I think the Anthem 225 is a very good value, and sounds good to boot. I think it has the basic "Anthem house sound" which isn't a bad thing at all. It does everything very well without calling attention to itself. It has good bass qualities and isn't bright sounding, maybe a little soft in the upper frequencies. Again, not a bad thing. It brings a lot to the table, great build quality, great power output, built-in phono stage(which I haven't listened to), remote control. Just a good all around solid buy.
I have listened to this amplifier on and off since it came out, mainly with Paradigm speakers such as the studio series 60/100's. Note I do not own one of the 225's, but when I have listened to it, it is a very likeable amp, and if I were in the market for an integrated, it would be put on my list to get serious about.
I also have heard it next to the Cambridge, and either one to my ears would do the job, both are very good amps. I didn't feel either one was "best", they both did the job of making good music. The Anthem is certainly not way below the Cambridge by any shot.
Just my 2 cents worth! If you get the chance, do the comparison for yourself, it is the only way you will know. Enjoy the music! Tim
