Anthem stands out as a highly esteemed and beloved brand in the audio equipment domain, setting the standard for top-tier audio processing and amplification at accessible price points.
Renowned for their AVM processor series, Anthem is particularly recognized for achieving an excellent balance between performance and affordability, providing cutting-edge technology and powerful processing capabilities without breaking the bank.
For those unfamiliar, opting for home theatre separates, which consist of a processor and amplifier as two distinct components, offers greater control over one’s sound system.
This choice maximizes audio quality compared to an AV receiver with built-in amplification. By keeping low-level signals separate from amplified high-level signals, noise is reduced, preserving the overall audio quality.
Moreover, the use of separates allows for the flexibility to upgrade and replace processing hardware independently, which tends to advance at a faster pace than amplifiers.
When discussing processors, the focus is on achieving high fidelity and incorporating advanced features that enhance the quality of the signal delivered to speakers.
The latest additions to Anthem’s AVM processor series are the AVM70 and the highly anticipated AVM90, released in March after overcoming delays associated with a fire at an AVM component supplier.
While the AVM90 comes at a higher price point, almost double that of the AVM70, exploring the significant differences between these models reveals the features that make the AVM90 well worth the wait and the investment.
What’s New in the AVM90:
-
Enhanced DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converters):
- The AVM90 boasts DACs with the same specifications as the AVM70 (32bit at 768kHz sampling). However, the production delays provided engineers the opportunity to source superior DACs, resulting in enhanced sound quality comparable to many higher-end stereo preamplifiers. This improvement delivers a smoother sound profile with increased bass extension, catering to serious audiophiles.
-
Four Subwoofer Channels:
- One of the most exciting upgrades is the increase in channels. The AVM90 now features 19 total channels, including 4 independent subwoofer outputs that can be individually calibrated. In contrast, the AVM70 offers 15 channels with just 2 subwoofer channels. This inclusion, in a product priced below $10,000, signifies a positive trend in making high-fidelity audio more accessible.
Beyond these significant upgrades and the introduction of more advanced audio circuitry, the AVM90 shares similarities with the AVM70. Evaluating whether these enhancements justify the price increase depends on individual budget constraints and home theatre requirements. For those seeking the pinnacle of processor performance, the improved DAC and additional subwoofer channels may indeed make a substantial difference. Audiophiles, in particular, will appreciate the noticeable improvement in DAC quality. Moreover, if the plan involves utilizing more than two subwoofers, the additional channels offered by the AVM90 become a valuable asset.
Key Features of the AVM Series:
Setting aside the differences between the AVM70 and AVM90, both models encompass several features and capabilities that position them as flagship equipment within their respective price range:
-
Codec Compatibility:
- The AVM series supports leading-edge image and audio codecs, including Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced. This ensures compatibility with up to 15 channels plus subwoofers, allowing users to enjoy their favorite audio formats seamlessly.
-
Streaming Capabilities:
- Keeping pace with the importance of music streaming, the AVM series offers wireless connectivity through Airplay2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, and Spotify Connect. An upcoming update will add Roon compatibility, providing a variety of streaming options for user convenience.
-
8K Video and e-ARC:
- The AVM90 boasts HDMI 2.1 full 8K video capabilities out of the box, while the AVM70 hardware is upgradeable from HDMI 2.0b. This feature is crucial for users with 8K sources and compatible TVs. The addition of HDMI Enhanced Audio Return Channel (e-ARC) allows users to enjoy 8K quality from TV apps.
-
User-Friendly Web UI:
- Anthem offers a beautiful web interface accessible from laptops or mobile devices, allowing users to customize their audio settings with ease. This convenience feature enables adjustments from anywhere, offering a seamless experience.
-
ARC Genesis:
- Anthem Room Correction (ARC) is a standout feature that distinguishes Anthem processors. This technology takes room measurements and adjusts outputs to correct unwanted resonance and coloration, smoothing out frequency response while preserving positive acoustic qualities.
- The AVM90 release introduced an even more advanced version, ARC Genesis, incorporating automatic subwoofer phase and polarity adjustments. Users can create up to 4 ARC presets for customized optimization in different environments, catering to diverse listening preferences.
In summary, Anthem’s AVM series, represented by the AVM70 and AVM90, embodies a commitment to delivering high-quality audio processing solutions with advanced features, available through urbandac.in.
The enhancements in the AVM90, particularly in DAC quality and subwoofer channels, elevate the audio experience for enthusiasts. Whether the additional features are worth the investment depends on individual preferences, budget considerations, and the desire for a top-tier audio solution in the home theatre setup.
About The Author
