The Classé Audio P-101 is a stereo balanced power amplifier designed to deliver high-quality audio performance. Its design philosophy emphasizes repeated listening design sessions, upgradable single-circuit designs, and extreme long life in real-world conditions.
Function Description:
The P-101 serves as a power amplifier, taking a low-level audio signal from a preamplifier and amplifying it to drive loudspeakers. It can operate in either stereo or mono (bridged) mode, offering flexibility for various audio setups. In stereo mode, it provides 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 200 watts per channel into 4 ohms. When configured for mono operation, it delivers a substantial 350 watts into 8 ohms and 600 watts into 4 ohms. The amplifier features both regular (RCA) and balanced (XLR) input options, which are externally switchable, allowing integration with a wide range of preamplifiers. A remote control jack is also available for convenient power ON/OFF operation from a distance.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 KHz, with a deviation of -0.1 dB, indicating a very flat and accurate frequency reproduction across the audible spectrum.
- Sensitivity: 950 mV in for rated output, meaning a relatively low input voltage is required to achieve full power output.
- Input Impedance: 75 Kohms, which is a standard impedance that ensures compatibility with most preamplifiers without loading them down.
- Output Impedance: 0.036 Ohm, a very low output impedance, indicating excellent control over connected loudspeakers and efficient power transfer.
- Gain: 29.02 dB, representing the amplification factor of the signal.
- THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise): 0.030%, a very low figure, signifying minimal distortion and noise added to the audio signal, contributing to a clean and transparent sound.
- S/N Ratio (Signal-to-Noise Ratio): 128 dBR, an exceptionally high ratio, indicating that the desired audio signal is significantly louder than any inherent noise from the amplifier, resulting in a very quiet background.
- Rated Output (Stereo): 100 Watts into 8 Ohms, 200 Watts into 4 Ohms.
- Rated Output (Mono): 350 Watts into 8 Ohms, 600 Watts into 4 Ohms.
- Dimensions (Net): 19" x 14 1/4" x 5 1/2".
- Weight (Net): 35 lbs.
- Power Transformer: Located at the front-center of the unit.
- Fuses: One AC line fuse (6 AMP SLOW BLOW for 100/120 V.A.C. or 4 AMP SLOW BLOW for 220/240 V.A.C.) and rail fuses (GDB4, 4 amps fast-blow) for output driver protection.
Usage Features:
- Stereo/Mono Operation: A switch on the rear panel allows selection between stereo (UP position, factory preset) and mono (DOWN position) modes. In mono mode, the left channel input is used, and the right channel input is automatically disconnected.
- Input Options: The P-101 offers both regular (RCA) and balanced (XLR) inputs. A REGULAR/BALANCED switch on the rear panel selects between these input types. For balanced inputs, the XLR connectors are wired as: PIN 1: GROUND, PIN 2: POSITIVE (NON-INVERTED) SIGNAL, PIN 3: NEGATIVE (INVERTED) SIGNAL. Users are advised to match the preamplifier's pin configuration if it differs.
- Speaker Connections: Clearly marked input and output connectors on the back of the amplifier. Users are instructed to ensure all connections are tight and to observe correct phasing for loudspeaker connections.
- Remote Control (Optional): A remote jack on the back of the amplifier allows for ON/OFF control from a remote receiver box, offering convenience for integrated systems or multi-room setups.
- Cooling: The amplifier features large dual heat sinks at the rear. Adequate airspace (6 inches above and 3 inches on each side) is recommended for optimal cooling.
- Placement: The power transformer's location at the front-center suggests placing the unit a few feet away from hum-sensitive components like preamplifiers, turntables, and interconnect cables.
Maintenance Features:
- Protection Circuit: The P-101 incorporates a protection circuit that detects unusual distortion characteristics and/or DC content in the incoming audio signal, in addition to rail fuses for output driver protection. If triggered, or if any fuse blows, the front panel power LED will blink green.
- Fuse Replacement: The manual explicitly states that users should NOT attempt to change a blown fuse themselves. In such an event, or if the unit enters protection mode, the user should contact their local dealer. This is crucial to prevent further, serious damage to vital components.
- Unpacking and Setup: The unit is packed in high-density, semi-rigid foam. Users are instructed to inspect for damage and ensure all included items (detachable linecord, Allen key for top plate, owner's manual) are present.
- Safety Instructions: Emphasizes disconnecting the AC line cable before making any connections to prevent shock hazards. It also warns against "floating the ground" or defeating the ground on a 3-prong linecord.
- CE Approval: The product has been granted CE approval (Certificate No: C401CLA1.MGS as of July 18, 1996), indicating compliance with European Community CE requirements for manufacturing, safety, and unit-to-unit consistency.
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