Club Classe

[RebelMan]

so everybody has installed the new SSP updates and is enjoying the new touch screen colors like Green or Red?

and now you can connect your amplifiers to the preamplifier and get the amp data?

Fun?

No biggie?

how come no chatter on this?

You want some feedback Andrew???!!! Count yourself lucky that all the feedback I had to dish out on the SSP firmware version 1.4.8 wasn't aired on these boards. LOL It was plagued with all sorts of issues and bugs that hopefully have been addressed in the latest release.

According to my Classe' contact, whom I was working with to address the problems/idiosyncrasies that I uncovered just prior to the 12/13 release of the new firmware, suggests that I will be pleased with the results. I will update my system tomorrow and since you asked ( again and again ) I will happily share with you, Classe' and anyone else interested my opinions of the updates. :B

[RebelMan]

I can say though that going from 803D's to 802D on my current setup was a well an ear opening experience. I can listen for 3 hours without the slightest hint of fatigue.

It's a beautiful thing when you can listen to your system without unnecessary restrictions.

[RebelMan]

Hi all - got it today and am having some fund but I seem to be having trouble finding something something. Got a quick question on the SSP-300 system setup menu. It does not display the "speaker setup" button in the menu. As the manual states, it should be "found via the following path: system setup/speakers". I have no speakers submenu. Any idea why this is? Am I missing something? I am using input 2 for cable and am using a coax cable from the cable box. Thanks!

The firmware was posted out of sync with the manuals. This was one of the issues I brought up with Classe'. They assured me they were already working to address this and soon should be a forgotten inconvenience.

[RebelMan]

Messing around with my new SSP-300 and I am a little confused (and I have read the manual). When choosing different audio modes like DLPII, there is an option for each that adds THX. The manual was a little confusing - it seems to state that there are advantages of using this even with only 5.1. Then it says that in order to use THX Ultra 2 Cinema mode with DPLII, DD, etc., you need 7.1. I looked for the THX Ultra 2 Cinema mode but could not find it even when inputing that I had 2 rear surrounds. Is THX Ultra 2 Cinema something that is automatic when choosing the "+ THX" mode? If I only have for now 2 side surrounds, should I never engage the THX processing?

Thanks for the help!

Taking full advantage of THX Ultra 2 Music and Cinema post processing modes will only work in an 7.1 environment, that is when ASA is enabled in Classe' terminology. However, a subset of THX post processing involving re-equalization, timbre matching and adaptive decorrelation is available in 5.1 configurations.

THX is not enabled automatically per say but it can be selected on the fly from the "modes" menu. I have a 5.1 system and I enable the "+ THX" whenever possible.

[RebelMan]

I purchaed a all Classe system about 2 months ago with B&W 802D's and I am very, very happy!!!! Every day the system sounds better from the break in process. I have an SSP 600, CDP 300 and a 5200 amp. I am amazed at the quality of the sound. Every disk that I listen to is a new experience. I prefer to listen to this system in 2 channel, but the party mode sounds outstanding as well as playing thru my entire B & W HT setup.

Congrats rickc and welcome to the club!

[RebelMan]

Classe Mono Block question???

I have an SSP 600, CDP 300 and my amp is a 5200. I have all B&W speakers and my main speakers are 802D's. The question that I have is if I added two mono block Classe amps (400 watts each) would it be a significant improvement in sound quality?? For $10K can anyone let me know what I should expect? I would continue to use the 5200 for the center and rear speakers. Then I would also set up a second zone for the other two channels. I would use the mono blocks on the main L and R speakers.

I compared the CA-2200 with the CA-M400s on a pair of 802D and noticed an modest improvement in low listening levels and bass control. If your listening room is typically sized and your intentions are to stick with the 802D and you don't plan to push the envelope of your system you would only get half of your monies worth in the upgrade, IMO.

[Andrew M Ward]

You want some feedback Andrew???!!! Count yourself lucky that all the feedback I had to dish out on the SSP firmware version 1.4.8 wasn't aired on these boards. LOL It was plagued with all sorts of issues and bugs that hopefully have been addressed in the latest release.

According to my Classe' contact, whom I was working with to address the problems/idiosyncrasies that I uncovered just prior to the 12/13 release of the new firmware, suggests that I will be pleased with the results. I will update my system tomorrow and since you asked ( again and again ) I will happily share with you, Classe' and anyone else interested my opinions of the updates. :B

Are you on the Classe' payroll yet? :rofl:

Have you suggested that your Classe' internal contact join the forum?
Tell whoever it is to join A.S.A.P. it's an eye-opener 8O

[RebelMan]

Are you on the Classe' payroll yet? :rofl:

Have you suggested that your Classe' internal contact join the forum?
Tell whoever it is to join A.S.A.P. it's an eye-opener 8O

LOL - Not on the payroll, I suppose I would have to leave the US to be so honored. I doubt he would have the time as it's hard enough to get a comment out of you now and then and you are more accessible. :P

[Andrew M Ward]

I doubt he would have the time as it's hard enough to get a comment out of you now and then and you are more accessible.

