Classe Audio SSP-800 - V3.3 User manual

Owner’s Manual
SSP-800
Surround Sound Processor

2
Classé marks the “CE” symbol indicating compliance of this device with the EMC (Electromagnetic
Compatibility) and LVD (Low Voltage Directive) standards of the European Community.
Classé complies with the European Parliament and Council Directive 2002/96/EC concerning Waste Electrical
and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). is product must be appropriately recycled or processed in accordance with
these directives. Consult your local waste disposal authority for guidance.
Classé products are designed and manufactured to comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS)
as stated in the European Parliament and Council Directive 2002/95/EC.
NOTICE
All of us at Classé take extreme care to ensure that your purchase will remain a prized investment. We are proud to inform you
that all Classé components have been officially approved for the European Community (CE) mark.
is means that your Classé product was subjected to the most rigorous manufacturing and safety tests in the world. e CE
mark certifies that your purchase meets or exceeds all European Community requirements for manufacturing consistency and
consumer safety.
is equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) is device may not cause harmful interference, and (2)
is device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. ese limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. is equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment on and off, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna;
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver;
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected;
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
is product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents ad other intellectual property
rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other
limited viewing uses otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
e information contained in the manual is subject to change without notice. e most current version of this manual will be
posted on our web site at http://www.classeaudio.com.

3
Important Safety Instructions
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers)
that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one
wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. e wide blade or the
third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury
from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. Do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, are
placed on the apparatus.
16. To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC Mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle.
17. e mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable.
18. Do not expose batteries to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION:TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
e lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage “ within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
e exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

4
Contents
Introduction ...................................................................................................... 6
Exceptional Design Features ............................................................................. 7
versatile connectivity ................................................................................ 7
upgradable DSP ........................................................................................ 7
superior performance ................................................................................ 7
clean, dedicated power............................................................................. 7
high fidelity audio ..................................................................................... 7
professional grade video ........................................................................... 7
room equalization and speaker control..................................................... 8
flexible GUI .............................................................................................. 8
video preview ........................................................................................... 8
refined circuit design................................................................................. 8
extensive listening tests ............................................................................. 8
extraordinary longevity ............................................................................. 8
Unpacking and Placement................................................................................ 9
unpacking your SSP-800 ........................................................................... 9
placement considerations........................................................................ 10
warm-up/break-in period ........................................................................ 10
operating voltage .................................................................................... 11
voltage protection ............................................................................... 12
Front Panel...................................................................................................... 13
Rear Panel....................................................................................................... 15
serial number .......................................................................................... 15
The Remote Control........................................................................................22
Initial Setup..................................................................................................... 24
step 1: AC ............................................................................................... 24
step 2: cables .......................................................................................... 24
step 3: sources......................................................................................... 25
step 4: amplifiers..................................................................................... 25
step 5: loudspeakers................................................................................26
step 6: power up ..................................................................................... 27
Understanding Surround Sound ...................................................................... 28
how many channels?............................................................................... 28
matrix or discrete?................................................................................... 28
post processing........................................................................................ 30
Using the SSP-800 ..........................................................................................31
source selection ...................................................................................... 31
mode selection........................................................................................ 32
video preview ......................................................................................... 33
controls ................................................................................................... 34
system trims......................................................................................... 34
configuration select............................................................................. 35
The Menu System ...........................................................................................36
system setup................................................................................................ 37
volume setup........................................................................................... 37
max volume ........................................................................................ 38
startup volume .................................................................................... 38
IR setup ............................................................................................... 38
automation.......................................................................................... 39
mute setup .......................................................................................... 39
input setup .............................................................................................. 40
name................................................................................................... 40
audio................................................................................................... 41

