Parasound Debuts Halo Series 125-Watt Stereo Amplifier

29-Apr-02

Parasound has introduced the A 23 stereo power amplifier in the Halo Series, featuring a silver front panel, premium internal circuitry, rear-panel balanced XLR connections, and Lucasfilm THXÆ Ultra2 certification. This new amplifier represents a significant step-up from its highly regarded -- and still available -- ""Classic"" Parasound HCA-1000A. The Halo A 23 power amplifier is FTC-rated at 125 watts RMS per channel from 20 Hz - 20 kHz into an 8-ohm load with both channels driven, at 200 watts into 4 ohms, and it can be bridged to 400 watts mono. All of this power is provided by 12 beta-matched, 15-amp, 60 MHz bipolar transistors that can handle 45 amps peak current per channel. The heavy-duty power supply uses a 785 VA toroidal transformer with independent secondary windings for each channel, and 20,000 microfarads capacitance per channel for energy to spare. The transformer windings are fully encapsulated in epoxy and a heavy-duty steel case to eliminate transformer hum, and large extruded aluminum heat sinks avoid the need for a cooling fan.With fully differential balanced inputs using professional XLR connectors, the A 23 has low noise and distortion levels, and there are no capacitors or inductors in the signal path. The pure Class A discrete component-matched J-FET input stage, and MOSFET driver stage give the A 23 with a warm tube-like sound, and the double-sided FR4 circuit board provides a ground plane to reduce noise. There are rear-panel XLR and RCA inputs, RCA loop outputs, robust 24-Karat gold-plated, five-way binding posts, and a DC trigger input and loop output connection. Other features include auto turn-on by audio signal with adjustable sensitivity, and a ground lift switch to eliminate the hum that is often a problem in rack-mount installations. The A 23 fits in a 2u rack space, has relay protection circuits, a thermal overload indicator, is switchable 115/230v AC, and has an illuminated power button and logo badge.The Halo by Parasound A 23 is now available with a suggested retail price of $850.Parasound introduced the Halo brand in 2002 as a performance -- and design-conscious step-up -- from the company's Parasound Classic product line. Founded in 1981, Parasound Products, Inc., is a privately owned U.S. company that specializes in providing affordable audio and home theatre components to the critical listener. For more information, visit www.parasound.com.

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