Notice the time (here in Mass) EST 3:45 am
that's about when I have time...

[Kobus]

Thanks James.

Kobus

[clewlor]

Taking full advantage of THX Ultra 2 Music and Cinema post processing modes will only work in an 7.1 environment, that is when ASA is enabled in Classe' terminology. However, a subset of THX post processing involving re-equalization, timbre matching and adaptive decorrelation is available in 5.1 configurations.

THX is not enabled automatically per say but it can be selected on the fly from the "modes" menu. I have a 5.1 system and I enable the "+ THX" whenever possible.

Thanks - perfect!

Would you mind answering another question? My model came with the 1.4.x software (can't remember the last digit) and I am trying to update it to the 1.5.2 version. I downloaded the pkg, the Downloader, and the procedures manual. I went out and bought and am trying to use a Serial to USB cable (Radioshak) since my laptop does not have a serial cable port. So, when I turn the pre/pro off, I inserted the cable and plugged the USB part into my computer (at this point the helpful folks at MSFT ask to look for the drives but I close out that window). I run the installer and it gives me the option for COM ports 1-4. In the procedure manual it states that when using a USB port you have to find out which is the appropriate input. I tried that but could not figure out which input it was. I then tried to have the Downloader look at each port and try to detect the Classe by following the procedure of powering up. It could not find it on any port.

My question is what am I doing wrong? I must be missing something. I have tried this with 2 different laptops and neither worked. I'm assuming that most people use a USB to serial cable or with a USB adaptor so this might be something that comes up often. I did contact Classe but had to leave a message. Thanks for the help!

[donlduck]

Help w/Phono Preamp for SSP-600

Looking for suggestions for and experiences with phono preamps mated to the SSP-600. I understand that Classe doesn't offer any phono modules for their AV processors. Not ready to completely give up vinyl yet. I have a Michell Gyrodeck with old Zeta tonearm and a Sumiko high output MC cartridge. Currently using Spectral DMC-10 Delta preamp but that will be going away when new system arrives. Thanks in advance for any help.

Don

[RebelMan]

Thanks - perfect!

Would you mind answering another question? My model came with the 1.4.x software (can't remember the last digit) and I am trying to update it to the 1.5.2 version. I downloaded the pkg, the Downloader, and the procedures manual. I went out and bought and am trying to use a Serial to USB cable (Radioshak) since my laptop does not have a serial cable port. So, when I turn the pre/pro off, I inserted the cable and plugged the USB part into my computer (at this point the helpful folks at MSFT ask to look for the drives but I close out that window). I run the installer and it gives me the option for COM ports 1-4. In the procedure manual it states that when using a USB port you have to find out which is the appropriate input. I tried that but could not figure out which input it was. I then tried to have the Downloader look at each port and try to detect the Classe by following the procedure of powering up. It could not find it on any port.

My question is what am I doing wrong? I must be missing something. I have tried this with 2 different laptops and neither worked. I'm assuming that most people use a USB to serial cable or with a USB adaptor so this might be something that comes up often. I did contact Classe but had to leave a message. Thanks for the help!

The steps Classe' provides to update the firmware are methodically laid out and should be followed to the letter to avoid any mishaps. Beyond this, if you are having trouble detecting the SSP device or identifying which COM port to use, you need to examine your "Ports" under Device Manager (I am assuming you are a bit familiar with this) to be certain that there are no COM port conflicts and that you know which COM port to use. Typically USB to Serial cables are assigned COM5 by default. I manually altered mine to use COM2.

[RebelMan]

Looking for suggestions for and experiences with phono preamps mated to the SSP-600. I understand that Classe doesn't offer any phono modules for their AV processors. Not ready to completely give up vinyl yet. I have a Michell Gyrodeck with old Zeta tonearm and a Sumiko high output MC cartridge. Currently using Spectral DMC-10 Delta preamp but that will be going away when new system arrives. Thanks in advance for any help.

Don

This is one of the reasons why I elected to go with a separate CP pre-amplifier and SSP-300 processor combination versus say an SSP-600. I don't know when or if I will ever get back into vinyl but if that time should come (again) I have prepared some of the ground work. Sorry this probably doesn't help you much but I can sympathize with your cause.

[clewlor]

The steps Classe' provides to update the firmware are methodically laid out and should be followed to the letter to avoid any mishaps. Beyond this, if you are having trouble detecting the SSP device or identifying which COM port to use, you need to examine your "Ports" under Device Manager (I am assuming you are a bit familiar with this) to be certain that there are no COM port conflicts and that you know which COM port to use. Typically USB to Serial cables are assigned COM5 by default. I manually altered mine to use COM2.

