Parasound has expanded its ZoneMaster custom installation amplifier line with the introduction of three new models at CEDIA Expo in Dallas, October 14-17. The six-channel Parasound ZoneMaster 650, four-channel ZoneMaster 450, and two-channel ZoneMaster 250 use the same 50-watt bridgeable amplifier circuits, offer the same quality sound, and deliver the same high levels of dependability as the company's ZoneMaster 1250 Universal 12-channel amplifier, which was introduced at CEDIA last year.
“Custom installers are very specific about amplifiers,” says Richard Schram, president and founder of Parasound. “They want reliability, easy installation, impeccable sound quality, and no service calls. The better installers like to use high-performance in-ceiling and in-wall speakers that are more demanding of amplifiers. The rugged, high-current amplifier circuits we use in this line have proven exceptionally reliable in our ZoneMaster 1250, while delivering the same outstanding sound quality which has made Parasound a favorite of audiophiles for over 30 years.”
Every ZoneMaster model uses the same Parasound-designed discrete Class AB input stage and specially selected Class D power stage to achieve sonic performance consistent with Parasound’s audiophile heritage, while meeting industry demand for absolute dependability. Each 2-ohm stable, high-current channel pair is rated at 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms, and 90 watts into 4 ohms; bridged mode can deliver 160 watts RMS into 8 ohms and 200 watts RMS into 4 ohms. Each channel pair has an independent oversized power supply for exceptional high-current capabilities.
This combination of high power and low-impedance stability enables each channel to drive multiple speakers. Detachable Phoenix-style speaker connectors accept up to 12-gauge wire, with separate connections for two speakers per channel; up to 24 in the case of the ZoneMaster 1250. The three new models are 1U (1 rack space) high and the 1250 is 2U high. Models 250 and 450 are one-half rack space wide, while the 650 and 1250 are full rack width.
In addition to full-range applications, the ZoneMaster 250 can also be configured to drive in-wall and passive subwoofers thanks to its built-in 18dB/octave low-pass crossover.
All ZoneMaster amplifiers include independent level controls for each channel as well as a speaker-level input making them compatible with any receiver or existing audio system. Installers can choose between a 12-volt turn-on trigger or audio-detection trigger for each zone independently. The 650 and 1250 also include bus inputs with loop outputs. All ZoneMaster models offer exceptionally “green” power consumption with minimal standby power consumption meeting Energy Star and European Union specifications.
The Parasound ZoneMaster Model 650 is currently available from Parasound custom installers and dealers for $1,350. The ZoneMaster 450 and 250 will be delivered in November with MSRPs of $795 and $475 respectively. The previously-introduced ZoneMaster 1250 has an MSRP of $2,395.
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