Предусилители — Anthem STR Preamplifier

The STR Preamplifier is a flagship two-channel preamplifier-DAC from Anthem, built as a deliberate engineering statement combining an advanced analogue preamplifier with the full power of a digital processor. Designed, built and repaired in Canada, part of the Paradigm Electronics group alongside MartinLogan, the STR represents Anthem's masterfully combined hub where every function reflects a considered choice rather than a compromise.

Key specs that matter

Analogue Direct In frequency response is 10Hz to 80kHz (+0.00, -0.10dB), with Analog In DSP Mode reaching 10Hz to 40kHz. Digital inputs cover coaxial, optical, AES/EBU and asynchronous USB, the latter handling PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD up to 5.6MHz via an XMOS XHRA-2HP chip, all upsampled to 32-bit/192kHz internally. Distortion in Analog Direct Mode is an exceptionally low 0.0016% across 20Hz-20kHz at 2Vrms output. Signal-to-noise in Analog Direct Mode reaches 92dB for MC phono and 110dB for MM phono. Verified unclipped output is 3.3Vrms via RCA and 6.6Vrms via XLR. Separate, shielded MM and MC phono inputs are included, with a continuously adjustable phono curve supporting proper playback of vintage records predating the RIAA equalisation standard. Bass management supports up to two independent, channel-specific subwoofers, uniquely engineered for seamless blending when combined with Anthem Room Correction (ARC) Genesis. At 17 x 3.9 x 14.8 inches and 16.8 lbs, up to 30 virtual inputs can be programmed for extensive system customisation.

Sound and use context

Expect state-of-the-art performance across every mode of operation, handling analogue and digital sources with equal ease - this preamplifier reveals every last nuance of music through a flawless signal path, with ARC Genesis room correction remarkably quick, easy and effective even for buyers without high technical proficiency.

Pairing

The home theatre bypass mode turns this preamplifier into a straight line-out to a power amplifier, letting a buyer merge home theatre and two-channel systems in perfect harmony, and Anthem specifically recommends its matching STR Power Amplifier as this preamplifier's natural partner.

Alternatives

Anthem's broader AVM Series 8K offers a more elaborate multichannel alternative for buyers wanting full home theatre processing alongside two-channel capability, worth considering instead if the STR's dedicated stereo focus does not suit a specific system's broader requirements.