Operating the HCA-1200

Power Switch

Press once to tum the unit on. Press again to tum it off.

Level Controls

Adjust the gain of each channel independently. Many preamps have volume controls which do not track correclly to preserve channel balance at the lowest end of their rotation. By reducing the settings of the HCA-1200 level controls you can use the preamp volume control in its optimum range.

Standby LED

This red LED will come on whenever you first tum the unit on. It will light for about four to five seconds while the circuit is stabilizing before the protection relays click on. It will also light up whenever there is a short circuit or fault which triggers the protection relays.

Operation LED

This green LED comes on after the protection relay click on. If the amp gets into trouble, the green operation light will extinguish, advising you no sound can be heard.

Overload LEDs

These LEDs will light up whenever the amplifier is pushed toward its clipping point. They are an indication that the amplifier is being overdriven and alert you to pending distortion. If you are driving speakers at a very high level, it is normal for these to flash occasionally on peaks in the program material.

High Temp LEDs

These will alert you to a pending thermal overload of the unit. If the amplifier is overdriven, as it builds up heat, thermal-tracking sensors will activate protection circuits to keep the unit from frying its power trans- former or solid state devices. If you find the High Temp LEDs coming on, it is a likely sign that you are trying to get too much out of the unit for the speakers you are using. It is also a sign that the load impedance is too low for safe operation.

Protection Circuits

The HCA-1200 has numerous protection circuits. If any are triggered, the red Standby LED will come on. Afler the fault has been corrected, the unit will automatically reset itself for normal operation. But it is always a good idea to tum off the power switch while you are trouble-shooting for shorted connections or faults with source components.

Fuses

The HCA-1200 has several intemal fuses which may blow as a result of an intemal fault condition. This protects the unit from possible damage to intemal parts. You should not attempt to replace intemal fuses yourself - there are dangerous high voltages stored in the power supply even after power has been tumed off or the unit has been unplugged. In any case, never replace any fuse with a larger value. Substitution of a larger fuse may create serious stress or damage to intemal parts and will void your warranty.

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Parasound owner manual Operating 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.
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