PS Audio GCP Stereo, GCP-200 Owner's Reference Manual

®

Owner’s Reference

Instructions for use

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Document 15-043-11-1

Introduction i

®

Introduction

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Important Safety
Instructions

Heed all warnings
Follow all instructions

WARNING. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Clean only with a dry cloth.

Do not place fl ammable 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 fi t 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 periods of time.

Read these instructions

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
restricted for use by PS Audio International, Inc., its subsidiaries, and authorized agents.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

®

is a registered trademark of PS Audio International Inc., and is

Introduction ii

®

Table Of Contents

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Introduction

Getting Started

Quick Start Guide

Setup Instructions

Operation

Questions and
Answers

Troubleshooting

IV

1

2 - 3

4 - 6

7 - 8

9 - 10

11 - 13

Warranty

Service

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

15 - 16

17 - 18

Table Of Contens iii

®

Introduction

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Thank you

Inside the GCP­200

There are no
attenuators

Full control

Thank you for your purchase of the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er.

The GCP-200 is a full function, state of the art stereo preamplifi er. Its internal circuitry is based on PS
Audio’s exclusive Gain Cell™ technology. Gain Cells™ provide complete control over the gain of the
incoming audio signals. Gain Cells are capable of 130dB of variable gain with little to no noise and
distortion.

Inside the GCP-200 preamplifi er there are no typical volume controls or attenuators of any kind. The
Gain Cell will provide the perfect gain for each audio source and allows the user to adjust the gain
of the preamplifi er, rather than attenuating the signal. In a typical preamplifi er, there are mechanical
or electrical attenuators that take the high level input signal from a source (such as a CD player) and
attenuate the signal before amplifying it once again within the preamp. This classic preamplifi er control
method has been replaced by the Gain Cell™. Gain Cells do not attenuate the signal. Rather, each
Gain Cell is instructed to provide a specifi c amount of either negative, unity or positive gain in response
to either the GCP-200’s front panel volume control or the included remote control.

By varying the actual gain of the GCP-200’s internal circuitry, rather than attenuating the signal and the
re-amplifying it again, the PS Audio GCP-200 provides the shortest, cleanest audio path of any active
preamplifi er in the world.

The GCP-200 offers complete control over input gain, input naming, balance and even provides a
Home Theater bypass function that can be assigned to any input selected.

The GCP-200 should provide many years of trouble free operation and musical enjoyment for its
owners.

What you can
expect

You should expect state of the art performance and sonics from GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er. Years
of research, listening and loving attention have gone into the design and perfection of this musical
instrument.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Introduction iv

®

Getting Started

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Location

Cautions

Isolation

Power Cables

Conditioners

Once your new GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er is unpacked, you’ll need to fi nd a convenient place to set
it. Placing the preamplifi er 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 preamplifi er as you can.

There are several ways to mount the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er: on a rack shelf or on a shelf near
your sources.

If the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er is to be placed on the fl oor or carpet, make sure the unit is not
going to come in contact with water or cleaning solvents.

The GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er can benefi t from aftermarket isolation devices such as cones, spikes
and Sorbothane pads.

Once you have chosen the location for the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er 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.

We strongly recommend the use of a PS Audio xStream Power™ AC cable and a PS Power Port™
AC receptacle to feed the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er. 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 signifi cant performance improvement over the stock power cable.

We recommend the use of power conditioning equipment, such as a PS Audio Power Plant, UPC­200 or any of the Ultimate Outlet or Power Director series from PS. We do not recommend the use of
simple AC fi lter 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 GCP-200 directly into the AC
wall receptacle.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Getting Started 1

®

Quick Start Guide

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Once you have decided on the location and chosen the appropriate power cables, you are ready to
install the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er.

Power down fi rst

Connect the
inputs

Balanced inputs

We recommend that you power the entire system down before installing the GCP-200 Stereo
Preamplifi er.

Insert the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er into the system.

Connect the inputs of the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er to the outputs of your source equipment such
as CD players, phono preamplifi ers, tuner, etc. There are two choices of inputs: balanced or single
ended. There is one balanced input and fi ve 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 GCP-200 Stereo
Preamplifi er. 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 inputs

Connect the
outputs

Subwoofer
connections

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.

Connect the output of the GCP-200 to your power amplifi er. The preferred method of connection is
balanced through the XLR connectors on the rear of the GCP-200. There are two sets of XLR outputs
and two sets of single ended RCA outputs. If you wish to bi-amp or feed two power amplifi ers, it is
important to note that you should use the same connection method for each amplifi er. i.e. if you are
using balanced for one amplifi er use balanced for the second amplifi er as well. Using balanced for one
power amplifi er and single ended for the second power amplifi er can potentially result in mismatched
gain as there is 6dB more level on the balanced outputs relative to the RCA outputs.

