®

Should the unit be on all the time?

Are there any internal fuses?

Which headphones?

Caution listening too loudly

Input Selection

Placement?

Isolation?

Questions And Answers

Owner’s Reference GCHA Headphone Amplifier

The GCHA is best left powered on at all times. The power consumed is negligible and keeping it powered on will make sure the internal AC capacitors stay charged and the amplifi er and Gain Cells sound their best whenever you are ready to listen to music.

There is no harm in leaving the unit on at all times as the lifespan of the GCHA will be unaffected.

There is a user replaceable internal fuse inside the GCHA. However, this fuse should not be replaced without fi rst consulting the factory service center for advice. It would be unusual for this fuse to blow and may indicate something is wrong with the unit.

The GCHA will power any headphone made with 16 Ohm or higher impedance. Most headphones have considerably higher impedance than the minimum 16 Ohm.

Note that listening to headphones at extremely loud listening levels may damage your hearing. Enjoy your music, enjoy the superb dynamics of this high-end piece of equipment, but protect your ears. Hearing damage from overly loud music is typically irreversible.

The GCHA will automatically switch back to the analog inputs when no digital signal is present. This means once the Windows Media

Player or the CD or DVD player, built into the computer, is stopped, the GCHA will switch back to the analog audio inputs.

Placement of the GCHA is not critical for most components. In most cases, it may be placed as close to or as far away from the system or the computer, as need be. However, it may not be advisable to place the GCHA too close to a CRT computer monitor. The large transformer inside the GCHA may cause some slight color shift in CRT monitors if placed too close. We would recommend keeping the GCHA at least one to two feet away from any CRT monitor. LCD screens are fi ne.

Hum may also be an issue with the GCHA if placed too close to a sensitive piece of equipment such as a phono preamplifi er or turntable. The GCHA has an exceptionally large power transformer inside. This transformer can generate a fairly large magnetic fi eld which can induce hum into sensitive equipment in close proximity.

Isolation through the use of spikes, cones or Sorbothane feet is recommended for the GCHA if space and budget allows. Isolation of any piece of high-end stereo and theater equipment is always recommended wherever practical.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

Questions and Answers 4

PH: 720.406.8946 service@psaudio.com www.psaudio.com

 

©2005 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Page 8
Image 8
PS Audio GCHA manual Questions And Answers

GCHA specifications

The PS Audio GCHA is an innovative headphone amplifier that has garnered attention for its remarkable performance and versatility. Designed to provide an extraordinary listening experience, the GCHA combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features to cater to both casual listeners and audiophiles alike.

One of the standout characteristics of the PS Audio GCHA is its powerful amplification capabilities. It delivers up to 1 watt per channel, ensuring that it can drive a wide variety of headphones, from high-impedance models to more sensitive in-ear monitors. This level of power allows the GCHA to reproduce dynamic sound stages and intricate details, making it an excellent choice for critical listening across various music genres.

The GCHA incorporates a unique analog signal path, which sets it apart from many digital headphone amplifiers on the market. PS Audio emphasizes a non-fatiguing listening experience, and the GCHA achieves this by utilizing high-quality components, including audiophile-grade op-amps and capacitors. This results in a warm, natural sound signature that remains true to the original recording.

Connectivity options are abundant with the GCHA, giving users flexibility in integrating it into their audio systems. The amplifier features multiple inputs, including RCA and 3.5mm connections, allowing for seamless integration with other audio devices. Additionally, a high-quality headphone output ensures that users can enjoy their music without compromise.

Integrated into the GCHA is also a high-performance power supply that minimizes noise and interference. This well-engineered power management system ensures consistent performance, providing a clean audio signal even in challenging environments. A sturdy and well-designed chassis adds to the amplifier's longevity while reducing the risk of physical damage.

Another notable feature of the PS Audio GCHA is its elegant design. With a sleek, modern appearance, it fits well in any audio setup, blending aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. The front panel includes intuitive controls, allowing users to adjust volume and input selection easily.

In summary, the PS Audio GCHA is a top-tier headphone amplifier that marries powerful performance with high-quality construction and user-friendly features. Its ability to deliver a rich and immersive listening experience makes it a worthy addition to the audiophile's equipment arsenal. Whether you're enjoying a casual listening session or engaging in serious music analysis, the GCHA stands out as an exceptional choice.