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Anthem STR "Convert Analog" sounds much worse

I've spent all afternoon playing around with different settings with subs etc.  On this preamp, there's a setting to "Convert Analog".. This allows you to use the ARC and subwoofer outputs - hence you get to use the internal crossover, phase etc for the subs.. Really nice feature.  I'm not even using ARC yet...

But, I noticed a significant improvement in quality and dynamics with it OFF, allowing my Lumin T2 to flow straight through the Anthem.  It's louder by probably 3db too (not measured).  

I have not heard of any audiophiles more picky than me mentioning this. 

I've asked this question before about connecting the Lumin T2 this way... Am I negating any T2 dac magic by sending it through the Anthem's dac engine?  I was told NO.  But it sure sounds like it now!

Again, I'm not using ARC yet, maybe that's where I'll hear a significant improvement but as for now, I like running my subs from the preouts (giving me no xover so speakers play full bandwidth).  

Anyone in dallas want to come teach me more about  this?
dtximages
dtximages OP
365 posts
 
Also, this is a problem anytime settings are buried deep inside electronic menus. You can’t quickly scan the knobs to see if everything’s just right. When I read reviews of things now, I think of their monetary bias, and what combination of 1,546,541 possible settings they might have used.

Reviews should always be taken with a grain of salt, like political ads.

Wish list: big manufacturers you should take note:
 - an on screen display that clearly and quickly shows the current settings of all the important "stuff"

Amazing how archaic so many on-screen (tv) menus/displays are.
mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 
You have to set it up correctly before you make any judgments! Go through the entire setup routine then come back and tell us what you hear. I have never used the STR but I have been using room control and digital bass management for 20 years. If I switch to bypass it is yuk. My wife accidentally hit the bypass bottom. It took me 10 minutes to figure out what went wrong.
mike_in_nc
1,162 posts
 
@dtximages-

Ultimately, I think 97% of "this dac sounds soooo much better" reviews has to do with personal and situational bias. 
Above a certain level of gear, I agree with you. I tried a US$50 DAC once, and though inoffensive, it lacked transparency. (I was relieved it didn't equal my more costly equipment.)

It will take a while to learn all the options and settings on the STR. I hope you will enjoy doing so and that you'll be happy with your results.

About a year ago, I surveyed available DSP preamps, and my finalists were the STR and the DSPeaker X4. After a home trial of the STR, I bought it and haven't looked back. I'm always seeking perfection, and nothing is perfect, but I don't know of another DSP preamp now being made that I'd prefer to the STR.
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