Use the Aux Out RCA connectors on the rear of the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er to feed your
subwoofer’s low level inputs. Some subwoofers have high level inputs where the output of the amplifi er
can be connected as an input to the subwoofer. Generally there is no problem. In a few rare instances

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Quick Start Guide 2

®

Quick Start Guide

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

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 Sunfi re subwoofers can be problematic. Please
check with the factory or your dealer if you encounter these subwoofers or any problems.

Plug the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er into the power source using the AC power cable you selected
unless you are using a GCPS High Current Power Supply.

GCPS High
Current Power
Supply

Plug it into a
power source

Push the front
panel logo to turn
it on

If you have purchased the optional GCPS High Current Power Supply, connect it to the single Nuetrik
connector marked GCPS. This supply will now provide everything the GCP-200 will require for power.
If you have the GCPS connected, DO NOT plug in the line cord for AC power into the GCP-200
preamplifi er.

Use a high quality power cable to power the GCPS High Current Power Supply only.

It is advisable to use as short a power cable as possible to the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er. We do
not recommend plugging the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er 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 GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er to power up the GCP-200.

At this point you should be ready to enjoy the benefi ts of the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er!

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Quick Start Guide 3

®

Setup instructions

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Front panel setup
menu

How to enter into
the setup menu

The GCP-200 Preamplifi er Setup menu allows you to adjust the following controls:

• Input Name

• Input Gain

• Home Theater Bypass Input

The setup menu allows
you to view the following
information:

• Software
Version

To enter the setup menu,
turn the GCP 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

Press the Mute
button to accept

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).

Press the power
button to exit

At any time, you may press the Power button to exit to Setup Menu.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Setup Instructions 4

®

Setup instructions

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Input naming

Name the inputs
whatever you
want

Adjust the gain of
each input

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 are currently editing.

To edit the Input 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 fi nished 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 fi nished 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

Home Theater Bypass Mode:
This mode permits 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. Normally, your Surround
Sound Processor or Receiver would be plugged into this input.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Setup Instructions 5

®

Setup instructions

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

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 fi nished editing the home theater bypass input, hit either Input Up or Input 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 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Setup Instructions 6

®

Operating Guide

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Operating the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er is a fairly straightforward procedure.

From the front panel there are fi ve controls:

• Volume control

• Mute control

• Up selector

• Down selector

• Power button

Volume control

Mute control

Balance control

Up/Down selector

The volume control is a rotary knob that the user can turn up and down to control the gain of the
Gain Cell and the loudness of the preamplifi er. 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 fi ner 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 GCP’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 balance
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.

Power Button

The power button is cleverly disguised as the PS logo (or vice versa depending on your point of
view). Press the logo and the unit will toggle on or off. Pressing the front panel power button does

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Operating Guide

7

®

Operating Guide

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

not remove power from the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er. Rather, it places the preamplifi er in the
standby mode. This is the recommended procedure.

HT Bypass

Caution!

Phase Control

Pressing the HT button on the remote will switch to the designated Home Theater Bypass input. The
designated input can be specifi ed 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 GCP’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 GCP acts like a fi xed gain preamplifi er 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 as the sound may be too loud.

The phase control or, more properly stated; polarity control that is available through the remote
control of the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er, 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 preamplifi er to the
loudspeaker: plus to minus, minus to plus.

The phase control is important for proper sonics. Not all recordings have the proper polarity and
many Audiophiles 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 correct to your ears. The difference is most notable in the higher frequency
instruments such as cymbals and instruments that have a quick impact such as a drum. Differences
in overall imaging are typically quite apparent as well.

Dim Control

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 front panel blue light,
that control is found in a three position switch on the rear of the GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er.

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 GCP-200 Stereo Preamplifi er 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 seconds of making an adjustment to the GCP.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Operating Guide

8

®

Questions And Answers

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Should the unit
be on all the
time?

Are there any
internal fuses?

Placement?

Isolation?

The GCP-200 Preamplifi er is best left powered on at all times. The current draw is negligible and
keeping it powered on will make sure the preamplifi er always sounds its best.

There is no harm in leaving the unit on at all times as the lifespan of the GCP-200 Preamplifi er will be
unaffected by leaving it on. We recommend placing the preamplifi er in its standby mode via the front
panel logo/standby button when the preamp is not in use. We further recommend leaving power to
the GCP-200 Preamplifi er at all times.

