GCC power amp series Owner`s manual.indd
Contents
1. aw Owners Reference PS AUDIO Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series Instructions for use GCC Power Amp Series Document 15 043 01 1 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Introduction i 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved Important Safety Instructions Introduction Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series A A WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE Read these instructions Heed all warnings Follow all instructions Clean only with a dry cloth Do not place flammable material on top of or beneath the component All PS Audio components require adequate ventilation at all times during operation Rack mounting is acceptable where appropriate Do not remove or bypass the ground pin on the end of the AC cord unless absolutely necessary to reduce hum from ground loops of connected equipment This may cause RFI radio frequency interference to be induced into your playback setup All PS products ship with a grounding type plug If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs convenience receptacles and the point where they exit from the apparatus Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods2. 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved Service 18 PS AUDIO Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series Notes 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS Owner s Reference Your PS Audio product serial number is Please fill in the original purchaser s name address and information a Please fill in the dealer or distributor s information from where you originally purchased the unit
3. Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Troubleshooting 13 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved i lt Owner s Reference GCC Configuration Dual Mono Class of Operation D Single ended Inputs RCA 5 pair Balanced Inputs XLR 1 pair Input Device Type PS Audio Gain Cell Input Impedance 47 5 kohms Input Sensitivity 8 5V Pre Out RCA 1 Pair Output Binding Posts PS Audio w Locking Banana Jacks Output Power 8 ohms GCC 100 100 Watts Output Power 4 ohms GCC 100 200 Watts Output Power 8 ohms GCC 250 250 Watts Output Power 4 ohms GCC 250 500 Watts wan SS eS SS Output Power 8 ohms GCC 500 500 Watts Output Power 4 ohms GCC 500 1000 Watts Gain RCA 31 to 41dB Adjustable Gain XLR 37 to 47dB Adjustable Frequency Response GCC 100 10Hz 20kHz 0 1 0 1dB Frequency Response GCC 250 10Hz 20kHz 0 1 0 2dB Frequency Response GCC 500 10Hz 20kHz 0 1 1 0dB THD GCC 100 1W lt 0 02 THD GCC 100 100W lt 0 03 THD GCC 250 1W lt 0 02 THD GCC 250 250W lt 0 08 THD GCC 500 1W lt 0 02 THD GCC 500 500W lt 0 05 Power Consumption idle lt 40 Watts Weight GCC 100 26 0 Ibs Weight GCC 250 27 5 Ibs Weight GCC 500 29 5 Ibs Dimensions W x H x D 17 25 x 4 00 x 14 00 in Specifications 12 PS Owner s Reference PS Audio warrants the product designated herein
4. We strongly recommend the use of a PS Audio xStream Power AC cable and a PS Power Port AC receptacle to feed the GCC Control Amplifier power While the supplied power cable is adequate for the task it is not going to provide the best performance Choosing any xStream Power cable will make a significant performance improvement over the stock power cable We recommend the use of power conditioning equipment such as a PS Audio Power Plant UPC 200 or any of the Ultimate Outlet or Power Director series from PS We do not recommend the use of simple AC filter power conditioners not made by PS Audio as most of these will bleach the sound and rob the music or video soundtrack of some measure of life and dynamics If you do not use PS Audio power conditioning equipment you would be advised to plug the GCC Control Amplifier directly into the AC wall receptacle 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Getting Started 1 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO Power down first Connect the inputs Balanced inputs RCA inputs Speaker Cables Check for proper polarity Subwoofer connections Quick Start Guide Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series Once you have decided on the location and chosen the appropriate power cables you are ready to install the GCC Control Amplifier We recommend that you power the entire system down before i
5. allows you to view the following inf tion Use to scroll Inrormation Press both at the same time the power button e Software to enter the setup menu Version To enter the setup menu turn the GCC off from the front panel power button Then hold down the Input Up and Input Down buttons and press the Power Button while holding the other buttons The display will then read Setup Input 1 Name To scroll through the options use the Input Up or Input Down buttons The list of options are Input 1 Name Input 1 Gain Input 2 Name Input 2 Gain Input 3 Name Input 3 Gain Input 4 Name Input 4 Gain Input 5 Name Input 5 Gain Home Theater Bypass Software Version Once you have selected the option that you want press the Mute button to enter that mode You should see the current setting on the 2nd line of the display below the option name At any time you may press the Power button to exit to Setup Menu 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Setup Instructions 4 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO Input naming Name the inputs whatever you want Adjust the gain of each input Home Theater bypass Setup instructions Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series Input Name Editing This mode allows you to edit the name of the Input on the Display The character with an underscore is the character that you
