CLASSÉ AUDIO
C-200
REMOTE CONTROL PREAMPLIFIER
C-200
OWNER'S MANUAL
1. REPEATED LISTENING DESIGN SESSIONS:
Fine tuning of sound by exchanging and mixing of parts (transistors, capacitors, wiring, PCB boards
etc.), and adjusting many specific operating voltages within proper engineering ranges, producing an
overall sonic recipe giving the most natural harmonic realism of music typical of instruments in a
live performance.
2. UPGRADABLE SINGLE CIRCUIT DESIGNS:
All Classé products (all preamps and all amps) share exactly the same circuit design philosophy
(excluding moving coil and moving magnet phono circuits). This means all amplifiers and all high
level circuits of the preamps benefit from the same design goals. Similar circuits are then tailored to
different power levels etc. Differences between less expensive models and more expensive models
are parts quality and compliment, power supply extravagance and the amount of filtering etc., as
CLASSÉ DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
well as features and packaging.
This means that for years Classé has been constantly sonically fine tuning and technically upgrading
this circuit design and its application, thus reaching a very high level of natural musical enjoyment,
as well as excellent reliability which benefits all models - least expensive, most expensive, preamps
and amplifiers alike.
3. EXTREME LONG LIFE IN REAL WORLD CONDITIONS:
Choosing the best attainable quality parts and materials combined with the advantages of the two
above-mentioned areas provides Classé owners with years of proven trouble free reliability and
musical enjoyment.
C-200
OWNER'S MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
UNPACKING & SET-UP................................................... 4
A.C. LINE POWER............................................................. 5
INPUTS................................................................................. 6
OUTPUTS ............................................................................ 7
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS............................................. 8
WARRANTY........................................................................ 12
FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS .............................. 14
WARRANTY REGISTRATION ........................................ 15
UNPACKING & SET-UP
Your CLASSÉ C-200 preamplifier has been carefully wrapped in heavy gauge plastic, packed in
semi-rigid foam and contained in a special box. To remove the unit, open and spread the top flaps of the
box. By its sides, lift out the entire unit with the foam pieces intact. Remove each foam side by pulling
straight out. Remove the plastic wrap and inspect the unit for any concealed damage. Apart from this
owner's manual, please ensure the following has also been included:
1) Detachable linecord
2) 5/64 in. Allen key for top cover
3) Remote control unit (Allen key and batteries AAA x 2 included)
Please report any damage or missing parts to your dealer promptly.
This preamplifier, being capable of very high gain, must be located in a position free of any
hum-inducing magnetic fields. (This also applies to turntables and interconnect cables.) Positions
adjacent to power amplifiers, A.C. line filters, or regulation devices should be avoided. Ideally, a few
feet should separate the preamplifier from the power amplifier. As well, keep low-level interconnect
cables away from the power amp and separate from A.C. linecords.
Heat generated by the preamplifier is negligible. Air space around the unit need not be a
concern.
Check the Serial Number sticker on the back of the unit for the correct operating voltage.
Regardless of voltage, the fuse rating should be 1 AMP SLO-BLO.
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A.C. LINE POWER
The preamplifier has no power switch. Its low power consumption and improved sonics from
always being ON led to the omission of an ON/OFF switch. In fact, while thoroughly musical shortly
after turn-on, this preamplifier will exhibit "sonic growth" for 300 hours as it is used.
For optimum sonic performance, you should consider use of the optional CLASSE
REFERENCE A.C. LINECORD. Consult your dealer regarding this accessory.
SAFETY FEATURE:
The C-200 preamplifier is designed with an Auto-Muting circuit which engages and is indicated
by a FLASHING GREEN LED when the unit is first connected, or after an AC power failure. After 15
seconds the STEADY GREEN LED signals that the unit is in STANDBY mode (Note: MUTE is ON
during STANDBY mode.)
This feature will prevent any turn-on surges or unstable output from reaching the power
amplifier and possibly the loudspeakers. Similarly, make sure the MUTE is ON (STEADY GREEN)
again when removing A.C line power.
CAUTION:
"FLOATING THE GROUND” OR DEFEATING THE GROUND ON A 3-PRONG LINECORD
MAY CREATE A SHOCK HAZARD. CONNECT ALL INTERCONNECT CABLES BETWEEN
THE ELECTRONICS BEFORE CONNECTING THE A.C. LINECORDS TO THE WALL
OUTLETS. THIS WILL REDUCE THE POTENTIAL SHOCK HAZARD. SEE ALSO THE
WARRANTY SECTION OF THIS OWNER'S MANUAL.
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INPUTS
The input jacks are clearly marked on the back of the C-200. The following inputs are provided:
BALANCED, CD, TUNER, AUXILIARY, AUXILIARY 2, and TAPE.
BALANCED INPUT:
The BALANCED INPUT is a true differential high level input, wired as follows:
PIN 1: GROUND
PIN 2: POSITIVE (NON-INVERTED) SIGNAL
PIN 3: NEGATIVE (INVERTED) SIGNAL
It may be used with CD players that have a balance output, or any other high level, balanced
source.
