Owner’s Manual Sigma SSP Surround Sound Preamp/Processor
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. This means that your Classé product was subjected to the most rigorous manufacturing and safety tests in the world. The CE mark certifies that your purchase meets or exceeds all European Community requirements for manufacturing consistency and consumer safety.
Important Safety Instructions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Read these instructions. Keep these instructions. Heed all warnings. Follow all instructions. Do not use this apparatus near water Clean only with dry cloth. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. 9.
Contents Introduction......................................................................................................6 Exceptional Design Features.............................................................................7 versatile connectivity..................................................................................7 superior performance.................................................................................7 clean, dedicated power..................................................
Network Setup......................................................................................... 44 Firmware Update via Network................................................................ 44 Remote Fkeys.......................................................................................... 45 Important note on Fkey use..................................................................... 45 Teach IR..................................................................................................
Introduction Welcome to the Classé family! Congratulations on your purchase of the Classé Sigma series Surround Sound Preamp/Processor. It is the product of decades of design experience; capable of extracting exceptional performance from a myriad of music and theater sources. We are sure that you will enjoy it for many years to come. Classé values its relationship with you and intends on supplying the highest level of support along with this product.
Exceptional Design Features The Sigma SSP is an eight-channel preamp/processor, designed for music lovers who also demand high performance audio when watching movies, concerts, sporting events and more. Its connectivity and processing power accommodate the ever increasing array of digital sources, allowing them to be accessed and enjoyed without compromise.
Unpacking and Placement We have taken all precautions, and made every effort to make the Sigma SSP 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 preamp/ processor professionally installed, you will want to know how to efficiently operate it to its potential. The Sigma SSP menu system includes features that provide you with a great deal of fine-tuning.
Rack-Mounting the Sigma SSP The Sigma SSP is designed to accommodate rack-mount installation. Professional installation by an authorized Classe dealer is recommended. To rack mount the SSP, remove the two side-panel screws, rotate and flip the side panel to position the rack “ear” along the front of the SSP and re-install the sidepanel screws. Repeat for the side panel on the opposite side. Remove the feet from the bottom of the SSP.
warm-up/break-in period Your new Classé SSP delivers outstanding performance immediately. However, you can expect to hear subtle improvements as it reaches normal operating temperatures and breaks-in. In our experience, you can expect the greatest changes within the first 72 hours. After initial break-in, you’ll enjoy consistent performance levels for years to come. operating voltage The operating voltage of your Sigma SSP is 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 MENU 9 MUTE SIGMA SSP Front Panel The front panel of the Sigma SSP is shown above. The numbers in the drawing refer to the descriptions that follow. 1 Standby/On Button and Status Indicator LED Pressing the Standby button toggles the SSP between operate and standby mode – a low-power state which leaves the preamp/processor and outputs inactive.
3 Headphone Jack The 1/4” (6.35mm) Headphone Jack accommodates stereo headphones. Inserting a headphone plug mutes the main audio outputs. 4 USB Host Connector The front panel USB connector allows the SSP to work with Apple’s portable media devices such as iPad™, iPod® and iPhone® which require this type of connection. The front panel USB connector accepts digital audio from these devices as well as providing power for recharging them.
9 Volume Control Knob The large rotary knob on the right side of the front panel controls the system volume level. It is also used for adjustments such as balance and input offset. The volume knob increases and decreases volume in precise 0.5 dB 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. The volume range is from -93 dB to +14.0 dB.
12 10 11 15 4 5 6 8 3 14 7 1 2 13 9 16 100-240V~ T2AH250V 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 LA TERRE THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES.
2 HDMI Output The Sigma SSP HDMI output supports HDMI v1.4 featuring 2D and standard 3D video formats at resolutions up to 1080p @ 24/50/60 fps, Audio Return Channel (ARC), HDMI Ethernet Channel (HEC), Deep Colour, x.v.Color (xvYCC) and provides a 2-channel SPDIF downmix of the source material. NOTE: HDMI is an interactive format, which can occasionally cause format errors between the source devices and the output display.
8 Analog Audio Inputs - Balanced The Sigma SSP supports 1pr of XLR type connectors for balanced analog sources. They are labeled R1/L1. NOTE: This input conforms to the AES (Audio Engineering Society) “pin 2 = hot” convention.
For more information, please contact your dealer and ask about home automation systems. RJ-45 - DB9 female adaptor If your RS-232 control system uses a cable with a male DB9 connector, you will need to buy or build an adaptor to convert the RJ-45 female to a DB9 female. Standard RJ45-to-DB9 female connectors come with RJ-45 pins and connections as below. Wire the DB9 adaptor according to this diagram and table.
