Integrate Horizon System with Your Existing Gear

By High-End Audio Products & Audio Equipment | PS Audio | Published: 2026-10-18

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to seamlessly add the PS Audio Horizon System to your current audio setup. This guide covers signal routing, gain staging, and configuration steps.

Quick answer

To integrate the Horizon System with your existing gear, connect its line-level inputs to your current preamp or source selector, then configure the system's input mapping and gain settings for each zone.

Understanding the Horizon System's role

The Horizon System is a complete, configurable audio system that can serve as a primary listening hub or be added to an existing multi-room setup. Its modular design allows it to accept signals from your current sources while driving its own speakers or feeding other zones.

Key integration considerations

Before you start, decide whether the Horizon System will replace your current amplifier or work alongside it. If you keep your existing amp, use the Horizon's preamp outputs to send a line-level signal. If you use the Horizon as the sole amplifier, connect all sources to its inputs. Also, note that the Horizon System's finish options (Black or Silver equipment, Pearl White or Sable Black speakers) let it blend visually with your existing gear.

Step-by-step integration process

1. Map your signal chain: List all your current sources (turntable, CD player, streamer, TV) and note their output types (analog RCA, digital optical, etc.). Decide which sources will feed the Horizon System and which will stay with your existing amp. Common mistake: forgetting to account for a phono stage. If your turntable needs one, ensure your preamp has it or plan to use the Horizon's line-level input after an external phono stage.
2. Connect the Horizon System to your preamp or source selector: Use high-quality RCA or XLR cables to connect the output of your current preamp or source selector to the Horizon System's line-level inputs. If you are using the Horizon as a standalone system, connect sources directly to its input panel. Checkpoint: Verify that the Horizon System's input impedance matches your source's output impedance to avoid signal degradation.
3. Configure input mapping and gain: Access the Horizon System's setup menu (refer to your manual) to assign each physical input to a source name and adjust gain levels so that all sources play at a similar volume. This prevents loudness jumps when switching sources. Common mistake: leaving gain at default values. Different sources have different output levels; adjust each input's gain to match your listening level.
4. Set up multi-room or multi-zone operation: If you plan to send audio to other rooms, use the Horizon System's line-level outputs to feed a second zone amplifier or powered speakers. Configure the system's zone settings to control volume and source selection independently. Checkpoint: Ensure your second zone amplifier is powered off before making connections to avoid hum or feedback.
5. Test and fine-tune: Play a familiar track through each source and listen for noise, distortion, or imbalance. Adjust the Horizon System's tone controls or room correction (if available) to match the acoustic character of your room and existing speakers. Common mistake: skipping the listening test. Small gain mismatches or ground loops can be hard to spot without a critical listening session.

Product facts

Horizon System: The Horizon System from PS Audio is offered in a choice of equipment and loudspeaker finishes, with the option of including the AirLens. This means you can match the system's appearance to your existing gear and choose whether to add the AirLens for network streaming, which simplifies integration with digital sources.
Horizon System