Parasound, the preeminent manufacturer of high-end audio components,
has introduced an audio preamplifier designed for sound purists seeking
superior low-noise performance from classic stereo sources as well as
multichannel music and movies from Blu-ray, DVD-Audio, and SACD
players. It will be marketed in the company’s high-end Halo product
line.
The Parasound Halo P 7 is both a two-channel and 7.1-channel analog
preamplifier that is designed to combine outstanding audio performance
while providing a flexible and easy-to-use interface. It will satisfy
the most demanding two-channel audio purist who also enjoys
multichannel music and movies. The Halo P 7 is also a lower-cost
alternative to a surround processor if your TV can switch video inputs
and you own multi-channel analog sources such as a DVD player, SACD
player or Blu-ray player with multichannel analog outputs. The analog
bass management for stereo sources makes subwoofer and small speaker
integration easy. There is also a volume control bypass mode for users
who wish to use their home theater receiver to decode digital sources.
The Halo P 7 can also switch 1080p HDMI sources when it is linked to
the optional Zhd HDMI switcher.
“With stereo or surround sound, silence is golden,” said Richard
Schram, Parasound’s president and founder. “With its exceptional parts
quality, heavy duty construction, outboard HDMI switching option, and
balanced XLR input and output connections, Halo P 7’s noise floor is a
full 10 dB below that of a typical AV receiver, and you don’t achieve
performance like that with off-the-shelf parts. Our engineering team
has worked miracles to keep this level of quality at an affordable
price point.”
The Halo P 7 user can adjust left-right / front-rear balance, make
custom input names and match the gain for all 10 inputs, including a
front panel MP3 input. Versatility includes balanced XLR connections, a
low-noise MM/MC phono input and remote tone control. It provides RS-232
control, discrete IR codes, IR repeater input/loop jacks and three DC
triggers invite system integration.
The Parasound Halo P 7 has a very simple and elegant front panel
operation and style, with just two buttons and one knob to control most
of its functions. The controls are of extremely high quality, and the
control knob has an unusually solid, silky smooth operation, comparable
to the focus ring on a high quality camera.
The Parasound Halo P 7 is currently available from Parasound Halo dealers at a suggested retail price of $2000.
Comments (0)
