HCA-855A vs Harman Kardon PA5800
The PA5800's power @ 8ω is 80W against the HCA-855A's 85W. Both share signal-to-noise (115 dB), thd (0.030%), and input sensitivity (1.0V RMS).
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The Parasound HCA-855A is a 5-channel power amplifier introduced around 1999, designed to provide high current and clean power output for home theater systems. It delivers 85 watts RMS per channel into 8 ohms across all five channels, with a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz and very low total harmonic distortion of 0.03%. The amplifier features a high damping factor of 800, input sensitivity of 1 V, and a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 115 dB, ensuring clear and detailed sound reproduction. It is capable of delivering peak current of 30 amps per channel, allowing it to drive demanding speakers effectively. The unit measures 17" wide x 5.25" high x 16" deep and weighs approximately 41 pounds. It is well-regarded for its ability to reproduce explosive transients and deliver intelligible dialogue in movie soundtracks, making it a popular choice for critical listeners and home theater enthusiasts. The amplifier is no longer in production but remains sought after in the used market for its performance and build quality.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Size, weight, and appearance
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The PA5800's power @ 8ω is 80W against the HCA-855A's 85W. Both share signal-to-noise (115 dB), thd (0.030%), and input sensitivity (1.0V RMS).
The UPA-700's power @ 8ω is 80W against the HCA-855A's 85W, its signal-to-noise 116 dB against 115 dB, its damping factor >500 against >800, and its thd 0.010% against 0.030%.
The HCA-750A's power @ 8ω is 75W against the HCA-855A's 85W, its signal-to-noise 105 dB against 115 dB, and its thd 0.060% against 0.030%. Both share damping factor (>800).
The M-504's power @ 8ω is 165W against the HCA-855A's 85W, its signal-to-noise 120 dB against 115 dB, its thd 0.003% against 0.030%, and its damping factor >100 against >800.
Rotel RB-985
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