Classé Audio Six Mk.II preamplifier

R28,000.00

Specifications:

Description: Solid-state preamplifier with external power supply and built-in optional internal phono stage. Unit can be ordered as a phono model (Six), set up for either moving-coil or moving-magnet cartridges, or as a line-only model (Six L).

Inputs: one balanced line-level, one phono (either MM or MC), tuner, tape, CD, Aux, Aux 2 (Six L only). Outputs include balanced main out, single-ended main out, and buffered tape out.

Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz, ±0.1dB; 1Hz–150kHz, ±3dB.

S/N ratio (A-weighted, ref. 500mV): 95dB (line stage), 85dB (phono stage).

Distortion (THD): 20.1%.

Input impedance: 50k ohms, line; 47k ohms; phono.

Output impedance: 1 ohm.

Gain: line stage, 18dB; moving-magnet phono stage, 35dB; moving-coil phono stage, 20–40dB (variable).

IHF input sensitivity: line stage, 120mV; moving-magnet, 3mV; moving-coil, 0.3mV.

RIAA accuracy: not specified.

Maximum input to phono stage: not specified.

Maximum output: 22V.

Power consumption: 50W.
Dimensions: Front panel: 19″ (475mm) W by 10.5″ (262.5mm) H. Chassis (with feet): 17″ (425mm) W by 6″ (150mm) H by 14.75″ (369mm) D. External power supply: 7″ (175mm) W by 6″ (150mm) H by 12″ (300mm) D. Shipping weight: 36 lbs (17kg).
Prices: $3295 (Six), $2995 (Six L) (1994); no longer available (2017). Approximate number of dealers: 50.
Manufacturer: Classé Audio, Montréal, Quebec, Canada (1994); 5070 François Cusson, Lachine, Quebec H8T 1B3, Canada. Tel: (514) 636-6384. Fax: (514) 636-1428. Web: www.classeaudio.com.

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Description

The Classé Six Mk.II preamplifier appeals to me—it is an extremely well-built, reliable product with very good sonics. Construction, parts quality, and feel of the front-panel controls equals or betters those of many high-end preamplifiers in the $3000–$5000 price range. Features are standard but ample: a built-in phono stage, balanced inputs and outputs, bypass capability, and an external power supply for quiet operation.

Only preamplifiers costing more than $5000—such as the Mark Levinson No.26S—better the Six in imaging, a feature which helps such products attain a Class A rating in Stereophile‘s “Recommended Components.” The Six’s balance of value, convenience, and sonics places it at the upper end of Class B.

“Rugged,” “reliable,” and “convenient” are good adjectives, but audiophiles want more. The Classé Six’s sonics exceeded my expectations. Although there is that darkness, I found the Six’s pace, rhythmic drive, and solid bass response exceptional for its price.

Stereophile Article: https://www.stereophile.com/content/class%C3%A9-audio-six-mkii-preamplifier

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