Affordable Processor with Fabulous 2 Channel ?

@btw22

The Classe SSP 800 is fabulous for both stereo and surrounds (HT) but is expensive even used for around $3500 and up cause its original msrp was $9500. Eventhough the SSP 800 is obselete and was discontinued last year but its after market resale value is still at around $3500ish and up.
The OP wants an affordable pre pro I’m assuming for under $3k or maybe around $2k. Also not sure what the OP’s budget is?

@erik_squires

What is your budget for a used pre pro? If you’re willing to spend for around $3500 I would highly recommend a used Classe SSP 800 or a used original version of Classe Sigma SSP. The original version of the Classe Sigma SSP did retail for $5k new and you can find a used one for maybe under $3k. The original version or version 1 of the Classe Sigma SSP has been replaced by a Classe Sigma SSP Mk2, which now retails for $6k new and is a current model. The Classe Sigma SSP Mk2 is basically the same processor as the original version of the Sigma SSP with an upgraded audio video boards to accommodate supports for Dolby Atmos, DTS-X as well as 4K video pass through, etc, which the original version 1 can’t.
The Classe Sigma SSP is optimized for stereo performance.

Both Classe SSP 800 and Sigma SSP will perform and sound very good in two-channels or when used as stereo preamps.
I would go with the Sigma SSP if I were you as it is more current and has USB DAC port inputs (back & front) and is DNLA equipped which the SSP 800 lacks. They both sound equally good in stereo for stereo music playbacks but the SSP 800 will perform and sound better than the Sigma SSP in surrounds (HT). Actually according to some people that the Sigma SSP actually sounded slightly better in stereo or when used as a stereo preamp compared to the SSP 800 but the difference is subtle. Classe also claimed the same. But the SSP 800 is better for use in multi-channels or surrounds for HT.

However, all Classe processors do not have video processor / upscaler, so Classe simply switches the video signal unaltered and passing it through to your tv display or projector. Both Classe processors also are not equipped with auto room correction software but instead Classe provides manual PEQ (Parametric EQ) which requires proper tools and equipments and knowledge on how to implement it.

What power amp are you currently using or plan on using with the processor? If you go with either Classe processor I would suggest using high end power amps as well such as the ones from Classe amps and alikes in order to achieve overall high fidelity performance of your setup and system. Or if you’re on the budget the Rotel RMB-1585 five-channel amp would also work with either the Classe SSP 800 or the Sigma SSP. The Rotel RMB-1585 retails for $3k brand new, which is quite a bit cheaper than Classe amps.

I would get a used Classe Sigma SSP over a used  Krell Foundation. Krell as a company isn't the same anymore since Dan D'Agostino's departure from the company in 2009. The Classe Sigma SSP sounds better than the Krell Foundation especially in two-channel performance for stereo music playbacks.
The Classe Sigma SSP is optimized for stereo performance for music playbacks. But the surround or multi-channel performance for HT is very good as well but its stereo performance for 2ch music playbacks that stands out. 

I've heard both processors in the same setup and system and the Classe Sigma SSP sounded better especially in two-channel for stereo music playbacks. 
For stereo digital music files playbacks the Sigma SSP's USB DAC input port sounded significantly better than its other digital inputs. This unit is optimized for its use of USB DAC input signal path for digital music files downloads. Its USB DAC inputs circuitry was copied and pasted directly from Classe CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC. You can read more on that online to find out. 

The Classe Sigma SSP original retail price is cheaper than the original retail price of the Krell Foundation. I think the latest version of Krell Foundation retails for somewhere between $7k to $7500 and the original or first version of the Krell Foundation retails for maybe around $6500, whereas the Classe Sigma SSP version 1 (original version) retails for $5k and the Sigma SSP Mk2 retails for $6k and will sound better than the Krell Foundation especially for stereo music playbacks or when used as a stereo preamp. 

However, the Krell Foundation has more connections eg inputs & outputs connectivities than the Classe Sigma SSP. The Classe Sigma SSP is stripped off unnecessary inputs and outputs connections. You won't find any legacy analog video connectivities nor multi-channel analog audio 7.1 inputs on the Classe Sigma SSP.  But the Sigma SSP has a pair of stereo analog audio inputs (both XLR & RCA). And the analog audio outputs on the Classe Sigma SSP has XLR balanced outs only for its front LR channels only and with the remaining channels are only available in single-ended but the optimized ones. 

The Classe Sigma SSP internal circuitry  is true differential or fully balanced design all the way for only its front LR channels and with the remaining channels are single-ended design.
The Krell Foundation processor has all XLR analog audio outputs for all channels but not sure if its internal circuitry is true differential or fully balanced design all the way like the Classe. 

