CES 2018 • Hot Product

Anthem has embraced two-channel audio with a pair of products aimed at audiophiles. The STR stereo amplifier ($5995) delivers 400Wpc into 8 ohms via 16 bipolar output devices per channel. Its completely dual mono in design and uses no rail fuses for greater sonic purity. Its most distinctive feature is its 7" graphic display, which can show various operating parameters.

The matching STR preamplifier ($3995) is a true system control center and digital hub. It has both single-ended and balanced inputs and outputs, and it accommodates both analog -- including a pair for MC/MM phono -- and digital sources. In terms of the latter, the STR can decode both PCM and DSD files and upsample lower-resolution PCM to 32 bits/192kHz. It also incorporates Anthem Room Correction to optimize the system's in-room response as well as bass management for two subwoofers.

The Anthem STR electronics sounded clean and poised, yet weighty and a touch sweet, driving Paradigm Persona 3F speakers ($10,000 per pair). If you're doing the math, that's the bulk of a full high-end system (minus sources and cables) for less than $20,000 -- quite a bargain, based on the refined sound we heard.