6. are currently editing To edit the Inout Name you will use the following controls Mute Button This button allows you to move to the next character When you press it you will see the underscore move to the next character When you reach the end of the line the underscore will start again at the beginning of the line Volume Control Knob Turn the volume control knob to edit the current character For your reference here is a list of the possible characters 0123456789 ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ When you are finished editing the name hit either Input Up or Input Down to go to the next option or hit the Power button to exit the Setup Menu Input Gain Editing This mode allows you to adjust the gain of each individual input relative to the other inputs You can use this control to Gain match each of your components so that they are all at the same level on the volume control To edit the Input Gain you will use the following controls Volume Control Knob Turn the volume control knob to edit the gain You can go down to a minimum of 5dB or up to a maximum of 5dB in 0 1dB steps When you are finished editing the gain hit either Input Up or Input Down to go to the next option or hit the Power button to exit the Setup Menu Home Theater Bypass Mode This mode allows you to assign one of the Inputs as a Home Theater Bypass This allows you to use your 2 channel preamp in your multichannel home theater system Normal
7. in contact with each other or ground or anything other than the speaker terminals when the amplifier is on This will shut the amp off and place it in a protection mode Plug the GCC Control Amplifier into the power source using the AC power cable you selected It is advisable to use as short a power cable as possible to the GCC Control Amplifier We do not recommend plugging the GCC Control Amplifier into an extension strip or plug extender unless it is of the highest quality and heavy duty design such as the PS Audio Juice Bar or device with similar properties Make sure the source equipment like a CD player or tuner are turned on Then press the front panel PS logo on the GCC Control Amplifier to power up the GCC Control Amplifier There is a normal 2 second delay for the amplifier once powered up At this point you should be ready to enjoy the benefits of the GCC Control Amplifier and enjoy 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Quick Start Guide 3 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO Front panel setup menu How to enter into the setup menu Press the Mute button to accept Press the power button to exit Setup instructions Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series The Gain Cell Control Amplifier Setup menu allows you to adjust the following controls e Input Name e Input Gain e Home Theater Bypass Input The setup menu
8. of time When making connections to this or any other component make sure all components are off Turn off all systems power before connecting the PS Audio component to any other component Make sure all cable terminations are of the highest quality There are no user serviceable fuses inside this product THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE ANY PS AUDIO PRODUCT REFER ALL SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL Please contact your authorized dealer distributor or PS Audio if you have any questions not addressed in this reference manual This product is manufactured in the United States of America PS Audio is a registered trademark of PS Audio International Inc and is restricted for use by PS Audio International Inc its subsidiaries and authorized agents The lightning flash with arrow WARNING Read wian a Mange is he RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK intended to tell the user that parts inside the product are a DO NOT OPEN risk of electric shock to persons WARNING The exclamation point within a triangle is intended to tell the user that important operating and servicing instructions are in the papers with the appliance j To reduce the risk of electric shock do not remove cover or back No usor serviceable parts inside Refer servicing to quaitied service personnel seanda cOn WAN ete oCo Introduction ii 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved v PS AUDIO Table Of Contents In
9. the US Owner s Reference This warranty is invalid if the factory applied serial number has been altered or removed from the Product This warranty is invalid if proof of manufacture by PS Audio International cannot be determined to the satisfaction of the company either by verification of a valid serial number and or a valid receipt that includes the serial number from an authorized PS Audio dealer distributor or agent To locate the servicer or dealer nearest you or for service assistance or resolution of a service problem or for product information or operation call or email PS Audio ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES RELATING TO THE ABOVE PRODUCT SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THIS WARRANTY THE WARRANTY DOES NOT EXTEND TO ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL COSTS OR DAMAGES TO THE PURCHASER Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or an exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you This Warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state Inquiries regarding the above Limited Warranty may be sent to the following address PS Audio International Inc 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder Colorado 80301 ATTN Customer Service Email customerservice psaudio com Voice 720 406 8946 FAX 720 406 8967 PS Audio has authorized distribution in many countries of the world In each countr