For stereo music playbacks the Classe Sigma SSP also sounded better than any Anthem processors, but the Anthem has advantages in multi-channel or surround sound applications for HT cause Anthem's ARC (Anthem Room Correction) is very good and really works.
Especially the new Anthem AVM60 processor is equipped with the latest ARC2 and performs very well in surrounds for HT and is better than the Classe Sigma SSP in that regard. 

The Arcam processors are good too.

@bwguy 

Are you using the Classe Sigma SSP? 

@bwguy 

Yes, there's compression with airplay which degrades sound quality regatdless of which device it is. 
I would never use airplay. 

I second Soix advise and it’s very true on lower end pre pros from Marantz, Denon, Yamaha, Onkyo/Integra, Anthem. These pre pros two-channel performances for stereo music playbacks are compromised and these pre pros are meant to be used for HT. that’s their main design philosophies.

But high end pre pros like the Classe SSP 800, Classe Sigma SSP, Bryston SP3, Meridian Ref 861 v8 are great for both stereo and surrounds (HT) and can function as high end stereo preamps.

I was going to recommend the Bryston SP3 to the OP (Eric_Squires) but the SP3 is expensive ($9500 retail price) and is a current model, so even if you could find a used one it would be still pricey. The Bryston SP3’s stereo performance is even better than both Classe (SSP 800 & Sigma SSP) pre pros.

The Meridian Ref 861 v8 pre pro is even way more expensive around $32k brand new, But its stereo performance is spectacular.

Expensive processors such as Datasat and Trinnov are phenomenal for HT but I don’t think they put priority on stereo performances. Today Datasat & Trinnov are probably the best HT processors you can get for strictly HT use.

Both the Classe SSP 800 & Sigma SSP stereo performances for stereo music playbacks are on par with high end stereo preamps that are in the $5k range IMO. Their stereo performances aren’t compromised at all like those lower end pre pros from Marantz, Denon, Yamaha, Onkyo/Integra, Anthem.
Actually the Classe Sigma SSP is optimized for stereo listening.
People who bought the Sigma SSP put priority on stereo performance for music playbacks.
Unless if you plan on getting expensive stereo preamps that cost upwards of $7k and up, then yes they would most likely be better than stereo performances of the Classe Sigma SSP or the SSP 800. No doubt.

@auxinput

I wasn’t implying that the more expensive = the better. Of course does not always work that way. For example, the Classe Sigma SSP stereo performance is actually better than the much more expensive Classe SSP 800 according to many people. I know we are talking about two different generation processors here. But I have to admit that the SSP 800 performs better than the Sigma SSP in surrounds for HT use when using HDMI inputs perhaps partly due to all true differential or fully balanced design for all channels on the SSP 800 vs only the front LR channels on the Sigma SSP. Also partly due to better DAC implementation and configurations and power supplies on the SSP 800 maybe. Perhaps the SSP 800 has better DSP?

But when used as an analog stereo preamp thus bypassing DAC, DSP, and other digital processings lots of people said that in fact the Sigma SSP sounded better than the much more expensive SSP 800 when using stereo analog audio inputs (XLR) and both processors are in analog bypass mode. Classe also claimed the same.

So that being said I think the Classe Sigma SSP will be suitable for the OP since he’s looking for a processor that sounds great in two-channel playbacks for music and the used first original version of the Sigma SSP in after market can be had for less than $3k since it does not support the latest surround formats eg Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, Auro 3D nor 4K video pass through, HDR, hdcp 2.2. The original msrp was $5k. It’s now been replaced by the Sigma SSP Mk2 which supports the latest formats and the current retail price goes up to $6k brand new. Classe upgraded audio video boards with the Mk2.

The same to be said for the Bryston SP3 processor. When I heard it the SP3 was used as an analog stereo preamp using its XLR analog audio inputs in analog bypass mode. They had a PS Audio Direct Stream DAC as a digital front end source component at the time feeding the Bryston SP3 via XLR analog audio. IMO it sounded really good coming from a HT processor but I have never tried the Bryston SP3 for surrounds using its HDMI inputs or never tried its digital inputs at all, so had no idea how it sounded using its digital inputs thus using its DAC, DSP, etc. When used as an analog stereo preamp using its stereo analog audio input (XLR) IMO the Bryston SP3 sounded better than both Classe SSP 800 & Sigma SSP.
The Bryston SP3 is similarly priced as the original msrp of the SSP 800.