Maybe that is the problem - I am not that experienced with this type of operation. How did you manually change yours? When I go to Settings-Control Panel-Systems-Hardware-Device Manager- and then I look for ports and there is no designation here for that. I have a 2-year old Dell laptop. I did find ports under printer and faxes and it looks like all I have active is COM3 - the rest, 1,2, and 4 are not. The manual does not explain how to recognize which port is being used for a particular USB connection. It just says to find it.

A ha! Victory is mine! The part I was missing was downloading the drivers for the cable itself. Once I did that it had assigned itself COM4 and the rest was easy! Thanks again for the help!!

[photoman]

Turn tables & Classe

My brother-inlaw just gave me a big collection of LP's. He had a big (200+) collection and took good care of them as well. I've been wanting to try a little analog, but didn't own any records. Well I got one part of the problem licked.

I've been doing allot of reading on the subject. Opinions are all over the map. I haven't been lucky in finding a local Classe dealer with a turntable connected to it :-( So who here is using analog with their Classe gear? How does it sound? Any pre-amps / cartridges that work particularly well? Any recommends on equipment? Current system SSP600 / CA5200 for a processor/amp CDP102 CD player & 802D for main speakers. My budget give and take 3k for table, cartridge and pre-amp.

[Glen B]

So who here is using analog with their Classe gear? How does it sound? Any pre-amps / cartridges that work particularly well? Any recommends on equipment? Current system SSP600 / CA5200 for a processor/amp CDP102 CD player & 802D for main speakers. My budget give and take 3k for table, cartridge and pre-amp.

There are lots of options in your budget range. Look at tables by Rega and Music Hall. I've been happy with the following -- Audio-Technica AT-OC9 moving coil cartridge (MKII version lists for $500 but available at discount for slightly under $300), Monolithic Sound PS-2 phono stage ($599) and HC-1b power supply ($279), vintage Denon DP-59L (since 1988, MSRP $750).

[sikoniko]

I believe you can get a phono stage for a cp-500 & 700. I know those are above your price range, but if your thinking long-term...

[photoman]

There are lots of options in your budget range. Look at tables by Rega and Music Hall. I've been happy with the following -- Audio-Technica AT-OC9 moving coil cartridge (MKII version lists for $500 but available at discount for slightly under $300), Monolithic Sound PS-2 phono stage ($599) and HC-1b power supply ($279), vintage Denon DP-59L (since 1988, MSRP $750).

Thank you. I've read many posts were the owners of Rega were really happy with the product.

[photoman]

I believe you can get a phono stage for a cp-500 & 700. I know those are above your price range, but if your thinking long-term...

Is it specifically for a cp-500 / 700? Or can you use it on the processors as well?

[Glen B]

It does not appear that the SSP600 takes a phono stage. An external phono stage is not a bad thing. When you find one you really like, you won't lose it when you change preamps.

[sikoniko]

Is it specifically for a cp-500 / 700? Or can you use it on the processors as well?

Perhaps Andrew can chime in?

[sikoniko]

Andrew,

I just noticed that Classe has decided to release CANBUS support for the CDP-100, as well as the colors that were added to the SSP-600. If you were a part of this decision, I wanted to thank you. If Tom was, please thank him as well, or for that matter, thank anyone and everyone who made this possible.

The CDP-100 may be discontinued, but it is a great CDP. I wonder if Classe would ever offer an upgrade to them to switch out the tray loader to the slot loader found in the newer models, if it really made a difference... It would seem that it would just be a drive swap right? Maybe it isn't that simple. Oh well, Im still happy with it. Especially now that it was brought forward with CAN BUS support.

Now I wish you guys would release some CAN BUS documents...

[RebelMan]

Is it specifically for a cp-500 / 700? Or can you use it on the processors as well?

Strictly for the pre-amplifiers (CP-500 and CP-700) only.

[photoman]

Strictly for the pre-amplifiers (CP-500 and CP-700) only.

Thanks Rebelman. Any thoughts on what might be a good pre-amp for a SSP600?

Seems as if I'm in a bit of a dilemma. So far I've only listened to one analog setup and it was dreadful. The equipment was pretty high end, so something had to be wrong. My concern is that in order for me to get at least as good sound as my CDP102 in bypass using (analog e.g turntable) that I'd have to spend beyond my budget. I'm going into Manhattan tomorrow and I'm stopping into Lyric HiFi which is one of the cities well established Hi-Fi shops (all kinds of goodies) Their a B&W / Classe dealer as well. We'll see.

[photoman]

New Classe player

Just heard from the grape vine: new classe cdp 50x or something.
Take the 202 and the 300 and put them in one box msrp 8500.00

[sikoniko]

Just heard from the grape vine: new classe cdp 50x or something.
Take the 202 and the 300 and put them in one box msrp 8500.00

It doesnt make sense to me that there would be such a high dollar CDP when we are on the fringes of HD/BD...

