Parasound HALO A31 Power Amplifier Review: A Triumph of Audiophile Engineering

In this Parasound HALO A31 Power Amplifier review, we delve into a masterpiece of audio engineering that promises to elevate your home theatre experience to new heights. As audiophiles at The Audio Tailor, we're excited to share our insights on this exceptional piece of equipment that's been turning heads in the high-fidelity community.

Unveiling the Powerhouse

The Parasound HALO A31 is a three-channel power amplifier designed to replace the left, centre, and right channels of your AV receiver. With its impressive 250 watts per channel into 8 ohms (400 watts into 4 ohms), this amplifier is built to deliver robust, clean power that audiophiles crave.

Design and Build Quality

The HALO A31's design is a testament to Parasound's commitment to quality. The 4U chassis with carry handles and included rack mounting adapters speaks to its professional-grade construction. The front panel features subtle indicators for AC power, channel status, and high temperature, providing at-a-glance information without detracting from its sleek appearance.

John Curl's Audiophile Circuitry

At the heart of the HALO A31 lies circuitry designed by the legendary John Curl. This high-bias Class A/AB operation ensures optimal performance across various listening levels. The direct-coupled design, free from capacitors or inductors in the signal path, guarantees pristine audio reproduction.

Advanced Features for Discerning Listeners

• Adjustable Gain: Up to +6dB over THX Reference level, allowing fine-tuning to match your system's requirements.
• Dual Input Options: Unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR inputs cater to various source components.
• MOSFET Driver Stage: Complemented by a JFET input stage for exceptional clarity and detail.
• Robust Power Supply: A 1.5 kVA encapsulated toroid transformer with independent secondary windings for each channel ensures stable power delivery.

Performance That Speaks Volumes

The HALO A31's performance is nothing short of spectacular. With a power bandwidth of 5 Hz - 100 kHz (+0/-3 dB at 1 watt), it covers the entire audible spectrum and beyond. The total harmonic distortion of <0.2% at full power demonstrates its ability to deliver clean, undistorted sound even at high volumes.

Connectivity and Flexibility

Connectivity is a strong suit of the HALO A31. The heavy-duty, 24k gold-plated 5-way speaker terminals ensure optimal signal transfer. The auto turn-on feature, triggered by either a 12V signal or audio input, adds convenience to your setup.

Who Is It For?

The Parasound HALO A31 is ideal for:

• Home theatre enthusiasts seeking to upgrade their front channel amplification
• Audiophiles looking for a high-quality three-channel amplifier for music reproduction
• Those with demanding speakers that require substantial power
• Anyone who appreciates the nuances of high-end audio engineering

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional power output (250W x 3 @ 8Ω, 400W x 3 @ 4Ω)
• Circuitry designed by renowned audio engineer John Curl
• THX Ultra2 certified for home theatre excellence
• Flexible connectivity with both RCA and XLR inputs
• Adjustable gain for system matching
• Robust build quality with professional-grade features

Cons:

• Premium price point (but justified by its performance)
• Large form factor may require significant rack space
• Might be overkill for smaller rooms or less demanding setups

The Audiophile's Dream Come True

The Parasound HALO A31 Power Amplifier is a testament to what's possible when no compromises are made in audio engineering. Its ability to deliver clean, powerful, and nuanced sound makes it a cornerstone for any serious home theatre or high-end audio system.

For those looking to take their listening experience to the next level, we at The Audio Tailor are here to help. Our team of experts can provide personalised advice on how the HALO A31 can integrate into your existing setup or form the foundation of a new audiophile-grade system. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for a chat about your audio journey.

In the world of high-fidelity amplification, the Parasound HALO A31 stands tall as a beacon of audio excellence. It's not just an amplifier; it's an investment in sonic bliss that will reward you with years of exceptional listening experiences.

Ready to elevate your audio setup with the Parasound HALO A31? Our team at The Audio Tailor is just a call away. Let's discuss how this remarkable amplifier can transform your listening space into an audiophile's paradise. Ring us on 1300 308 711 or drop us an email at sales@theaudiotailor.com.au. Your journey to audio nirvana starts here!