RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
At A$1,399, this Classé CA-101 stereo power amplifier is a genuine bargain compared to the obvious alternative of buying a modern entry-level integrated at this price, and it sits well below the 25th percentile of A$1,658 from our AUD listings database, making it a strong deal. The median asking price for comparable units is A$1,917, so you’re paying roughly A$500 less than typical market value, which is hard to ignore.
The CA-101 is a respected 100Wpc Class A/B amplifier known for clean power and bridgeability to 350W at 8Ω, delivering the headroom and control that Classé is famous for. At this price, even with unknown condition, it’s a worthwhile buy for enthusiasts who can test it or negotiate on repairs, especially since original Classé units are increasingly rare and well-regarded for longevity when maintained. If it’s in working order, this is a clear buying opportunity.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Classé Audio emerged from Canada in 1979, founded by music enthusiast Mike Viglas in partnership with engineer David Reich. Frustrated by unreliable high-end electronics during a demonstration, Viglas sought superior performance, leading to the company's debut product: the DR-2, a 25-watt-per-channel Class A stereo amplifier launched in 1980. This pure Class A design not only inspired the brand's name but also established its early reputation for open, natural sound and unwavering reliability, with headquarters just outside Montréal.
The brand specializes in high-performance electronics, excelling in amplifiers, preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers, and processors for both music and home theater systems. Early models set the tone for authoritative power delivery, evolving into robust units delivering 250-300 watts per channel while maintaining sonic finesse. Classé has consistently prioritized no-compromise research and manufacturing, focusing on components that deliver theater-grade dynamics and musical precision without venturing into speakers, turntables, DACs, headphones, or cables.
Positioned firmly in the high-end market, Classé commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its Canadian heritage and build quality, once handcrafted in Quebec. Acquired by the B&W Group in 2001 and later by Sound United in 2018, it remains a benchmark for reliable, powerful electronics that prioritize longevity and uncolored reproduction, appealing to buyers seeking investment-grade hi-fi.
See all Classé listings on RADAR.