13 7.1-Channel Analog Outputs The Sigma SSP supports eight channels of analog audio output, with both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) connections available for the Front Left and Front Right channels. Connect the FR or R and FL or L outputs to the Right and Left amplifier channels respectively. Connect C to the Center channel, S to the Subwoofer and SL and SR to the Surround Left and Surround Right channels respectively.
14 Ethernet Connector The Ethernet connection is used to enable streaming of audio using Apple’s AirPlay or DLNA. This connection also supports IP control for using the Classé App with an iOS device such as an iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, and/or home automation system to control the Sigma SSP via your home Network. 15 Main Power On/Off Switch This switch connects and disconnects the Sigma SSP from AC.
The Remote Control 1 Your Sigma SSP includes a remote control for the most basic operation of the SSP and transport control of USB and Network-connected devices. The remote control is shown on the left. The numbers in the drawing refer to the descriptions that follow. 1 3 2 F1 F2 • Mute reduces the audio output of the SSP to the preset mute level. See the Mute Setup description in the Menu System section found later in the manual for further instructions.
5 Using the Remote and Accessing the Battery The IR Remote ships with a battery already installed. This battery CR2032, 3V is covered by a protective film that prevents it from discharging during storage. To use the remote for the first time, open the cover by inserting a large paperclip or similar tool into the hole on the back cover at an angle to depress the button and release the catch. While holding the button depressed, slide the rear cover relative to the front cover as shown.
Initial Setup Your Sigma SSP Stereo Preamp/Processor is delivered with default factory settings to facilitate initial setup. But we highly recommend that you work with your Classé dealer for the final setup of the preamp/processor. Your dealer’s knowledge and experience with Classé products will ensure that your audio system is optimized for your listening space. However, if you can’t wait to get started, this section is designed to assist you in setting up and becoming familiar with the Sigma SSP hardware.
Step 3 Connect source components to the SSP rear panel. If necessary, refer to the Rear Panel section in this manual for a detailed description of each connector found on the rear panel. Your local Classé dealer can also provide useful suggestions for what source components you should add to your system and guidance in setting them up.
Connect the FL & FR Outputs, either RCA or XLR, from the rear panel of the SSP to the corresponding inputs on your amplifier(s). Connect Center, Surround Left and Surround Right channels to the corresponding inputs on your amplifier(s). • If you are using a subwoofer, connect the SSP subwoofer output to the input of the designated amplifier or powered subwoofer.
Understanding Surround Sound Today’s sophisticated surround sound systems have spawned a bewildering array of technologies and acronyms. In this section, we’ll give you a basic overview of what all that jargon means. As a result, you’ll be better equipped to use your SSP and associated source components to their best advantage.
By contrast, modern soundtracks use discrete digital channels of information. That is, each speaker has a distinct signal that is completely independent of every other channel. This approach is clearly more desirable, since it gives the moviemakers more creative control over the quality of your experience. Musicians also prefer discrete formats, since it allows them to place their instruments and voices with greater precision, to create the musical effects they desire.
DTS up to 5.1 Discrete Similar to Dolby Digital in practice though it uses different technology and requires a somewhat higher bit rate. Modern SSPs and AVRs are equipped to decode both. DTS-ES Matrix 6.1 Mostly Discrete A center rear channel is matrix encoded into the L&R Surround channels. All other channels are discrete. DTS-ES Discrete 6.1 Discrete All 6.1 channels including the rear channel are discrete. For 7.1 channel configurations the two rear channels share the same signal.
post-processing The first thing the Surround Sound Preamp/Processor does is recover the various channels delivered by your source with accuracy and fidelity. This might be a single-channel mono signal, a Dolby True HD soundtrack with 7.1 channels, or anything in between. The signal may have been delivered via satellite receiver, cable set-top box, Blu-ray Disc, or even downloaded from the Internet.
Movie Plus up to 7.1 Takes 2-channel sources and creates multichannel playback for up to 7.1 channels with the relative speaker levels balanced for surround envelopment appropriate to movies. Music Plus up to 7.1 Takes 2-channel sources and creates multichannel playback for up to 7.1 channels with the relative speaker levels balanced for surround envelopment appropriate to music. In practice, the result is a more forward-balanced soundfield than the Movie Plus mode. Dolby PLII up to 5.