In regards to Datasat and Trinnov processors I completely agree with you they both are great for surround processings for HT use but their analog stages are not any better than the Classe or the Bryston SP3 or the Meridian Ref 861 v8. I think I also mentioned that in my earlier post.

In regards to Marantz AV8802 processor, yes it sounded good for HT use when using its HDMI inputs but when we tried its stereo analog audio inputs (XLR) again fed by a PS Audio Direct Stream DAC via analog it wasn’t quite in the same league as the Bryston SP3 or the Classe Sigma SSP or the SSP 800 or the Meridian Ref 861 v8.
We still felt the need for a dedicated high end analog stereo preamp for stereo listening to music. But yes the Marantz AV8802 performed very good for surrounds for HT (movies) especially for the money.

I an still using the Classe SSP 800 in my dedicated home theater room paired with all Classe Delta series amplifiers (class AB) driving all B&W 800 D3 series speaker system and they sounded spectacular together. But this is strictly for HT use. I have a separate dedicated stereo setup and system in a separate dedicated stereo listening room which consists of completely different gears.
I am about to get rid of my Classe SSP 800 as it’s getting obselete.
I’ll be looking for a new processor that can decode Dolby Atmos & DTS-X pretty soon.

@Erik_squires 

Nope. The Classe SSP 800 & Sigma SSP do not convert their analog inputs to digital. There’s an analog bypass feature that you need to choose.
It will however convert it to digital if you choose to use their crossover and use the manual PEQ with the analog audio inputs. But if one wants to use their analog audio inputs most likely will bypass DSP and other digital processings. But you will have to tick that analog bypass otherwise DSP and other digital processings gets in the way.

@btw22 

+1. Actually the GUI on the Classe SSP 800 is not any better. 
The new Sigma SSP Mk2 does Atmos & DTS-X, 4K video pass through but not HDR compatible and the new retail price now is $6k. 
The Lyngdorf MP-50 is better IMO especially for HT. I've heard that its stereo performance is very good too. I think the Lyngdorf MP-50 retails for $10k. 

@auxinput

The SSP 800 stereo performance or when used as a stereo analog preamp is superb especially coming from an AV pre pro but the Sigma SSP is slightly better but not by much. The difference was subtle. They sounded similar but the Sigma SSP has lower noise floor thus quieter, better image focus, everything were rendered more faithfully, slightly better dynamic range, etc. But again the difference was subtle.

The Sigma SSP’s USB DAC input signal path circuit architecture, spdif & Toslink input stages as well as analog input stages for only front LR channels were copied and pasted from that of the Classe CP-800 stereo preamp/DAC. The analog input stages of the CP-800 stereo preamp is known to be superior to that of the SSP 800 pre pro and sounded better than the SSP 800. Actually the stereo performance of the Sigma SSP is very close to that of the CP 800 stereo preamp, regardless of whether using the XLR stereo analog inputs or USB DAC inputs.
It takes highly trained ears in order to tell the difference between the two.

Both Classe CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC and Classe Sigma SSP’s front channels use exact same DAC chips but the CP 800 uses 2 DAC chips per channel whereas the Sigma SSP uses only one DAC chip per channel for its front LCR channels. Both the CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC and the Sigma SSP USB DAC input port sounded significantly better than their other digital audio inputs (spdif, Toslink). These two preamps were designed around the USB DAC input ports. You can read more on that online under Classe CP 800 reviews. However the Classe CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC originally retailed for $1k more than the Sigma SSP pre pro which makes the Sigma SSP a better value.

However, when designing a cheaper AV pre pro (Sigma SSP) Classe had to make some sacrifices such as limited features, limited connections (inputs & outputs) on the Sigma SSP in order to build a cheaper AV pre pro than the SSP 800 without sacrificing audio performances. There are features and connectivities that are omitted when designing and building the Sigma SSP.
You won’t find legacy analog video connections, no multi-channel analog audio 7.1 inputs on the Sigma SSP.
Classe also decided to limit the XLR balanced audio outputs only for front LR channels only (they are true differential or fully balanced circuitry) and the rest of the channels are single-ended design and have only RCA outs.

The Classe SSP 800 and Sigma SSP have different design philosophy. The Sigma SSP is optimized for stereo listening to music and is for someone who’s looking for an AV pre pro but main priority will be for two-channel listening to music but wants to have good multi-channel capabilities as well for HT or movies.
The Classe Sigma SSP isn’t for someone who’s looking for a processor for strictly HT use, that would be more for the SSP 800 or Datasat, Trinnov, Anthem, Marantz, Lyngdorf MP-50, Audio Control Maestro.

