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The SSP-300 and SSP-600 are sixth-generation Classé surround sound processors--the culmination of decades of experience designing world-class audio/video components. They are made for music and movie lovers who demand both high fidelity audio and video, and the flexibility to integrate a diverse range of system components. The Classé Design Team has successfully balanced performance, functionality and ease of use, developing processors that can confidently be described as an enthusiasts dream. But expert and novice users alike will find Classé processors ideal for their contemporary entertainment systems.

Both models utilize the same digital audio and video processing circuits as well as single-ended analog audio paths. They are 7.1 channel designs, capable of decoding discrete surround formats from Dolby ® and DTS ® as well as numerous surround matrix modes. To accommodate multichannel audio sources such as SACD and DVD Audio, the SSP-300 and SSP-600 both feature single-ended 7.1 channel analog inputs. (See the specifications table for a complete list of inputs, outputs and modes).

Given the extent to which the SSP-300 and SSP-600 share circuitry, one may reasonably ask what is different about the SSP-600 to explain its larger chassis and justify its higher cost? The answer is balanced audio. The SSP-600 builds upon the versatile foundation of the SSP-300 by adding a second, linear power supply, and an additional analog circuit board, which includes a balanced two-channel preamplifier and 7.1 channels of balanced audio outputs.

For enthusiasts whose audio sources or power amplifiers lack balanced interconnections, the SSP-300 is the obvious choice. But for the highest performance with music and movie sources, the advanced circuitry of the SSP-600 will deliver performance benefits that greatly exceed its additional cost.