10. a light dimmer in the home poor AC power or any number of causes The quickest way to determine where to start your search is to simply turn the amp off disconnect the cables feeding its input and see if the hum goes away when you turn it back on If it does it s most likely a ground loop or buzz from a dimmer The easiest way to figure out where ground loop problems lie is by the process of elimination You need to determine where the hum or buzz is coming from within your system If the hum buzz goes away when you remove the inputs to the GCC Control Amp your next step will be to reconnect the sources one at a time listening for the return of the hum After each connection check for hum until you discover the humming culprit VCR s surround processors and any device that is connected to a television cable or satellite dish can cause a loud buzz and should always be suspect If bythe process of elimination described above you determine it is a component like a VCR that is causing the hum buzz to occur and using a cheater plug or removing the ground pin ona PS xStream Power Cable doesn t help matters it may be necessary to isolate the cable connection CATV with an isolation transformer This inexpensive device is available at most Wal Mart Radio Shack or department store type outlets and is sometimes called a matching transformer If you have problems finding one call your local cable TV company for advice The mat
11. age other than the voltage it was designed for contact your dealer distributor or the factory If the GCC Control Amplifier protection circuitry is activated the amplifier will immediately shut off and the fault will be indicated on the front panel display Check for the source of the problem then use the front panel logo switch to restart the amp The GCC Control Amplifier produces little heat under normal operation There are vent holes at the rear of the chassis both top and bottom and you should be careful not to obstruct these vents if possible The GCC Control Amplifier can remotely activate another piece of equipment such as a second power amplifier by a DC control voltage Using a small mini jack you can use the GCC Control Amplifier to turn on and off another piece of equipment with a 12 volt trigger When connected to a GCA Control Amplifier trigger input jack located on the lower left hand corner of the GCA amplifier s rear panel as you face the panel the GCC Control Amplifier will now turn the second amplifier on and off with a push of the GCC s front panel power button To dim the front panel display you must use the remote control On the control is a dim button 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Questions and Answers 10 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO No sound comes out of the amp Check the input Try anoth
12. al and do not throw away the unwanted signal Instead the GCC Control Amplifiers vary their gain in response to the user s front panel or remote commands This creates the world s first Variable Gain Power Amplifier or the GCC Control Amplifier Each of the three Control Amplifier models is a dual mono Control amplifier capable of driving nearly every loudspeaker load with ease and beauty GCC power amplifiers are based on our unique and proprietary Gain Cell technology for the input electronics and SDAT Class D switching power amplification for the output The GCC series have high efficiency digital amplification stages that allow them to run cool to the touch even while driving demanding loads and should offer years of trouble free performance of the highest standards Power ratings for each model are designated by their naming scheme into an 8 Ohm load The GCC 100 provides up to 100 watts per channel both channels driven into an 8 Ohm load and doubles its power rating into a 4 Ohm load The GCC 250 provides up to 250 watts per channel both channels driven into an 8 Ohm load and doubles its power rating into a 4 Ohm load The GCC 500 provides up to 500 watts per channel both channels driven into an 8 Ohm load and doubles its power rating into a 4 Ohm load You should expect state of the art performance and sonics from any of the GCC Series Control Amplifiers These Control Amplifiers are unmatched by any other power ampl
13. amount of hiss from the tweeter If you do not check the speaker cable amp connection Make sure the amp s front panel light is on indicating proper performance If there is no sound and you are convinced the GCC Control Amplifier has power and its front panel light is lit contact your dealer distributor or PS Audio for further assistance If there is an excessive amount of hiss or noise from the loudspeaker it is probably not from the GCC Control Amplifier as this amp has extremely low self noise Turn the amp off remove the interconnect cables from the GCC Control Amplifier and then turn the amplifier back on Listen once again to see if the noise has been diminished If it has chances are good you either need to replace your source with a quieter one or you may need to experiment with better shielded interconnect cables 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Troubleshooting 11 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO If you have hum or buzz Finding a ground loop Process of elimination Try a cheater plug It could be the cable TV Blue light is too bright Troubleshooting Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series If you experience a hum through the speakers this can be caused by several things The first is the source If there is an excessive amount of buzz or noise from the loudspeaker it may be caused by a ground loop