Actually the new Anthem AVM60 pre pro ($3k retail price brand new) performs extraordinary in surrounds for strictly HT use with the ARC2 engaged. The ARC2 (Anthem Room Correction) is a phenomenal room correction and is one of top notch and is probably on par with Room Perfect & Dirac Live. The Anthem AVM60, with the ARC2 engaged, will outperform the Classe Sigma SSP when used for surrounds or HT and rivals the much more expensive SSP 800.
But when used as a stereo preamp with room correction turned off both Classe Sigma SSP & SSP 800 sounded better than the Anthem AVM60. Hands down.
It all depends on what you are going to use the pre pro for.

The Anthem AVM60 pre pro is an absolute steal and if you are going to use it for strictly HT or surround movies the Anthem AVM60 will be perfect. But the ARC (Anthem Room Correction) is somewhat difficult to implement and get it set up properly. It isn’t plug n play kinda thing like the Audyssey in Marantz & Denon products.
But if you know how to set it up correctly it is very effective and extraordinary, way better than Audyssey.

However, the Anthem AVM60, both Classe SSP 800 & Sigma SSP, the Bryston SP3 aren’t equipped with video processor / upscaler. The video is simply pass through unaltered. They simply switch the video, they don’t process it. It makes more sense not to equip av pre pro or AVR with a video processor / upscaler. IMO the video part is better off handled on your display or an external video processor or the Oppo players are very good in this area.

@soix 

Yes I totally agree with your points. Having a good quality dedicated stereo preamp and a cheap AVR or a cheap pre pro will make more sense since the HT formats keeps on changing constantly. But not everyone would want two separate units : one stereo pre and another pre pro or AVR in their rigs maybe partly due to limited rack space or other reasons. Some would also want very good surround sound quality as well for their HT needs as well as stereo needs. Cause cheap AVR and pre pro would not sound good for HT (movies). Having the best of both worlds will cost a fortunate indeed. Having both high end expensive AV pre pro and high end stereo preamp can be very costly. And some people do not care about the latest formats and would only like conventional 5.1 or 5.2 setups. That seems to be the case with the OP (erik_squires). He does not need the latest AV formats eg Dolby Atmos, DTS-X or 4K video pass through. Our varying needs would dictate what to get. 

I'm very well aware that AV formats become obsolete pretty quick. 
And high end stereo preamps would of course sound better than high end AV pre pros in stereo. No doubt. 

I happen to have two separate setups in two different rooms : a stereo setup in my dedicated stereo listening room, and a dedicated HT room in a separate dedicated HT room. But not everyone have what I have. 

@erik_squires 

The Bryston SP3 lacks support of the latest most current formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, Auro 3D, 4K video pass through, etc. that's why its resale value plummets in an after market. 
The same with the Classe SSP 800. That's the main problem or drawbacks with AV pre pros or AVR that lack supports of the latest most current AV formats, their resale values will plummet quite drastically. As mentioned above that AV formats are constantly changing, evolving, etc.
Welcome to the ever changing AV world. 

@doctock993

For your needs it seems like the Classe Sigma SSP would be your best bet. It has excellent stereo performance and very good HT or multi-channels as well. Unless if you want to go different route by acquiring a separate dedicated high end stereo preamp and separate pre pro or even AVR. This would be ideal but can be more costly if you want the best of both worlds. Otherwise, the Classe Sigma SSP ($5k & $6k) will be way to go if you want a single box solution. But keep in mind that AV formats are constantly changing and evolving as stated clearly by Soix in the earlier post.

Don’t worry about the rca or single-ended outputs for center, surrounds and subwoofer channels on the Classe Sigma SSP. They are still very good single-ended designs. Unless if you’re running very long interconnects or if you have noise issues in around your home then otherwise good quality rca cables would do just fine. Try to keep all cables as short as possible and don’t skimp on cables.
But you still want to use XLR balanced cables for the front LR channels outputs on the Sigma SSP especially if your power amp is also fully balanced design.

@erik_squires 

Yes the Bryston SP3 will be a great choice if your priority is stereo listening. 

@corvette01

The McIntosh MX119 is a very old processor and was based on Marantz older processor (can’t remember model # but I think it’s the AV8003 or even older). The McIntosh MX119 is pretty much very similar as an older Marantz processor with McIntosh faceplate on.

Even the newer McIntosh MX122 processor was based on the Marantz AV8802 processor.

@Erik_squires 

If you will be interested at the end of the year let me know or anyone who will be interested. 

