Classe Audio SSP-300 owner manual THX Ultra 2 Cinema Mode Boundary Gain Compensation, flexible GUI

Models: SSP-300

1 60
Download 60 pages 2.75 Kb
Page 14
Image 14

THX Ultra 2 Cinema Mode

Boundary Gain

Compensation

flexible GUI

customizable volume control

14

As you might expect, the THX Ultra 2 Cinema mode does a similarly terrific job of optimizing the system for accurate reproduction of movie soundtracks.

When in THX Ultra 2 Cinema mode, ASA creates a diffuse soundfield that emulates the much larger array of surround speakers found in a state of the art commercial theater. Of course, Re-EQ, Adaptive Decorrelation, and Timbre-Matching are all employed to compensate for the differences between an excellent commercial theater and your room at home. Once again, a single selection can fully optimize your system for a significantly different task: reproducing movies as they were intended to be experienced.

Most speakers are designed to sound their best when placed out well away from the walls. This placement usually offers the best imaging and overall performance.

However, this placement is often not practical in multi-purpose rooms that are used for home entertainment. Speakers end up pushed back close to the walls so as to make more room for the people who live in the house. Unfortunately, this change in placement reinforces frequencies from the mid-bass down to the deepest bass. While few people would object to having a little extra deep bass, the boosted mid-bass makes male vocals sound “chesty,” “congested” or “boomy.”

The LCD touchscreen on the front panel of your new component supports an extremely flexible and versatile graphical user interface (GUI) while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. The SSP-300 provides a range of controls that might otherwise require dozens of buttons and knobs on the front panel. Despite this power and flexibility, it remains simple to operate in day-to-day use.

In fact, in some ways it is even simpler to operate than a more conventional design might be. For example, if you are not using one or more of the inputs on your SSP- 300, you can delete the unnecessary buttons from the operational menu. Doing so prevents anyone from trying to select a nonexistent source component, with the resulting confusion stemming from the lack of any sound. (Of course, you can easily restore the button if you subsequently add another source component and need that input.)

The volume control on your new Classé surround processor is controlled by sophisticated software that allows you to fine-tune its response to suit your preferences.

Ideally, a volume control would allow you to reach the volume you desire quickly, and would also provide extremely fine control once you are close to the “perfect” volume. Of course, these characteristics are in conflict with each other: one requires the volume to change by quite a lot for a given amount of turning of the knob, while the other requires small, incremental changes for the same turn of the knob.

Page 14
Image 14
Classe Audio SSP-300 owner manual THX Ultra 2 Cinema Mode Boundary Gain Compensation, flexible GUI

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.