Anthem STR Pre Amplifier

The STR Preamplifier is the result of deliberate choices, not compromises. We’ve masterfully combined an advanced analog preamplifier with the power of a digital processor, meticulously handling every signal with a leading-edge DAC and our proprietary Anthem Room Correction (ARC).Unlike conventional preamplifiers, the STR is a masterfully engineered hub where every function is a deliberate choice. It’s built to reveal every last nuance of your music, ensuring a flawless signal path from any source—from its MM and MC phono inputs to its digital connections. With our digital signal processing innovations, the STR Preamplifier doesn’t just process sound; it orchestrates it, providing you with the authority needed for two-channel nirvana.

Unwavering Signal Purity

The STR Preamplifier’s high-resolution section is engineered for one purpose: to deliver an audio signal of absolute purity. It meticulously handles every source, from its high-resolution preamplifier section to its leading-edge digital processing. Lower-resolution sources are intelligently up-sampled to 32-bit/192kHz, while our Asynchronous USB Audio Input accommodates the most demanding files, including 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD. With a full complement of inputs—including coaxial, optical, and AES/EBU inputs up to 192kHz, as well as balanced and single-ended analog, MM, and MC phono inputs—the signal path is always flawless.

Meticulous Digital-to-Analog Conversion

We take a holistic view of the digital-to-analog conversion process. Instead of boasting about a single component, we engineered the entire DAC stage to be a flawless signal path. A dedicated, asynchronous 32-bit/192 kHz sample rate conversion optimizes the anti-imaging filter, ensuring unmatched audio purity regardless of the input format. This process also re-clocks the data, providing immunity from performance-marring source jitter. Throughout the DAC circuitry, thin-film high-precision resistors and ultra-low noise op-amps are used to achieve the lowest possible distortion, noise, and the most transparent sound. There are simply no bottlenecks.

Expanded Subwoofer and Phono Options

The STR Preamplifier gives you more configuration options for bass management than a conventional preamp. You can use one or two subwoofers for both channels, or configure two independent, channel-specific subwoofers. When used with Anthem Room Correction (ARC®), this system is uniquely engineered for seamless subwoofer blending, achieving incredibly accurate and lifelike performance. Recognizing the resurgent popularity of vinyl, we’ve included separate, shielded inputs for both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges. The phono section’s meticulous design ensures a clean signal that reveals the hidden magic of classic media. For those with vintage collections, the continuously adjustable phono curve allows for proper playback of any record that predates the RIAA equalization standard.

Key Technical Specifications

Audio Performance

• Frequency Response

  • Digital (192 kHz): 10 Hz – 50 kHz

  • Digital (96 kHz): 10 Hz – 45 kHz

  • Analog Direct Mode: 10 Hz – 80 kHz

• THD + Noise

  • Digital input: ~0.001%

  • Analog input: ~0.0016%

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio

  • Digital input: up to 113 dB

  • Analog Direct Mode: 120 dB

• Maximum Output

  • RCA: 3.3 Vrms

  • XLR: 6.6 Vrms

Digital & Processing

• Upsampling to 32-bit / 192 kHz

• USB audio input: up to 32-bit / 384 kHz PCM

• Supports DSD 2.8 / 5.6 MHz

• Anthem Room Correction (ARC) room calibration system

Inputs & Outputs

Digital Inputs

• USB Audio

• Coaxial

• Optical

• AES/EBU

Analog Inputs

• Balanced XLR

• RCA line inputs

• MM / MC phono stage

Outputs

• Balanced XLR outputs

• RCA outputs

• Dual subwoofer outputs (mono or stereo bass management)

Phono Stage Specifications

• Input impedance: 100 Ω (MC), 47 kΩ (MM)

• Gain: 61 dB (MC), 41 dB (MM)

• SNR: up to 102 dB (MM)

• RIAA accuracy: ±0.1 dB

Other Features

• Home Theater Bypass

• Analog Direct Mode (pure signal path)

• Adjustable input levels

• Up to 30 virtual inputs

• Ethernet / RS-232 control

• Front-panel display

Physical Specs

• Width: 43.2 cm

• Height: 9.9 cm

• Depth: 37.7 cm

• Weight: 7.6 kg