O W N E R ' S
M A N U A L
Z p r e Z o n e P r e a m p l i f i e r
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Important Safety Instructions
Save these instructions for future use
This triangle alerts you to the dangerous voltages inside that may be a shock hazard.
This triangle alerts you to important operating and maintenance instructions in this manual.
ü Always use with the correct line voltage. Refer to the manufacturer’s operating instructions for power
requirements. Be advised that different operating voltages may require the use of a different line
cord and/
or attachment plug.
ü Do not install the unit in an unventilated rack, or directly above heat producing equipment such as power
amplifiers. Observe the maximum ambient operating temperature listed in the product specification.
ü Slots and opening on the case are provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation and prevent
it from
overheating, these openings must not be blocked or covered. Never push objects of any kind through the
ventilation slots. Never spill a liquid of any kind on the unit.
ü Never attach audio power amplifier outputs directly to any of the unit’s connectors.
ü To prevent shock or fire hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture, or operate it where it will be
exposed to water.
ü Do not attempt to operate the unit if it has been dropped, damaged, exposed to liquids, or if it exhibits a
distinct change in performance indicating the need for service.
ü This unit should only be opened by qualified service personnel. Removing covers will expose you to
hazardous voltages.
ü Adhere to all warnings on the unit and in the operating instructions.
ü Take precautions not to defeat the grounding or polarization of the units power cord.
ü Do not overload wall outlet, extension cords or integral convenience receptacles, as this can result
in a risk of fire or electrical shock.
ü Route power supply cords so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed on or
against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
at which
they exit from the unit.
ü The unit should be cleaned only as recommended.
Communications Notice
This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used properly, that is,
in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, may cause interference to radio and television
reception. It has been type tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device in
accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designated to provide
reasonable protection against such interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. It this equipment does cause interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment OFF and ON, the user is encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
ü
ü
ü
Reorient the television receiving antenna
Relocate the AVC-2500 away from the television
Plug the AVC-2500 into a different AC outlet so that the AVC-2500 and television are on different
branch circuits.
If necessary, the user should consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional
suggestions. The user may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications Commission
helpful: “How to identify and Resolve Radio/TV Interference Problems.” This booklet is available from the
U.S. Government printing office, Washington, DC 20402, Stock No.004-000-00345-4.
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of this precision audio component and thank you for
your selection of Parasound. The versatile Parasound Zpre is a high-quality two channel
preamplifier that is ideal in multi-zone and multi-room installations. Please take a few
moments now to read these instructions thoroughly so you may fully understand the unique
capabilities of your new preamplifier.
Unpacking
Carefully unpack your Zpre and locate the following accessories:
• Remote control handset
• Two AAA Batteries
• AC power cord
• DC trigger plug with short wire
• Warranty Registration Card
Be sure to inspect the unit for any possible shipping damage. If you notice any, contact
your Parasound Dealer immediately. Save the carton and all of the packing materials in
case you ever need to ship the Zpre for repair.
Installation and Rack Mounting
Locate your Zpre on a sturdy surface and out of direct sunlight that may interfere with
its remote control sensor. Place your Zpre away from equipment such as computers or
tuners that could cause interference.
The Zpre panel dimensions are one rack space high (1 3/4” or 44 mm) by one-half rack
width (9 1/2" or 242 mm). It will fit into a standard 19" wide equipment rack when
mounted side-by-side with another Parasound half-width component. Optional parts
are available from Parasound to rack mount the Zpre by itself or alongside another
Parasound half-width unit.
Before you proceed, locate the serial number on the rear panel and record it here for
future reference:
Serial #_______________________
Date of Purchase_________________________
Parasound Dealer _________________ Phone Number__________________________
Making Connections to your Zpre
Before making any connections, turn off the power to your source components and power
amplifier. Make certain that all your connections are secure and that there is no tension on
the cables that could cause them to pull loose later.
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Audio Input Connections 1 - 4
Each of the four Audio Inputs is compatible with any typical analog line-level source such
as a CD/DVD player, VCR, satellite receiver, tape deck, or tuner. Use shielded cables with
RCA plugs to connect the left and right analog audio outputs from your source components
to any of the four Zpre Audio Inputs.
The Audio 1 Input button on the remote control handset has a small box around it to indicate
that it has a Priority function for automatic input switching.
Video Input Connections 1 - 4
Each of the four Video Inputs is compatible with any typical NTSC/PAL composite video
source such as a DVD player, VCR, or satellite receiver. Each Video Input is selected with
its corresponding Audio Input. Use 75 Ω shielded video cables to connect the video output
from each of your source components to the appropriate four Zpre Video Inputs.
