Classé Delta Series, SSP-600 & CA-2200 Processor/Power Package

If you fancy yourself an audiophile at all, then you no doubt are aware of the Canadian manufacturer, Classé. Since 1980, Classé has been making some of the finest two-channel and home theater electronics the industry has ever known and in the last decade they've stepped up their efforts; producing components that can only be described as beautiful - both sonically and visually. Don't get us wrong - Classé has always been about sound quality but their 2012 offerings, such as the Delta Series SSP-600 and CA-2200 we have here, are simply in a league all their own.

Let's start with the SSP-600 Preamp/Processor.  We realize, home theater surround sound AV technology has changed considerably over the years, but there is some fundamental functionality that the SSP-600 contains which it does exceptionally well and will be relevant for many more years to come: 1) Stereo channel separation and soundstage; 2) Variable subwoofer output and Zone 2 controls; 3) Huge quantities of stereo audio inputs and outputs, and finally 4) A fantastic internal DAC.  These features seem to never go out of style for music listening, and the SSP-600 is one of the cleanest, most engaging preamps we have heard for 2-channel use.  Some of this clarity could be attributed to the unit's entirely separate balanced preamp section, but really it comes down to quality.  Classé threw everything they had at this preamp in 2012 and it shows. 

Read the Classé SSP-600 review by The Absolute Sound, HERE.

Retailing for $5,000 in 2012, the CA-2200 is one of the most visually striking amplifiers we've ever seen. Clad in white aluminum complete with rounded edges and a black air intake and status indicators, the CA-2200 has a decidedly tailored look that, when combined with other Classé products, specifically the SSP-600, makes for a stunning visual statement. The CA-2200's visual appearance goes a long way in disguising its actual girth; the CA-2200 measures in at 17.5" wide by 18.5" deep and just under 9" tall, which coupled with its 80 pound weight makes it a serious heavyweight, albeit a nicely dressed one. 

Around back the white aluminum is lost though the CA-2200's attention to detail is not. There are two sets of five-way binding posts per channel (to facilitate bi-wiring) surrounding the CA-2200's large air vent. Below each pair of binding posts you'll find both single ended and balanced analog inputs. All of the inputs are neatly spaced and clearly labeled, making the CA-2200 supremely easy to integrate into an existing system. There is an AC mains input to the left of the binding posts and running along the far left side of the CA-2200's back panel are inputs for Classé's own CAN Bus (Controller Area Network) as well as a RS-232 USB Control Port, 12-volt triggers and a IR input and output.

Read the Classé CA-2200 review by Stereo Times, HERE.

We could go in forever singing the praises of this setup. Mids are liquid and super appealing, bass is full, robust and deep but, oh so, accurate. Highs have just the right amount of sizzle. Clean articulate with zero grain -- 200 watts per/channel of lean muscle. An amazing set in solid 9+ for appearance and 11+ for performance, and at this price, it's a no-brainer!

Demos are encouraged in Lawrence, MA.

Shipping is possible as both units include the original packing cartons, manuals, and accessories.

$3,000 for the set (plus applicable shipping and/or MA Sales Tax)

Priced individually:

SSP-600, $500

CS-2200, $2,500