5
configuration....................................................................................... 41
in use .................................................................................................. 42
video................................................................................................... 42
next input............................................................................................ 42
triggers .................................................................................................... 42
profiles .................................................................................................... 43
room EQ ................................................................................................. 44
configuration........................................................................................... 44
name................................................................................................... 45
distances ............................................................................................. 45
levels................................................................................................... 46
in use .................................................................................................. 46
speakers .............................................................................................. 46
auxiliary channels ............................................................................... 48
black level............................................................................................... 49
teach IR....................................................................................................... 49
display setup ............................................................................................... 50
brightness................................................................................................ 50
timeout.................................................................................................... 50
language ................................................................................................. 51
OSD........................................................................................................ 51
colors ...................................................................................................... 51
volume.................................................................................................... 51
Dolby/DTS .................................................................................................. 52
Dolby Pro Logic IIx ................................................................................. 52
DTS Neo:6 .............................................................................................. 52
remote Fkeys............................................................................................... 53
important note on Fkey use..................................................................... 53
status........................................................................................................... 54
version info ............................................................................................. 54
sensors .................................................................................................... 54
CAN-Bus..................................................................................................... 54
features ................................................................................................... 54
hardware setup........................................................................................ 55
using CAN-Bus........................................................................................ 56
CAN-Bus shared features......................................................................... 57
configuration....................................................................................... 57
operate................................................................................................ 57
AC status ............................................................................................. 57
status ................................................................................................... 57
CAN-Bus model specific features ............................................................ 58
playlink ............................................................................................... 58
amp info.............................................................................................. 59
event log ............................................................................................. 59
Troubleshooting .............................................................................................. 60
Care & Maintenance ....................................................................................... 63
Specifications.................................................................................................. 64
Dimensions..................................................................................................... 65
Installation Worksheet..................................................................................... 66

6
Introduction
Welcome to the Classé family!
Congratulations on your purchase of the Classé SSP-800 Surround Sound
Processor, a next generation processor with reference-quality performance. We
are sure that you will enjoy it for many years to come.
Classe values the relationships with our customers and intend on supplying
the highest level of support along with our product. Registering your product
will allow us to keep in touch and will ensure that you are notified regarding
any future updates or options which become available. Furthermore, in the
unlikely event that your product needs service support, a product that is already
registered doesn’t need your original sales slip for proof of warranty.
You can register online at www.classeaudio.com or complete and mail the
registration card located in the separate warranty booklet.
Please take a few moments now to register your new Classé
processor and record your serial number here for future
reference.
Serial #: ____________________________________________

7
Exceptional Design Features
e SSP-800 is a next-generation surround sound preamp/processor, conceived
with pure performance as its raison d’être. It seamlessly unites a multitude of
disparate audio and video signal formats to faithfully reproduce your music and
movies as the artist intended.
versatile connectivity e SSP-800 is a ten-channel preamp/processor with both balanced and single-
ended connections for all channels.
upgradable DSP A Texas Instruments DSP with double-precision 64-bit architecture processes all
audio data. Floating point capability insures the most accurate results possible.
All bass management filters, gains, and parametric filters benefit from the added
precision. e DSP and critical support circuitry occupy a replaceable module
for precision upgrading when necessary.
superior performance Advanced circuit topologies, component parts, and circuit layout techniques
combine for superior audio performance. Opto-couplers and low voltage
differential signal (LVDS) pathways thoroughly isolate audio circuits, video
circuits, and control circuits.
clean, dedicated power Analog audio circuits benefit from a dedicated linear power supply based on a
low noise toroidal transformer. Digital and control circuits draw from a separate
low-noise, high current switching supply.
high fidelity audio Custom-configured digital-to-analog converters and output stage components
ensure exceptional dynamic range and resolution.
professional grade video e SSP-800 incorporates professional grade video circuitry that has
extraordinary bandwidth and dynamic range. Due to this, it can handle even the
most demanding video signals specified in the HDTV standard. Whether the
video is carried on HDMI, high definition component, or standard definition
cables, it is decoded and made available for display and preview. Reference
quality circuitry is used throughout the video path, delivering uncompromised
picture quality.

