2. amps-preamps
  3. 156176-128813

Anthem STR preamp vs Integrated amp preamp section

Hi all, I'm having trouble really finding good info about this.

I currently have the Anthem STR Integrated Preamp.  But wondering if I should sell it and just get the STR preamp and use my PS Audio m700 amps.

My main question is, what are the main differences in the preamp sections?  Different dac?  Different processing?

I'm not totally comfortable understanding everything on their spec sheets.

Thanks
dtximages
george_r
7 posts
 
I was pointed to this thread while asking the same question but I have another;

I've ordered the Anthem STR Preamp and I have searched but not found if the STR Preamp supports iPod/iPhone playback or not. One feature I take advantage of with my Oppo HA-1 Headphone Amp/Preamp is iPod/iPhone support via USB.

Made for iPod®, iPhone® and iPad®
The HA-1 passes Apple's "MFi" certification and is compatible with the latest iPod, iPhone and iPad to be used as the digital audio output accessory of these devices. By tapping directly into the digital audio signal of these devices and converting the audio to analog using the high performance SABRE 32 Reference DAC, music from your favorite portable device will sound its best.

https://www.oppodigital.com/headphone-amplifier-ha-1/

I have all my CD's saved as Apple Lossless in iTunes and just plugging my apple device allows me to use the HA-1 DAC and bypass the iPhone or iPod DAC. Does the STR Preamp support this? I understand I would need an iPhone lightning to USB-B male or A to B adapter. The Oppo HA-1 works direct, if the Anthem doesn't work with a direct connection, would it work with an Apple CCK Lightning to USB Camera Adapter?

If not, or even if it does, how about using a USB stick with FLAC? Would this allow playlists, albums, etc? I am a bit surprised there isn't a Type A USB connection on the front.


dtximages OP
365 posts
 
@george_r

It does have a USB input if that's what you're looking for. But it does not support streaming airplay.  Not sure if this is the response you're looking for.
george_r
7 posts
 
@dtximages
I understand it has a USB input but does it accept a direct digital feed as a music source from an iPod/iPhone/iPad that bypasses the i device DAC and uses the STR DAC? Not all do but some that don't support the direct connection will work with the Apple CCK Lightning to USB Camera Adapter. 

I'm not concerned with streaming airplay.

Thanks
dtximages OP
365 posts
 
@george_r  Gotcha, I'm not sure.  I don't see why it wouldn't but there are many more knowledgeable than I.  I do know that if you connect via USB then you're using the Anthem's DAC so there's no need for an "i device" dac.
george_r
7 posts
 
I agree, it should, I hope it does, but I can't be the first person to want to connect an iPhone/iPod/iPad. Odd getting a clear answer has been a challenge. I guess I'll know when I get my STR preamp in a week or so.

I just don't want to have multiple DA/AD/DA conversions.

Thanks.
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