There are no user replaceable internal fuses inside the GCP-200 Preamplifi er. The components inside
the GCP-200 Preamplifi er have lethal voltages when powered and even when un-powered. Capacitors
inside the GCP-200 Preamplifi er 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 representative. Should the GCP-200 Preamplifi er cease to function, contact your
dealer or PS Audio’s service center for help.

Placement of the GCP-200 Preamplifi er is not critical. Placement with respect to other equipment
can be important. In general, place the GCP-200 Preamplifi er as close to the source equipment as
possible. It is always preferable to have long speaker cables from your power amplifi er and short
interconnects to the amplifi er if there is a distance problem. Long interconnect cables will degrade the
performance of most preamplifi ers, surround processors or integrated amplifi ers and receiver preamp
outputs.

Isolation through the use of spikes, cones or Sorbothane feet is recommended for the GCP-200
Preamplifi er if space and budget allows. Isolation of any piece of high-end stereo and theater
equipment is always recommended wherever practical.

Front panel blue
light

Front panel power
button

Do cables make a
difference?

Is the GCPS
important?

The brightness of the blue light on the front of the GCP-200 Preamplifi er can be adjusted via the rear
panel three position switch. The switch is located on the upper left hand corner of the GCP-200
Preamplifi er 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 GCP-200 Preamplifi er’s
front panel to turn the preamplifi er on or off. We recommend keeping the rear mounted switch for the
blue light brightness at one of the two visible levels so you can tell if the GCP-200 Preamplifi er is on
or off.

Yes, cables make a difference. It is important to use the best power cables and interconnects when
operating the GCP-200 Preamplifi er.

The GCPS High Current Power Supply does make a marked improvement to the performance of the
GCP-200 Preamplifi er. Its use is highly recommended. See your dealer or contact the factory for
details.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

Questions and Answers 9

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

®

Questions And Answers

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

What voltages
can the preamp
run on?

Does the
preamp require
ventilation?

How does the DC
trigger work?

How do I dim the
display?

Which output
should I choose?

The GCP-200 Preamplifi er is specifi c to your country’s voltage. Do not use the GCP-200 Preamplifi er
on a voltage higher than it is rated for. For instance, do not take a 120 volt rated GCP-200 Preamplifi er
and attempt to use it in a 230 volt country. Failure to observe this cautionary note will void your
warranty and may damage the preamplifi er. If you need to operate the GCP-200 Preamplifi er at a
voltage other than the voltage it was designed for, contact your dealer, distributor or the factory.

The GCP-200 Preamplifi er 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 GCP-200 Preamplifi er can remotely activate another piece of equipment, such as a second power
amplifi er, by a DC control voltage. Using a small mini jack, you can use the GCP-200 Preamplifi er to
turn on and off another piece of equipment with a 12 volt trigger. When connected to a GCA power
amplifi er trigger input jack, located on the lower left hand corner of the GCA amplifi er’s rear panel (as
you face the panel), the GCP-200 Preamplifi er will now turn the amplifi er on and off with a push of the
GCP’s front panel power button.

To dim the front panel display, you must use the remote control. On the control is a dim button.

The aux line out on the rear panel of the GCP-200 is intended for driving a long length of cable. This
can be used to drive a remotely located subwoofer, for instance, without degrading the sonics of the
GCP-200’s main outputs. If you are forced to use a long length of interconnect, that is an interconnect
of 3 meters or more, it is recommended to use the aux line out RCA connectors.

There are two sets of audio outputs on the GCP-200 designed to feed your power amplifi er or
amplifi ers. If your power amplifi er has a balanced XLR input we recommend this is the input to use.
If you are driving two power amplifi ers in a biamp situation, we recommend using the same outputs if
possible. i.e. feed both power amplifi ers from either the XLR balanced or the RCA unbalanced. Mixing
the two feeds to your power amplifi er may result in a loudness disparity.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Questions and Answers 10

®

Troubleshooting

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

No sound comes
out of the preamp

Check the input

Try another
source

If no sound comes out of the GCP-200 Preamplifi er there are several areas to check:

• You are not getting an audio signal into the preamplifi er

• You are not properly connected to the power amplifi er

• There is no power from the AC socket

• You have the DC trigger jack connected without an appropriate voltage to turn it on

It is important that the GCP-200 Preamplifi er receive a high level signal from the source (CD, DVD, tuner,
etc.) or whatever you are feeding it. If you suspect an input problem, there are several possibilities:

• You have not selected the correct input. Check and make sure the input you selected is
the correct input for the source.

