Parasound JC 1+ black

Presentation of the Parasound JC 1+

The Parasound JC 1+ is a high-fidelity monoblock power amplifier designed by the legendary John Curl. It represents the evolution of the renowned JC 1 model, bringing significant improvements in performance and sound quality. This product is aimed at audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking an exceptional listening experience.

Design and Technical Features

The JC 1+ is characterized by meticulous circuit design and an ultra-high bias Class A/AB topology. It offers 25 W of pure Class A power, ensuring high-quality sound reproduction even at low volumes. The continuous output power is impressive, with 450 W at 8 ohms, 850 W at 4 ohms, and up to 1300 W at 2 ohms, allowing the JC 1+ to effortlessly drive demanding speakers.

The filter capacity is 198,000 uF, and the shielded toroidal transformer has a capacity of 2.1 kVA, contributing to stable power supply and rapid dynamic response. The JC 1+ uses 24 Sanken 60Mz output transistors, providing a peak current of 180 amperes for faithful reproduction of musical transients.

Technologies and Features

The JC 1+ incorporates Bybee Music Rails, active high-frequency filters for the input stage, which reduce noise and improve audio signal clarity. A new cascode circuit is employed in the driver stage for greater open-loop bandwidth and superior linearity.

A gain switch allows selection between 29 dB or 23 dB gain, offering optimal compatibility with high-gain preamplifiers or highly efficient speakers. The signal path is direct-coupled, with no capacitors or inductors, for maximum sound purity.

Sound Quality

Listeners can expect a sound that is both powerful and refined. The JC 1+ Silver is renowned for its ability to produce a spacious and three-dimensional soundstage, with precise imaging and deep, articulate bass response. The midrange is natural and captivating, while the highs are detailed without being harsh. The overall tonal balance is neutral, making the amplifier suitable for a wide range of musical genres.

Connectivity and Construction

The JC 1+ is equipped with RCA and XLR inputs, with 24 V gold-plated jacks for reliable, high-quality connections. It also features an automatic turn-on system via 12 V trigger or audio detection, facilitating integration into complex systems. The construction of the JC 1+ is robust, with a 4-bay chassis and rear transport handles. Rack-mounting hardware is included, allowing for professional installation in audio racks.

Product Advantages

• Designed by John Curl, a reference in the high-fidelity audio field.
• High and stable power, capable of driving a wide range of speakers.
• Exceptional sound quality with faithful reproduction of musical details.
• Robust construction and elegant design.
• Flexible connectivity with high-quality RCA and XLR inputs.
• Easy integration into audio systems thanks to its automatic features.

Technical Specifications

Audio Performance

• Circuit designed by John Curl
• Ultra-high bias Class A / AB operation
• Continuous output power (120 V AC):
  • 450 W at 8 Ω
  • 850 W at 4 Ω
  • 1300 W at 2 Ω
  • 0.15% THD (total harmonic distortion), continuous effective power (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
• Class A power:
  • 25 W (high bias)
  • 10 W (low bias)

Technical Specifications

• Current capacity: 180 amperes peak
• Slew rate: > 130 V / µs
• Frequency response:
  • 2 Hz - 120 kHz (+0 / -2 dB)
  • 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+0 / -0.25 dB)
• Distortion:
  • THD < 0.15% at full power
  • THD < 0.02% at typical levels
  • Intermodulation < 0.03%
  • TIM (transient intermodulation distortion) immeasurable
• Damping factor: > 1200 at 20 Hz
• Input impedance: 50 kΩ unbalanced, 100 kΩ balanced
• Signal-to-noise ratio:
  • Low bias: > 122 dB (A-weighted), > 113 dB (unweighted)
  • High bias: > 120 dB (A-weighted), > 111 dB (unweighted)
• Gain: 29 dB (normal), 23 dB (low setting)
• Input sensitivity: 1 V (unbalanced and balanced per phase)

Construction

• Stable with loads < 1 Ω
• Bybee Music Rails filters
• John Curl cascode driver stage
• R-core transformer for input stage
• Capacitors:
  • 6 × Nichicon Gold Tune 33,000 µF
  • 22,400 µF for input stage power supply
  • REL and Nichicon Muse
• Direct-coupled signal path
• Stages: JFET (junction field-effect transistor) input, MOSFET (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor) driver
• 24 bipolar output transistors 15 A
• Shielded 2.1 kVA toroidal transformer
• Harris ultra-fast rectifiers
• Servo-controlled and DC relay protection

Connectivity

• Inputs: RCA, lockable Neutrik XLR
• Loop-out RCA outputs, 24-karat gold-plated
• Trigger:
  • DC: +9 V to +12 V, 5 mA
  • Audio: 2.5 mV - 10 mV
• XLR pinout: 1 (ground), 2 (hot), 3 (cold)

Dimensions

• Height: 181 mm (without feet), 197 mm (with feet)
• Depth: 508 mm (546 mm with cables)
• Carton: 750 × 700 × 400 mm
• Weight: 37.6 kg (net), 48.5 kg (gross)

Power Consumption

• Standby: < 1 W
• Idle: 145 W (low bias), 275 W (high bias)
• Usage: 400 W (typical levels), 1500 W (maximum)