High-Current Stereo Power Amplifier for Reference Two-Channel Audio Systems

The Parasound Halo JC5 Stereo Power Amplifier in Black is a powerful two-channel amplifier designed for serious music systems, demanding loudspeakers, and listeners who want exceptional control from a dedicated power amplifier. Designed by John Curl, the JC5 brings much of Parasound’s flagship amplifier thinking into a single stereo chassis.

With 400 watts per channel into 8 ohms, 600 watts per channel into 4 ohms, and the ability to run as a 1,200-watt bridged mono amplifier into 8 ohms, the JC5 is built for systems that need dynamic headroom, current delivery, and long-term reliability.

System note: this amplifier requires a preamplifier, DAC/preamp, processor, or compatible source component with volume control.

Highlights & Benefits

• Designed by John Curl — created by one of the most respected analog circuit designers in high-performance audio.
• High-power stereo performance — delivers 400 watts x 2 into 8 ohms and 600 watts x 2 into 4 ohms.
• Pure Class A first watts — operates the first 12 watts per channel in pure Class A before transitioning into high-bias Class A/AB operation.
• Massive power supply — uses a 1.7 kVA toroidal transformer and 132,000 µF of power supply capacitance for demanding speaker loads.
• Reference-level system foundation — the Parasound Halo JC5 Stereo Power Amplifier in Black is built for listeners who want authority, refinement, and serious loudspeaker control.

John Curl Amplifier Design, High-Bias Class A/AB Power, and System Integration

The JC5 is engineered around a high-current amplifier platform with 90 amps of peak current per channel and stable handling of difficult speaker impedance dips. That makes it a strong match for larger floorstanding speakers and revealing two-channel systems where grip, dynamics, and control matter.

The Parasound Halo JC5 Stereo Power Amplifier in Black includes both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, along with loop outputs for flexible system integration. It can be turned on manually, through a 12V trigger, or by audio signal sensing, making it practical for both traditional hi-fi and custom-installed systems.

For customers who may want even more output, the JC5 can be bridged into mono for 1,200 watts into 8 ohms. Bridged 4-ohm operation is not recommended.

Pair it with a quality preamplifier, properly matched speakers, and high-performance interconnects and speaker cables for best results.

Why Buy From Us

• Guidance on matching power amplifiers, preamps, DACs, streamers, and speakers
• Help determining whether the JC5 is the right match for your loudspeakers and room
• Support with balanced and unbalanced connection options, trigger setup, and system planning
• Real-world hi-fi advice from a team that works with serious two-channel systems every day