Neo6 up to 6.1 Creates up to 6.1 channels from a two-channel source. The sixth channel is used for Center Rear but my also play as two mono channels in systems configured with L&R Rear speakers. Neo6 Music up to 6.1 Creates up to 6.1 channels from a two-channel source. The sixth channel is used for Center Rear but my also play as two mono channels in systems configured with L&R Rear speakers. The channel balance algorithm is optimized for music playback.
Using the Sigma SSP The Sigma SSP’s versatile touchscreen LCD supports your day-to-day operations and provides access to a flexible menu system for controls and setup functions that aren’t accessed as often. This section of the owner’s manual outlines the use of the touchscreen in routine operation of the system. When you bring the SSP out of Standby mode, the touchscreen displays the Home page, as shown below. The Home page displays the volume in large font which is easily visible from across a room.
Touch any source button on the touchscreen to select it as the current source. The selected source button is shaded. If the source you want to choose is not on this screen (and you have more than nine source buttons enabled), press the button for the next page of sources. Or, press the button to return to the previous page. The Sigma SSP comes from the factory with eighteen source buttons labeled and enabled. To change the default settings and labels or to disable unused buttons, see the Menu System.
The Menu System The comprehensive menu system provides setup and configuration controls for the Sigma SSP. These installation-specific features let you customize how the SSP works within the context of your particular system. Changes are made on-the-fly, which allows you to quickly set up and modify settings without constantly being asked if you’re sure you want to make the change and pressing enter to save.
From the System Setup menu, you can: • • • • • • • • • tailor your inputs to your particular source components configure the system to take best advantage of your loudspeakers tailor the display to your preferences set volume control parameters enable and setup the Parametric EQ setup Tone Control parameters view the unit’s Network IP address/status and settings choose Remote F key functions teach IR commands Source Setup Each of the 18 source buttons supported by your Sigma SSP can be customized in sev
Source Name The Source Name button provides a way to customize the names of the sources as displayed on the Source Selection screen(s). For example, if you have an outboard phono stage plugged into the R2/L2 RCA analog inputs, you might want to rename the source button Phono to make it easier to remember. To change source names, use the keyboard on the touchscreen.
Choosing Discrete as the Favorite Mode will output whatever number of channels the original signal contains. Note that for 7.1 channel systems with a 7.1 channel configuration selected, using Discrete mode may result in only 5.1 channels playing if only 5.1 channels are present on the original media. You might think of this as a purest mode, but most users who have 7.1 channels installed want to have sound from all of them, at least when listening to multichannel.
Configuration Setup The Configuration Setup page allows you to define up to six different speaker configurations. Touch the button for the specific configuration you want to set up to open its configuration setup menu. The page contains buttons for naming the configuration and enabling balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) outputs for Front L&R, and independently enabling Center, Subwoofer, Surround and Auxiliary outputs. Choosing a subwoofer output causes a Bass Management button to appear.
Auxiliary Channels The Sigma SSP has two auxiliary channels that can be utilized for bi-amping the L&R speakers, adding Rear channels, adding Height channels for the Dolby PLIIz mode or providing a two-channel down-mix for an analog recorder or another system.
Timeout If you prefer listening to music in a dimly-lit or darkened room or the SSP is in your field of vision while watching movies, you may find even the low brightness setting of the display somewhat distracting. You can essentially turn off the touchscreen by reducing the timeout value of the backlighting so as to turn it off entirely after a period of inactivity that you may select. In this context, activity refers to any use of the user interface.
The position of the temporary OSD image may be adjusted to accommodate different video resolution and screen aspect ratios. A 1080p signal on a 2.35:1 screen, for example, may place the OSD image partially below the screen, so an OSD shift adjustment allows you to address this. By accessing the OSD Shift page (press the more arrow on the OSD Control page) you may shift the OSD vertical position of the image in 15 pixel increments.
Max Volume The Max Volume page allows you to establish a maximum volume setting for your system. This scale runs from -93.0 to +14.0, with +14.0 dB indicating that you do not want any artificial limit placed on the maximum gain your Sigma SSP can provide. This setting is interactive. It is easiest to play the system at increasing levels until you reach the volume which you want to use as the maximum for the system. Using the volume knob, enter that value on the Max Volume page.
Mute Setup The Mute Setup page allows you to choose how the Mute button functions. The options for mute control are: • specific - allows you to select the exact value to which the volume is attenuated. If the current volume is already below that level when muting is engaged, the volume remains unchanged. The factory default is - - -, which is fully muted. • dampening - reduces the current listening level by a specified amount (e.g. -25.0 dB).
