Digital-Direct Integrated Amp from Classé

by The Audio Beat | April 1, 2016

lassé Audio's new Sigma 2200i ($5500) is a 200Wpc (into 8 ohms; 400Wpc into 4 ohms) fully balanced integrated amp featuring a wide array of analog inputs. However, its most salient sonic feature may be what it accomplishes for digital music. The output of the 2200i’s preamp section is connected directly to the input of its amplifier, reducing the signal path and eliminating the digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converters along with their associated analog circuits. "It all translates to better sound for the price," says Classé.

The 2200i's peak output power of up to 1kW is derived from Classé's proprietary switch-mode power supply with power-factor correction. Digital inputs include USB types A and B, Ethernet, S/PDIF coax, and TosLink. There are line-level XLR and RCA analog inputs and an optional MM/MC phono input, along with four HDMI inputs for use with A/V sources.

Classé's familiar touchscreen provides access to digital-domain tone control, a nine-band parametric EQ and bass management. The 2200i's subwoofer output is derived from the only DAC onboard. IP control for both Android and iOS platforms is standard.