Warm up/break-in period

ENGLISH

please read this manual…

The CA-5100 includes protection circuitry that will prevent the ampliﬁer from operating at dangerously high or low voltages.

•At startup: the AC mains voltage must be within a range of approximately -15% to +10% of its nominal value at startup, or the ampliﬁer will not turn on. For example, a 120V unit requires the AC mains to be between approximately 95V–135V in order to turn on.

•Over-voltage during operation: if the AC mains voltage surges by roughly 10% or more during operation, the ampliﬁer will enter protection mode and shut down. The Standby LED will ﬂash to indicate the protection mode has been engaged.

•Under-voltage during operation: if the AC mains voltage sags by 15% or more, the ampliﬁer will continue to play (since this does not present a particular danger to the ampliﬁer), but note that

it may not be able to achieve its usual standard of performance under these compromised conditions. The Standby LED will ﬂash to indicate the condition.

Your new Classé power ampliﬁer will deliver outstanding performance immediately. However, you should expect to hear it improve somewhat as it reaches its normal operating temperatures and its various components “break-in.” It has been our experience that the greatest changes occur within the ﬁrst 300 hours, as the ampliﬁer reaches thermal equilibrium and the capacitors fully form. After this initial break-in period, the performance of your new product should remain quite consistent for years to come.

The only exception to this rule is if the unit is placed in standby or unplugged for an extended period of time, allowing it to cool down. Depending on the degree of cooling involved, you should expect a brief warm-up period before the power ampliﬁer’s sound quality is at its best. Unless your ampliﬁer was allowed to become quite chilled, subsequent thermal re-stabilization should not take long. Fortunately, you should never have to repeat the initial 300 hour break-in period.

Please take a few minutes to review this manual, and to familiarize yourself with your new ampliﬁer. We understand that you are anxious to plug everything in and get started. However, reading this manual and following the advice it gives will ensure that you get all the beneﬁts you deserve from having purchased such a ﬁne piece of equipment.

CA-5100 specifications

The Classe Audio CA-5100 is a high-performance power amplifier designed to deliver exceptional sound quality and reliability for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. Renowned for its robust build and superior audio performance, the CA-5100 is part of Classe's tenured lineage of premium audio equipment, making it a standout choice for both hi-fi home systems and professional audio setups.

One of the main features of the CA-5100 is its power output. With a total output of 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, this amplifier can drive a wide range of speakers, making it versatile for various audio environments. When operating at 4 ohms, the power output rises to an impressive 200 watts per channel, ensuring that it can handle demanding speaker loads without compromising sound quality.

The CA-5100 employs Class A/B amplification design, which is known for its balance between sound fidelity and efficiency. This technology allows for low distortion and high power efficiency, resulting in a warm and natural sound that audiophiles crave. The dual-mono architecture of the amplifier ensures that each channel operates independently, providing excellent channel separation and reducing crosstalk for a more immersive listening experience.

One of the notable characteristics of the Classe Audio CA-5100 is its premium construction. It features a heavy-duty chassis that minimizes vibrations and interferences, allowing for cleaner signal transmission. Additionally, high-quality components, such as oversized transformers and large filter capacitors, contribute to its high current delivery capability, ensuring robust performance even at high volumes.

The amplifier is equipped with proprietary technologies, including advanced thermal management systems, which dissipate heat effectively to maintain optimal performance and longevity. The CA-5100 also includes various input options to accommodate different audio sources, such as balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio devices.

In conclusion, the Classe Audio CA-5100 embodies high-end audio engineering principles, offering exceptional sound reproduction, robust power handling, and a build quality that reflects Classe's commitment to excellence. Whether used in a dedicated listening room or as part of a professional audio system, the CA-5100 stands as a testament to what high-performance amplifiers can achieve, delivering an unforgettable auditory experience for any listener.