Some of you may have heard of Anthem, a company out of Canada that produces audiophile class preamplifiers, processors, and amplifiers, among other products. Today, I'm reviewing the Anthem AVM 20. I purchased this unit after the HDMI craze and was able to get it at a formidable discount when compared to it's MSRP of $3400.00 USD. I was looking for something that could produce 5.1 channel audio with the same fidelity as 2 channel audio and an option for XLR balance preamplifier outputs. The AVM 20 fit the bill and had all the features I hoped for.
Initially, I thought that everything I had read was simply hype. How could this unit really be as good as everyone is stating it is. Anthem even offered firmware updates via a serial port. It all seemed too good to be true. I was happily mistaken.
There is no way to accurately describe the clarity of the audio from this unit. I am using the same solid core silver interconnects to a separate amplifier as I was before. Where my previous unit had hum and hiss, this one did not. It is silent at low volume with no feedback interference to speak of. The audio resolution difference was like the difference between DVD video playback and 1080p. When I thought I could hear no more detail, I was surprised with more. Every little nuance of the music passes through this unit with perfect detail and clarity. This unit has to have one of the best DACs I have ever heard. It is simply astounding.
After considering how unbelievable the audio was, I began to think about the philosophy behind such a unit. It was clear to me that Anthem had focused on delivering accurate playback of the source material. It seems like they have accomplished that quite well. For me to say that is a huge compliment to Anthem because I am one of those guys that will not adjust the bass or treble to make up for any room/equipment inadequacies. I test and run everything with all the settings set to flat.
The AVM 20 user interface is amazing. With individual crossovers for each speaker and a subwoofer crossover setup like I have never seen, this unit provides masterful control over all channels. Because there is so much control, the UI can be a bit intimidating and even a little confusing, but with a little effort, one can easily overcome that and learn how to adjust whatever they desire. It is a beautiful thing.
Conclusion:
This unit is adequate for 2 channel or surround processing. It's fidelity is exceptional and hard to beat. It is the best preamp I have ever tested and has all the bells and whistles anyone could desire from its era. Sure, HDMI would be nice, but if you really want to keep up with the technology game, Athem will accommodate your need for a price. Anyone would be lucky to own this product from Anthem. If you can find one for a few hundred dollars, or a bit more, jump on it.
Owner's Manual PDF: http://archive.anthemav.com/NewSitev2.0/AnthemProduct/AVM20/OwnersManual/Downloads/AVM20_v2.1_Manual/AVM20manv2.1_Pt2.pdf
Because there is so much control, the UI can be a bit intimidating and even a little confusing, but with a little effort, one can easily overcome that and learn how to adjust whatever they desire. It is a beautiful thing. amplifikatör
ReplyDeleteThe audio resolution difference was like the difference between DVD video playback and 1080p. When I thought I could hear no more detail, I was surprised with more. Every little nuance of the music passes through this unit with perfect detail and clarity. This unit has to have one of the best DACs I have ever heard. It is simply astounding. Audio forum
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ReplyDeletenice system i own one!
ReplyDeleteI bought one of these after doing some research and paired it up with a beautiful tube amp and some Totem Forests. I was blown away by the detail. I heard much hype of a DAC, no preamp or any othe fearures, which I shelled out $1500 for, tried it out, and sold it two weeks later. This AVM 20 is a keeper. And it does so much. I bought AC triggers to switch amp and speaker combos between movies and music. At the touch of a button my AVM 20 switches from Surround Sound mode on a Parasound amp and speakers, to music mode feeding my tube amp and totems. Love love love it!
ReplyDeleteHi my name is Doug and I am planning to buy one of these AVM 20 processers today
DeleteVery good price as there is a slight problem with the volume control when used manually however no problem when adjusted using the remote. I am hoping that you may be able to help with any questions I may have.if so let me know and I will keep you informed once initial set up is accomplished.Thanks Doug
First let me say I have a ton to learn from an audiophile standpoint. So we have that out of the way. I'm attempting to pair a SL1200 turntable, w/NAD Phono Preamp PR-1 and a MING DA MC34-A tube amp and Anthem AVM 20. I had been running the turntable with the Antem and a set of powered monitors, but stumbled across a couple older pairs of Polks and ordered some RCA adaptors. Hooked the speakers and don't have a manual for the anthem, so I am unsure which avenue to take as the back of this thing looks like R2-D2 spit up. Help. Please.
ReplyDeleteI'm just starting to get into one of these myself. Quite a leap!
DeleteMy 2¢ is to start with downloading the manual
http://archive.anthemav.com/NewSitev2.0/AnthemProduct/AVM20/OwnersManual/Downloads/AVM20_v2.1_Manual/AVM20manv2.1_Pt2.pdf
Second to last page shows the rear layout. Basic concept is BLACK background is for inputs; WHITE background for outputs. If you're having problems with the sound coming out, hook it up to a TV, turn to Chapter 7 (setup_, and double check that the speakers and source inputs are setup correctly.
Doubt I can offer more than that as I'm firmly a newbie here, but ... good luck!