Parasound HALO JC User Manual

JC 1 Amplifier
Owner’s Guide

Parasound HALO JC Specifications

General

Brand	Parasound
Model	HALO JC
Category	Amplifier
Language	English

Summary

Thank You and Introduction

Unpacking Your JC 1

Instructions for safely removing the amplifier from its packaging and inspecting for damage.

Record Keeping

Guidance on recording serial numbers, dealer information, and purchase dates for future use.

Important Warranty Information

Key details regarding warranty coverage, authorized dealers, and serial number policies.

Placement Guidelines for Your JC 1

Rack Mounting Your Parasound JC 1

Detailed instructions on attaching rack mount adapters and installing the JC 1 into a 19-inch equipment rack.

Connecting to Balanced Inputs

Setup and Requirements

Lists necessary cables, components, and pre-connection checks for balanced audio connections.

Connection Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for physically connecting balanced audio cables to the JC 1.

XLR Jack Configuration

Explains balanced XLR jack pin configuration and compatibility with other audio components.

Connecting to Unbalanced Inputs

Setup and Requirements

Lists necessary cables, components, and pre-connection checks for unbalanced audio connections.

Connection Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for physically connecting unbalanced audio cables to the JC 1.

Connecting Speakers

Speaker Terminals and Requirements

Describes supported terminals, needed wires, and connectors for speaker connections.

Connection Procedure

Detailed steps for connecting speaker wires to the amplifier and speakers.

Polarity Importance

Emphasizes correct speaker polarity for optimal sound quality and system integrity.

Turn On-Off Options

Manual Operation

How to manually turn the amplifier on and off using the front panel button.

Automatic Turn-On Setup

Setting up and configuring automatic turn-on via audio signal or DC trigger.

Connection Procedure

Steps to connect an audio source for automatic turn-on functionality.

Turn-Off Delay Feature

Explains the turn-off delay feature in audio mode to prevent unintended shutdowns.

Automatic Turn On-Off with DC Trigger

Requirements and Setup

Lists required trigger wire, control component, and pre-connection steps.

Connection Procedure

Steps to connect the trigger wire between the JC 1 and the external DC source.

Wire Termination Advice

Advice on terminating the trigger wire if the control component lacks a standard connector.

Triggering Other Components

Requirements and Setup

Details the trigger wire, component requirements, and setup precautions.

Connection Procedure

Instructions for connecting the JC 1's trigger output to another device.

Automatic Turn On Delay Time

Explains how to set a delay for the JC 1's turn-on sequence to avoid surges.

Wire Adaptation

Guidance on adapting trigger wires for non-standard connectors.

Indicators and Controls

Power Indicators

Describes AC present, on/off, and high-temp indicator lights on the front panel.

Ground Switch Function

Details the function of the Ground switch for hum reduction and its positions.

Bias Level Switch Function

Explains the two bias settings and their impact on sound quality and heat.

AC Power Connections

Requirements

Lists the AC power cord and outlet as necessary items for connecting the amplifier.

Connection Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for connecting the AC power cord to the amplifier and outlet.

Maintenance and Care

Exterior Cleaning

Instructions for cleaning the amplifier's exterior with a soft cloth.

Main Power Fuse Information

Information regarding the main power fuse and when to contact service.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Power and Turn-On Problems

Addresses issues related to no power, DC voltage turn-on, and audio source turn-on.

Audio Output and Sound Quality

Solutions for no sound, distorted sound, hum, and buzz.

Overheating and Ventilation

Troubleshooting steps for overheating, including checking ventilation and load.

Servicing and Returns

Technical Support and Service

Contact information and initial support steps for servicing the JC 1.

Returning Unit for Service

Guide for returning the unit for repair, including RA numbers and documentation.

Service Acceptance Policy

Lists conditions under which units will not be accepted for service.

Shipping Precautions

Crucial advice on proper packing and shipping procedures to prevent damage.

Technical Explanations

Audio Trigger Sensitivity

Explains how to adjust the sensitivity for the audio auto-turn-on feature.

Input Connection Types

Compares balanced and unbalanced audio connections and their benefits.

Cable and Wire Selection

Offers advice on selecting interconnects and speaker wire, including length and gauge.

Signal Polarity

Discusses signal polarity and how the JC 1 handles it.

Technical Explanations (Continued)

Eliminating Ground Loops

Detailed methods for preventing hum and buzz caused by ground loops.

Level Control Design

Explains why the JC 1 lacks a level control and its design philosophy.

Bi-Wiring Capability

Describes the dual binding posts and their use for bi-wiring.

Design Overview

Designer and Development

Background on designer John Curl and CTC Builders.

Power Supply and Soft Start

Details the power supply components and the soft start circuit.

Amplifier Stages and Topology

Explains the input, driver, output stages and complementary topology.

Design Overview (Continued)

Class A/AB Operation Mode

Explains the amplifier's Class A/AB operation and its sonic benefits.

Protection Systems

Details the relay, DC servo, current overload, and fuse protection systems.

Chassis Construction

Describes the construction and material of the amplifier's chassis.

Technical Specifications

Power and Performance Specs

Lists power output, Class A output, current capacity, slew rate, and dynamic headroom.

Audio Quality Specs

Details frequency response, THD, IM distortion, TIM, and signal-to-noise ratio.

Input and Trigger Specs

Specifies input impedance, sensitivity, and auto-on trigger requirements.

Physical and Electrical Specs

Provides dimensions, power requirements, and weight.