Classe CA-2100 Stereo Amplifier

The Classé CA-2100 is a dedicated stereo power amplifier designed to provide substantial power, flexible system integration and precise control within a high-performance audio system. Rated at 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 200 watts per channel into 4 ohms with both channels driven, the CA-2100 is designed to accommodate a wide range of loudspeakers and system configurations.

The CA-2100 provides both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs, allowing it to be integrated with a variety of preamplifiers and source components. Classé also provides two pairs of five-way speaker binding posts per channel to facilitate bi-wiring, while comprehensive system-control facilities include CAN Bus, IR, DC trigger and RS-232 connectivity.

The amplifier incorporates protection circuitry designed to respond to conditions including output overload, DC offset, abnormal AC mains voltage and excessive operating temperature. The CA-2100 can also be configured for balanced or single-ended operation on each channel, with front-panel indicators providing operational and fault-status information.

Amplification

• Stereo power amplifier
• 100W per channel continuous RMS @ 8Ω
• 200W per channel continuous RMS @ 4Ω
• Both channels driven
• Voltage gain: 29.1dB
• Input sensitivity: 1.0Vrms for rated output @ 8Ω
• Input impedance: 100kΩ

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: 10Hz–22kHz (+0/−0.1dB)
• Extended frequency response: 10Hz–155kHz (+0/−3.0dB)
• Phase: better than −10° @ 22kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio: better than −105dB
• Channel separation: better than 110dB @ 20kHz
• Noise floor: all peaks less than −95dBV, 10Hz–80kHz
• THD + noise: 0.003% @ 8Ω
• THD + noise measurement: unweighted, 1.0Vrms/1kHz input, 10Hz–500kHz

All specifications above are taken from the CA-2100 Owner’s Manual.

Inputs

• 1 × balanced XLR input per channel
• 1 × single-ended RCA input per channel
• Selectable balanced or single-ended operation
• XLR pin configuration:
  • Pin 1: Signal ground
  • Pin 2: Signal + / non-inverting
  • Pin 3: Signal − / inverting

The CA-2100 allows each channel to be configured for either balanced or single-ended operation using the front-panel Select and Mode controls.

Speaker Outputs

The CA-2100 is equipped with two pairs of high-quality five-way binding posts per channel, specifically provided to facilitate bi-wiring.

• 2 pairs of five-way binding posts per channel
• Bi-wiring capable
• Compatible with appropriate speaker cable termination including bare wire, spade and hook lugs

System Control & Integration

The CA-2100 provides a comprehensive range of control connections for integration into larger audio, home theatre and custom-installation systems.

• Classé CAN Bus control ports
• IR input and output
• DC trigger input and output
• RS-232 control port
• Configurable turn-on delay
• Configurable amplifier number for Classé control systems

The RS-232 connection can also be used for external control systems including i-Command, AMX and Crestron.

Protection & Reliability

Classé incorporated multiple protection circuits into the CA-2100 to protect both the amplifier and connected loudspeakers against abnormal operating conditions.

Protection is provided against:

• Output overload
• DC offset
• AC mains voltage outside normal tolerances
• Excessive operating temperature

When a fault condition occurs, the amplifier enters protection mode and mutes the output. Front-panel channel LEDs provide visual indication of channel-specific fault conditions.

Power & Dimensions

• Rated power consumption: 260W
• Idle power consumption: 104W
• Mains voltage: specified on rear-panel label
• Mains voltage is factory set and cannot be changed by the user or dealer
• Width: 445mm
• Height: 121mm
• Depth: 419mm
• Net weight: 21kg
• Shipping weight: 25kg

The manual specifies the CA-2100 for 100V, 120V, 230V or 240V AC operation according to the factory configuration for the market in which it was sold.

Installation

The CA-2100 is designed with ventilation requirements appropriate to its substantial power amplification circuitry. Classé recommends six inches of clearance above the amplifier and three inches to each side, with the top and bottom ventilation openings kept unobstructed.

The manual also recommends allowing approximately 20cm of clearance behind the amplifier for the AC cord and connecting cables. An optional purpose-designed rack-mount kit was available for custom installations.

Conclusion

The Classé CA-2100 is a versatile stereo power amplifier that combines substantial continuous power with flexible connectivity and comprehensive system integration. Its ability to deliver 100W per channel into 8 ohms and 200W per channel into 4 ohms, together with both balanced and single-ended inputs, makes it suitable for a wide range of high-performance stereo systems.

Its dual pairs of speaker terminals support bi-wiring, while CAN Bus, IR, DC trigger and RS-232 connections allow the amplifier to form part of a sophisticated integrated system. The inclusion of dedicated protection circuitry and extensive monitoring further reflects Classé’s focus on dependable operation.

With its substantial power capability, broad bandwidth, flexible installation options and comprehensive control facilities, the CA-2100 remains a thoroughly equipped stereo power amplifier for demanding high-fidelity systems.

*The information provided above has been taken from the manufacturer’s original product manual and is intended as a reference. Specifications, features, dimensions and other details may vary depending on production version, regional configuration or subsequent manufacturer revisions. Please confirm specific details with HFX Systems prior to purchase.