@psnyder149

Yup. For stereo music playbacks the Classe Sigma SSP sounded the best using its USB DAC input port. It’s magical and it is only $5k brand new for the first original version and $6k brand new for the Mk2 version. And it is also an AV pre pro as well. It does both stereo and surrounds (HT) very well especially for stereo music playbacks using its USB DAC input port. The Sigma SSP’s USB DAC input stage architecture and implementation was pretty much copied and pasted directly from Classe CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC. The CP 800 design was optimized for use with its USB DAC input ports. It was designed by Alan Clark, the Scotchman who was responsible in designing great Linn CD12 player as well as other great Linn Klimax DS products and legendary Mark Levinson preamps. You can read more online under Classe CP 800 reviews and everything about its USB input design stages was explained.

For HT surrounds (when using HDMI) I think there are better choices out there such as the ones with very good room corrections eg the Anthem AVM60 ($3k brand new), Lyngdorf MP-50 ($10k retail price). Even Classe’s own SSP 800 performs better in surrounds for HT than the Sigma SSP perhaps due to all fully balanced designs for all channels on the SSP 800 vs only reserved for front LR channels on the Sigma SSP, better power supplies on the SSP 800 as well as maybe better DSP surround processing power on the SSP 800 and possibly better multi-channel DACs implementation and configuration on the SSP 800. Not sure. But the fact is the Classe SSP 800 performs and sounded better than the Sigma SSP in surrounds or when used for HT or movies.

The Lyngdorf MP-50 is an excellent surround processor with phenomenal Room Perfect room correction or calibration and will outperform both Classe SSP 800 & Sigma SSP or many other av processors when used for surround movies.

Back to the USB input implementation on the Classe Sigma SSP, one time we had a chance to compare the Sigma SSP to the much more expensive McIntosh MX 160 processor using both processors’ USB DAC input port for stereo music playbacks with room EQ turned off. No comparison, The Classe Sigma SSP sounded better than the much more expensive McIntosh MX 160. The MX160 currently retails for $14k brand new. However, when used for surrounds for HT or movie playbacks with Room Perfect engaged on the McIntosh MX 160 and manual PEQ activated on the Sigma SSP, the McIntosh MX 160 performed better than the Classe Sigma SSP. No doubt.

So it all depends on what you are going to use the pre pro for.

@bwguy

I do not have the Sigma SSP at home. I’m currently using the SSP 800 with all Classe Delta series amps. I’m using the Classe CAM-600 monoblock amps driving my front B&W 800 D3 speakers, CAM-300 monoblock amp (single) driving my B&W HTML1 D3 center speaker, and CA-5300 five-channel amp driving my surrounds. The movie dialogue is excellent have no problem understanding dialogues. The SSP 800 is indeed superior to the Sigma SSP for surrounds (HT).

I have heard the Sigma SSP multiple times at the dealer paired with the Classe Sigma Amp5 driving B&W 803 D3 front, B&W HTML2 D3 center and B&W 805 D3 surrounds. I mostly listened to the Sigma SSP in stereo for music playbacks fed via its USB DAC input with PEQ turned off. But I also did try the Sigma SSP for surrounds (HT) but the movie dialogues seemed clear and precise. I had no problem hearing movie dialogues.

I think yours probably weren’t set up right? Did you activate the manual PEQ cause the manual PEQ isn’t plug n play. You will have to know what you’re doing otherwise the results will be a disaster.
I would suggest that you hire a pro or acoustician or a certified Classe dealer to perform manual calibration using its manual PEQ.
You will have to download XTZ software and conduct measurements based off it. Something might have been off with the way yours was set up.

Indeed the Classe Sigma SSP is optimized for its stereo performance for music playbacks but IMO its multi-channel performance is still very good if it’s set up correctly or properly.

@bwguy 
 
It isn't only the distance settings that you need to make adjustments for but since your unit went back to Classe and you lost all the calibration setup with its manual PEQ that your Classe dealer originally calibrated it for you when you first bought it, you should have your dealer to do calibrations again for you.
Just tell them that you lost all the calibration settings that were originally saved because the unit went back to Classe. It's very common that when the unit goes back to manufacturer for repair or service that you will likely loose all the settings that were originally saved.

@erik_squires

I’ve heard the NAD M17 at my local dealer before paired with the matching NAD M27 amp and they sounded good together. The Classe Sigma SSP is a superior sounding unit for stereo.
The NAD M17 has more bells & whistles than the Classe. And the modular construction on the NAD makes it very versatile and appealing to consumers. That’s the only advantage the NAD M17 has over the Classe Sigma SSP.
Fyi, the NAD M17 will digitize its analog audio inputs.

