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Anthem STR Power Amp vs Parasound JC5

Hi. I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts or experiences with the Anthem STR Power amp and the Parasound JC5? Both amps seem like world class amps with similar power ratings (400W @8ohms). For context, I'm interested in them to power some Paradigm Persona towers in a 7.2.4 atmos system that is 70% games/movies and 30% music. I currently have a Parasound Halo A21 and I love it but was curious about the Anthem STR as it's gotten rave reviews (and is the sister company of Paradigm so should be a good match).

The only head to head comparison I know of so far ( HometheaterReview ) mentioned that the Anthem seemed to have deeper power reserves than the JC5 and I've gotten the impression so far that the JC5 is great for music but may not be better than the Anthem for movies. Any thoughts on that?
tistru
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
The Antehm STR is going to be more neutral / transparent in comparison. the Parasound will have a slightly warm / dry sound.
jdub39
496 posts
 

^^^^No it won't sound warm/dry at all ! How long you had one again?

mike_in_nc
1,152 posts
 

If you're thinking of buying new, at that price range, any dealer should let you try it at home for a while, and you can make up your own mind which you prefer.

tistru OP
23 posts
 

@jgdill thanks for the feedback. That's great to hear that you can hear the difference coming from a A21+. I know several people who said they couldn't hear a difference coming from a base A21. I guess it depends on their speakers and other gear?

 

@mike_in_nc you would think but you'd be surprised. Many dealers have flat out told me they don't do in auditions. Best case is you buy it outright and use their "return policy" to return it if you don't like it. That's typically only 1-2 weeks IMO which may or may not be enough time to break in and evaluate.

mike_in_nc
1,152 posts
 

@listru - I don't know where you're located, but in the USA, Crutchfield sells the STR amp and offers a 45-day return policy. I think that will cost you $10. But yes, you have to pay first, then get a refund when it's returned.

I think they sell Parasound, also.

My local Anthem dealer was willing to match Crutchfield's terms when I asked them to do so.

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