8
room equalization
and speaker control All home theater sound systems are affected by room characteristics. Sound
reflections and sound absorption can create dramatic variations in the
performance of your system, particularly in the lower frequencies. e SSP-800
features a system of filters which can correct many room effects and provide the
best possible sound.
flexible GUI e front panel’s LCD touchscreen supports an extremely flexible and
versatile graphical user interface (GUI) while maintaining a clean, uncluttered
appearance. e SSP-800 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.
video preview e SSP-800’s front panel touchscreen lets you view any selected video source in
your system. e source’s resolution can be down-converted for the LCD panel,
giving you total flexibility to view any video source regardless of its resolution.
refined circuit design Only the top performing audio components were designed into your
SSP-800. e converter chips, passive components, op-amps, and analog power
supply are all best-in-class parts. Furthermore, the PCB (printed circuit board),
and pad material has been specifically chosen to provide the best performance.
Even the routing of the traces is optimized to get the best performance out of the
circuit. Every detail is tested, every possibility exhausted, until we are content
with the results.
extensive listening tests Our experience has shown that great measurements alone do not guarantee
superb audio or video performance. For this reason, all Classé products are
laboriously fine-tuned during the development process by carefully controlled
usage tests. Every individual stage is evaluated and adjusted before the product
is released for production. As in the case with measured performance, actual
performance of every unit is verified as part of our production standard.
extraordinary longevity Because Classé has developed highly refined circuits over many years, we have
vast experience in what works well over the long term. Using this knowledge
base, along with quantitative results derived from highly accelerated life testing
(H.A.L.T.) allows us to select only the most reliable parts. is attention to
detail and design allows us to manufacture products which stand the ultimate
test. Time.
Just as past Classé products have done for their owners, we are certain that
your new Surround Sound Processor will give you many years of continuous
enjoyment.

9
Unpacking and Placement
We have taken all precautions, and made every effort to make the SSP-800
simple and straightforward to install and use. Still, we recommend that you
take a few minutes to review this manual. Even if you are having the processor
professionally installed, you will want to know how to efficiently operate it to
full potential.
e SSP-800 menu system includes features that provide you with a great deal
of fine-tuning. Still, we have no way to evaluate outside variables such as the
acoustical characteristics of your listening space and the associated equipment
of your home theater system. erefore, it is up to you to make the final audio
adjustments for the optimum performance of your system.
For this reason, we strongly encourage you to have your processor
installed and calibrated by your dealer. e experience, training, and
specialized equipment they have can make a profound difference in
the final performance of your system.
unpacking your SSP-800 Carefully unpack the SSP-800 Surround Sound Processor according to the
supplied instruction sheet. Do not forget to remove all accessories from the carton.
Important! Keep all packing materials. Transporting the SSP-800 without
using the packaging specifically designed for it may result in
damage that is not covered under the warranty.

10
placement considerations Before installing your SSP-800 into the system, be sure to read the following
placement suggestions.
• Do not place the SSP-800 directly on the top surface of a power
amplifier or any other heat source. Also keep the processor out of
direct sunlight.
• Place the SSP-800 so that the IR window on the front panel is clearly
visible and not blocked.
• Position
the SSP-800 in a central and convenient location for both
visibility and use. e processor is the hub for all other component
connections and generally your primary interaction point. In addition,
by placing the processor close to the other system components, you’re
minimizing the cable lengths and hence reducing the amount of noise
that’s introduced into the system through the cabling.
• Leave adequate clearance behind the SSP-800 for the AC cord and
connecting cables. We suggest eight inches (20 cm) of free space to
allow cables sufficient room to bend without crimping or undue strain
.
• Allow at least three inches (7.5 cm) of clearance above and to each
side of the processor for ventilation. Do not obstruct the area around
the processor so that excess heat can dissipate through normal air
circulation. Avoid placing the processor on a soft surface, such as
plush carpeting, that may restrict airflow.
Important! Obey all placement considerations. Not obeying the
placement considerations may result in damage that is not
covered under the warranty.
warm-up/break-in period Your new Classé processor delivers outstanding performance immediately.
However, you can expect to hear subtle improvements as it reaches normal
operating temperatures and various components, especially capacitors,
“break-in”.
In our experience, you can expect the greatest changes within the first 300 hours.
After initial break-in, you’ll enjoy consistent performance levels for years to
come.
e only exception is if the unit is unplugged for an extended period of time,
during which the processor will cool down. Depending on the degree of cooling
involved, you should expect a brief warm-up period before the Surround Sound
Processor’s sound quality is at its best.

