My Anthem AVR converts analog to digital and then back. I did not realize this when I purchased it. I guess I assunemed that if I was using the analog in it would stay analog. I've learned that the reason this is, at least for Anthem, is their room correction. Although a bit disappointed to learn that , I'm still happy with the product. I run my fronts thoroug a separate 3 channel Anthem aml via pre outs on the AVR but the analog still gets converted to digital before getting turned back to digital. Knowing this i still bought a Rega TT and a good record sounds more "real" than it's digital counterpart. Just more dynamic. Ultimately i will completely separate my digital from analog via a switch and separate tube integrated. When I want to rock out to 60's or 70's classics or blues it'll be analog. When I want to shake the house with techno or metal it'll be digital.
Just my 2 cents from a new hobbies
Cheers!