[photoman]

It doesnt make sense to me that there would be such a high dollar CDP when we are on the fringes of HD/BD...

I agree, got this info from a dealer today who according to them was
what Classe was introducing. From a cost standpoint, it is cheaper then
buying both the CDP202 and the CDP300 separately

[Andrew M Ward]

It doesnt make sense to me that there would be such a high dollar CDP when we are on the fringes of HD/BD...

and yet!
There is is....

James Dean might have even seen one with his own eyes?

[sikoniko]

Did you guys let him take any pics Andrew?

[RebelMan]

Thanks Rebelman. Any thoughts on what might be a good pre-amp for a SSP600?

I would probably consider the Clearaudio Balanced or Symphono but I have heard good things from Rega as well.

[Birdy]

Birdy, it is a Classe' Delta rack that you have? Can you provide a pic?

There you go.
Don't pay attention to the cable mess I'm still playing around.

Birdy

[Kobus]

Hi Birdy. very nice.

What is that second from the bottom.

Kobus

[sikoniko]

its the external power supply for either a CP-700 or a CDP-202, whichever he has.

I love looking at classe. Sometimes I will just sit and stair at my ssp-600 and cdp-100. crazy, eh?

Beautiful pics Birdy! I bet it sounds great. What kind of speakers?

[Birdy]

Hi Birdy. very nice.

What is that second from the bottom.

Kobus

External power for the cp700. :T

Birdy

[Birdy]

its the external power supply for either a CP-700 or a CDP-202, whichever he has. Indeed

I love looking at classe. Sometimes I will just sit and stair at my ssp-600 and cdp-100. crazy, eh? Crazy too here....

Beautiful pics Birdy! I bet it sounds great. What kind of speakers? Bw 802D :T

Birdy

[RebelMan]

Just got home from Las Vegas. I'll be posting a CES recap tomorrow. Stay tuned!

[RebelMan]

Well, another fast paced, action packed information gathering CES has come to a close. This year's CES has seen some welcomed changes like the Venetian playing host to this years high performance audio and home theater exhibits. It has also seen some unexpected surprises like a visit from Hulk Hogan and a 3DTV that eschews the need for those funky classes.

Classe' also made a discrete appearance at this years CES when they showed their newest processor, the SSP-900, which they unvailed at last years CEDIA. They also announced a new high performance CD/DVD player officially known as the CDP-502.

The CDP-502 combines the audio board(s) of the CDP-202 with the video board(s) of the CDP-300 creating a one box solution for both high-end audio and video enthusiasts alike. Multi-channel DVD Audio listeners will still only have one option at their disposal, namely the CDP-300, as the CDP-502 will not come equipped with 5.1 analog outputs. The CDP-502 was primarily designed to deliever audiophile grade stereo with high-performance video processing in a single convenient package.

Here is a picture of the forthcoming player.

[sikoniko]

James,

did you get a chance to hear the ssp-900? If so, what are your thoughts?

[RebelMan]

James,

did you get a chance to hear the ssp-900? If so, what are your thoughts?

The SSP-900 wasn't hooked up and even if it were it would have been impossible to audition. Classe's presentation was held in a room more conducive to meet and greet than it was to demonstrations.

[RebelMan]

There you go.
Don't pay attention to the cable mess I'm still playing around.

Birdy

Birdy, nice setup and thanks for the pics! I noticed your rack shelves are contoured to follow the curvacious Delta chassis. Do they make an amp stand as well? Where did you pick your rack up?

[Eliav]

its the external power supply for either a CP-700 or a CDP-202, whichever he has.

I love looking at classe. Sometimes I will just sit and stair at my ssp-600 and cdp-100. crazy, eh?

Beautiful pics Birdy! I bet it sounds great. What kind of speakers?

The CDP 202 does not have an external power supply. :W

[photoman]

They also announced a new high performance CD/DVD player officially known as the CDP-502. The CDP-502 combines the audio board(s) of the CDP-202 with the video board(s) of the CDP-300 creating a one box solution for both high-end audio and video enthusiasts alike.

Looks like my source of information is reliable after all.

[photoman]

So, here's a bit of a tricky question.

One set of balanced inputs on the SSP600. So, would you add a phono pre-amp to your balanced inputs (Clear Audio Balance Phono Pre-amp) and move the CDP102 to single ended inputs Or keep the CDP102 on the balanced inputs and use signal ended inputs for a phono pre-amp.

[RobP]

Hello fellas, I know all of most of the Classe talk here is about the Delta line, which is extraordinary, but I have a question about a piece of Classe equipment that is a little older, have any of you had any experience with the CD/DVD1?

Thanks in advance!
Robert