But if your main focus is two-channel performance out of an AV pre pro, the Classe Sigma SSP will be the best choice. The Sigma SSP was born out of a high end stereo preamp. Its front L/R channels shares the same critical circuit blocks with Classe’s own CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC.
The Sigma SSP’s multi-channel performance is also very good when calibrated correctly and properly using its manual PEQ.

In your first post you said that you are currently using the Mytek Brooklyn DAC as your digital front end. If you decide to get the Classe Sigma SSP you won’t be needing your Mytek Brooklyn DAC any longer. You can connect your computer or a streamer using USB cable directly to the USB DAC input port on the Sigma SSP. The Classe Sigma SSP is also DNLA equipped. Its USB input sounded significantly superior to its other inputs.
This is where the Sigma SSP shines sonically for stereo music playbacks for use with its USB DAC input. So, you can sell your Mytek Brooklyn DAC and save some money.

The first original version of the Classe Sigma SSP can be had for around $2500 to $3k used. It has since been replaced by the Sigma SSP Mk2 ($6k retail price brand new) with an upgraded HDMI & audio video boards as well as software upgrades to accommodate supports for Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, 4k video pass through, etc. But you said you don’t need all these. So, the original version of Classe Sigma SSP would be perfect for you and can be had at roughly half of its original msrp of $5k. 

@erik_squires

Yup. The Classe Sigma SSP will be your best choice. It also performs really well when used as an analog stereo preamp in bypass mode. If you want to use its stereo analog inputs I suggest you use its XLR analog stereo input as the stereo front L/R channels of the Sigma SSP is true differential or fully balanced design all the way. In order to achieve optimal sound when using its analog audio inputs you will have to tick the digital bypass mode otherwise DSP gets in a way and will degrade the sound. Classe calls it a digital bypass mode whereas most other processors call it analog bypass mode. The same thing.

But you will have to use its USB input. It sounded phenomenal. You can try to compare feeding the Sigma SSP directly via its USB input vs your Mytek Brooklyn DAC going analog into the Sigma SSP. I’m pretty sure its USB input will sound better.

But for movies you will still want to connect your bluray player, cable box, etc via HDMI to the Sigma SSP.
The Sigma SSP does not have multi-channel analog audio 7.1 inputs nor legacy analog video connections. Pretty limited as far as connections goes.
The rear panel of the Sigma SSP looks more like a stereo digital preamp processor instead of a typical AV multi-channel preamp surround processor.
This is one area where Classe was able to cut corners when designing and building a lower priced AV pre pro than the SSP 800 without compromising sound quality especially for stereo performance.

@bwguy 

You don't want to be messing around with a manual PEQ if you don't have tools to do it. You might want to leave it off until you can have someone who can do proper calibration for you. You could hire a pro or an acoustician to do it for you.

It's a bummer that your dealer does not carry Classe anymore due to change of ownership. One of my local dealer here in Seattle, WA does not carry Classe anymore for that same reason. 

I agree with auxinput in that the Classe sound is highly resolved, detailed, transparent, fast with lots of attacks. 

@bwguy

Yes it is beautiful here in Seattle.
Good that your dealer is willing to re-calibrate it again for you. They should cause you bought it from them.

@bwguy 

You said earlier that your Classe Sigma SSP went back to Classe for repair lately. Just curious, what was wrong with it? Cause Sigma SSP is somewhat new product and it first came out in early 2015. It made me think that the Sigma SSP might have reliability issue?
I do not own the Sigma SSP but I do own the Classe SSP 800 still and it is 8 yrs old now, so far it only went back to Classe once for service. 

@psnyder149 

I just want to comment on the built-in phonostage (optional) in your Sigma SSP. Since you mentioned in your earlier post that you decided to add an optional built-in phonostage in your Sigma SSP for your Linn LP12 turntable. Linn LP12 is a great turntable and deserves a really good quality dedicated external phonostage pre IMO. You should get a good quality external phonostage pre for your Linn LP12 turntable. Linn makes great quality phonostage with an external PSU. Btw, what tonearm, cartridge and external PSU do you get for your Linn LP12? Are you using Linn's ? 

In regards to your comment on the Classe Sigma Amp5 class D five-channel amp, I totally agreed with you. The Sigma Amp5 is a great amp when used for HT but when used for stereo music playbacks I felt like it lacks warmth, midrange and mid-bass bloom and overall musical expressions and liquidity. It is a great amp, the sound was very resolved, fast, clean, transparent and dynamic and very suitable for HT use especially those lossless HD surround sound formats from bluray and 4K UHD discs. 