1111
operating voltage e operating voltage of your SSP-800 has been factory configured to 100V,
120V, 220V, 230V, or 240V AC, depending on the country in which you
purchased it (in European Union countries, CE regulations specify 230V).
is voltage setting is not user selectable. Ensure that the voltage
rating on the rear panel of the SSP-800 Surround Sound Processor
matches the AC voltage rating of your electrical outlet. If the AC
voltage is incorrect, please contact your local authorized Classé dealer
or distributor.
Important! Attempting to operate your SSP-800 from an incorrect
AC voltage rating may cause irreparable damage to your
processor, which may not be covered by your warranty.
If you are not planning to use the Surround Sound Processor for an extended
period of time, for example due to vacation or other travel, we suggest that you
disconnect it from AC power.
Make certain that the Surround Sound Processor is in Standby prior
to disconnecting it.
Physically disconnect any and all valuable electronics from AC power during
electrical storms. A lightning strike anywhere near your home can generate a
tremendous surge on the AC mains that can jump across a simple power switch.
A surge from a lightning strike, which may be many thousands of volts, can
cause serious damage to any piece of electronics, no matter how well designed
and protected.

12
voltage protection e SSP-800 Surround Sound Processor contains protection features that
prevent the processor from operating at dangerously high or low voltages. ese
features are incorporated to help protect the processor from dangerous power
surges and other power irregularities that could cause extensive damage to the
processor. is circuitry guards against the following irregular supplied power
conditions.
• Startup Voltage: If the AC mains voltage is NOT within a range of
approximately –15% to +10% of its nominal value at startup, the
SSP-800 does not turn on. For example, a 120V AC service generally
requires the AC mains voltage to be no lower than 95V and no
higher than 135V in order for the processor to turn on and operate
normally.
• Over-voltage Condition during Operation: If the AC mains voltage
surges by roughly 10% or more during operation, the Surround
Sound Processor enters a protection mode and shuts down. e
Standby LED flashes to indicate that the protection mode has been
engaged. An error message also displays on the LCD touch screen.
• Under-voltage Condition during Operation: If the AC mains voltage
sags by 15% or more, the Surround Sound Processor does continue
to play since the voltage irregularity won’t harm the processor, but
the sound quality may be degraded due to the compromised power
conditions. e Standby LED flashes to indicate an irregular power
condition exists.
In such cases, normal operation can only resume when the following conditions
are met:
• e irregularity in the power input is no longer present.
• e SSP-800 is power cycled, to clear the protection mode.
Refer to the Troubleshooting
section found later in this manual for more
information.

13
MENU
SSP-800
MUTE
1256
43
Front Panel
e front panel of the SSP-800 is shown above. e numbers in the drawing
refer to the descriptions that follow.
1 Standby/On Switch
Pressing the Standby button puts the SSP-800 into standby mode – a
low-power state which leaves the Surround Sound Processor and outputs
inactive but still allows the processor to respond to system commands via
any of the supported control protocols (IR input, CAN-Bus, RS-232, or
triggers).
If the processor is already in Standby mode, pressing the Standby button
fully powers up the SSP-800.
• LED On – the SSP-800 is in Standby mode, or the display has
timed out due to a display setting.
• LED flashes (at power-up) – the SSP-800 is in the process of
power-up initialization.
•
LED Off – the SSP-800 is powered on, fully operational, and the
display active.
• LED flashes rapidly (after power-up) – the AC mains voltage is
out of range.
2 Menu On/Off Switch
Press once to call up the main page of the menu system, which replaces the
normal front page or Home page of the Touchscreen and OSD (On-Screen
Display). Press the Menu button again to revert to the Home page.
e menu system gives you control over operational details including:
system setup options, various display options (including the language
used by the menu system), and custom installation capabilities so that the
SSP-800 integrates smoothly into the most complex systems. For more
information, see the Menu System later in this manual.

