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The Parasound HCA-800 (and its updated HCA-800II variant) is a vintage 1990s high-current Class A/AB stereo power amplifier. This amplifier is in very nice condition. Just serviced, Low voltage power supply recapped, repaired power switch, fully bench tested, cleaned and lubed. Looks and sounds great. Usual age related scratches, scuffs, dingsKey Specifications • Power Output: • 100 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo) • ~150 watts per channel into 4Ω • 260 watts into 8Ω (mono / bridged) • Frequency Response: 8 Hz to 90 kHz • Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.08% • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 104 dB • Damping Factor: 100 • Power Supply: Built with a 700 VA toroidal transformer and large reservoir capacitance (approx. 30,000 µF total). • Dimensions & Weight: • Dimensions: 17-1/4" x 3-3/4" x 11-3/4" • Weight: 23–25 lbs
This is a fair ask, landing exactly at the US$389 median of 370 comparable listings—not a bargain, but certainly not overpriced. The “serviced” claim is what makes the price reasonable; ideally, the seller should specify what was done and provide a receipt or service date.
The HCA-800 is a well-regarded, high-current amplifier with clean, controlled sound, strong bass grip, and useful power for demanding speakers. It delivers roughly 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and can run bridged mono, adding flexibility. Given its age, verified service is meaningful: protection-circuit capacitors and output relays are known areas to check. If it operates quietly, leaves protection mode normally, and the service was substantive, this is a sensible classic Parasound buy.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Parasound, an enduring American hi-fi brand, traces its roots to 1981 when Richard Schram founded it in San Francisco, California. Drawing from his experience in consumer electronics retail and engineering trips to Asia, Schram aimed to bridge the gap between exorbitantly priced high-end gear and lackluster budget options. His vision crystallized through savvy U.S. design paired with cost-effective manufacturing in Taiwan, establishing Parasound as a beacon of accessible excellence from the outset.
The brand excels in amplifiers and preamplifiers, its core stronghold, with the acclaimed Halo series embodying decades of refinement. Iconic collaborations with legendary designer John Curl—starting in 1989—elevate power amps, phono stages like the JC3+, and processors to reference-level performance. While not venturing into speakers, turntables, DACs, headphones, or cables, Parasound's focused lineup delivers uncolored, dynamic sound through innovative circuits and robust builds.
Parasound occupies a prime mid-to-high-end niche, revered for punching far above its price weight with reliability that rivals pricier boutique rivals. Audiophiles and critics praise its value-driven sonic fidelity, build quality, and longevity, fostering fierce loyalty worldwide. Even under new ownership since 2022, it remains the discerning buyer's choice for high-performance audio without prestige-driven excess.
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