Surround Processor Reviews

Features
Processing Modes: Dolby: Digital 5.1, EX, Pro Logic II
DTS: DTS, ES Matrix, ES Discrete, Neo:6, THX
THX Certification: Yes
Audio D/A Converter: 24-bit/192-kilohertz
Dimensions
(H x W x D, inches): 4.75 x 17.5 x 16.5
Weight (pounds): 30
Price: $4,500

Connections
Inputs:
Video: Component video (3), S-video (5), composite video (4)
Audio: Coaxial digital (4), optical digital (2), AES/EBU (1), 7.1-channel analog (1), stereo analog (10)
Outputs:
Video: Component video (1), S-video (3), composite video (4)
Audio: Optical digital (2), stereo analog (5), 7.1 preamp (1)
Additional:
CAN-Bus (1), RS-232 (1), 12-volt trigger (2), IR jack (2)

At A Glance: Classé CA-5100 Amplifier

Features
Number of Channels: 5
Power Rating
(watts per channel): 100, into 8 ohms
Frequency Response: –3 dB from 10 Hz to 155 kHz
Dimensions
(H x W x D, inches): 6.75 x 17.5 x 18.5
Weight (pounds): 75
Price: $5,000

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Connections
Inputs: XLR (5), RCA (5)
Outputs: Five-way binding posts (5 pair)
Additional:

CAN-Bus, IR in & out, 12 Volt Trigger in & out, RS-232 port

Ratings: Classé SSP-300 Surround Processor and CA-5100 Amplifier

Build Quality: 98
• Run your fingers over these gorgeous hunks of audio sculpture, and you'll know they're built to last
• The curved metal remote is likewise impressively rendered

Value: 92
• At this plateau of high-end exotica, price tags tend to skyrocket, but the Classé components' MSRPs are far from exorbitant
• You can pay a lot more and not get the advantages of touchscreen control

Features: 95
• The touchscreen control is one hell of a feature
• Ergonomically friendly design your entire family can enjoy

Performance: 97
• Incredibly transparent sound
• Stupendous imaging, pitch-accurate bass, uninhibited dynamics

Ergonomics: 98
• The SSP-300 is, simply, the easiest-to-use, full-function surround processor you can buy
• Multiple listening positions create movable sweet spots

Overall Rating: 96
Fetching good looks, customizable touchscreen controls, a customizable user interface, extraordinary build quality, and high-definition sound are what 21st-century high-end componentry is all about.

General Information
SSP-300 Surround Processor, $4,500
CA-5100 Amplifier, $5,000
Classé Audio
(514) 636-6384
www.classeaudio.com
Dealer Locator Code CLS