14. ching transformer will be placed between the cable TV cord and the VCR TV or processor Just remember take the system down to its simplest level of connection Find a way to hook the system up with as many pieces of the system missing or not connected Keep it simple and get it to the point where the hum s gone Then start adding back components one at a time until the hum returns Finding the problem is 9 10th of the work of finding a solution If the blue light is too bright or if it is not lit but the amplifier plays check the rear panel of the GCC Series Power Amplifier for the three position dimmer switch The switch is located on the rear panel upper left hand side as you face the rear of the unit 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Troubleshooting 12 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO Problems with subwoofers If the amp shuts down while playing music If you cannot dim the display Jroublesnooting Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series If you have a problem connecting a subwoofer please refer to the quick start guide in the front of this manual We do not recommend connecting the high level inputs of a self powered subwoofer to the outputs of the GCC Series Power Amplifier for some subwoofers For many subwoofers it will be fine Some like the REL subwoofers and the Carver and Sunfire type of subwoofers may
15. e of the box and an accompanying letter describing the problem and re listing the RA number must be inside the box to qualify for service To contact the PS Audio Service Department TELEPHONE 720 406 8946 HOURS M F 9 00 am to 5 00 pm MST FAX 720 406 8967 E MAIL service psaudio com WEBSITE http Awww psaudio com If you are in the United States or Canada use the following procedure 1 Obtain a Return Authorization Number R A number and shipping address from the PS Audio Service Department 2 Insure and accept all liability for loss or damage to the product during shipment to the PS Audio factory and ensure all freight shipping charges are prepaid The product may also be hand delivered to the California or Colorado facilities if arrangements with the Service Department have been made in advance Proof of purchase from an authorized PS Audio dealer distributor or agent will be required for warranty validation at the time of hand delivery Use the original packaging to ensure the safe transit of the product to the factory dealer or distributor PS Audio may at its discretion return a product in new packaging and bill the owner for such packaging if the product received by PS Audio was boxed in nonstandard packaging or if the original packaging was so damaged to the point it was unusable If PS Audio determines that new packaging is required the owner will be notified before the product is returned To purchase additional packag
16. er source If you suspect an output problem If there is a lot of hiss in your speaker Troubleshooting Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series If no sound comes out of the GCC Control Amplifier there are several areas to check e You are not getting an audio signal into the Control Amplifier e You are not properly connected to the loudspeakers e There is no power from the AC socket e You have the DC trigger jack connected without an appropriate voltage to turn it on It is obviously important that the GCC Control Amplifier receive a high level signal from the source CD DVD tuner etc or whatever you are feeding it One way to determine if this is the case would be to first go to your loudspeaker Place your ear very near the tweeter and listen for a very slight hiss If you hear one chances are good the amp is working fine connected properly at the speakers and you have an input problem If you suspect an input problem there are several possibilities e You have not selected to correct input Check and make sure the input you selected is the correct input e The volume control is too low or the mute is on e The source is not playing Check another source e Theconnecting cables are defective Use another set If you Suspect an output problem use the same technique of placing your ear very close to the speaker s tweeter while the GCC Control Amplifier is turned on You should hear a very slight
17. ifier oreamplifier combination on the market in terms of performance within their rated power levels and will provide excellent performance in either a two channel or multi channel environment Introduction iv ica dio COM www neal idio Com IAUUNTOU OLITE VV VV VV UD AUUIO OU 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO Location Cautions Isolation Power Cables Conditioners Getting Started Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series Once your new GCC Series Control Amplifier is unpacked you ll need to find a convenient place to set it Placing the Control Amp nearest to your source equipment is probably the best idea since you will want to have as short an interconnect between the source and the Control Amplifier as you can There are several ways to mount the GCC Series Control Amplifier on a rack shelf or on a shelf near your sources If the GCC Series Control Amplifier is to be placed on the floor or carpet make sure the unit is not going to come in contact with water or cleaning solvents Make sure the carpet does not interfere with airflow to the amp The GCC Series Control Amplifier can benefit from aftermarket isolation devices such as cones spikes and Sorbothane pads Once you have chosen the location for the GCC Series Control Amplifier you can use the supplied AC power cord to connect it to the AC wall receptacle or you can use an aftermarket power cord and receptacle
