Classé Audio just introduced its new SSP-900 Surround Sound Processor. The SSP-900 promises user-friendly touchscreen operation with a second front-panel screen dedicated to previewing video information independent of other display devices in a home theater system. 

The SSP-900 displays a curved aesthetic and just four controls on the front panel. That clean visage is possible thanks to a customizable touchscreen menu system that provides equal access to all the SSP-900’s capabilities. 

Analog audio inputs include four single-ended and one balanced as well as accommodations for a discrete 7.1 source. Digital audio sources enjoy six coaxial, one AES/EBU, and six EIAJ (TOSlink optical) inputs. The processor accommodates up to four HDMI audio/video sources and features four component, four composite, and five S-Video inputs as well. 

Outputs include Main and Zone analog and digital audio. The 10 Main analog outputs include two programmable for either additional subwoofers or a two-channel stereo downmix. The video output complement includes two independently assignable HDMI outputs as well as component and S-Video. A separate OSD (on-screen display) output allows easy configuration in a custom-installed environment. 

All analog audio circuitry is full-differential, promising maximum noise rejection and dynamic range. Digital components include advanced Cirrus Logic analog-to-digital (A/D) converters featuring 24-bit/192 kHz conversion. A Texas Instruments microprocessor handles all internal decoding, while complimentary Burr Brown digital-to-analog (D/A) converters bring the full-resolution signals back to the analog domain for output as needed. 

A Gennum video processor/scaler, noted for its use in HDTV broadcast-level applications, provides patented Visual Excellence Processing that includes edge detection, film mode processing, and detail enhancement. The latest algorithms continuously analyze video signals and boast the optimum in both content-based and pixel-adaptive noise reduction for edge definition that promises a true film-like viewing experience. 

Other features include a proprietary CAN-bus control to link numerous Classé components, rear panel IR (infrared) inputs and outputs, an RS-232 bi-directional communications port, and individually programmable DC trigger outputs. 

• $25,000
• Available in March 2007
• Dual power supplies
• One toroid-based linear design for analog circuits
• A high-speed switching supply

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.