The Mac MX122 two-channel performance for music playbacks isn’t on par with the Classe Sigma SSP. The Sigma SSP is better for stereo.
For surrounds or HT either the MX122 or the Sigma SSP would be fine.  
Actually, for surround movies or HT I think the MX122 will probably be a better choice than the Sigma SSP.

@erik_squires  

Just wondering, which processor did you end up getting or are you still shopping around? 

The old regular classic series NAD gears have somewhat warm sound but the newer of latest Master series such as the M17/M27 amp combo have different tonal characteristics. 

I think the new NAD Master Series such as the M17 and their matching M27 amp have different sound profile than the older NAD regular classic series gears.
The NAD M17/M27 combo have very good details and resolution but probably not on the same level of details resolution and attacks as the Classe gears but the NAD M17/M27 combo will sound great for both music and movies (HT).

The Anthem AVM60 is a great HT processor and has exceptional ARC2 (Anthem Room Correction) and is priced at $3k new, which imo is a total bargain. And it supports and decodes those latest surround sound formats & codecs eg Dolby Atmos, DTS-X. It is excellent for HT use.

@freemand

The Classe Sigma SSP is optimized for stereo or when used as a stereo preamp and its DAC is very good especially when fed via its USB input. Its USB input by far sounded way better than its other inputs for digital music files. I will guarantee that the CD disc played back through your Oppo 103 connected to the Sigma SSP via spdif (coax digital) or HDMI sonically cannot compare to those same CD properly ripped in digital files (FLAC) and played back through your computer feeding the Classe Sigma SSP via USB. The latter by far will be superior sounding.

Do not hesitate to purchase the Classe Sigma SSP. It also performs and sounds really good when used as an analog stereo preamp in bypass mode. If you have a high end CD player or DAC and want to feed the Classe via analog and use the Classe Sigma SSP as analog stereo preamp you will have to select digital bypass mode thus bypassing DSP and other digital processings in the Sigma SSP so the analog signal will be kept in pure analog domain all the way through its analog output stage or otherwise DSP will get in the way and will degrade sound quality.

The Classe Sigma SSP is your best solution for combining your stereo and multi-channel needs in one single box at a very attractive price on a used unit.
Its surround performance for home theater is also very good. You probably won’t need the NAD M51 and just use the DAC in the Classe. The NAD M51 was great and is still good by today standard but the M51 is a bit older measured by DAC or digital audio technology and the Sigma SSP is newer and uses newer and up-to-date DSP and DAC or digital audio technology.

You can try connecting your NAD M51 DAC to the Classe Sigma SSP but first you will have to set the output of your NAD M51 to fixed and set the Classe Sigma SSP in digital bypass mode and make comparison between using the NAD M51 to the Classe via analog with the Classe set in bypass mode vs streaming digital files directly to the Classe via USB input on the Classe.
That way you will know and find out which will sound better to your ears.

@bwguy

I did own the SSP 800 for over 7 years until recently upgraded to the Lyngdorf MP-50 but am still using all Classe Delta series class AB amplifiers in my dedicated home theater room. IMO the Lyngdorf MP-50 is better than the SSP 800 in all areas when used for surrounds (home theater) with Room Perfect properly set up and calibrated. Hands down. Plus I wanted Dolby Atmos & DTS-X. The SSP 800 is outdated and is time to move on.

Now the Sigma SSP is little different. It’s optimized for stereo but its surround performance is still pretty good but its stereo performance for music that stands out. That's the area where the Sigma SSP shines. IMO if it’s only for surround (HT) purposes I think there are better and cheaper options out there than the Sigma SSP. IMO the Anthem AVM60 with its ARC2 outperforms the Sigma SSP for surrounds. And I think the Marantz AV8805/AV8802 are better choices than the Sigma SSP when used for surrounds and will likely outperform the Sigma SSP. The Sigma SSP is good for someone who wants to combine his stereo and multi-channel needs in one single box solution. Its stereo performance for music playbacks are phenomenal coming from an AV pre pro especially for its asking price of $5k and $6k new. The original version of the Sigma SSP nowaday can be had for around $2500 in used markets.
But if it’s for a dedicated home theater setup strictly used for surround movies I wouldn’t get the Sigma SSP. The XLR are limited only for front L/R channels with the remaining channels are only available in single-ended. It lacks room correction.

