Audio Systems
Parasound
Audiophile Performance, Integrator Value — John Curl's Circuit Designs for Every System
Request System DesignOverview
Parasound has delivered audiophile-grade amplification at real-world prices since 1981. Their Halo series — designed by legendary circuit designer John Curl — delivers performance competing with amplifiers costing two to three times as much, making Parasound the value champion of high-end audio.
John Curl is the principal circuit designer for every Halo product. His credits include the Mark Levinson JC-1 and Vendetta phono stage, bringing reference-grade engineering to integrator-friendly price points.
At Peters Audio Video, Parasound is our highest-value amplification specification — extraordinary performance per dollar for multi-zone distributed audio, home theaters, and secondary listening rooms.
Why We Specify
Why Peters Audio Video Installs Parasound
Halo series designed by John Curl — one of the most respected circuit designers in audio history
JC 5 stereo amplifier delivers 400 watts with Class-A biased outputs at a fraction of competing brands' prices
Multi-channel Halo A Series (A23+, A31, A51) provide audiophile-grade theater power at integrator-friendly prices
Reliable workhorses designed for continuous operation in custom installation environments
Balanced and unbalanced inputs, 12V triggers, and rack-mountable chassis for professional integration
Exceptional value enables high-quality amplification across many zones without exponential cost scaling
Product Categories
Halo JC Series
Flagship John Curl designs — the JC 5 stereo amplifier and JC 2 BP preamplifier deliver reference-grade performance with Class-A biased operation.
Halo A Series Power Amplifiers
Multi-channel amplifiers (A23+, A31, A51) for home theater and distributed audio with integrator-friendly features and rack-mount capability.
Halo HINT Integrated
Feature-rich integrated with built-in DAC, phono stage, and subwoofer crossover — John Curl's design in one versatile chassis.
Zone Amplifiers
Compact amplifiers for distributed audio zones providing clean, reliable power for whole-home installations.
Smart Home Integration
Parasound & Whole-Home Automation
Integrates with Savant, Control4, and Crestron via 12V triggers, RS-232, and IP control for automated power management.
Rack-mountable chassis and reliable thermal design make them ideal for equipment closet installations with multiple amplifiers.
Pairs naturally with Origin Acoustics, Sonance, and Monitor Audio architectural speakers for cost-effective whole-home audio.
Luxury Home Applications
Multi-Zone Distributed Audio
A Series amplifiers provide clean, musical power across 10-20+ audio zones at a price point that makes high-quality distributed audio practically feasible for large estates.
Home Theater Amplification
The A51 five-channel amplifier delivers audiophile-grade power to every theater channel at value-oriented pricing.
Secondary Listening Room
The HINT integrated brings John Curl's circuit design to secondary listening spaces that deserve more than mass-market amplification.
Outdoor Audio Amplification
Zone amplifiers provide reliable, musical power for outdoor speaker zones driven by Origin Acoustics or Sonance speakers.
Specification Review
Choosing Parasound for Your Home
Compare the specific equipment proposed for your rooms, not the brand name alone. Parasound families discussed on this page include Halo JC Series, Halo A Series Power Amplifiers, Halo HINT Integrated, Zone Amplifiers. Availability, model specifications, firmware and third-party integration support need confirmation before a final design.
- Room fit: Request a model-level schedule showing where each component will be used, its mounting and power requirements, and any architectural compromises.
- Integration evidence: Identify the supported connection or driver for each required function. Separate physical compatibility from actual command support and test behavior when internet access is unavailable.
- Complete scope: Compare equipment, infrastructure, configuration, commissioning and documentation together. Confirm subscriptions, licenses, warranty terms and ongoing support separately in the proposal.
Useful project details: Your listening areas, preferred music services, ceiling details and whether speakers should be visible or concealed.
Request System DesignOur Process
How We Install Parasound
Discovery & Design
Every Parasound installation begins with a comprehensive consultation. We evaluate your home's architecture, existing infrastructure, and lifestyle needs to develop a detailed system proposal with room-by-room specifications and control interface design.
Architectural Coordination
For new builds and renovations, our team coordinates directly with architects and builders during the design phase — ensuring Parasound infrastructure (conduit runs, power, equipment closets) is properly planned before walls close.
Professional Installation
Installation requirements depend on the selected Parasound equipment: mounting, cabling, ventilation, power and configuration are coordinated with the project scope. Documentation records the installed components and relevant connections.
Calibration & Commissioning
After installation, we verify the specified Parasound functions and system connections. Applicable audio, video or control settings are commissioned for the room, with owner orientation and documentation appropriate to the equipment.
Why Choose Peters Audio Video for Parasound
Design-Led Specification
We recommend Parasound only where it suits the room, the architecture and how you live — and explain the alternatives we considered, so the choice is yours.
Long-Term Stewardship
Ongoing care for your Parasound system can include applicable updates, monitoring and planned changes. Services, response arrangements and eligibility depend on the written support agreement.
Charlotte-Based Expertise
Based in Charlotte and focused on luxury residential technology. Consultations and on-site work are scheduled around the agreed project scope; select larger projects are considered nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Parasound amplifiers cost?
Zone amplifiers start under $1,000. The A23+ is approximately $1,500, A51 around $3,500, and the flagship JC 5 approximately $6,000 — extraordinary value.
Who is John Curl?
One of audio's most respected circuit designers. He created the Mark Levinson JC-1, the Vendetta phono stage, and is the principal designer for Parasound's entire Halo series.
Is Parasound good for home theater?
Excellent. The A31 and A51 deliver clean, high-current power that makes Dolby Atmos soundtracks come alive — often paired with Trinnov or Marantz processing.
How does Parasound compare to Bryston or McIntosh?
Parasound delivers 80-90% of the performance at 30-50% of the price. Compelling for multi-zone installations where many channels are needed.
Related Brands We Install
Design Your Parasound System
Every Parasound installation begins with a conversation about your home, your lifestyle, and the experience you want technology to deliver.