Two years ago, in Issue 40, I raved about the Classé SSP-30 controller. For $3000, it delivered a striking combination of flexibility and sonic wherewithal. Since then, the Classé has altered some of its genetic makeup. It has traded in its 48k/24-bit Crystal chipset for AKM silicon that runs at 96/24. Classé has also upgraded the SSP-30 to Mk II status, reflecting its ability to support the latest formats (the original SSP-30 presciently incorporated 7.1 physical channels from the outset). Owners of the original SSP-30 can upgrade to the Mk II with a $500 software upgrade.

A Survey of Digital Controllers that includes: Classe SSP-30MkII, Bryston SP1.7, Sunfire Theater Grand III.