You do not need to have all or even any filters enabled for every channel. The installer need only make the adjustments to the channels necessary to correct for the room’s interaction. We encourage you to consult with your authorized Classé dealer to properly calibrate the Parametric EQ function. NOTE: a discrete IR command or Fkey may be used to toggle the EQ on and off to easily compare before and after from the listening position. When the EQ is enabled, EQ appears on the Home page.
Network Setup The Network Setup page displays the IP address of the Sigma SSP and the Network status. Pressing the Restore Network Defaults button on this page re-enables DHCP mode. In DHCP mode the SSP obtains an IP address from a device on the Network (usually the Wireless AP). UKEC version units are shipped with the Wake on LAN feature disabled. When in standby, they will not respond to commands from control interfaces via the Network such as CAN Bus, RS-232, IP Control and the Classé App.
Remote Fkeys The remote control supplied with the Sigma SSP has three function keys (Fkeys), each of which can give you instant access to specific system functions. For example, if you want direct access to particular sources or configurations, you may want to consider programming some of the Fkeys to directly access them. By assigning them as Fkey functions, you do not need to use the arrow keys to scroll through the active sources or configurations looking for them.
Teach IR The complete list of Sigma SSP discrete infrared (IR) command codes extends beyond what is practical for any one handheld remote control. However, many of these functions are critical if you plan to create a customized remote control with macros that take command of your entire system. Without these discrete codes, many of the macros you might want to create simply won’t work reliably. The Teach IR page displays a scrolling list of all the available IR codes in the SSP.
Tone Control Setting up the Tone Control involves choosing high- and low-frequency inflection points, and relative cut or boost for them. The factory default settings create what is called a tilt control, which tilts the tonal balance either toward more high and less low frequency for a leaner, crisper sound, or the opposite direction toward a warmer, fuller sound. NOTE: To change these parameters, press MENU, then System Setup, Tone Control Setup.
Dolby Volume and Late Night Dolby Volume and Late Night are two related but different modes that are mutually exclusive. Dolby Volume is available to address some of the most common problems associated with real-world theater use. Modern film soundtracks have a wide dynamic range, meaning the softest sounds are quite a bit softer than the loudest sounds. With the volume turned up loud enough to hear quiet whispers of dialogue, a thundering explosion might be too loud to comfortably tolerate.
Balance To adjust the L/R Balance, when on the Balance page, use the volume knob or the volume up/down keys of the remote control. Balance is adjusted in 0.5 dB increments by alternately boosting and cutting 0.5 dB from each channel. In this way, the overall level stays roughly the same as the balance shifts. The Balance control works by making adjustments with the master volume control, so no additional circuitry enters the signal path when balance adjustments are made.
Configurations You may create up to six different output configurations to accommodate preferences like with or without subwoofer, or with subwoofer but configured for different crossover settings. While these configurations may be associated with specific sources, they may also be called from the Main Menu page. Pressing the Configurations button in the Main Menu opens the Configurations page. Choose the configuration you wish to employ.
features CAN-Bus will allow a Classé touchscreen to: • Display status information for every connected unit, including amplifiers which do not have a touchscreen display. • Create a “PlayLink” that allows an SSP or Preamp to automatically switch to the correct input when a Delta series source component starts playback. • Adjust the global system brightness. • Configure the entire system to go in and out of standby at the touch of a button and also bring individual components in and out of standby.
The diagrams below illustrate how to connect the CAN-Bus hardware. Any combination of models in any order. CAN-BUS IN OUT CAN-BUS IN OUT CAN-BUS IN OUT CAN-BUS IN OUT For any system with SSP-300 or SSP-600. CAN-BUS IN OUT CAN-BUS IN OUT CAN-BUS IN OUT CAN-BUS IN OUT NOTE: Daisy chain may need to be terminated with CAN-Bus Terminator. using CAN-Bus CAN-Bus is controlled via the touchscreen of any Classé component that is so equipped.
