Video Asylum: REVIEW: Anthem AVM 20 Preamplifier (HT) by wp

Model:	AVM 20
Category:	Preamplifier (HT)
Suggested Retail Price:	$3,199.00
Description:	DPL, DD, DTS, THX Ultra, THX-EX, 24-Bit/96KHz A/D, 24-Bit/193KHz D/A, 3-100Mhz component video inputs
Manufacturer URL:	Anthem
Model Picture:	View

Review by wp on January 04, 2002 at 23:11:28
IP Address: 24.66.94.140

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for the AVM 20

I have been following the upgrade path for the past two years in an effort to move from mid-fi to hi-fi, at least as close as possible in a system that must handle both audio & home theater at real world prices. I delayed a year in my purchase of a pre/pro as I anticipate high resolution music (preferably a DVD-A/ SACD combi player)in the near future and the lack of bass management was a concern. My short list included the B&K Ref 30, Marantz 9000, and Anthem AVM 2. All units had good sound, but I was leaning towards the Anthem having had good experience with thier products and service. When the AVM 20 became available with a bass management solution for 5.1 analog input, along with a very long list of other valuable features I made my purchase.
I have had this unit in my system now for about a month and use it daily. I noted a significant improvement in the definition and tunefulness of the bass and an overall cleaner more realistic presentation in the upper octives. I get chills listening to my favorite music. I will not rave about this product as it replaced a mid-fi unit(Pioneer VSX-D1S)and as such I have nothing but in store auditions of similar units to compare to the Anthem.
The bottom line is I am very pleased with all aspects of this unit including sound quality, intuative user interface and build quality. It is also software upgradeable over the net and hardware upgradeable at the factory. In my opinion this unit is a great value and I plan to enjoy it for many years to come. I can hardly wait to carry on with my remaining component upgrades.

Product Weakness: The manual could offer more detail and narrative on some functions.
Product Strengths: Clean and accurate sound & ease of use with features and flexibility to numerous to list. See www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_8_4/anthem-avm-20-12-2001.html for a description.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	MCA-5
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	AVM-20
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Pioneer CLD-703, Samsung DVD, Dish Network
Speakers:	Paradigm Studio 100v2, Referenc CC, Atoms
Cables/Interconnects:	Ultra Link
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	everything but country or rap
Room Size (LxWxH):	18 x 10 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments:	absorbent floor & ceiling material,some wall treatment
Time Period/Length of Audition:	45 days
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Adcom
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	The manual could offer more detail and narrative on some functions.
Product Strengths:	Clean and accurate sound & ease of use with features and flexibility to numerous to list. See www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_8_4/anthem-avm-20-12-2001.html for a description.