Main balance

brightness

timeout

language

The brightness setting of the CP-500 has three possible values: low, medium, and high. Select the appropriate setting based on the level of ambient light typically found in your listening room while using the system. A high brightness setting usually works best in brightly-lit rooms; you may ﬁnd that a lower setting is less visually intrusive under more subdued lighting conditions.

If you prefer listening to music in a dimly-lit or darkened room, you may ﬁnd even the low brightness setting of the display somewhat distracting. If so, you can vary the timeout of the backlighting so as to turn it off entirely after a period of inactivity you select.

In this context, activity refers to any use of the user interface. This includes hard buttons, the LCD touchscreen, and the remote control.

For example, if you reduce the timeout to its minimum setting, the backlighting will illuminate the display as soon as you interact with any of the CP-500 controls, and stay on for only three seconds – just long enough for you to check on something. If you continue to use any of the controls (at least once every three seconds), the display will remain lit. It will then extinguish itself after three seconds of inactivity on your part.

If you prefer the display of the CP-500 to remain on whenever not in standby, choose the never timeout setting. The lamp in the LCD display was designed for harsh automotive environments and will give you many years of reliable operation. If you plan to leave the unit on continuously, however, we recommend that you keep the timeout delay set to less than one minute. (Note that setting the brightness to a lower setting does not increase the life of the lamp.)

The language menu offers you any of the different languages supported by the CP-500 GUI. Classé has provided our international distributors with a software tool that makes it possible for them to customize the translations to suit their local customs and terminology, in an effort to ensure that the CP-500’s operation is as intuitive to use in every country as it is in our home country of Canada.

The main balance control gives you both a numeric and a graphical indication of the current balance setting for the CP-500.

Some recordings are not balanced particularly well between the left and right channels. If the image presented by a particular recording seems heavily weighted to the left (for example), you can restore a more natural perspective with the balance control. To shift the image to the right, touch the right>> button one or more times as needed to correct the perceived imbalance.

CP-500 specifications

The Classe Audio CP-500 is a high-performance stereo preamplifier that has become a staple in the audiophile community due to its impressive sound quality and innovative design. This preamp is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, aimed at delivering pure audio fidelity and an immersive listening experience.

One of the standout features of the CP-500 is its lightweight yet robust chassis, which is designed to minimize resonance and interference, ensuring that the signal path remains clean. The unit incorporates a sophisticated custom power supply that provides stable and reliable energy, reducing noise and enhancing overall performance.

At the heart of the CP-500's design is its high-quality analog signal path. The preamplifier uses high-grade components, including premium capacitors and resistors, to retain the integrity of the audio signal. This design philosophy is reflected in the preamp's exceptional frequency response and low total harmonic distortion (THD), making it a superb choice for discerning listeners who demand the best from their audio systems.

The CP-500 also features balanced and unbalanced inputs and outputs, providing flexibility for various system configurations. The inclusion of both XLR and RCA connectivity allows users to seamlessly integrate the preamp into their setups, whether they use studio-grade equipment or home audio devices. Additionally, it supports multiple source inputs, making it versatile for any audio collection.

Another notable characteristic is the preamp's intuitive user interface. The front panel includes a clear display and ergonomically placed controls, making it easy to navigate through various settings and source choices. The remote control adds convenience, allowing users to adjust volume levels and switch inputs from anywhere in the listening environment.

Classe Audio places a strong emphasis on compatibility, particularly with their amplifiers, ensuring that the CP-500 works harmoniously with their line of high-performance power amplifiers. This synergy allows for an optimal audio experience, highlighting the capabilities of both the preamp and amplifier, resulting in sound that is both dynamic and nuanced.

In conclusion, the Classe Audio CP-500 preamplifier is a prime example of high-fidelity audio engineering. Its combination of superior build quality, advanced technology, and elegant design makes it an excellent choice for audiophiles seeking to elevate their sound systems. Whether used for critical listening or simply enjoying music, the CP-500 delivers an exquisite sonic experience that stands the test of time.