TAPE INPUT:
The TAPE IN of the C-200 should be connected to the LINE OUT or TAPE OUT of the tape
deck. The TAPE input does not appear on the selector switch. It is activated by the TAPE switch. (See
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS: TAPE SWITCH.)
AUX and AUX2 INPUTS:
The AUX and AUX2 are high level inputs, which can accommodate additional sources such as
VIDEO, CD, TURNER, etc...
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OUTPUTS
The C-200 has both regular (single-ended) and balanced outputs. Both are working at all times,
and may be used separately, or simultaneously.
TAPE OUTPUT
Whatever input is selected by the INPUT SELECTOR will be fed to the TAPE OUTPUT jacks.
This should be connected to the TAPE IN or LINE IN of the tape deck.
REGULAR OUTPUTS
Simply connect your regular interconnects to the RCA output jacks marked REGULAR MAIN
OUT on the back of the C-200.
BALANCED OUTPUTS
A balanced power amplifier and balanced interconnects are also required. For use with balanced
power amplifiers other than Classé, the wiring of the 3-pin XLR connectors must be wired as follows:
PIN 1: GROUND
PIN 2: POSITIVE (NON-INVERTED) SIGNAL
PIN 3: NEGATIVE (INVERTED) SIGNAL
If the pin configuration of the power amplifier differs from above, the balanced interconnects
must be modified to accommodate the different power amp.
Having confirmed the correct connections, plug the XLR connectors of the balanced
interconnects into the locking XLR connectors on the rear panel of the C-200 marked BALANCED
MAIN OUT. (To remove the connectors, press the tab above the connector.)
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FRONT PANEL CONTROLS
INPUT SELECTOR
This selects one of the five inputs connected to the preamp, except TAPE IN (see Tape Switch
below). The switch is silent and will prevent pulses when switching positions. However, it remains
good practice to reduce the volume control level or put the MUTE to ON (steady GREEN LED) when
changing the input selection.
TAPE SWITCH
In the SOURCE position, the preamp will process the signal as chosen by the INPUT
SELECTOR. In the MONITOR position, the preamp will process the TAPE INPUT signal, overriding
the INPUT SELECTOR.
MODE SWITCH
Normally used in the STEREO position, this switch is excellent for checking channel
information, noise, and troubleshooting. The LT position will send left channel only information to both
outputs. The RT position will send right channel only information to both outputs. The REV position
swaps the left and right channel information. MONO combines both left and right channel information
and sends identical mono signals to both outputs.
BYPASS SWITCH
For optimum sonic performance, the BYPASS ON position eliminates the INPUT SELECTOR,
TAPE, and MODE switches from the signal path. (Hint: if other inputs appear not to be working, check
the BYPASS switch!). The BYPASS switch works in conjunction with the BYPASS MODE switch,
below.
BYPASS MODE SWITCH
This switch selects which input will be bypassed, CD or BALANCED.
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BYPASS OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
1. Turn "Selector Switch" to the desired input function position. (CD or BALANCED)
2. Move "Bypass Mode Switch" also to the desired input function position. (CD or
BALANCED).
3. Turn "Bypass On/Off Switch" to the "On" position.
Notes:
The input "Selector Switch" must be turned to the desired input bypass function, as all other
positions not chosen are shorted to ground for superior sonic and grounding reasons. (However, the
"Signal Path" does not travel through the selector switch; you are just choosing which input does not get
shorted to ground.)
Bypass operation removes "Signal Path" from Selector, Tape, and Mode Switches.
BALANCE CONTROL (Remote control)
The custom BALANCE control permits equal output of each channel in the centre position
without additional loading to the signal. When shifted to the left or right, it merely attenuates the
opposite channel. This control can be operated from remote using the hand held control unit (See fig.1, 2
page 11) or manually turning the knob at the preamp.
VOLUME CONTROL (Remote control)
The VOLUME control varies the level of both channels simultaneously. This control can be
operated from remote using the hand held control unit (See fig.1, 2 page 11) or manually turning the
knob at the preamp.
MUTE SWITCH (Remote control)
Switching between PLAY and MUTE can be done by either manually pressing the MUTE
switch down momentarily on the preamp or pushing the MUTE button on the hand held unit. The PLAY
(Mute OFF) and MUTE ON selections are indicated by the STEADY RED or GREEN LED
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respectively at the preamp.
When MUTE (ON) is selected, which is indicated by a steady GREEN LED, the outputs of the
preamplifier are completely cut off. In the PLAY (Mute OFF) selection, which is indicated by a steady
RED LED, the signal is allowed to pass to the power amplifier.
NOTE: WHEN THE C-200 IS IN MUTE POSITION, AND THE VOLUME CONTROL IS TURNED
UP USING THE REMOTE CONTROL UNIT, THE PLAY MODE IS AUTOMATICALLY
SELECTED.
