Anthem AVM90 AV Processor Review

[amirm]

We have the 2V/4V DAC reference but should there be a “typical” V for a low/med/gain amp for AV use? It seems like we have the data from your latest reviews but I am not sure where the line should be drawn for your theoretical 85 dB averages with 105 dB peaks at about 2 meters for consistency.

Need to do some experimentation with a real amplifier to see what is optimal.

 

[TimoJ]

I compared Toslink to HDMI and the results were the same so post the HDMI ones. The level of noise coming out of HDMI on my PC is variable and when I tested the AVM90, it was on good behavior.

So you just use the better result in your SINAD chart no matter what input was used to get it? Doesn't seem right.
Now we never know if some unit's HDMI input actually is bad or was it just your PC. And you say this is random? So what about some older tests that show just HDMI results, like Arcam AV40? Was it that bad or was it just your PC?

 

[amirm]

First, I provide transparency on that when there is a difference. You can choose to use whichever number you like.

Second, as I explained in the Marantz review thread, I don't know how clean or dirty HDMI sources are relative to my HTPC. Until I figure that out, I am opting to give benefit of doubt and go with the better number.

On Arcam, that had so many issues such as clipping at full digital input level that this level of difference wouldn't have changed the outlook on it. I also did a Toslink vs HDMI test:

As you see, there are serious problems with Toslink input.

 

[amper42]

Poor performing XLR connectors with a 6K price tag? Anthem lost me right there.

 

[JSmith]

It was sent to me by the company

Good to see Anthem is still happy to have their products tested by a 3rd party and thanks for the measurements Amir.

Pics;

JSmith

 

[poopy]

So you just use the better result in your SINAD chart no matter what input was used to get it? Doesn't seem right.
Now we never know if some unit's HDMI input actually is bad or was it just your PC. And you say this is random? So what about some older tests that show just HDMI results, like Arcam AV40? Was it that bad or was it just your PC?

Knowing in addition that using toslink input for measurements for an AV pro makes no sense... HDMI is the input to use. Full stop.

 

[Count Arthur]

I'm completely out of touch when it comes to home theatre/movies.

If you went all in, used all the channels and built a home theatre room; how much content is available that supports it. Is it available on streaming services, or do you have to buy physical media, blu-ray?

 

[amper42]

Streaming movies works but their sound tracks tend to be compressed audio. I get the best audio experience while playing the actual 4K disk with my home theatre. There are tons of movies available in 4K at reasonable prices.

Best 4K Blu-ray Deals

www.blu-ray.com

 

[CleanSound]

I'm completely out of touch when it comes to home theatre/movies.

If you went all in, used all the channels and built a home theatre room; how much content is available that supports it. Is it available on streaming services, or do you have to buy physical media, blu-ray?

Most, if not all streaming supports surround sound, each title often will tell you what format of surround sound it's encoded in.

You can also buy bluray, but I believe bluray will end up being like what CD is today if bluray is lucky.

But AVR and AV processors are designed for a 10 year life from what I have observed on the market. Because usually it takes 10 years or so before new surround formats and/or new video standards (i.e. HDMI, resolution, etc.) are out and adopted.

 

[TSB]

Good to see Anthem is still happy to have their products tested by a 3rd party and thanks for the measurements Amir.

Pics;

View attachment 336234
View attachment 336236

View attachment 336235


JSmith

Looks like a Stream1832 module: https://www.streamunlimited.com/hardware-modules/

 

[vkvedam]

That's way too expensive akin to Marantz's offering. Is it really that hard to design a DAC architecture for these AV processing units, a bit perplexed. Thanks for the review @amirm

 

[CleanSound]

More like outdated in 2-3 years.

AVRs should be upgradable; why not keep the amplification part separate from the AV processing?

This Anthem is a processor so the amplifier is not included and you do need to buy it separately. Others pointed out to me, which then I remembered, that NAD makes a modular AVR, but they don't keep it updated.

 

[CleanSound]

Is that a fan I see? For $6k, they couldn't make it fanless?

 

[TimoJ]

View attachment 336267
Is that a fan I see? For $6k, they couldn't make it fanless?

That interior look reminds me of $1k Tonewinner... Marantz AV10 sure looks much better.

 

[peng]

This is a review and detailed measurements of the Anthem AVM90 home theater 15.4 channel Audio/Video Processor. It was sent to me by the company and is on sale for US $6375.
View attachment 336184
As you see, the AVM90 sports a gorgeous, high contrast and large display. It is a joy to navigate this feature as it is backed by a speedy processor. To wit, hitting the setup button almost instantly brings up the menus. On many consumer level processors you wait good few seconds before anything shows up. I am also pleased by the nice/smooth feeling when turning volume/menu selector. On almost all consumer brands the volume control is very stiff and unsatisfying. The slight downside is that on-screen (video) is limited to two lines that are overlaid at the bottom.

My reviews are focused on performance and not functionality. In this class of product though, you better do good bit of research into the latter as there are significant differences. As an example, check out the above subwoofer submenu. There are whopping 22 options there! Everything is seemingly programmable down to deciding if plugging in a headphone turns off the speakers or not.

