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Parasound HCA-1203A
Parasound HCA-1203A
3 reviews
 4.67 of 5
MSRP: $ 1195.00

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Rating
Reviewed by:
Mark
(Audio Enthusiast)

Review Date
March 6, 2000

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 4 of 5

Used product for
3 months to 1 year

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Review 1 of 3

Summary:
I have used this unit for some time now, after purchasing new just over a year ago. I have been impressed with the amplifier's overall balance over the full audio spectrum. Its primary strengths in my estimation would be this exceptional balance and also the 10 year mfg. warranty. I use it to push a pair of Vandersteen 2CEs (in bi-wire configuration)and a Vandersteen VCC front array for both HT and music. It has performed flawlessly, although certain symphonic passages at high volume will push its limits somewhat. It allows the Vandys to produce listening area SPLs up to about 95 dB with no sweat (I think the combination could go a little higher without problems, but 95 is about as loud as I ever go - even with rock). Reasonably priced and recommended. I have not used the amplifier with any other loudspeakers, so I can't really comment on how it might perform with 2nd, 3rd, 4th order crossover designs or with speakers having different efficiencies, but would expect it to hold its own with other similarly priced units.

Strengths:
Good detail in all frequency ranges

Weaknesses:
None noted


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Rating
Reviewed by:
Dale
( an Audiophile)

Review Date
March 7, 1999

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

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Review 2 of 3

Summary:
Very cable sensitive (both interconnect and speaker cable), but very good quality sound within its power range. A true bargain at the used prices I have seen. Matched against Audio Research tube amp (D115 Mk II) shows only slight reduction in transparency, but the Parasound has the advantage of low maintenance (no tube replacement/rebias required). Good for music and home theater. Highly recommended, but the good sound REQUIRES well matched cables and a suitable matching speaker (I use the B&W CDM1SE).
The parasound will not drive difficult loads such as certain full range electrostatics (automatic protection circuitry kicks in).


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Rating
Reviewed by:
Jack
( an Audio Enthusiast)

Review Date
December 22, 1998

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

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Review 3 of 3

Summary:
Very powerful and detail amp. Especially bass management is very strong and tight. Well built and THX certified plus 10 years warranty. It is the best value amp you can get in USA. Don't miss it. Listen and believe it.


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