Parasound
Parasound Halo P6
Best stereo preamplifier for audiophiles integrating subwoofers into high-end systems.
The Parasound Halo P6 is a versatile stereo preamplifier designed to be the central hub of your audio system. It integrates a high-quality DAC, a phono stage supporting MM, MC, and MI cartridges, and a dedicated headphone amplifier. Its standout feature is the 2.1 channel bass management with adjustable crossovers, allowing for seamless subwoofer integration. The P6 also includes a Home Theater Bypass input for use in a combined stereo and surround sound setup. Built with an ESS Sabre32 Reference chip for digital conversion and a Burr-Brown analog resistor ladder volume control, it offers exceptional performance and flexibility.
$2500.00
More Halo Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
175
/ 560
#175 in Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
-5%
Below average
Analog Inputs
5113.5
/ pairs RCA line-level, pair balanced XLR, front-panel mm auxiliary
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking a centralized hub for diverse analog and digital sources
- Listeners prioritizing high-fidelity transparency and dynamic musical detail
- Discerning enthusiasts wanting premium DAC performance and advanced bass management
Who should skip it
- Beginners preferring a simple, plug-and-play audio setup
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level component pricing
- Modern users wanting built-in network streaming functionality
Performance breakdown
Subwoofer Integration
Advanced bass management makes blending subwoofers with main speakers effortless.
Digital Versatility
The ESS Sabre32 DAC handles high-resolution files with remarkable clarity.
Phono Flexibility
Supports a wide range of cartridges for serious vinyl enthusiasts.
System Connectivity
Balanced XLR and bypass inputs provide professional-grade integration options.
Volume Precision
Burr-Brown resistor ladder ensures smooth, accurate, and noise-free level control.
Build Integrity
Robust construction reflects the high standards of a legendary audio brand.
Key Specs
Analog Inputs
5 pairs RCA line-level, 1 pair balanced XLR, 1 front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary
Digital Inputs
1 USB-B, 2 optical (Toslink), 1 coaxial (S/PDIF)
Phono Input
Supports MM, MC, and MI cartridges
DAC
ESS Sabre32 Reference chip (ES9018K2M)
Supported Digital Formats
up to 384 kHz/32-bit PCM and native DSD256 via USB
Bass Management
2.1 channel with adjustable high-pass and low-pass crossovers
Subwoofer Outputs
1 balanced XLR, 2 RCA
Preamp Outputs
1 pair balanced XLR, 1 pair RCA
Features
- Integrated high-quality DAC with ESS Sabre32 Reference chip
- Versatile phono stage supporting MM, MC, and MI cartridges
- Advanced 2.1 channel bass management for seamless subwoofer integration
- Home Theater Bypass for flexible system configurations
- Burr-Brown analog resistor ladder volume control for precise and quiet operation
- Dedicated headphone amplifier
- Front-panel auxiliary input with gain boost for portable devices
- Robust build quality from a reputable audio manufacturer
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Parasound Halo P6 for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. Many highlight its ability to deliver a detailed and engaging audio experience, often noting its versatility across various music genres. Users frequently commend the unit's solid construction and premium feel, reinforcing a sense of lasting quality. The P6 is often seen as a significant upgrade, offering impressive performance that justifies its price point, making it a strong contender for those seeking high fidelity audio.
Know before you buy
Yes, the P6 is designed as a central hub. It features a versatile phono stage compatible with MM, MC, and MI cartridges, alongside multiple digital inputs including USB, optical, and coaxial for your streamers or CD players.
The P6 features 2.1 channel bass management with adjustable high-pass and low-pass crossovers. This allows you to precisely dial in the frequency at which your main speakers and subwoofer hand off to each other, ensuring a seamless transition.
Yes, the P6 includes a Home Theater Bypass input. This allows you to integrate the P6 into a surround sound setup, letting your AV receiver control the front speakers during movies while the P6 handles your dedicated stereo listening.
The P6 uses an ESS Sabre32 Reference DAC chip that supports high-resolution audio up to 384 kHz/32-bit PCM and native DSD256 via the USB-B input.
The P6 includes a dedicated, high-quality headphone amplifier designed to drive a wide range of headphones effectively. It is a significant step up from the standard headphone jacks found on most integrated amplifiers.
The Burr-Brown analog resistor ladder volume control is used to ensure precise, quiet operation that doesn't degrade over time like traditional mechanical potentiometers. It provides a consistent, high-fidelity signal path regardless of the volume level.
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$2500