Anthem STR Preamplifier

Overview

A two-channel system is only as clean as the component that switches and controls every source. The Anthem STR Preamplifier pairs a high-resolution analog preamplifier with a digital processing section in one Made-in-Canada chassis, handling vinyl, digital, and streamed sources alike.

Lower-resolution digital sources are upsampled to 32-bit/192kHz, and the asynchronous USB input handles 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD. ARC Genesis room correction uses a precision microphone and four storable profiles to optimize the frequency response, and Home Theater Bypass mode works without turning the power on, with RCA/XLR inputs for two subwoofers.

Dedicated moving magnet and moving coil phono inputs include a continuously adjustable phono curve for records that predate the RIAA standard. Up to 30 virtual inputs and adjustable analog input levels let you match sources, and Direct Mode keeps analog inputs on their own path with a rated 120 dB signal-to-noise ratio.

Simcoe Audio Video Insight

For a great room or media space that has to work as both a serious two-channel system and a home theatre front stage, Home Theater Bypass mode means you don't have to choose. Between the upsampling DAC section and Direct Mode for analog sources, one component covers both a critical listening session and movie night.

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Why the Anthem STR Preamplifier Stands Out

Anthem Room Correction (ARC Genesis)

A precision microphone and Anthem's algorithms optimize the frequency response, with four storable profiles for different setups.

Asynchronous USB Digital Input

Decodes 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD from a network streamer or computer.

Direct Mode

Analog inputs can run in Direct Mode, rated at 120 dB signal-to-noise and 10 Hz - 80 kHz frequency response.

Dual Phono Stages with Adjustable Curve

Separate moving magnet and moving coil inputs, plus a continuously adjustable phono curve for pre-RIAA records.

Home Theater Bypass

Lets the STR Preamplifier serve as the front stage of a surround system, works without turning the power on, and includes RCA/XLR inputs for two subwoofers.

Up to 30 Virtual Inputs

Create multiple configurable profiles for your sources, with adjustable analog input levels.

Flexible System Integration

Control via Ethernet, RS-232, or the supplied IR remote for integration into any control system.

Buyer's Guide

Who It's For

  • The Two-Channel Listener: Wants reference-level preamp and DAC performance from both digital and vinyl sources.
  • The Subwoofer System Designer: Is building a stereo system with one or two subwoofers and wants room correction to tie them together.
  • The Dual-Purpose Room Owner: Needs one component to handle both a dedicated stereo system and home theatre 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. For listeners who want the same DAC and room correction platform without a separate power amp, the Anthem STR Integrated Amplifier combines a preamplifier, DAC, and 200-watt-per-channel amplifier in a single chassis.

Anthem STR Preamplifier Specifications

General Information
SeriesSTR Series
BrandAnthem
Product TypeStereo Preamplifier with DAC
DACUp-sampling to 32-bit / 192 kHz; USB input up to 32-bit / 384 kHz PCM and DSD
Country of OriginMade in Canada
Audio Performance
Frequency Response (Analog-In, Direct Mode)10 Hz – 80 kHz (+0.00, -0.10 dB)
THD+N (1 kHz, 2 Vrms output)0.0006% (Digital-In), 0.0017% (Analog-In), 0.0016% (Direct Mode)
S/N Ratio (IEC-A, 2 Vrms output)113 dB (Digital-In), 108 dB (Analog-In), 120 dB (Direct Mode)
Maximum Output3.3 Vrms (RCA), 6.6 Vrms (XLR)
Connectivity & Inputs
Digital InputsAsynchronous USB Audio, AES/EBU, Coaxial, Optical
Phono InputsDedicated MM (Moving Magnet) and MC (Moving Coil), continuously adjustable phono curve
Virtual InputsUp to 30
Home Theater BypassWorks without turning the power on; RCA/XLR input for two subwoofers
Advanced Features
Room CorrectionARC Genesis with precision microphone, four storable profiles
DisplayGraphic front panel display
Control IntegrationEthernet, RS-232, supplied IR remote
Physical Specifications
Dimensions (H x W x D)3-8/9" x 17" x 14-5/6" (9.93 x 43.2 x 37.69 cm)
Weight16.8 lb (7.6 kg)
Typical Load10 W
Standby Power0.38 W (120V)
Colours AvailableBlack, Silver

Simcoe Audio Video Installation

Our professional team of designers and installers provide custom design solutions and installation for existing homes and new builds. We work with home owners, home builders and designers to create scalable solutions tailored to you.

Home Theatre & Media Rooms | Home Audio Solutions | AV Automation

Anthem STR Preamplifier FAQs

What are the key features of the Anthem STR Preamplifier?

The Anthem STR Preamplifier offers a high-resolution preamplifier and digital section, supporting asynchronous USB up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM and DSD 2.8/5.6 MHz sources. It includes Anthem's ARC Genesis room correction technology, bass management for up to two subwoofers, and a comprehensive set of analog and digital inputs.

How does the Anthem STR Preamplifier improve audio performance?

The STR Preamplifier uses ARC Genesis room correction to optimize the frequency response for your room, with four storable profiles. Its DAC section upsamples lower-resolution sources to 32-bit/192kHz, and Direct Mode gives analog sources a rated 120 dB signal-to-noise ratio.

What connectivity options are available on the Anthem STR Preamplifier?

Inputs include coaxial, optical, and AES/EBU digital connections, an asynchronous USB audio input supporting 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD, and dedicated moving coil and moving magnet phono inputs. Up to 30 virtual inputs let you set up separate profiles for your sources.

How is the Anthem STR Preamplifier built?

The STR Preamplifier is made in Canada, has a graphic front panel display, and comes in Black or Silver. It measures 3-8/9" high, 17" wide, and 14-5/6" deep, weighs 16.8 lb (7.6 kg), and can be controlled via Ethernet, RS-232, or the supplied IR remote.

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