Overview The Anthem STR Preamplifier pairs a high-resolution analog preamplifier with a leading-edge digital processing section in one Canadian-made chassis, giving every source, analog or digital, a flawless signal path. Lower-resolution digital sources are automatically upsampled to 32-bit/192kHz, while the asynchronous USB input decodes native DSD and PCM files up to 32-bit/384kHz. Built-in Anthem Room Correction (ARC Genesis) uses a precision microphone and four storable profiles to correct room-driven frequency response issues without altering your speakers' natural sound. Independent bass management handles up to two subwoofers, and a Home Theater Bypass mode, which works even with the unit powered off, lets the STR Preamplifier slot into a surround system's front channels. Two dedicated phono stages, one for moving magnet and one for moving coil cartridges, include a continuously adjustable phono curve for records pressed before the RIAA standard. Up to 30 custom virtual inputs let you build separate digital and Analog Direct profiles for the same physical connection. Simcoe Audio Video Insight For a great room or media space that needs to do double duty as a serious two-channel system and a home theater front stage, the STR Preamplifier's Home Theater Bypass mode means you're not choosing one over the other. And because the DAC stage upsamples and re-clocks everything that comes in digitally while Analog Direct mode removes digital sampling from the signal path entirely, you get one component that suits both a critical listening session and movie night. More Info Why the Anthem STR Preamplifier Stands Out Anthem Room Correction (ARC Genesis) Uses a precision microphone and advanced algorithms to correct room-driven frequency response issues, with four storable profiles for different setups. Asynchronous USB Digital Input Decodes native DSD and PCM files up to 32-bit/384kHz for bit-perfect playback from a network streamer or computer. Analog Direct Mode Bypasses all digital sampling circuitry for a completely unprocessed analog signal path. Dual Phono Stages with Adjustable Curve Separate moving magnet and moving coil inputs, plus a continuously adjustable phono curve for pre-RIAA vinyl. Home Theater Bypass Passes front-channel signals directly to a surround processor even with the unit powered off, and includes RCA/XLR inputs for two subwoofers. Up to 30 Custom Virtual Inputs Assign the same physical connection to multiple configurable profiles, such as one with full digital processing and another running Analog Direct. Flexible System Integration IP control over Ethernet, RS-232 serial, and 12-volt triggers for integration with home automation platforms. Buyer's Guide Who It's For Two-channel listeners who want reference-level preamp and DAC performance from both digital and vinyl sources. System designers building out independent, channel-specific subwoofer configurations. Homeowners who need one component to handle both a dedicated stereo system and home theater front-channel duties. How It Compares The STR Preamplifier is built to pair with the Anthem STR Power Amplifier, splitting preamp and power amplification into two chassis with independent power supplies. For listeners who want that same DAC and room correction platform without a separate power amp, the Anthem STR Integrated Amplifier combines the STR Preamplifier's processing with a built-in 200-watt-per-channel amplifier in a single chassis.