Audio 1 Priority Input Connection
The Audio 1 Input can be programmed to automatically override the other selected
audio and video inputs. If you have activated the Priority circuit for Input 1 and the
source you’ve connected to the Audio 1 Input jack is playing, the Zpre will automatically
switch to Audio (and Video) 1.
This circuit establishes priority status for Input 1 and may be engaged or disengaged at
any time by pressing and holding the Source 1 button on the remote control for 4 seconds
until the front panel Priority LED is on. When the Priority LED is off, the Priority circuit is
inactive and Audio Input 1 behaves like the other three inputs.
The Priority circuit is quite useful for multi-zone applications. For example, if you may
connect your surround controller remote zone output to a Zpre located in the remote
zone. Once the Priority circuit is on, the Zpre will automatically switch to Input 1 if
it receives a signal sent from the main zone even if you had selected Input 2, 3, or 4
for listening to a local source.
Variable Left and Right Output Jacks
The Variable Output jacks are the Main preamp outputs. They change level in response to
the Volume control on the front panel or remote control. Use shielded cables with RCA
plugs to connect the Left and Right Variable Output jacks of your Zpre to the input jacks
of a two-channel power amplifier.
Fixed Left and Right Output Jacks
The audio output signal for the selected input is simultaneously routed to the Fixed
Level Output jacks. You can connect this output to a system controller that has its
own volume control, or drive a power amplifier where you prefer to adjust the level
at a wall-mounted speaker volume control instead of at the preamplifier or amplifier.
The Fixed Output also provides a line level signal for recording to a cassette deck or
other recording device.
6
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Video Outputs
There are two Video Output jacks. The video source that corresponds to the Audio 1-4
Input you selected is simultaneously routed to the two Video Out jacks. One Video
Out jack connects to the video input of your TV monitor and the other connects to the
video record input on your VCR.
RS-232 Control
The 9-pin RS-232 External Control serial port is designed for operating the Zpre by a
system controller. This interface is compatible with software-based system controllers such
as AMX, Crestron, or Phast. Contact your Parasound Dealer or Custom Installer for more
information regarding interfacing an external control system to your Zpre. The RS-232
DC Trigger Input Jack
The Zpre can be turned on automatically when a trigger voltage is received from another
component such as a Parasound Audio Video Controller or system controller. The DC
Trigger requires an external DC voltage source between +9 Vdc to + 12 Vdc and requires
only 0.2 mA of current to turn on.
The Zpre is supplied with a DC Trigger plug connected to a short wire. The positive wire
has a white stripe on it and is attached to its center conductor. The all-black negative
wire is attached to its sleeve.
Note: When the DC trigger is connected, you cannot turn the Zpre on or off from the
front panel or remote control handset.
DC Trigger Loop Out Jack
The DC Trigger Loop Out jack passes along the voltage that is received at the DC
Trigger Input jack. It is provided as a convenience so you can “daisy-chain” the trigger
voltage to other components.
AC Line Cord Connector
The rear panel mounted IEC standard AC receptacle accepts the AC cord supplied
with your Zpre. Make sure that it is properly seated, and then connect the plug to an
uninterrupted AC power line.
7
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Operating your Zpre
Front Panel Operation
On-Off Button
Press this button once to turn the Zpre on and press it again to turn it off. When the Zpre is
turned on, one of the Source LEDs will light up.
Reminder: When the DC trigger is connected, you cannot turn the Zpre on or off from
the front panel or remote control handset.
Headphone Jack
The Zpre headphone output is driven by a high-quality headphone amplifier circuit. It
is suitable for headphones with an impedance of 8 Ω or higher. The headphone circuit
remains live, even when you press the Mute button.
Infrared Receiver
Infrared signals from the remote control are received through the infrared receiving eye.
Tone Controls and Indicator
The Bass control boosts and cuts low frequencies +/- 8 dB at 100 Hz.
The Treble control boosts and cuts high frequencies +/- 8 dB at 10 kHz.
We recommend judicious use of the tone controls. Maximum bass boost at high levels
can overload small speakers.
Balance Control
The balance control adjusts relative left and right volume. If clockwise rotation favors the
left channel speaker as you face it, the Right and Left connections between your preamplifier
and power amplifier or between your power amplifier and speakers are reversed.
Source Selector Knob and Input Indicators
Rotating the Source knob selects the inputs of the Zpre. Each green Source LED 1 – 4
corresponds to the selected input. The knob is designed to rotate continuously to cycle
through the inputs when the knob is turned in either direction.
Volume Control Knob
The Volume control adjusts listening level. If your power amplifier has gain controls,
they should be adjusted so the Zpre Volume control knob is between the “11 o’clock”
and “1 o’clock” position for most listening. The slight resistance you feel when turning
the Volume control knob is created by the motor and gears that enable the volume knob
to turn via remote control.