The touchscreen will then display the CAN-Bus devices screen, which lists connected components by model & serial number. Highlighting a unit on the CAN-Bus devices screen identifies it as the target unit. The front panel LEDs of the target unit will start flashing (unless you highlight the unit that you are using to access CAN-Bus). Once you have chosen the target unit press select. The target unit’s LEDs will stop flashing and the touch screen will list the CAN-Bus features available to it.
global brightness By setting all your components to global brightness you can adjust the touchscreen and LED brightness for your entire system by changing the brightness of a single touchscreen. All CAN-Bus software updates automatically set the updated unit to Global Brightness. If you want a particular unit to be excluded from Global Brightness, deselect Global Brightness for that unit.
amp info Available for amplifiers only, this screen displays the data provided by the heatsink and AC Module temperature sensors. NOTE: This feature is only accessible when the target amplifier is on. event log Reserved for amplifiers, this feature is a protection circuitry event log which can only be accessed when the target amplifier is in standby. The protection circuit shuts down the amplifier or channel if it overheats or if its output could damage your speakers.
Apple AirPlay The Sigma SSP is AirPlay certified; it can render audio content from Apple iPhone, iPad or iPod touch devices or from iTunes on a Mac or PC. To play content on the SSP: 1. Connect your device to the same Network as the SSP. 2. Open iTunes or the Music App on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. 3. Locate and tap the AirPlay icon and select the Sigma SSP from the menu (if attempting to AirPlay video content from Safari or Videos, begin playback first). 4. Press play.
The SSP display will show the status of the audio stream, so when using AirPlay, it will show the sampling frequency of the signal as well as its format (ALAC is the format AirPlay streams use). You may adjust the volume in iTunes or if using Apple’s free Remote App, change volume and choose and manage music files from your iOS device (iPad, iPhone, iPod touch).
Troubleshooting Always refer any service problems to your Classé dealer. However, if you run into a problem, we recommend referring to this section first as sometimes an error is not a malfunctioning product, but simply an oversight in the proper setup of the component. This section provides suggested solutions to potential problems. If none of these solutions work, please consult your Classé dealer for assistance. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the Sigma SSP.
3 One speaker or subwoofer seems not to be playing. P If the problem occurs with all inputs, check the interconnecting cables between the preamp and the power amp. Also check the speaker wires for secure connections. P Check the balance control setting by pressing MENU on the front panel, and then verify the balance control setting is not turning one channel off or reducing it’s output. P If the problem occurs for a subwoofer, make sure it is enabled on the configuration assigned to this source button.
3 Streaming audio drops out frequently. P Usually a problem associated with wireless networks, if you are using a wireless bridge, make sure the signal strength from your wireless router is good (they may need to be located closer together) and devices that cause interference such as microwave ovens are not in use. P Your router may not have sufficient bandwidth to consistently handle the data rate of the audio stream. A higher-performance router may be required.
Care & Maintenance To remove dust from the cabinet of your Sigma SSP, use a feather duster or a lint-free soft cloth. To remove dirt and fingerprints, we recommend isopropyl alcohol and a soft cloth. Dampen the cloth with alcohol first and then lightly clean the surface of the SSP with the cloth. Caution! Power down and remove the AC power cord from the SSP before performing maintenance. At no time should liquid cleaners be applied directly to the unit.
Specifications All specifications are accurate at the time of printing. Classé reserves the right to make improvements without notice.
Made for: n iPhone 5S n iPhone 5 n iPhone 4S n iPhone 4 Made for: n iPad mini (with Retina display) n iPad Air n iPad (4th generation) n iPad mini n n n n n n iPhone 3GS iPhone 3G iPhone iPad (3rd generation) iPad 2 iPad AirPlay: AirPlay works with iPhone, iPod, and iPod touch with iOS 4.3.3 or later, Mac with OS X Mountain Lion, and Mac and PC with iTunes 10.2.2 or later. Classé and the Classé logo are trademarks of B&W Group Ltd. of Lachine, Canada. All rights reserved.
Dimensions 17.00” (433.00) 3.45” (88.00) 3.75” (95.00) 17.00” (433.00) 13.39” (340.00) 2.10” (53.59) 9.65” (245.80) 14.57” (370.00) 14.88” (378.
Installation Worksheet Source:.______________________________________________________________ Audio Connector:______________________________________________________ Input:_______________________________________________________________ Source:.______________________________________________________________ Audio Connector:______________________________________________________ Input:_______________________________________________________________ Source:.
B&W Group, Ltd. 5070 François Cusson Lachine, Quebec Canada H8T 1B3 +1 (514) 636-6384 +1 (514) 636-1428 (fax) http://www.classeaudio.com North America: (514) 636-6384 email: cservice@classeaudio.com Europe: 44 (0) 1903 221 700 email: classe@bwgroup.com Asia: (852) 2790 8903 email: classe@bwgroup.hk All Others: +1 514 636 6384 email: cservice@classeaudio.com Copyright © 2015 B&W Group Ltd. V 1.
