Parasound HALO A23+

Overview

The Parasound Halo A23+ is a two channel power amplifier engineered around John Curl's celebrated circuit topology, bringing genuine high current capability and a smooth, natural tonal balance to a compact chassis. It is designed to drive demanding loudspeakers with confidence, thanks to a robust toroidal transformer and a fully complementary output stage that maintains composure across dynamic peaks.

An evolution of the long running A23, the A23+ raises rated output and refines the power supply for greater grip and low frequency authority. Its Class A/AB output stage keeps low level detail clean while a high damping factor tightens bass control, making it a versatile match for both stand mount and floorstanding speakers in small to medium rooms.

With balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, a 12V trigger, and multiple turn on modes, the A23+ integrates easily into two channel systems and larger home theater installations alike. It is a purposeful, understated amplifier that lets the music and the loudspeakers do the talking.

Key Features

• John Curl designed circuitry with high bias Class A/AB output stage
• High current output for driving low impedance and demanding loudspeakers
• Large shielded toroidal power transformer for stable dynamic delivery
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs for flexible system matching
• High damping factor for tight, controlled bass
• Selectable turn on modes including 12V trigger, auto sense, and manual
• Direct coupled signal path with DC servo circuit for accuracy
• Ground lift switch and rugged gold plated connectors
• Compact rack friendly chassis that fits into stereo and multichannel systems

How the A23+ Compares

Parasound A23+ vs Parasound A31

The A31 sits higher in the Halo range as a three channel design with greater rated power and a larger power supply. It suits listeners wanting more headroom for larger rooms or a front stage in a home theater. The A23+ is the leaner two channel choice for focused stereo systems and small to medium spaces. See the Parasound A31.

Parasound A23+ vs Parasound JCM250

The JCM250 is a John Curl monoblock, offering the isolation and scaling of a dedicated single channel amplifier per speaker. It is aimed at cost no object channel separation and future upgrade paths. The A23+ delivers much of the Halo character in one convenient stereo chassis for a simpler installation. See the Parasound JCM250.

Parasound A23+ vs Parasound A52+

The A52+ is a five channel amplifier built for surround systems that need multiple identical channels. Choose it when powering a full home theater array. The A23+ concentrates its budget on two channels, making it the natural pick for dedicated stereo listening. See the Parasound A52+.

Recommended Speakers and Preamplifier

The A23+ pairs beautifully with efficient, refined loudspeakers and its natural partner is a Parasound Halo preamplifier for a full John Curl signal path.

• This compact floorstander benefits from the A23+ high current output, delivering full range balance in small to medium rooms with natural midrange tone.
• A refined stand mount that rewards the A23+ clean low level detail and controlled bass, ideal for near field and smaller room listening.
• High sensitivity Heritage design that comes alive with the A23+ dynamics, offering lively, effortless output even at modest volume settings.
• The matching Halo preamplifier completes the John Curl chain with a DAC, phono stage, and balanced outputs to drive the A23+ cleanly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much power does the Parasound A23+ deliver?
It is rated at 160 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 240 watts per channel into 4 ohms, both channels driven, with high current capability for demanding loads.

Can the A23+ be bridged to mono?
Yes, the A23+ can be bridged for approximately 500 watts into 8 ohms, allowing a pair to be used as monoblocks.

Does the A23+ have balanced inputs?
Yes, it offers balanced XLR inputs in addition to unbalanced RCA inputs on each channel.

Who designed the A23+ circuitry?
The A23+ uses circuitry designed by legendary audio engineer John Curl as part of the Parasound Halo series.

What class of amplification does the A23+ use?
It uses a high bias Class A/AB output stage, keeping the first watts in Class A for low level refinement while providing efficient high power delivery.

What speakers pair well with the A23+?
It matches well with efficient stand mounts and floorstanders such as the Spendor A2.2, Spendor Classic 4/5, and Klipsch Heresy IV.

Is the A23+ suitable for home theater use?
Yes, its 12V trigger and turn on modes make it easy to integrate for front channel duty, and it can be paired with multichannel Halo amplifiers.

What preamplifier should I use with the A23+?
The Parasound Halo P6 is a natural partner, providing a matching John Curl signal path with balanced outputs, an onboard DAC, and a phono stage.

Does the A23+ have a high damping factor?
Yes, it offers a damping factor greater than 800 at 20 Hz for tight, controlled bass performance.

What are the turn on options for the A23+?
It supports 12V trigger, audio auto sensing, and manual turn on modes for flexible system integration.

How large is the A23+ chassis?
It measures about 17.25 inches wide, 4.63 inches high, and 13.75 inches deep, and weighs approximately 28 pounds.

Can the A23+ drive 4 ohm speakers?
Yes, its high current design comfortably drives 4 ohm loads, delivering 240 watts per channel into that impedance.

What is the THD rating of the A23+?
Total harmonic distortion is rated at less than 0.06 percent at full power.

Is the A23+ an upgrade over the original A23?
Yes, the plus version raises rated power and refines the power supply for improved grip and low frequency authority.

How does the A23+ compare to the A31?
The A31 is a higher model in the range with three channels and more power, while the A23+ is the focused two channel choice for stereo systems.

Does the A23+ include a ground lift switch?
Yes, it features a ground lift switch to help address ground loop hum in complex systems.

What room size suits the A23+?
It is well suited to small and medium rooms, and its high current output allows it to handle larger spaces with efficient loudspeakers.

What is the warranty on the A23+?
Parasound provides 3 years parts and labor coverage in the USA, with cooling fans, remote controls, and displays covered for 1 year.

Does the A23+ come in different finishes?
Yes, it is available in classic black and a silver variant to match your system aesthetic.

Why buy from All Elite Audio?
All Elite Audio is an authorized Parasound dealer in Maryland, so your A23+ arrives with full factory warranty support and expert setup guidance, and this model is in stock.