2. amps-preamps
  3. 137908-92308

Anthem or Emotiva

I currently am using a Pioneer Elite SC-65 as a pre-amp, not using any of the amplifier section asI'm not impressed with the audio output....I have an Anthem PVA-7 amplifier that the Pioneer feeds into. 
I'm looking at replacing the Pioneer and due to my budget, and lack of knowledge of hi end audio gear, I am looking at either the Anthem AVM-60 or the Emotiva XPS-1.....If it was you, which one would you get?? OR is there something better for the same money?? 
joeschmoe
auxinput
2,920 posts
 

I am assuming you mean the Emotiva XMC-1 (the XPS-1 is a phono preamp).

Based on those two choices, I would go with Anthem AVM-60.  It is going to have much better sound quality and resolution.  Anthem uses a true linear power supply.

Emotiva uses a switching power supply (even though it has a toroidal transformer).  It also uses some rather slow op amps, so sound quality is somewhat closed in and constrained. 

Since Anthem uses its own "ARC" anthem room correction, it does not have to pay licensing fees to Dirac (which does bump up the core cost of the Emotiva).  That is, if you like room correction.

uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
Maybe look at a NuForce AVP18.
I run one into a NuForce class d 8 channel amp for ht duties.
This replaced an all Emotiva setup and literally blew the doors right off it.

You can pick them up for around $500.
Just a thought.
secretguy
1,707 posts
 
Anthem.
More to discover