1414
3 Touchscreen
e front panel touchscreen has two main functions:
• Navigation of the SSP-800 menus and controls by simply
touching the screen to make your selections.
• Viewing incoming video from the selected source.
4 Audio Mute Control
e Mute button reduces the SSP-800’s volume by a pre-determined
amount. Pressing it a second time restores the volume to its previous level.
is behavior can be easily customized for very specific user requirements.
(See the section on Volume Setup for more information.)
NOTE: If you increase the volume using either the front panel
volume knob or the remote control while Mute is engaged, the
mute control disengages, and audio adjustments are executed
starting from the muted level. is is a safety measure to prevent
accidentally restoring the volume at unexpectedly high levels.
5 IR window
e location of the IR (infrared) sensor for the remote control is behind
this window. In most cases, there must be a clear path between the IR
window and the remote control in order for the SSP-800 to acknowledge
the remote control commands.
If the IR window is not in view, for example if it’s placed in a cabinet or
closet, then the rear panel IR input can be utilized for remote control use.
For more details about this option, see the IR input description in the Rear
Panel section found later in this manual.
In addition to receiving IR commands, the SSP-800 can also transmit IR
commands to third-party learning remote controls. For more details about
this option, refer to the Teach IR description in the Menu Tree section
found later in this manual.
6 Volume Control Knob
e large rotary knob on the right side of the front panel controls the
system volume level.
The volume knob increases and decreases volume in precise 0.5dB
increments throughout most of the volume range. At extremely low
volume, the step size is increased somewhat to facilitate moving between
extremely low and normal listening levels. e volume range is from
–99.0dB to +14.0dB.
You can also change the volume control display to suit your preferences.
For more information, refer to the Volume description in the Display Setup
section found later in this manual.

15
HDMI OUT
HDMI IN
COMPONENT IN
YPbPr
YPbPrYPbPr
S-VID1 S-VID2 1 2 1234 12
1 2 COMPONENT OUT
VIDEO IN
CAN IN
USB
7.1 AUDIO IN ANALOG AUDIO IN
R1 L1 L2
R2
L3
R3
RL
RR
CEN
SUB
SL
SR
FL
FR
OPT1 OPT2 OPT3 OPT4
COAX1 COAX3
COAX4COAX2
IN OUT RS-232
TRIGGERIR
DIGITAL INPUT
CONTROL
DIGITAL
OUTPUT
COAX OPT OUT2OUT1
CAN OUT
A1
A2
AUX 2 AUX 1
R
L
FRONT R FRONT L ANALOG AUDIO OUT CENTER
S
C
SUB SURR R SURR L
SL
SR
REAR R
RL
RR
REAR L
CAUTION! TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, GROUNDING
OF THE CENTER PIN OF THIS PLUG MUST BE MAINTAINED
AVIS! POUR RÉDUIRE LE RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE
LA FICHE CENTRALE DE LA PRISE DOIT ÊTRE
BRANCHÉE POUR MAINTENIR LA MISE À LATERRE
100-120V~
T800mAL250V
220-240V~
T500mAE250V
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES.
OPERATION IS SUBJECT TOTHE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS:
(1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFULINTERFERENCE, AND
(2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPTANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED,
INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION.
123 456
789
Fabriqué au
Made in
CANADA
MOD SER
VW
SSP-800 XXXXXXX
70120 Hz
~
50/60
10 16 17 18 19
20 22
12 13
11 1415
21
Rear Panel
e rear panel of the SSP-800 is shown above. e numbers in the drawing refer
to the descriptions in this section.
serial number You’ll find your processor’s serial number on the top right edge of the rear panel,
as shown in the graphic above (the black label). Please record this number on the
Introduction Page (page 6) of this manual for future reference.
And since you have found the serial number, please use it to register your
purchase, if you haven’t done so yet. As we’ve said, your registration is our way
of keeping in touch with you. We will use the information to advise you of any
updates or other items of interest. Registration is simple, so please register online
at www.classeaudio.com or fill out the registration card and drop it in the mail.
1 S-Video Inputs
e SSP-800 supports two S-Video inputs, labeled S-VID1 and S-VID2.
Use these inputs when the output of your source component is S-Video.
S-Video (also called Super-Video or Y/C video) is an analog video format
in which the black and white (luminance or Y) and color (chrominance or
C) portions of the video signal are transmitted separately and recombined
by the receiving device. S-Video transmission produces less color bleeding
and better edge definition than a standard composite video connection.