CAUTION: Make sure the preamp is in MUTE (ON) when making or changing any connections. This
includes all inputs and outputs, as well as A.C. linecord.
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C LASSÉ C-200 LIMITED FACTORY WARRANTY (North America only).
Classé Audio Inc. warrants this preamplifier to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of FOUR YEARS from the date of manufacture provided that any claim in
virtue of this warranty be made in writing within such period.
Subject to all of the conditions stated herein, A LIMITED FACTORY LIFETIME WARRANTY IS EXTENDED ONLY
TO THE ORIGINAL OWNER WHO PURCHASED THE PREAMPLIFIER IN NORTH AMERICA AND WHO CLAIMS UNDER THIS WARRANTY IN
NORTH AMERICA.
IMPORTANT: WARRANTY REGISTRATION, AND A COPY OF THE "AUTHORIZED DEALER BILL OF SALE", MUST BE RECEIVED
AT THE CLASSÉ FACTORY (address below) WITHIN TWENTY (20) DAYS OF PURCHASE, TO VALIDATE THIS WARRANTY.
In the event of failure of this preamplifier, resulting from defects in materials and
workmanship, Classé Audio Inc. will repair, recalibrate, or at its discretion, replace the unit
providing that all the conditions contained in this warranty are met.
In order to initiate service of any kind, it is necessary to OBTAIN PRIOR FACTORY AUTHORIZATION, AND
SHIP THE UNIT PREPAID TO THE CLASSÉ FACTORY.
For units coming from outside Canada, contact the factory
for our forwarding address. Units shipped directly to our Canadian address from outside the country
will be stopped at the border, causing extensive delays or return of the unit to the sender.
The warranty shall be void and of no effect in the event of any of the following:
1) Operation not in accordance with this manual;
2) Accident, abuse, tampering, or unauthorized
modification, as determined by Classé Audio Inc.;
3) Removal, defacing, or falsifying the serial number plate;
4) Shipping without the complete factory packaging;
5) Transfer or sale of this preamplifier by the original owner;
6) Non-compliance with any of the other conditions hereof.
CLASSÉ AUDIO INC. SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM
OR RELATING TO THE SET-UP, OPERATION, FAILURE, TROUBLESHOOTING, OR REPAIR OF THE PREAMPLIFIER AND/OR ANY OTHER
EQUIPMENT USED THEREWITH.
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THIS WARRANTY, ALL CLAIMS MADE IN VIRTUE HEREOF, AND ALL ISSUES RELATING TO ANY SUCH CLAIM SHALL BE
GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF THE PROVINCE OF QUÉBEC.
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CLASSÉ C-200
FULL FEATURE PREAMPLIFIER
FEATURES
AND
SPECIFICATIONS SHEET
C-200 FEATURES:
Remote control featuring adjustments for Volume, Balance and Mute. Full size chassis, large
power supply, balanced inputs, balanced outputs, regular outputs, tuner, tape, CD, AUX
inputs, CD bypass, balanced bypass and a contoured faceplate featuring a Soft Shadow Silver
finish mounted with golden screws.
C-200 SPECIFICATIONS:
Frequency Response:
Maximum Output:
Sensitivity: Line:
Magnetic Phono:
Moving Coil Phono:
S/N Ratio ('A' Weighted): Line:
Magnetic Phono:
Moving Coil Phono:
Input Impedance: Line:
Magnetic Phono:
Moving Coil Phono:
Output Impedance:
Gain: Line:
Magnetic Phono:
Moving Coil Phono:
Power Requirement:
Dimensions: Gross:
Net:
Weight: Gross:
Net:
20 Hz to 20 KHz +/- 0.1dB
1 Hz to 150 KHz, -3 dB
22 Volts
120 Millivolts
3 Millivolts
0.1 Millivolts
95 dB
85 dB
85 dB
50 KOhms
47 KOhms
Adjustable into 47 KOhms
Less than 1 Ohm
18 dB
35 dB
22 dB (Adjustable 20 dB - 40 dB)
50 Watts
22" x 19 1/2" x 10 1/2"
19" x 14 3/4" x 6"
29 lbs
24 lbs
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W ARRANTY REGISTRATION
You must fill out and return the form below, along with a copy of the authorized dealer bill of
sale, to the factory within twenty (20) days of purchase. This will allow us to provide expedient
service, information regarding updates and new products, and validate the Classé warranty.
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C-200 SERIAL NUMBER_____________________PURCHASE DATE_____________________
AUTHORIZED DEALER________________________________________________________
PURCHASER'S NAME_________________________________________________________
STREET ADDRESS____________________________________________________________
CITY________________________________STATE/PROV.____________________________
COUNTRY________________________ZIP/POSTAL CODE__________________________
I BECAME AWARE OF THIS PRODUCT BY:_____________________________________
(DEALER, MAGAZINE, FRIEND, ETC.)
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SEND TO: CLASSÉ AUDIO INC.
Product Registration
5070 François Cusson
Lachine, Quebec, Canada
H8T 1B3
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