Solid State Preamp Reviews

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.