The JBL SA550 Classic is inspired by the classic JBL SA600 amplifier from the 1960s, with a retro design and walnut veneer side panels to match the JBL Classic and Studio Monitor speakers on the outside.
Inside, the JBL SA550 is a modern music system with advanced amplifier topology that delivers high power, innovative efficiency and fine noise control for captivating musicality and effortless power.
Right out of the box, pair your smartphone or tablet with the SA550 via Bluetooth to enjoy high-performance music from all your music services and libraries you listen to every day. The JBL SA550 Classic features the latest Bluetooth AptX Adaptive technology for high-resolution audio over Bluetooth and low latency to ensure audio is in sync with video.
The advanced amplifier topology in the JBL SA550 Classic is called G-Class. Class G uses multiple power supplies where all other amplifiers use only one. The first power supply provides enough power for the amplifier to deliver 10 watts per channel, which may not seem like much, but this small amplifier includes a large heat sink that keeps the amplifier stable up to 90 watts per channel. This allows this first 10 watts to be delivered in a topology known as Class A, which is normally not very efficient. The benefit is that it does not involve switching any output stage components in the music signal, as is normally the case with any Class AB or Class D amplifier. The result is almost imperceptible noise and the purest sound with all micro dynamics and details preserved.
Of course, 10 watts really isn't much, so the SA550 can deliver much more. It can deliver a maximum sustained output of 150 watts per channel with the use of a second power supply of much higher voltage, and this is where the amplification in the SA550 is incredibly inventive. If that second power supply were simply plugged into the circuit, it would induce unpleasant distortion, and this would be harmonic as well, quite unpleasant. Therefore, the SA550 includes a set of high-speed "boosters" that gradually increase the power delivered to the amplifier, tracking the music signal and maintaining a 5-volt margin. This allows the benefits of Class G amplification to be realised, while eliminating the drawbacks and powering any speaker system effortlessly.
All that intelligent amplification can be enjoyed from three digital inputs and four analogue inputs, including a moving magnet phono input for a turntable. The digital inputs include a high-resolution, ultra-high-fidelity DAC with the highest-performance ESS DAC chip at its heart.
The SA550 is a throwback to the late 1960s on the outside. But with Hi-res Bluetooth technology, efficient amplification and exceptional musical performance, the SA550 is a modern classic based on today's best technologies.
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