Input Selector Switch

Once you have decided which input connectors you will use, set the input selector switches to their Unbalanced or Balanced XLR position.

Speaker Connections

You may connect bare wire up to AWG 12, speaker wire terminated with 1/4" spade lugs, or banana plugs to the five-way binding posts of your power amplifier. If you use bare wire without terminals, make sure you remove only enough insulation so the wire can fit through the hole that runs sideways through the terminal’s binding post. Before inserting the wire, twist all its strands tightly to prevent strays that could cause a short circuit. (You may want to "tin" the stripped wire with solder to prevent it from fraying and oxidizing.)

Bi-Wiring

The HCA-3500 is equipped with an additional set of binding posts to facilitate bi-wiring. These extra speaker connectors are in parallel with the main binding posts. If your loudspeakers have two sets of speaker connectors, you can bi-wire by connecting two sets of speaker cables from each channel of your HCA-3500 to your speakers. Bi-wiring effectively reduces the lead resistance of your speaker wire thus diminishing power loss and improving damping factor. The extra set of binding posts also make it easy to connect an additional pair of speakers.

Observing Correct Polarity

When you connect speakers to your amplifier, you will notice that one side of the two conductor speaker wire will have some sort of mark: either printing, a raised ridge on the insulation, or a different color of conductor to let you know which wire to connect to the positive and which to the negative speaker terminals so you can repeat the connection on the power amplifier's binding posts.

Minimum Speaker Impedance Precautions

Although the HCA-3500 is capable of driving speakers with occasional impedance dips well below

2 Ω, it is primarily designed to drive loudspeakers with a 4 Ω or 8 Ω nominal impedance. This is because sustained high power operation into loads of less than 4 Ω may cause overheating and subsequent thermal shutdown.

AC Power Connections and AC Grounding

Before you connect the AC cords, make sure the HCA-3500's power switches are in the off or down position. If possible, plug your amplifier directly to an AC wall outlet. Be sure to plug both AC cords into the same outlet help prevent possible ground loops. Do not connect the AC cords to the accessory AC outlet on your preamplifier because the amplifier's current draw exceeds the ratings of most preamplifier’s power switches and power cords. If you use an external AC line conditioner or surge suppressor, make sure it can withstand the HCA-3500's power requirements listed in the specification section of this manual.

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Parasound HCA-3500 owner manual Input Selector Switch, Observing Correct Polarity, Minimum Speaker Impedance Precautions
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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.
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