1616
2 Composite Video Inputs
e SSP-800 supports two composite video inputs, with RCA connectors
labeled 1 and 2. Use these inputs when the output of your source
component is composite.
A composite video signal (also called “baseband video” or “NTSC video”)
combines the black & white and the color components of a video signal
and transmits them over a single cable. Composite video transmission
always generates interference between luminance and chrominance
portions of the signal and, for that reason, is usually inferior in quality to
the S-Video format.
3 Component Video Inputs
e SSP-800 supports two component video inputs, each with three RCA
connectors labeled 1 and 2 – the component video format requires three
separate cables labeled Pr, Pb, and Y. Use these inputs when the output of
your source is component.
Although still analog, a component video signal provides a much sharper
image than S-Video or composite formats. e component video delivers
color video signals by maintaining the three YUV signal segments in three
separate channels. YUV is a video format definition which defines the
“color space”, a mathematical model of the color within an image, of a
video signal. Y stands for luma (brightness), U for a color difference signal
(blue minus luma or B-Y), and V for second color difference signal (red
minus luma or R-Y). erefore, the three sections of the component signal
are Y (luminance – the black & white portion of the video), Pb (Blue
Color Difference), and Pr (Red Color Difference).
To connect the source component video output cables to the SSP-800
component video input rear panel connectors:
• Use the red cable for the Pr (Red Color Difference) connectors.
• Use the blue cable for the Pb (Blue Color Difference) connectors.
• Use the green cable for the Y (Luminance) connectors.
e SSP-800 accepts component video at either standard definition (SD)
or high definition (HD) video rates. Component video is NOT accepted at
1080p via analog component connections.
NOTE: Although the SSP-800 component inputs support all
resolutions except 1080p, some source material will be restricted to
480p at the source.
4 HDMI Inputs
e SSP-800 supports four HDMI inputs, labeled 1 to 4. Whenever
possible, we recommend the use of HDMI for all audio and video source
input connections. e SSP-800 is HDMI v.1.3b enabled, supporting
Deep Color, 1080p @ 24/50/60 fps, and x.v.Color(xvYCC).
e HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) format is the only
available single-cable digital pathway for both video and audio signals,
providing higher performance levels and simplifying component-to-
component connections. HDMI is backwards compatible with the
earlier video-only DVI (Digital Video Interface) standard. Adaptors
to convert a DVI cable connector to HDMI and vice-versa are readily

