Advanced Speaker Array™

THX Ultra 2 Music Mode

The people at THX have also found a solution to a problem that dogged high performance multichannel systems for years: the apparent conflict between optimal music and movie setups.

You see, movies are mixed in highly standardized environments, with even spaced surround speakers in an array designed to provide a diffuse, enveloping soundfield. Their goal is to draw you into the movie on the screen. If the surround sound tempts you to look over your shoulder, the system has failed: it has reminded you that you are safe in your living room rather than “in” the movie you are watching.

By contrast, most multichannel music is mixed with a single pair of surround speakers aimed directly at the listener from behind. Many music mixers deliberately place particular instruments or musicians in these locations, and want you to feel as though you are “in the middle of the band.” Thus, a diffuse, non-localizable soundfield is not what you might like for the most accurate reproduction of the musical producer’s intent.

THX Ultra 2 solves this apparent dilemma by the innovative use of a special surround array that can provide either highly diffuse surround sound (for movies) or highly localizable surround sound (for music), without having to reposition any loudspeakers. The Advanced Speaker Array™ places a pair of surround speakers to the sides of the listener, and another pair directly behind the listener (and as close to each other as practical). Through the use of sophisticated digital signal processing (DSP), this array can create the audible illusion of either many speakers surrounding you on all sides, or only a single pair of speakers behind you and spread apart as you might normally expect.

By using the technology in ASA (described above), the THX Ultra 2 Music mode optimizes the performance of the speakers in the system for multichannel music

–whether found on a concert video DVD, a DVD-Audio disc, or a multichannel SACD disc.

When in THX Ultra 2 Music mode, ASA creates the illusion of a single pair of surround speakers located at ±30° from directly behind the primary listening position. This simulates the most common configuration found in multichannel music recording studios, and provides the best-possible recreation of the experience the music producer had when mixing the recording.

There are other changes as well (for example, the Re-Equalization circuit is not employed, since the music was not mixed with large movie theaters in mind) – but the bottom line is that the THX Ultra 2 Music mode does a terrific job of optimizing the performance of your system for multichannel music reproduction, with the touch of a button.

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Classe Audio SSP-300 owner manual Advanced Speaker Array THX Ultra 2 Music Mode
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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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