Las Vegas (1/08/03) – Parasound’s Halo C 2 audio/video controller
uses the world’s most sophisticated DSP engine to deliver unprecedented
levels of sonic performance and system control that are reflected in
its THX Ultra2-certification, and delivered at a price well below that
of comparable high-end controllers.
The Halo C 2’s THX Ultra2 certification attests to the inclusion
of key performance features as well as to the quality of its circuitry.
The C 2 also includes processing for all the latest state-of-the-art
surround processing technologies from Dolby and DTS, and an upgradeable
processor will allow it to be made compatible with future processing
technologies. Automatic channel calibration and an included microphone
make it possible to have the system up and running in 30 minutes. The
C 2 uses professional-grade balanced XLR audio and BNC video connections,
comes with two remote controls, and has multi-zone capability. The C
2’s most unique features are four programmable output channels
that allow the user to create unique outputs for speakers supplement
the standard 7.1 configuration.
The Parasound Halo C 2’s DSP engine provides many advanced features
and operating modes, including a patented, hybrid digital and analog
bass management system that prevents time-smear when low frequencies
from channels with varying delays are mixed into the subwoofer channel.
The processor also looks at incoming digital signals in three different
ways to determine if they are worthy of accepting to avoid unwanted
noises. It also eliminates any unwanted muting at the start of new tracks,
a problem common to most A/V processors on the market.
The Halo C 2 setup and control menu system offers complete customization
of every aspect of the processor's function. Distance and level adjustments
for each of the 7.1-channels required for THX Ultra2 home theater specifications
can be calibrated automatically using the included omni-directional
electret microphone and 25’ cord, or manually. A rear-panel expansion
port allows for the addition and integration of future technologies
without the addition of a new processor. A rear-panel RS-232 port allows
for integration with home automation systems, upgrade to the system
software and trouble-shooting via a home PC. With Parasound's HaloControl
software, the RS-232 port also allows for the use of a home PC to control
and setup the C 2, delivering far more extensive control and backup
capabilities than any other processor.
The C 2 includes digital processing of Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital
EX, DTS, and DTS-ES matrix and discrete software. Dolby ProLogic II,
DTS Neo:6, and THX Ultra2 Cinema and Music modes, with a variety of
customization options, can be used to generate multichannel sound from
stereo analog or digital sources. For audiophile listening, there is
a balanced XLR audio input, whose signal can be set to bypass the digital
processing circuitry completely, passing only through only the analog
volume control, for optimum integrity at the output jacks. The C 2 has
unbalanced analog inputs and both balanced XLR and unbalanced outputs
for eight channels (7.1).
The controller also features four additional outputs, one for a second
Sub/LFE channel, one for sub-20 Hz LFE bass to drive a tactile transducer
"room shaker," and two completely programmable output channels.
Each programmable channel has independent adjustments to mix its content
from any or all of the eight main channels, plus adjustments for level,
delay, high- and low-pass filters. Some possible configurations of these
channels are for true stereo subwoofers, a dedicated rear-channel subwoofer,
additional front or center channels, mid-ceiling speakers for improved
front-rear pans and improved spatial ambience, or mono channels for
single speakers in adjacent rooms.
The Parasound Halo C 2 features professional grade BNC connectors (RCA-BNC
adapters are also supplied) for two component video/RGB inputs and one
output, including separate horizontal and vertical sync signals. There
are composite and S-Video connections for up to six A/V components,
and four analog pairs for audio-only gear. There are eight digital inputs,
four optical and four coaxial, and both optical and coaxial digital
outputs. A set of 7.1-channel unbalanced analog inputs is provided for
multichannel SACD and DVD-Audio players. Finally, there are outputs
for a second zone, which can provide audio and video independently from
any source connected to the C 2.
All of the C 2’s functions can be adjusted either by using the
simple front panel controls or with equal capability by using the programmable
Master remote and on-screen displays. The back-lit Master remote control,
and the convenient and compact back-lit SideKick remote can each be
customized and configured using a PC and available software, allowing
them to control an entire home theater system, from DVD player to lighting.
The Halo by Parasound C 2 Audio/Video Controller is now available with
a suggested retail price of $4,000.
Parasound introduced the Halo brand in 2002 as a performance- and design-conscious
step-up from the company’s traditional product line. Founded in
1981, Parasound Products, Inc., is a privately owned U.S. company that
specializes in providing affordable audio and home theater components
to the critical listener. For more information and dealer locations,
visit http://www.parasound.com or call 415 397-7100.
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