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Standby/Normal Operation LEDs
The red Standby LED will light when the amplifier is turned on either with the power switch or an
external DC trigger. It will stay lit about four to five seconds while the amplifier circuits stabilize. After
that, the red LED will turn off and the green normal LED will signal that the protection relays have
switched off and that amplifier is ready to operate.
The Standby LED will also light whenever there is a short circuit or other fault that triggers the protection
circuitry. This may indicate that excess DC is present at the amplifier's input, a speaker impedance
overload, a short circuited speaker line, or possible internal fault. If this LED remains lit, remove power to
the amplifier and check all connections. During this time, the protection circuits should automatically
reset. If the red LED stays lit after you reapply power, contact your Parasound Dealer, Installer or
Parasound Technical Service for further advice.
Current Overload LEDs
The Current Overload LEDs for left and right channels will only illuminate if the unit is driven past its
maximum current capacity. These LEDs are not clipping indicators, but rather are designed to signal you
when you are exceeding the limits of your amplifier. If these LEDs light, it’s usually a sign that your
speaker impedance is too low, resulting in too much current draw from the amplifier's power supply. In
virtually all imaginable listening situations with recommended loads, these LEDs should never illuminate.
Level Controls
Each channel has its own rear mounted "set and forget" input level control. Your amplifier sounds best
with these level controls set to maximum, where they are effectively out of the audio signal path.
However, if your preamplifier has very high gain, and its volume control cannot track properly for left-
right channel balance near its minimum position, it may be necessary to reduce the input level control
settings on the amplifier. When using the HCA-1500A in a THX installation, each level control must be
set at maximum, which corresponds to 0 dB THX reference level.
Maintaining Your Parasound Amplifier
The HCA-1500A requires no periodic maintenance and has no user serviceable parts inside. To avoid the
risk of electric shock, do not remove the top cover. The amplifier's exterior can easily be cleaned with a
soft cloth moistened with water or Windex.
Main Power Fuse
Your amplifier has an external fuse located within the AC receptacle that may blow as a result of an
internal fault condition. This protects the unit from possible damage to internal parts. Never replace this
fuse with a larger value than installed from the factory. Substitution of a larger fuse may create serious
stress or damage to internal parts and will void your warranty.
In Case of Trouble
If you suspect a problem with your amplifier, first turn the amp off and check all your connections. The
trouble may be caused by another component or a defective hookup cable. If you are hearing hum out of
your speakers, turn off the amplifier and disconnect the inputs to it. If the hum goes away, it is probably
be caused by your processor or one of the source components connected to it.
