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warm up/break-in period

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The CA-3200 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.

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Classe Audio CA-3200 owner manual Warm up/break-in period Please read this manual…
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CA-3200 specifications

The Classe Audio CA-3200 is a high-performance power amplifier designed for audio enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound quality and robust power. It exemplifies Classe's commitment to precision engineering and sophisticated technology, making it a standout component in any high-fidelity audio system.

The CA-3200 boasts a powerful output of 200 Watts per channel into 8 ohms, and it doubles that to 400 Watts into 4 ohms, ensuring ample power to drive a wide range of loudspeakers with authority and detail. This amplifier employs a Class AB design, which combines the best attributes of Class A and Class B amplification. The result is a warm, rich sound that maintains clarity and dynamics, even at high volume levels.

One of the unique features of the CA-3200 is its high-quality, low-noise power supply. This power supply includes an oversized transformer and large storage capacitors, providing the necessary reserves for transient peaks. This design minimizes noise and ensures that the amplifier delivers clean power without distortion, whether during soft passages or explosive musical moments.

Classe has implemented a custom-designed output stage that utilizes fully complementary circuitry. This innovation helps to eliminate crossover distortion, resulting in an accurate reproduction of the audio signal. Additionally, the CA-3200 features advanced thermal management technology, including extensive heat-sinking and forced-air cooling. This ensures that the amplifier remains cool and reliable during extended use, even in demanding environments.

The architectural design of the CA-3200 matches its performance capabilities. The chassis is constructed from high-quality materials, providing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. The front panel features visually expressive meters that allow users to monitor power levels easily, while the rear panel provides balanced and unbalanced input options, increasing flexibility in setups.

Furthermore, the CA-3200 is designed for easy integration into existing systems, offering a variety of control options, including trigger inputs and RS-232 connectivity for automation and remote control purposes.

In summary, the Classe Audio CA-3200 is an exemplary power amplifier that combines significant power output, advanced technologies, and meticulous craftsmanship. Its ability to deliver pristine audio performance while offering versatility makes it a compelling choice for both audiophiles and casual listeners alike, ensuring that it meets the demands of modern audio systems with ease.
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