@auxinput

The USB, spdif, Toslink as well as stereo analog audio input design stages and its signal path implementation & configuration on the Classe Sigma SSP were pretty much copied and pasted directly from the Classe CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC.
If you google Classe CP 800 review and click on any reviews for the Classe CP 800 there are articles that will explain why its USB input sounded better than its other inputs. That way I don’t have to repeat what they said. There’s also a forum thread on Audioficiando I believed that confirmed the findings. I myself also found the difference in sound quality between using their USB input vs other inputs and the difference wasn’t subtle assuming you use a very good quality USB cable. The CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC is built around its USB input and is optimized for use with its USB input with the rest kinda after thought design.
The CP 800 isn’t for someone who’s looking solely for a solid analog stereo preamp. I would go with something else if I want an analog stereo preamp as there are better options out there in a similar price range as the CP 800 ($6k new retail price).

@auxinput @bwguy

Here’s a link to one forum thread re the finding that proved the USB input on the Classe CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC is superior sounding than its other inputs and this also applies to the Sigma SSP as the USB circuit design of the Sigma SSP is lifted directly from the CP 800 and both the Sigma SSP and the CP 800 use same DAC chip sets but the CP 800 uses 2 DAC chips per channel whereas the Sigma SSP uses only 1 DAC chip per channel for its front L/R channels.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=http://www.audioaficionado.org/show...

@bwguy

No...trust me, just run a good quality USB cable directly to the rear USB input on the Sigma SSP. You will be amazed on how good it will sound. There’s an effortless flow of music and music sounded very natural and organic. The difference between its USB input and its other inputs are night and day. I suggest you use a very good quality USB cable in order to achieve best sound possible.

Both Classe CP 800 stereo preamp/DAC and the Sigma SSP were designed by Alan Clark, a Scotsman who was also responsible in designing other Classe products (including the SSP 800) and many great Linn products including a legendary Linn CD12 player and more recently Linn DS as well as some great legendary Mark Levinson products.

In implementing both Classe’s asynchronous USB inputs, Clark isolated the microcontroller from both the input and the audio circuit to ensure the quietest possible transfer of data and eliminate any possibility of noise induced by the source component. Both front and rear USB inputs on the Classe are asynchronous but Clark deviates from the norm in having designed and implemented their single clock substrate, which employs a high speed field-programmable gate array (FPGA) between the master clock isolators and the DACs. The FPGA accepts and buffers data from the USB microcontroller on the digital input board. He ensures that the FPGA processes data at whole multiples of its original frequency. Data are then sent to the DACs synchronously from the master audio clock of the FPGA, which is also in sync with the data pouring into the buffer from the USB microcontroller’s asynchronous transfer algorithm. At the end of this process, Clark claims, the digital information arrives at the DACs with unprecedented timing accuracy. The data are then converted to analog.

Clark calls regular asynchronous USB interfaces ’non optimal’ because the ground noise that is inevitable with computer sources pollutes the clock and the DAC in the receiver. So his solution to this has been to add an FPGA (field programmable gate array) between the USB microcontroller/receiver and the DAC, as a means of isolating both it and the audio clocks within the preamp. The USB receiver has its own clock but it’s impossible to fully isolate this because the noise levels are very high within the chip.
So in the end, the FPGA recovers only the data from the incoming signal and uses the precision clock within the CP800/Sigma SSP in order to minimise jitter.

@bwguy 

You can use a Lumin music server and run a USB from Lumin to the rear USB input on the Sigma SSP. 

@bwguy 

I
Sorry my bad I didn't see your posts earlier about the Lumin music server. 
Yes, you can connect the Lumin via XLR analog out to your Sigma SSP and set the Sigma SSP in digital bypass mode so the Classe is used as an analog stereo preamp. Lumin is pretty awesome.
Which Lumin are going to get? 

Don’t know. I’ve never listened to the D2 but I have listened to the higher end Lumin A1 & S1 but these cost way more than the D2. The D2 is an entry level model from Lumin. The A1 & S1 are very very good. Can’t comment on the D2 though. You can try out the D2 in your setup and buy with a 30 day return policy so that you can return it if you don’t need it.

However, the Lumin D2 supports DSD & MQA and I don’t think the DAC in the Classe Sigma SSP supports DSD & MQA. So it depends on your needs whether you need DSD files & MQA decoding to stream Tidal Master (hi-rez) etc. Try both by connecting direct to your Sigma SSP via USB and the Lumin D2 going XLR analog out to your Sigma SSP and set the Sigma SSP in digital bypass mode. And you decide which one sounds better more musical etc etc.