18. ing please contact your authorized PS Audio dealer distributor or the PS Audio Service Department for assistance If you are outside the United States or Canada and require service you must contact your country s dealer or distributor for instructions PS Audio warranties its products see warranty section worldwide Service for PS Audio products outside the United States and Canada is handled through your country s distributor or dealer Service 17 1o coOmM 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved Service PS AUDIO Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series 1 Obtain a Return Authorization Number R A number and shipping address from your dealer or distributor s Service Department 2 Insure and accept all liability for loss or damage to the product during shipment to the dealer or distributor s Service Department and ensure all freight shipping charges are prepaid If you have If you feel your country s authorized dealer or distributor is either unwilling or unable to service your problems PS Audio products please contact our service department at service psaudio com or at the above contact numbers to discuss the situation Voltage changes Voltage changes to match your country s voltage and frequency requirements to your PS Audio product are possible only at the time of purchase The GCA amplifier series is set to a fixed voltage to match your country s requirements and may not be changed
19. lack of the GCC Control Amplifier to the plus and minus of your speaker Carefully observe the polarity The plus or red terminal of the GCC Control Amplifier must eventually be tied to the plus or red terminal of your loudspeaker The GCC Control Amplifier is a non inverting amplifier design meaning it is in phase with the input signal Use the Aux Out RCA connectors on the rear of the GCC Control Amplifier to feed your subwoofer s low level inputs Some subwoofers have high level inouts where the output of the amplifier can be connected as an input to the subwoofer Generally there is no problem In a few rare instances there may be a problem which will show itself as problematic if the amp s protection comes on after hooking up the sub REL subwoofers and some Sunfire subwoofers can be problematic Please check with the factory or your dealer if you encounter these subwoofers or any problems 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Quick Start Guide 2 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO Bi amping Locking binding posts Connecting a banana style Do not ground the outputs Plug it into a power source Push the front panel logo to turn it on Quick Start Guide Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series If you wish to use a Second power amplifier to bi amp you can use the GCC as either the top end amplifier or the bottom e
20. ly your Surround Sound Processor or Receiver would be plugged into this input 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Setup Instructions 5 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved Setup instructions Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series PS AUDIO To edit the Home Theater Bypass Input you will use the following controls Volume Control Knob Turn the volume control knob to edit the theater bypass input Turn the knob until it reaches the desired Input You may also turn the knob all the way down to turn this feature off When you are finished editing the home theater bypass input hit either Inout Up or Inout Down to go to the next option or hit the Power button to exit the Setup Menu Software version Software Version This mode allows you to view the current software version 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved Setup Instructions 6 PS AUDIO Volume control Mute control Balance control Up Down selector Power Button Operating Guide Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series Operating the GCC Control Amplifier is a fairly straightforward procedure From the front panel there are five controls e Volume control e Mute control e Up selector e Down selector e Power button The volume control is a r
21. n of any product without obligation to purchasers of previously manufactured products and to change the prices or specifications of any product without notice or obligation to any person In the event the product fails to meet this Warranty and the above conditions have been met the purchaser s sole remedy under this Limited Warranty shall be to return the product to PS Audio or an authorized PS Audio repair center where the defect will be repaired without charge for parts or labor This Warranty is for the benefit of the original purchaser of the covered product if the product has been purchased through an authorized PS Audio dealer distributor or agent PS Audio will not honor this warranty without valid proof of purchase from an authorized PS Audio dealer distributor or agent and or a valid serial number as proof the product is a valid PS Audio product manufactured by PS Audio International This warranty does not cover the cost of custom installation customer instruction setup adjustments or signal reception problems This warranty does not cover cosmetic damage or any damage due to accident misuse abuse negligence or modification of or to any part of the Product without initial express consent from PS Audio This warranty does not cover damage due to improper operation or maintenance connection to improper voltage supply or attempted repair by anyone other than a facility authorized by PS Audio to service the Product Outside