17
available. e HDMI standard also incorporates HDCP (High Definition
Content Protection); a separate content-protection technology to prevent
unauthorized distribution or duplication of copyrighted material.
5 HDMI Outputs
e SSP-800 supports two HDMI outputs, labeled 1 and 2. e
SSP-800 HDMI outputs support HDMI V.1.3b featuring Deep Colour,
x.v.Color(xvYCC), 1080p 24/50/60 fps, and provides a 2 channel SPDIF
downmix of the source material.
Non-HDMI source material is encoded for an HDMI display at the
source’s native video rate. HDMI input signals are NOT converted to
analog format, and are only output via HDMI at the incoming resolution.
When an analog video input signal is output via HDMI to the display, the
video input is converted to digital format and output at its native rate. e
two HDMI outputs are NOT independent.
NOTE: HDMI is an interactive format, which can occasionally
cause format errors between the source devices and the output
display. If you connect the SSP-800 HDMI outputs to two
different displays, the HDMI source automatically provides a signal
compatible for both displays. In some cases, this response can result
in less-than-optimal resolutions for one or both displays.
6 Component Video Output
e SSP-800 is equipped with component video output via 3 RCA
connectors labeled Pr, Pb, and Y. Use this connection to connect to non-
HDMI displays. e component output does not support output of 1080p
signals.
NOTE: Due to HDCP licensing restrictions the component video
output will not work with all source material input via HDMI.
Depending on the material component output may be restricted to
480p.
7 Digital Audio Inputs - Coaxial
e SSP-800 supports four digital audio inputs, with SPDIF connectors
labeled COAX1 to COAX4. ese inputs accept PCM data streams up to
24-bits long and up to 192kHz sampling frequency. We recommend using
cables that are optimized for digital audio signal transfer and that carry a
75Ω impedance rating. Your Classé dealer can help you with proper cable
selections.
8 Digital Audio Inputs - Optical
e SSP-800 supports four digital audio inputs, with optical TOSlinkTM
connectors labeled OPT1 to OPT4. ese inputs accept PCM data
streams up to 24-bits long and up to 192kHz sampling frequency. We
recommend using cables that are optimized for digital audio signal transfer.
Your Classé dealer can help you with proper cable selections.
NOTE: e bandwidth limits of TOSlink™ components are very
much strained at a 192kHz sampling frequency. For that reason we
recommend keeping the TOSlink™ connections at a maximum rate
of 96kHz.

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9 Digital Audio Output - Coaxial
e SSP-800 supports one digital audio coaxial output, with SPDIF
connector labeled COAX. is output can pass PCM data streams up to
24-bits long and up to 96kHz sampling frequency.
10 Digital Audio Output - Optical
ese digital outputs carry only digital audio data, excluding any sub-
code information which some recorders might use to extract CD track
information.
11 7.1-Channel Analog Audio Inputs
ese inputs are designed for any multi-channel source with analog
outputs, such as SACD or DVD players, although we highly recommend
using the HDMI or digital outputs if possible. When connecting the
analog audio inputs, make sure to attach each cable from the source
component output to the appropriate SSP-800 input.
Starting from the source, connect the Front Left output to the FL (Front
Left) input of the SSP-800, then the source centre output to the CEN
(centre) input of the SSP-800, and so on.
ese analog audio input signals are passed through the SSP-800 and
to the speakers with no processing, to preserve the purity of the original
signal. When these inputs are selected, only volume control processing is
enabled.
12 2-Channel Balanced Analog Audio Inputs
e SSP-800 was designed with a 2-channel balanced analog audio input,
using a pair of balanced XLR connectors labeled R1 and L1. Use this input
with any 2-channel analog source component with balanced outputs.
NOTE: is input conforms to the AES (Audio Engineering
Society) “pin 2 = hot” convention. e pin assignments of these
XLR-type female output connectors are:
Pin 1: Signal ground
Pin 2: Signal + (non-inverting)
Pin 3: Signal – (inverting)
Connector ground lug: chassis ground
Verify that the source components are compliant with this
convention (Classé components are compliant). If not compliant,
contact your Classé dealer for assistance.
13 2-Channel Single-Ended Analog Audio Inputs
e SSP-800 was designed with a pair of 2-channel single-ended analog
audio inputs using the RCA connectors, labeled L2/R2 and L3/R3. Use
these inputs with any 2-channel single-ended analog source component.
NOTE: e Balanced and Single Ended 2-channel analog audio
inputs can be set for either bypass mode (no DSP processing) or
converted to digital format to allow bass management, surround
mode processing, and/or equalization.