Back panel shows a more modern take on inputs/outputs, leaving behind legacy options:
View attachment 336186

I liked the simple input menu to select sources with very large icons and instant response of the remote control.

Note that you get a professional quality microphone setup for room calibration and everything is included. Competing consumer products come with decidedly cheesy microphone/stands and advanced Room EQ costs extra.

Measurements were performed after updating the unit to the last firmware.

Anthem AVM90 Processor Measurements
When products have balanced output, I usually focus on that as it usually provides better performance and of course, resilience to ground loops. Such was NOT the case here:
View attachment 336188
That is already good performance but we actually get more by switching to RCA out:
View attachment 336190
I asked Anthem if the XLR output was derived from unbalanced and they said that was the case (we saw the same in a processor I recently reviewed). Going with the better of the two, the AVM90 lands right next to its closest competitor in this price range:

View attachment 336191

Here is how performance varies if you sweep digital input or keep that the same and use the volume control:
View attachment 336192
View attachment 336193

Note that above is with RCA out if you compare it to other tested units with XLR's higher output level.

Dynamic range is excellent by AV standards:
View attachment 336194
Same is true of multitone:
View attachment 336196

IMD distortion is again, very good for the class:
View attachment 336195

Jitter test shows fair bit of messiness, fortunately at inaudible levels:
View attachment 336197

I found a familiar muting problem I have seen below -90 dB in other processors:
View attachment 336198
I ran this by Anthem but they could not replicate it. They shared measurements with me that was normal. I have supplied my test project file for them to investigate. Will update the review when I hear more.

The typical filter is deployed here and as with its competitors, could use more out of band attenuation:
View attachment 336200
Frequency response is flat:
View attachment 336201

The less than ideal filtering gives rise to noise in our wideband THD+N sweep at higher frequencies:
View attachment 336202
But doesn't explain the small rise in low frequencies.

Figuring someone will ask about the phono input, here is a quick test of RIAA equalization:
View attachment 336203

Conclusion
We have waited a long time for AV products to break into our "green" level of performance and we finally have a couple of examples with AVM90 being one. So by standards of the category, AVM90 is an excellent offering. Couple of that with very responsive user interface and functionality and you have a very nice package. I hope company aims one grade higher in future products to close the gap further with music-only DACs.

I am happy to recommend the Anthem AVM90 AVP.

------------
As always, questions, comments, recommendations, etc. are welcome.

Any donations are much appreciated using: https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/how-to-support-audio-science-review.8150/

Many thanks again for pumping out two top AVPs within a month, among other highly anticipated reviews such as the one on the Cinema 40. Since Anthem sent this unit to you, does that mean you have them signed off on the measurements?

 

[peng]

View attachment 336267
Is that a fan I see? For $6k, they couldn't make it fanless?

Yes, the little one behind the control dial is a fan and whether that is audible from 10-11 ft or not depends on you luck. My first one is audible, the second one is not, and mine is not the 90, but the 70, though I am quite sure they use that same $15-$25 dollar fan for all, from the MRX AVRs to the AVM90. My suggestion is, for anyone who paid $7,000 on an AVP, if the fan is audible from a few feet away, insist on a replacement right away within the return window.

 

[57gold]

Immersive audio formats like Atmos will make use of all those channels. Also, if you have more than a single row of seating, you would add more channels in order to get optimal coverage.



Gaming systems, cable TV box, streaming device, blu-ray player, HTPC, etc. ... it adds up to a lot of inputs.



A multi-subwoofer approach is the most effective way of attaining a smooth in-room bass response at multiple listening positions.

Thanks for the answers.

Seen the word ATMOS but had no idea what it was other than some kind of audio for movies.

Had to look up what HTPC abbreviates.

No subwoofer for my TV, though I guess I could get a Sonos one?

Have enough trouble dealing with Sony TV app, Fire Stick and cable, haven't seen a recent movie I would buy to see again, so Blue Ray player is lonely...so, whilst surround sound makes Indy's crashes and Tom Cruise's antics more exciting...too much for this old dude.

Can't imagine all the wiring required to use this box to its fullest!

 

[charlielaub]

Honestly, as a 2-channel stereo aficionado, I can only shake my head in dismay at this sort of product and the whole trend of googleplex-channel suround sound. Oh, and the price... ouch. No thanks!

 

[Fleuch]

Same critique like I always have for AVR and AV processors: $6k for 10 years before it is outdated.

Great performance but for $6k, it's not something I would stand up to clap my hands for encore.

Pricing in the UK seems rather strange. A quick search shows prices from £6,000.00 => £6,749.00 => £6,895.00 => £7,350.00 => £7,650.00=> £7,685.00, etc.

Is there a range of specifications to justify such a wide difference in prices?

 

[peng]

How good is Anthem's room correction technology (ARC)?
Is it on par with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 or Dirac Live?

¯\_(ツ)_/¯​

Objectively speaking, I would like to see some measurements to support anyone's claim that ARC G is better, worse, or on par with XT32, or Dirac Live. Based on my own measurements, I would say it is not on par. Subjectively, so called trust your ears, they are all good, Dirac seems best but I have only been able to compare with Dirac PC standalone version for stereo listening.