.

The built-in and on-screen displays are extremely important and useful in the Setup modes (see “Adjustments, Menus, and Setup”).

The DIM button selects four levels of brightness for the C 1’s built-in 5" display screen. Pressing the DIM button once dims the display; pressing it again selects minimum brightness. Pressing DIM a third time selects maximum brightness, and pressing it a fourth time restores the factory- set brightness. Display brightness will remain at your last selected setting so you don’t need to readjust it each time you turn on the C 1. To turn off the built-in display, press the DISPLAY MAIN or ZONE button, depending on which zone’s video you are previewing.

(Note: The built-in display screen’s brightness and clarity are greatly diminished when viewed off-axis from above, below, or to the sides. Brighter display settings will make video programs clearer and menu text more legible.)

Display brightness will increase temporarily when you press the front panel MUTE button.

We chose a traditional 4:3 aspect ratio for the C 1’s built-in screen to make setup menus easier to read. Widescreen video programs will appear “letterboxed,” with black horizontal bands at the top and bottom of the display screen, the same as with any 4:3 format TV or video screen.

Dual-Zone Operation

The C 1 controller can provide different audio and video signals to two rooms, or “zones,” in your home; the second, or remote, zone can incorporate one room or several, depending on your instal- lation. Only analog unbalanced audio and composite video outputs are provided for the second zone; analog surround soundtracks fed to the remote zone can be decoded by a suitable amplifier or controller in that zone. All composite video sources can be sent to the second zone. Digital audio signals are not fed to the second zone, but signals from the analog outputs of digital components (e.g., CD and DVD players) can be selected and fed there. So if you want to enjoy digital sources in the remote Zone, connect your digital players’ analog as well as digital outputs to the C 1.

Pressing the ZONE button next to the on-off switch, or the key next to the Zone legend on the Master remote’s C1/C2 Page 1, switches the C 1 to control one zone or the other. Switching between the main and Zone control modes does not affect the signal fed to either one, and changing settings for one zone does not affect settings for the other. The C 1 will switch from remote-zone to main-zone mode 10 seconds after your last control input.

The controls and commands are the same for either zone, and whatever you do with the controls will affect only the zone you have currently selected. If you turn the C 1 off while the remote zone is in use, the front-panel display will show “ZONE B ON”, until you press the ON-OFF panel button (or the OFF button on either remote).

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Parasound Halo C1 Controller manual Using the Status and Info Buttons and the Displays, Dual-Zone Operation
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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.
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