Parasound has added a pair of two-channel and four-channel power amplifiers to its ZoneMaster line. Although intended primarily for the integration channel, the new ZoneMaster ZM 2 and ZM 4 can act as handy slimline power amplifiers for multi-channel home theater applications too. Each of the amps’ channels is rated at 150 watts into 4-ohm and 2-ohm loads for architectural speakers, and 120 watts for 8-ohm hi-fi models.
“These new amplifiers mate the best of Parasound design with the cool, efficient reliability and space savings of Class D,” said Parasound president, Richard Schram. “The Danish-made ICEpower modules are the best available, offering amazing sonic performance and reliability. When paired with our premium Class AB stereo input stage and Parasound’s custom designed heat sinking, a powerful, cool-running, and rack-space friendly amplifier results. The performance rivals more costly audiophile amplifiers. Using independent power modules for each zone ensures that we can achieve this with all channels driven.”
The Parasound ZoneMaster ZM 4 has two output zones which can both operate from a common source bus or independently from two separate zone sources, and each channel has individually adjustable line-level gain controls. Loop outputs are provided to enable daisy chaining of additional amplifiers. A rear panel switch determines whether the output for each zone is mono or stereo. The Parasound ZoneMaster ZM 2 includes an 80 Hz low-pass filter which can be applied to the line-level output for powered subs. Using the A&B speaker outputs, up to four speakers can be powered from the small footprint ZM 2. Both amplifiers have 12-volt triggers and are rack mountable.
The ZM 4 will be available in early October with a suggested US retail price of $995, while the ZM 2 is available now for $495. For more information, visit Parasound.
Martin, a seasoned journalist and AV expert, has written for several notable print magazines. He’s served in key roles at Lucasfilm’s THX Division, NEC’s digital cinema division, and has even consulted for DreamWorks. Despite his illustrious career, Martin remains rooted in his passion for cinema and acting, with notable appearances in several Spielberg films, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. He currently resides in San Francisco.
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