22. nd amplifier for the bass If you have a GCC 100 we would recommend this be used on the top end tweeter of the bi amp speaker Use the largest amplifier for the bass frequencies Connect the second amplifier to the Aux Out RCA connectors on the rear of the GCC Series Power Amplifier These binding posts on the rear panel of the GCC Control Amplifier will accept either spade or banana type connectors To use a spade or forked connector simply unscrew the binding post place the tongs of f the spade over the threaded binding post and tighten the outer barrel of the binding post It is permissible to us a wrench to tighten the binding post down The banana style connectors should be inserted into the center hole on the rear of the binding post The PS Audio binding post is a unique locking design for banana style connectors You should not attempt to insert a banana connector into the GCC Control Amplifiers binding post while the binding post is locked closed To insert a banana style speaker cable connector loosen the outer barrel of the GCC Control Amplifier s binding post insert the banana connector and then tighten Note that once this has been tightened the banana connector is locked securely in place Do not attempt to remove the banana connector without first loosening the outer barrel of the binding post Attach to subwoofer or second amplifier to bi amp Make sure that neither the nor the terminals of the amplifier come
23. nd the unit will toggle on or off Pressing the front panel power button does 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Operating Guide 7 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO HT Bypass Caution Phase Control Dim Control Operating Guide Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series not remove power from the GCC Control Amplifier Rather it places the amplifier in the standby mode This is the recommended procedure Pressing the HT button will switch to the designated Home Theater Bypass input The designated input can be specified in the setup mode By default it is not pre assigned to any of the inputs and pressing the HT button does not activate any function The HT function disables the GCC s front panel volume control as well as the remote volume control access In this mode the volume is handled through your surround processor and the GCC acts like a traditional fixed gain power amplifier for the front two channels The balance controls are also bypassed in this mode For more information on setting up a system to use the Home Theater bypass function see the section on Home Theater Bypass in the Setup Instructions CAUTION Engaging the HT input without using a separate HT controller to control the volume may result in damage to your speakers The phase control or more properly stated polarity control that is available thr
24. not work properly when connected to the GCC Series Power Amplifiers outputs This is because the GCC Series Power Amplifier is a balanced type of output with a DC voltage as referenced to ground If the GCC Power Amplifier shuts off when playing music there are several possibilities If the music plays quite loudly but shuts off on the most explosive parts of the music or video soundtrack then the GCC Power Amplifier is probably underrated for the type of speaker you are using See your dealer or call PS Audio for advice on going to the next size GCC Series Power Amplifier in the series If the amplifier shuts down with very little volume then check the speaker cable connections The GCC Power Amplifier is so powerful that it can actually play music at low levels even into a near short on its outputs Chances are good that you have a shorted connector plus touching the minus and you should simply check carefully on the back of the speaker and the back of the amplifier If you can t dim the front panel display it s probably because you are not using the remote control The only way to dim the front panel display is to press the Dim button on the remote As soon as you change volume or inputs the display will automatically brighten and then dim back to its preset level If you need to dim the blue light on the front panel below the display there is a switch located on the rear of the GCC that has three brightness settings 4826 Sterling Drive
25. nstalling the GCC Control Amplifier Insert the GCC Control Amplifier into the system Connect the inputs of the GCC Control Amplifier to the output of your source equipment such as CD players phono preamplifiers tuner etc There are two choices of inputs balanced or single ended There is one balanced input and four single ended RCA inputs Balanced inputs require a source that has a balanced output These outputs are the preferred method of connection as a balanced XLR type of output allows the lowest noise connection and allow owners to take advantage of the high common mode rejection characteristics found in the Gain Cell of the GCC Control Amplifier Be sure to use a high quality well shielded and well regarded interconnect for this critical link PS Audio makes an entire line of excellent choices for interconnects perfectly matched to your equipment s needs RCA or single ended inputs will be the typical inputs as many sources have only this standard type of input Be sure to use a high quality well shielded and well regarded interconnect for this critical link Speaker cables are a critical link between your loudspeakers and your new GCC Control Amplifier Make sure you use only the highest quality such as a PS Audio speaker cable that will be perfectly matched to your equipment s needs Pay close attention to the polarity on the rear panel binding posts It is critically important that you match plus and minus red and b
