Classe Cam200 or Ca201?


Trying to decide between the two. Anyone have any experience with this gear and a comparison? Driving AE1's MKII with Classe pre-amp. Obviously a little more bass would be nice. Should I save for a 301? I do have a REL Storm III for low, low end. Thanks.
wdouglas
I have only read great things about the CAM 200 monoblocks. However, the CA201 may be a good place to save a little money over the CAM because I doubt the circuits are really any different between the two (their specs are identical in all regards...). Since you already have a Classe preamp, it may be worthwhile for you to find a Classe dealer and audition whatever amps they have. I believe that having amp and pre of the same brand is a great idea IME. Good luck - Arthur
Hello WDouglas. Without question, the CA-201 is a superior amplifier: musically, aesthetically and build quality wise.
We have sold many, and years later, customers still speak highly of these remarkable amplifiers.
Find one. And fast. You'll love it!
I demo'd both the CA201 and the CAM 200s. I had the CA201 for a month while I was waiting for my dealer to get in the CAM 200s. Both sound very good - the midrange is the most "musical" of any SS I've heard. However, I thought the CAM 200s were better at image focus and deep bass control. I bought the CAM 200s. If you're using something else for low bass, the CA201 may be good enough.

By the way, if you choose the CA201, buy the newest version. I demo'd it side-by-side with the prior version and the new one definitely sounded better. Some people say they are identical except for cosmetics, but I disagree. I am not sure what is different, but I weighed both of them and the new one weighs 5 pounds more than the old one (bigger power transformer ????).
Save your money and buy a used model 15. Have Classe service bring it upto spec.
I used to own a 15 and currently own a pair of CAMs. To my ears there's a noticeable difference. The CAM 200 kills both the CA 201 and the 15. The CAMs are faster, "punchier", more detailed, more dynamic - all without being harsh (depends on what speakers you're using of course).