Initial Setup

Classe Audio owner manual Initial Setup, Connect your source components to the SSP-300

We understand that you may be anxious to begin enjoying your new surround processor. Our best advice: take advantage of the considerable experience your Classé dealer offers to make sure you get all the performance you deserve.

However, if you want to set up your new system yourself, this section is designed to get the system up and running quickly. Following the steps outlined below will not fully optimize your system, since doing so involves optimizing everything in the system – not merely your surround processor. But we can get you off to a good start, assuming that the rest of the system is approximately as it should be.

Your new SSP-300 is delivered with default factory settings which this section will use to make your initial task simpler. Please note that these default settings cannot deliver all the performance and functionality that the SSP-300 offers in your particular system. For a full understanding of the capabilities of your new surround sound preampliﬁer/ processor, you should still read the rest of this manual – particularly the section describing the menu system.

1Plug everything into the AC mains, but make sure everything is off or in standby.

By plugging everything into the wall, you ensure that every component is grounded and lessen the chances of a static discharge damaging delicate electronics. However, it is important that everything be turned off before you begin, especially the power ampliﬁers. You do not want a transient from making a connection to be ampliﬁed by your power ampliﬁers and sent to the speakers.

2Connect your source components to the SSP-300.

By default, the INPUT1 button is associated with the LINE1 analog audio connection. INPUT2 button with LINE2, INPUT3 button with LINE3, etc. Analog audio sources such as tuners should be connected to any available LINE connectors. Make a note of where you are connecting your various sources.

3Connect your SSP-300 to your power ampliﬁer(s).

Connect the Main Outputs of the SSP-300 to the corresponding inputs on your various ampliﬁer channels, being careful not to mix them up. In particular, make sure the SUB output is sent only to an appropriate subwoofer – the extremely low frequencies often sent from the SUB output could damage a small speaker that was not designed for those frequencies.

4After making sure that the ampliﬁers are off or in standby, connect them to the appropriate loudspeakers.

Pay close attention to the phase of the speaker connections. Always connect red (+) terminals to red (+) terminals, and black (–) terminals to black (–) terminals.

SSP-300 specifications

The Classe Audio SSP-300 is a high-performance surround sound processor designed to cater to audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. This unit seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with an elegant design, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and superior audio performance.

One of the standout features of the SSP-300 is its advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) capabilities. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, it offers precise sound manipulation and customizable audio settings that amplify the listening experience. The processor supports high-resolution audio formats, ensuring clear and detailed sound reproduction across sources.

The SSP-300 incorporates Classe’s proprietary text-to-speech algorithms, enhancing its ability to deliver music and dialogue with exceptional clarity. It is compatible with various surround sound formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, enabling immersive three-dimensional audio that envelops the listener. This feature makes it an ideal choice for movie buffs and gamers who seek realistic soundscapes in their entertainment.

Another defining characteristic of the Classe Audio SSP-300 is its exceptional connectivity options. It boasts multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, along with balanced and unbalanced audio connections. This versatility allows users to integrate various devices seamlessly, whether it's a Blu-ray player, gaming console, or streaming device. The SSP-300 also features RS-232 and Ethernet connectivity, facilitating simple integration into complex home automation systems.

The unit’s user-friendly interface is another highlight. The highly intuitive graphical user interface, accompanied by a full-color display, provides easy navigation through both setup and operation. Customization options allow users to save different sound profiles, catering to various content types and personal preferences.

The build quality of the Classe Audio SSP-300 exemplifies luxury, with a solid chassis that minimizes resonance and vibration, further enhancing audio fidelity. The elegant front panel, featuring tactile buttons, evinces both modernity and classical aesthetics fitting for high-end installations.

In conclusion, the Classe Audio SSP-300 is a sophisticated surround sound processor that excels in performance and versatility. With its robust feature set, advanced technologies, and commitment to audio excellence, it represents a pinnacle of modern audio engineering, making it a top choice for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment experience.