2. amps-preamps
  3. 184464-9370

What tier do you consider Anthem integrated?

Anthem has an STR integrated amp with the ARC room correction. The integrated teams loaded with a lot of features such as built in room correction, stable into low ohms, big toroidal transformer, etc. Would a 15 year old Pass labs amp walk all over a 3 year old anthem? The Anthem is newer and has more features, Anthem is rated class A by Stereophile review, but Stereophile seems to only give amps with phono stages class A ratings, and the Pass labs doesn't have that. So what would you grab? An older Pass labs that may have age issues, or a newer amp with good reviews and room correction? Looking for best sound, not to impress people with brand names. Thanks.

labguy

Showing 2 responses by sunshdw

sunshdw's avatar
sunshdw
263 posts
 

Would a 15yr old Pass walk all over a Anthem STR Integrated? No, not in my opinion.

I have the STR Stack and I’ve been very happy with the sound. Having ARC takes things to a whole new level when used properly. I have a decent sized floor stander in a small(ish) room (see virtual system) and having the ability to manipulate the sound to my taste and not overloading the room is great. That said, even without ARC I would still take the STR because I like the Anthem sound. 

sunshdw's avatar
sunshdw
263 posts
 

@labguy 

Yeah, my speakers are pretty laid back yet with the ribbon tweeter that keeps the detail. Sadly, Aurum Cantus speakers aren't well known but I can say with certainty that they hit way above their price range. The STR Integrated is loaded up but I can say that shouldn't deter you from buying it. Look at it this way, having the connectivity the STR has you can plug anything you want into it now and in the future. 

More to discover