8
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Remote Control Operation
The Zpre remote handset controls power On and Off, Input Select, Mute, and Priority
Activation. The remaining buttons control the matching Parasound TDQ-150 FM/AM
tuner. The remote control handset uses two AAA alkaline batteries. To open the battery
compartment, simply push downward on the battery cover in the direction of the arrow. Be
sure to observe the correct battery polarity that is marked inside the plastic case.
On and Off Buttons
Separate On and Off buttons assure straightforward Zpre On and Off status. This
facilitates operation by a system controller or when programming buttons on a learning
remote control.
Mute Button
Press the Zpre Mute button to interrupt the audio signal at the Variable Output jacks. The
Mute button doesn’t affect the Fixed Output jacks or the Headphone jack output.
Source Selection Buttons
Each button selects one of the four input sources. The square around Input 1 is a reminder
that this is the input equipped with the Priority circuit.
Priority Function
If you press and hold the Input 1 button for four seconds, it activates the Priority function
and the Priority LED is illuminated. To disengage the Priority function, press and hold the
Input 1 button a second time. The Priority LED will turn off.
When Priority is Activated
Whenever a signal is present at the Zpre Input 1 Audio jacks, it always selects Input 1
audio and video. As long as an audio signal is present at the Zpre Input 1 jacks you cannot
switch to another input. If no signal is present at the Zpre Input 1 Audio jacks, you may
select another input. However, as soon as a signal reappears at the Input 1 Audio jacks,
it will automatically select Input 1.
When the audio signal at the Zpre Input 1 Audio jacks is no longer present, it will
automatically switch to whichever input you previously selected. There’s a five-second
delay that prevents the Zpre from switching to another input during the silence between
tracks while playing a CD.
When Priority is Inactive
Input 1 operates the same as Inputs 2 - 4.
Volume ꢁ ꢀ Buttons
The Volume ꢁ ꢀ buttons increase or decrease the signal level at the Variable Output
jacks.
9
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Maintaining Your Parasound Zpre
Your Parasound Zpre Zone Preamplifier requires no periodic maintenance and has no user
serviceable parts inside. The exterior can easily be cleaned with a soft cloth moistened
only with a few drops of water or glass cleaner.
In Case of Trouble
If you suspect a problem with your Zpre, first turn off your power amplifier and check
all your connections. Another component or even a defective hookup cable may be
causing the trouble.
If All Else Fails
Call your Parasound dealer or the Parasound Technical Service Department. We can
usually suggest other diagnostic tests you can easily perform. If we determine that your
Zpre should be returned to Parasound or an Authorized Parasound Warranty Center for
inspection and possible servicing, we can provide the location of a warranty center near
you or give you shipping instructions for returning the unit to Parasound. Authorized
Warranty Centers are also listed on our website.
Returning your Zpre to Parasound for Service
If we determine that you should send your Zpre to Parasound you will need to obtain
a Return Authorization (RA) number. The RA number must be clearly marked on the
outer carton only. Ship the unit with adequate insurance and a copy of your purchase
receipt inside to validate your warranty. You must provide a copy of the original purchase
receipt from an Authorized Parasound Dealer for warranty repair. Units purchased from
unauthorized dealers are not eligible for warranty repair. Units that arrive without an
RA number, without a suitable shipping carton or with evidence of improper internal
packing materials may be refused. We do not accept collect shipments. After repair
under warranty, the unit will be returned to you via prepaid UPS within the Continental
United States.
In the case of a non-warranty repair, contact us and we will advise you of the repair
charges before you ship the unit to us. The same packing and Return Authorization
number requirements apply.
10
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Zpre Specifications
Frequency Response
5 Hz – 100 kHz, +0/-3 dB,
Total Harmonic Distortion
< 0.003%, 20 Hz - 20 kHz
IM Distortion
< 0.005%
TIM
Unmeasurable
Maximum Output
9 V before clipping
Input Impedance
10 kΩ
Input Sensitivity
200 mV ±5%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
> 102 dB, A-weighted
> 93 dB, Unweighted
Maximum Hum
> 0.01 mV
Crosstalk
> 76 dB, 20 kHz
Video Frequency Response
- 3dB @ 45 MHz (100 kHz - 0 dB reference)
Dimensions
9 1/2" W x 1 3/4" H x 7" D (2 ꢀ” high with feet)
Power Requirements
110 V - 120 V AC, 8 W
Features and specifications subject to change without notice
11
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Parasound Products, Inc. 950 Battery Street, San Francisco, CA 94111
© 2000 Parasound Products, Inc. Rev 2.0
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
|