Anthem has announced the new STR Preamplifier and STR Power Amplifier, which will join the STR Integrated Amplifier in the company's arsenal of high-end stereo components. The STR Preamplifier ($3,999) features Anthem Room Correction, HT bypass and bass management, an asynchronous USB audio input that supports 32-bit/384-kHz PCM and DSD 2.8/5.6, balanced AES/EBU inputs, and more. The STR Power Amplifier ($5,999) is rated at 400 watts per channel into eight ohms with both channels driven. Both products are available in a combo black/silver finish or in black only and will be available this fall.
From Anthem
Anthem is building on the success of the highly regarded STR Integrated Amplifier with the introduction of the STR Preamplifier and STR Power Amplifier. Both feature a fresh industrial design and premium audio circuit components. The entire series is proudly designed, engineered, and Crafted in Canada.
STR Preamplifier
The STR Preamplifier is based on an entirely new platform of advanced technology. It offers audiophiles more control and refinements and more connection options, all in a single, easy-to-use component. This unit allows for the addition of power amplification from an individual unit, for audio enthusiasts who prefer separates.
This preamplifier combines the benefits of an advanced preamp with the power of a processor. Packed with functions such as leading-edge DAC, onboard Anthem Room Correction (ARC), a customizable bass manager for mono or stereo sub outs, and MM and MC phono inputs, the STR Preamplifier offers far more than the average preamplifier. And count on Anthem's digital signal processing innovations to deliver a noticeably higher level of performance realism. The unit also provides balanced output for all channels including two subwoofers, and the Home Theater Bypass function allows it to be combined with a home theater system.
STR Power Amplifier
The STR Power Amplifier is the keystone to a world-class two-channel sound system. It delivers massive power generation, audiophile-quality output, super-efficient performance, and cutting edge digital and analog technology in a smartly designed component. The STR Power Amplifier doles out 400 watts/channel into eight ohms with both channels driven (450W single channel), a massive 600 watts/channel into four ohms (both channels driven) and 800 watts in two ohms for true no-holds-barred performance.
The STR Power Amplifier benefits from Anthem's proprietary input topology--a unique departure from the classical differential input stage. Eight low-noise bipolar input devices are configured in a complementary active-load cascoded feedback arrangement for reduced distortion, exceptionally linear response, and superior bandwidth. Designers incorporated sixteen bipolar output devices per channel, resulting in peak production that is effortless and instantaneous, cinching even the most challenging material. The use of multiple bipolar output devices also dramatically reduces distortion while ensuring extreme linearity, extensive bandwidth, and stress-free reliability.
The STR Power Amplifier contains two powerful independent class AB "mono-block" amplifiers. Each channel is self-contained on its own glass-epoxy circuit board and pair of heat sinks, and features its own transformer. The amplifiers are thus able to deliver stable, continuous power at maximum output without affecting one another, even when driving the lowest impedances. While some amplifiers tend to oscillate or run out of power when driving lower impedance loads, the STR Power Amplifier remains perfectly stable under all conditions.
Conservatively rated, in a low-profile design shaped to minimize hum, the STR Power Amplifier's low-impedance toroidal power transformers make no sacrifices when it comes to delivering a continuous supply of pure, clean low noise power. As well, both the power supply impedance and internal cabling inductance are minimized to deliver a clear path for maximum power.
STR Preamplifier Features:
• High-resolution preamplifier
• Anthem Room Correction (ARC) to optimize in-room response
• Bass management for two subwoofers, in mono or stereo
• Up-sampling of lower-resolution sources to 32-bit/192-kHz
• Asynchronous USB Audio Input supports 32-bit/384-kHz PCM, and DSD 2.8/5.6 MHz sources
• SPDIF coaxial and optical, and balanced AES/EBU inputs
• MM and MC phono, balanced XLR, and single-ended analog inputs
• Analog Direct mode
• Graphic front-panel display for easy setup navigation
• Controllable via Ethernet, RS-232, or supplied IR remote
• Balanced output for all channels, including the two subs
• Home Theater Bypass Mode works without having to turn power on and includes RCA/XLR input for two subs
• Crafted in Canada
STR Power Amplifier Features:
• 400W/600W/800W continuous into 8/4/2 ohms, both channels driven
• Cascoded Complementary Feedback Input Stage
• Sixteen Bipolar Output Devices Per Channel
• Multi-Mono Design
• Massive Toroidal Transformers
• Soft Turn-On
• Four Power On/Off Options
• No Rail Fuses
• Advanced Load Monitoring Technology
• Graphic front-panel display for the power meter, status, and easy setup navigation
• Crafted in Canada
The STR Preamplifier retails for $3,999 US MSRP and will begin shipping in Fall 2017.
The STR Power Amplifier retails for $5,999 US MSRP and will begin shipping in Fall 2017.
Additional Resources
• Visit the Anthem website for more product information.
• Anthem AVM 60 11.2-Channel AV Pre/Pro Reviewed at HomeTheaterReview.com.