26. onds of making an adjustment to the GCC Operating Guide 8 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO Should the unit be on all the time Are there any internal fuses Placement Isolation Front panel blue light Front panel power button Do cables make a difference What speakers can use Questions And Answers Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series The GCC Control Amplifier is best left powered on at all times The current draw is negligible and keeping it powered on will make sure the internal AC capacitors stay working properly There is no harm in leaving the unit on at all times as the lifespan of the GCC Control Amplifier will be unaffected by leaving it on We recommend placing the amplifier in its standby mode via the front panel logo standby button when the amp is not in use We further recommend leaving power to the GCC Control Amplifier at all times There are no user replaceable internal fuses inside the GCC Control Amplifier There is an internal fuse that should only be replaced by an authorized service center if needed The components inside the GCC Control Amplifier have lethal voltages when powered and even when un powered Capacitors inside the GCC Control Amplifier can retain an electrical charge after the unit has been powered down Do not attempt to get inside the unit for any reason unless instructed to do so by your dealer or an authorized service rep
27. otary knob that the user can turn up and down to control the gain of the Gain Cell and the loudness of the amplifier While this is not an ordinary attenuator its function of turning the volume up and down is the same This control has been ergonomically designed with the best human interface we could devise Its step size varies depending on where you are in the range lower ranges have larger steps and higher ranges have finer steps Above a certain point the volume will increase in 1 10th dB steps if you turn the control slowly The Mute control on the front panel or the remote will mute the GCC s audio when pressed and will be automatically deactivated and return to the original volume setting if the user turns the volume control up or down or if you press the mute button again Balance functions are only available through the remote control The blanace function is clearly marked on the remote control Up Selector and Down Selector buttons toggle through the inputs and toggle through the setup choices while in the setup mode which are displayed on the front panel The remote control allows you to select individual inputs without toggling through the choices As you toggle through the input choices the volume will automatically ramp up and down quickly so there s no loud pop noise between inputs The power button is cleverly disguised as the PS logo or vice versa depending on your point of view Press the logo a
28. ough the remote control of the GCC Control Amplifier permits the user to place the signal 180 degrees out of phase This is the same as if you were to reverse the speaker leads from the amplifier to the loudspeaker plus to minus minus to plus Some sources reverse phase but in general most sources do not The phase control is important for proper sonics Not all recordings have the proper phase and many Audiophile take the time to experiment with each CD or DVD determine the proper phase for that CD vinyl disc or DVD and note the results on the album or CD liner It is relatively easy to determine simply try one phase or the other as you are listening and determine which sounds best to your ears Dim control From the remote it is possible to dim the front panel display It is not possible to dim the blue light on the front panel from the remote control If you wish to dim the blue light that control is found in a three position switch on the rear of the GCC Control amplifier To dim the front panel display from the remote control press the Dim button on the remote If you press the Dim button again the display will blank out completely Pressing the Dim command again will bring the display back to its full brightness Activating any functions on the GCC Control Amplifier will also activate the display to full brightness but if the dim command had been pressed the display will return to its assigned dim setting after a few sec
29. r the blue light brightness at one of the two visible levels so you can tell if the GCC Control Amplifier is on or off Yes cables make a difference It is important to use the best power cables interconnects and speaker cables when operating the GCC Control Amplifier You can power nearly every loudspeaker made with a GCC Control Amplifier It is relatively tolerant of most loudspeakers loads and will not be damaged by attempting to power heavy loads If while playing music the GCC Control Amplifier continues to go into a protection mode when the music gets loud it means that the speaker load is probably too difficult for the GCC Control Amplifier and the next Questions and Answers 9 WO CONM 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved PS AUDIO What voltages can the amp run on Protection circuitry Does the amp require ventilation How does the DC trigger work How do I dim the display Questions And Answers Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series higher wattage model should be considered The GCC Control Amplifier is specific to your country s voltage Do not use the GCC Control Amplifier ona voltage higher than itis rated for For instance do not take a 120 volt rated GCC Control Amplifier and attempt to use it in a 230 volt country Failure to observe this cautionary note will void your warranty and may damage the amplifier If you need to operate the GCC Control Amplifier at a volt
