Classé Audio has announced an updated version of its Sigma SSP AV preamp that adds support for 4K video pass-through and 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The new Sigma SSP MkII, due out later this month, will have an asking price of $6,000. Owners of the current SSP can upgrade their preamps with a $1,000 Upgrade Kit; the upgrade can be performed in the user's home or at a local dealer's shop.

From Classé Audio
The slim and elegant Classé Sigma SSP, noted for its exceptional performance, flexibility and ease of use, has been made even better by the addition of new audio DSP and HDMI hardware. The eight-channel Sigma SSP MkII supports Dolby and DTS 3D audio formats when configured as a 5.1.2-channel system and passes 4K UHD video at 60 Hz with HDCP 2.2.

A powerful new dual DSP module featuring a Texas Instruments 456-MHz DA830, a dual core floating-point audio processor with ARM9 and an audio-specific DA810 32-/64-bit floating point DSP provides the needed processing power to accurately decode the latest 3D audio formats and perform the many post-processing capabilities that set the Classé Sigma SSP MkII apart.

An upgraded HDMI board adds HDMI 2.0 features like pass through of UHD video (4K @ 60 Hz) and HDCP 2.2 compatibility for the best performance and added convenience when connecting to UHD sources and displays.

In keeping with Classé's long-standing practice of providing upgrade paths whenever possible, original version Sigma SSPs may be upgraded to the new standard by installing a comprehensive hardware upgrade and updating the firmware. For speed and convenience, MkII upgrade kits consisting of four new circuit boards may be installed in Sigma SSPs either in the customer's home or the dealer's shop--no need to return the unit to the factory!

"Building on the outstanding value proposition that defined the original Sigma SSP, the MkII version brings a technology upgrade aimed squarely at raising the user's experience to another level," said Classé president Dave Nauber. "We are particularly pleased to support owners of the original Sigma SSP by offering an upgrade path that gives them every advantage of the latest model. A properly executed 5.1.2 system like this can envelope you in a true 3D experience."

The U.S. retail price for the Sigma SSP MkII is $6,000, and the Upgrade Kit is $1,000. Both will be available later this month.

Additional Resources
• Classé Sigma SSP AV Preamp Reviewed at HomeTheaterReview.com.
• Classé Sigma 220i Stereo Integrated Amplifier Reviewed at HomeTheaterReview.com.