Parasound Stereo Amplifier Zpre Zone User Manual

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  
 
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
 
4
 
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
 
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 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
 
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
 
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 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
 
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
 
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  
 
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  
 
Parasound Products, Inc. 950 Battery Street, San Francisco, CA 94111  
© 2000 Parasound Products, Inc. Rev 2.0  
 

Milton Bradley Board Games 5844 User Manual
MRV Communications Mouse TS5000 4U1 V User Manual
MTD Chainsaw 1425NAV User Manual
Nilfisk Advance America Vacuum Cleaner IVT 1000CR User Manual
NordicTrack Treadmill NTL14952 User Manual
Optoma Technology Projector HD8200 User Manual
Oreck Vacuum Cleaner BB1000 User Manual
Panasonic Answering Machine KXTH111 User Manual
Panasonic Conference Phone KX TS401W User Manual
ParaBody Home Gym 827101 User Manual