• The volume control is too low or the mute is on.

• The source is not playing. Check another source.

• The connecting cables are defective. Use another set.

If you still have no sound,
it may be because of a
poor connection to your
power amplifi er or your
power amplifi er may not be
working. You can start to
determine this problem by
placing your ear very close to
the speaker’s tweeter while
the GCP-200 Preamplifi er
and your power amplifi er
is turned on. You should
hear a very slight 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 GCP-200 Preamplifi er has power and its front panel
light is lit, contact your dealer, distributor or PS Audio for further assistance.

If there is a lot
of hiss in your
speaker

If there is an excessive amount of hiss or noise from the loudspeaker, it is probably not from the GCP­200 Preamplifi er as this preamp has extremely low self noise. Turn the volume of the GCP down to
zero and check again. If the hiss level is reduced then this indicated a noisy source is being fed to
the GCP-200. If the noise level remains, turn the amp off, remove the interconnect cables between

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting 11

®

Troubleshooting

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

the GCP-200 Preamplifi er and your power amplifi er and then turn the power amplifi er back on. Listen
once again to see if the noise has been diminished. If it has you may need to experiment with better
shielded interconnect cables.

If you have hum
or buzz

Finding a ground
loop

Process of
elimination

If you experience a hum through the speakers this can be caused by several things. The fi rst is the
source. If there is an excessive amount of buzz or noise from the loudspeaker, it may be caused by a
ground loop, 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 fi gure 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 GCP­200 Preamplifi er,
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.

Try a cheater plug

It could be the
cable TV

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, by the 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 on a 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 CATV ‘matching transformer’. If you have problems fi nding one, call your local cable TV company
for advice. The matching transformer will be placed between the cable TV cord and the VCR, TV or
processor. A high quality matching video transformer is available from Jensen transformers www.
jensen-transformers.com.

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.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting 12

®

Troubleshooting

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Finding the problem is 9/10th of the work of fi nding a solution.

Blue light is too
bright

If you cannot dim
the display

Phono does not
work properly

If the blue light is too bright, or if it is not lit but the preamplifi er plays, check the rear panel of the GCP­200 Series preamplifi er 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.

If you have a problem connecting a subwoofer, please refer to the quick start guide in the front of this
manual.

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 GCP-200 that has three brightness settings.

The phono input on the GCP-200 is the same as any other input. This means you cannot plug a
turntable directly into the phono inputs of the GCP-200. Turntable based music systems require a
special amplifi er known as a phono preamplifi er. PS Audio makes an excellent phono preamplifi er that
is designed to work with any preamplifi er.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting 13

®

Warranty

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

TERMS AND
CONDITIONS

Conditions

PS Audio warrants the product designated herein 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 fi rst.

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 design of any product without obligation to purchasers
of previously manufactured products and to change the prices or specifi cations of any product
without notice or obligation to any person.

Remedy

Miscellaneous

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 benefi t 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 modifi cation 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.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Warranty 14

®

Warranty

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

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 verifi cation 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 specifi c legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state.

Outside the US

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:
[e-mail]; Voice 720-406-8946; FAX: [phone].

PS Audio has authorized distribution in many countries of the world. In each country, 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 fulfi ll 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.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Warranty 15

®

Service

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

If you require
service in North
America

Obtain an RA
number

Contact
information

If you are in the
United States or
Canada

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 outside 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 [phone]
HOURS M/F 9:00 am to 5:00 pm MST
FAX [phone]
E-MAIL [e-mail]
WEBSITE http://www.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 original
packing

If you are outside
the US or Canada

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 notifi ed before the product is returned.

To purchase additional packaging, 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.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Service 16

®

Service

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

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
problems

Voltage changes

If you feel your country’s authorized dealer or distributor is either unwilling or unable to service your
PS Audio products, please contact our service department at [e-mail] or at the above
contact numbers to discuss the situation.

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 amplifi er series is set to a fi xed voltage to
match your country’s requirements and may not be changed.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Service 17

Notes

®

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

Notes

®

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.

®

Your serial
number

Your purchase
information

Owner’s Reference GCP Stereo Preamplifi er

Your PS Audio product serial number is:

Please fi ll in the original purchaser’s name, address and information.

Your dealer or
distributor’s
information

Date of purchase

Please fi ll in the dealer or distributor’s information from where you originally purchased the unit.

4826 Sterling Drive, Boulder, CO 80301

PH: 720.406.8946 [e-mail] www.psaudio.com

©2004 PS Audio International Inc. All rights reserved.