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14 IR Input
Use the IR input when the front panel IR window does not have a clear
line-of-sight with the remote control, for instance, when the SSP-800 is
installed in a cabinet or closet. Attach this input to an infrared repeater
system to route signals from the remote control to the SSP-800 via a mono
mini-jack (3.5mm phono).
e list of available IR command codes can also be used in macros for
sophisticated remote control systems, facilitating the control of the
SSP-800 in the larger context of the complete system.
15 IR Output
Use the IR output to pass IR commands from an external IR transmitter
through the SSP-800 to another component, when necessary. e output
uses a mono mini-jack (3.5mm phono) with the same properties as the
diagram in the previous section.
16 Trigger Outputs
e SSP-800 supports two trigger outputs, with mono mini-jacks (3.5mm
phono) labeled OUT1 and OUT2. Each trigger outputs a 12V DC signal
at 100mA and each can be controlled individually. Use these outputs to
control other system components such as amplifiers, screens, and window
blinds. Refer to the Triggers description in the Menu System section for
more details.
17 USB Port
e USB port is for downloading future system software updates. e
latest system software is posted on the Classé website (www.classeaudio.com)
and may be downloaded/installed by you or your Classé dealer simply
following the step-by-step instructions.
18 RS-232 Port
e primary purpose of the RS-232 port is to support the use of external
commands to allow remote control of the SSP-800 by such systems as
AMX®and CrestonTM. For more information about these systems, contact
your Classé dealer.
e RS-232 port can also be used to download the operating software for
the SSP-800, when updates are released. As in the case of the USB, the
latest system software is posted on the Classé website (www.classeaudio.com)
and may be downloaded/installed by you or your Classé dealer simply
following the step-by-step instructions.
NOTE: e RS-232 connector is inactive when a USB device is
connected.

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19 CAN-Bus Input and Output
CAN-Bus (Controller Area Network) allows several Classé components to
be connected together for simultaneous operation, such as switching from
On to Standby. Using the CAN-Bus Input and Output connectors, the
Classé components can be daisy chained together and controlled via the
CAN-Bus interface.
NOTE: e final component in the daisy chain MUST have a
termination plug inserted into the CAN-Bus output.
For more information, refer to the CAN-Bus section found later in this
manual.
20 10-Channel Analog Outputs
e SSP-800 supports ten analog audio outputs, with both balanced
(XLR) and single-ended (RCA) connections. Connect the appropriate
Front L/R, Sub, Surr L/R, and Rear L/R connectors to the appropriate
power amplifiers.
NOTE: e Rear L/R connectors are only active when the
SSP-800 output is setup for a 7.1-channel surround system.
e Aux 1 and 2 outputs are programmable and can be used for the
following purposes:
• Assigned as a 2-channel down-mix of the selected multi-channel
signal for either an analog recorder or a separate listening area.
• Assigned to follow the main Front L/R speakers for use in a
biamplification arrangement.
• One or both may be assigned as additional subwoofers with the
ability to select between mono, and stereo modes.
Refer to the Menu System section for more details regarding optional uses
for the auxiliary analog output channels.
NOTE: e Balanced (XLR) Output pin assignments adhere to
the AES (Audio Engineering Society) “Pin 2 = hot” standard. e
XLR male outputs carry the following pin assignments:
Pin 1: Signal ground
Pin 2: Signal + (non-inverting)
Pin 3: Signal – (inverting)
Connector ground lug: chassis ground
Refer to the operating manuals of your balanced-input power
amplifiers to verify that the pin assignments of their input
connectors adhere to this standard (Classé power amplifiers are
compliant). If your amplifiers are not compliant, ask your Classé
dealer for assistance.