Parasound HCA-800 II User Manual

O W N E R ‘ S M A N U A L
HCA - 800 II High Current Power Amplifier
Congratulations on your purchase of this precision audio component and thank you for your selection of
Parasaund. Your HCA-800II has been designed with the latest technology to become the heart of the finest
music systems. Its high power output is matched by enormous current capacity to drive virtually any speak-
ers known. A robust 700vA toroid transformer and 30,000uF power supply assure power in reserve. An
ultra-fast discrete A/AB output stage assures flawless reproduction. You have made an excellent choice.
Please take a few moments now to read these instructions thoroughly so you may fully understand the
sophisticated capabilities of your new power amplifier.
Unpacking
Save your carton and the cardboard inserts for future safe transport in case you move or the unit requires
shipping for repair. Note: the actual printed carton is not itself strong enough for safe shipping: you must
place this carton into an additional outer "overcarton" before shipment.
Before you proceed, find the serial number which is located on the rear panel of the unit and note it here for
future reference or in case the unit is ever stolen_________________.

Parasound HCA-800 II Specifications

General

Brand	Parasound
Model	HCA-800 II
Category	Amplifier
Language	English

Summary

Unpacking and Setup

Save Shipping Carton

Retain carton and inserts for safe transport, repair, or future shipping.

Record Serial Number

Note the serial number from the rear panel for future reference or in case of theft.

Component Identification

Rear Panel Components

Identifies input jacks, speaker terminals, AC cord, fuse, and bridging selector.

Front Panel Controls

Details power switch, LED indicator, speaker switches, headphone jack, and level controls.

Installation and Connections

Placement Guidelines

Proper placement to avoid sunlight, heat, and ensure ventilation for optimal performance.

Input Connections

Connecting RCA jacks from preamplifier to the amplifier's L and R outputs.

Speaker Connections

Using bare wire or banana plugs with '5-way' terminals, ensuring proper polarity and no shorts.

Advanced Hookups and Wiring

Polarity in Stereo Mode

Importance of correct polarity when connecting speaker leads to terminals.

Multiple Speaker Hookup

Using two pairs of speakers; minimum 4Ω load, caution with loads below 8Ω.

Mono Hookup

Connecting a single speaker in mono mode, using specific terminals and the mono/stereo switch.

Minimum Mono Impedance

Recommended minimum load for mono operation is 8Ω; 4Ω is possible with caveats.

Speaker Wire Gauge

Using at least 16-gauge wire for optimal sound quality and bass response.

AC Line Cord Connection

Connecting the AC cord to a wall socket or preamp, ensuring preamp switch rating.

Operating the HCA-800II

Power Switch Operation

How to turn the unit on and off using the power switch.

Level Controls Adjustment

Adjusting gain for each channel to maximize S/N ratio and optimize preamp use.

Standby/Operation LED

Interpreting the LED status (red for stabilizing/fault, green for normal operation).

Speaker A and B Switches

Controlling speaker pairs A and B; caution with high power and load impedance.

Headphone Jack Usage

Using the headphone jack for private listening; it is always active.

Fuse Information

Internal/external fuses protect the unit; do not replace with larger values; avoid replacing internal fuses.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Breaking-in Period

Requires about 24 hours of operation for optimal sound quality and capacitor formation.

Routine Maintenance

No periodic maintenance; clean with soft cloth, twist input plugs annually.

Troubleshooting Steps

Recheck connections, test channel isolation, contact dealer for persistent issues.

Return for Service

Obtain RA number, use original packaging, ship via UPS with insurance.

Specifications

Continuous Power Output

Stereo: 100W x 2 (8Ω), 150W x 2 (4Ω). Mono: 260W (8Ω).

Current Capacity

28.3A continuous, 40A peak up to 200msec.

Frequency Response

8Hz-90kHz, +0/-3dB.

Total Harmonic Distortion

< 0.08% at full power, < 0.03% typical.

Dimensions and Weight

17 1/4" W x 3 3/4" H x 11 3/4" D, 23 lbs.

Special Features

700VA toroidal transformer, 60MHz transistors, 30,000µF caps, Cascode Class A input.

Warranty and Contact Information

Parasound Limited Warranty

Two-year limited warranty against defects; void if misused or operated contrary to instructions.

State Variations

Limitations on implied warranties and consequential damages may vary by state.

Stay in Touch

Encourages feedback and offers updates on new products.

Contact Information

Parasound Products, Inc. address, phone, and fax numbers.