Re-Equalization™

Timbre Matching™

Adaptive Decorrelation™

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The tonal balance of a standard film soundtrack will be excessively bright and harsh when played back over high quality audio equipment in the home because film soundtracks were designed to be played back in large movie theatres using very different professional equipment. Re-Equalization restores the correct tonal balance for watching a movie soundtrack in a small, home environment.

The human ear alters our perception of a sound based on the direction from which the sound is coming. Thus two identical sounds arriving from different directions sound somewhat different to us (based on the asymmetrical shape of our ears). In film soundtracks, this can introduce discontinuity as sounds pan from the front to the rear of the room, even if the speakers themselves are quite well-matched.

The Timbre Matching feature filters the information going to the surround speakers so that they more closely match the tonal characteristics of the sound coming from the front speakers. This ensures seamless panning between the front and surround speakers.

In a movie theater, there is an array of perhaps a dozen surround speakers so that the surround information is literally all around you. This creates a diffuse surround soundfield that envelopes you, drawing you into the action on the screen rather than distracting you from it.

By contrast, in a home theater you often use only two speakers, located to the sides and somewhat behind you. Even in more elaborate “7.1 channel” systems, you still have only two speakers to the sides and two speakers to the rear – quite different than the surround array for which the soundtrack was mixed. This difference can make the surround speakers sound like headphones, lacking spaciousness and envelopment. The surround soundfield also tends to collapse into the closest speaker as you move away from the middle seating position.

Adaptive Decorrelation™ – another THX technology – slightly changes each surround channel’s time and phase relationship with respect to the other surround channels. This expands the listening position and helps create – even with only two surround speakers

– the same spacious surround experience as in a movie theater.

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Classe Audio SSP-300 owner manual Re-Equalization Timbre Matching Adaptive Decorrelation
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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.
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