30. resentative Should the GCC Control Amplifier cease to function contact your dealer or PS Audio s service center for help Placement of the GCC Control Amplifier is not critical Placement with respect to other equipment can be important In general place the GCC Control Amplifier as close to the source equipment as possible It is always preferable to have long speaker cables and short interconnects if there is a distance problem Long interconnect cables will degrade the performance of most preamplifiers surround processors or integrated amplifiers and receiver preamp outputs The outputs on Isolation through the use of spikes cones or Sorbothane feet is recommended for the GCC Control Amplifier if soace and budget allows Isolation of any piece of high end stereo and theater equipment is always recommended wherever practical The brightness of the blue light on the front of the GCC Control Amplifier can be adjusted via the rear panel three position switch The switch is located on the upper left hand corner of the GCC Control Amplifier as you face the rear panel When the switch is in the upper most position the front panel light will be the brightest The middle position of the switch provides medium brightness the lower position shuts the light off The front panel PS logo is the power button Press the blue PS logo on the GCC Control Amplifier s front panel to turn the amplifier on or off We recommend keeping the rear mounted switch fo
31. to be free of manufacturing defects in material and workmanship subject to the following conditions for a period of three 3 years from the date of purchase by the original purchaser or date of shipment to the authorized PS Audio dealer whichever comes first This Warranty is subject to the following conditions and limitations the Warranty is void and inapplicable if the product has been used or handled other than in accordance with the instructions in the owner s manual abused or misused damaged by accident or neglect or in being transported or the defect is due to the product being repaired or tampered with by anyone other than PS Audio or an authorized PS Audio repair center a The product must be packaged and returned to PS Audio or an authorized PS Audio repair center by the customer at his or her sole expense in the original packing material PS Audio will pay return freight of its choice for original purchasers b Return Authorization Number RA Number is required before any product is returned to our factory for any reason This number must be visible on the exterior of the shipping container for PS Audio to accept the return Units shipped to us without a Return Authorization Number or without a visible RA Number on the exterior of the shipping container will be returned to the sender freight collect c RETURNED PRODUCT MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A WRITTEN DESCRIPTION OF THE DEFECT PS Audio reserves the right to modify the desig
32. troduction Getting Started Quick Start Guide Setup Instructions Operation Questions and Answers Troubleshooting Specifications Warranty Service 4826 Sterling Drive Boulder CO 80301 PH 720 406 8946 service psaudio com www psaudio com Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series Table Of Contens iii 2004 PS Audio International Inc All rights reserved Thank you These are not integrated amplifiers Cool and efficient running Power ratings What you can expect Introduction Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series Thank you for your purchase of the GCC series Control Amplifier This document covers the three stereo Control Amplifier models GCC 100 GCC 250 GCC 500 Control Amplifiers are actually Variable Gain Power Amplifiers with multiple inputs Users can select any one of 5 input sources and control the gain of the power amplifier via the front panel control or through the supplied remote control which results in the volume to the speakers being controlled Control Amplifiers are unique in the world of audio and are the shortest and purest audio path of any product on the market While Control Amplifiers resemble an integrated amplifier in their operation they are not integrateds Integrated amplifiers are a marriage of a preamplifier or input volume attenuator and a power amplifier Because of the PS Audio Gain Cell the GCC Series of products do not attenuate the input sign
33. y the authorized importing retailer or distributor has accepted the responsibility for warranty of products sold by that retailer or distributor Warranty service should normally be obtained from the importing retailer or distributor from whom you purchased your product In the unlikely event of service required beyond the capability of the importer PS Audio will fulfill the conditions of the warranty Such product must be returned at the owner s expense to the PS Audio factory together with a photocopy of the bill of sale for that product a detailed description of the problem and any information necessary for return shipment PS AUDIO If you require service in North America Obtain an RA number Contact information If you are in the United States or Canada Use original packing If you are outside the US or Canada Service Owner s Reference GCC Power Amplifier Series In the unlikely event there is a problem with your PS Audio component please contact your dealer distributor or the PS Audio corporate research center to discuss the problem before you return the component to our California manufacturing facilities for repair Products shipped to either the factory or the corporate research facilities will be refused and returned freight collect if not accompanied by a PS Audio Service Department issued return authorization number RA Number Return authorization numbers must be prominently displayed on the outsid
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