Anthem processors: AVM20 v. AVM30 v. D1

I have owned the AVM-20 v2 (along with a Rotel 1068, and an Parasound AVC-2500) and traded up to the D-1, which I currently own. While there is a point of diminishing returns, I am very happy with my decision. While some of the feature sets are similar there are some that set the D-1 apart. I think the right processor for you will depend on what speakers you plan to pair it with. If you have full range (or at least go lower than 80 hz (THX standard)) for fron and rear, you will hear a benefit from the D-1.

The major difference is the D-1 had 24 bit/192 kHz DAC's on all channels which for me was the major benefit. I had my CD players going into a Musical Fidelity A 3.24 into the AVM-20, and straight into the D-1 beats it for me. The D-1 is airier and more detailed. So if you listen to a lot of music, the D-1 could be worth the extra $$.

The D-1 has dual digital processors, which doesn't make a huge difference at this time, but will when the new Hi-Def audio formats come out, and makes it more future proof.

The upgrade for the D-1 will also include a video scaler, which won't be in the AVM-20 or 30 upgrade packages.

Either way I think that anthem is a great way to go. They continue to have free software updates, and support their products for years. The bass management is far superior on the Anthem processors compared to the other models I have tried. I have never heard the Parasound C-1 or C-2 though.

Hope that helps,
Don

In the last 2 years I have had: NAD T762, used as a premap for the front end, B & K Ref 50, Rotel 1098, Parasound Halo C2 (great processor), then finally the Anthem. I am sticking with the Anthem. As I said, my dealer let me test drive the D1 and I couldn't justify the upgrade with the equipment I had at the time (funny, but I am in process of going back to the same speaker set up). That doesn't mean it's not right for you. I think they are both great, great processors, and I am now a bigger fan of Anthem than Parasound even, if that is possible. The support personnel are fantastic. They are big audio nuts themselves, and not arrogant about it. They are more excited about the upgrades coming than anyone. Great company. Go ahead, if you can afford it, buy the D1, you won't be sorry.

Just to be clear, the blue display is not the only difference between the AVM20 and AVM30. Here are the ones that I know of:

4 component ins and 2 component outs (up from 2 and 1)
Faster processor (more than double the clock speed)
Double the memory on the motherboard
Blue readout and blue/red LEDs
Finer grain on the front panel
Optional rack mount

Also, the PLIIx upgrade is not yet available for the AVM20, but is for the AVM30. I'm not sure about the status of that. The component out difference was the dealbreaker for me when deciding between the two. That and the fact that the MSRP was actually a bit lower for the AVM30 made my choice easy.

Chris

I have owned several AVM-20's at old residences, and as primary, and secondary systems. I have since upgraded to the AVM-30, and really like the Anthem gear. The display is much better than the 20, but other than that, I can't tell any other difference, even though I know of them. I loved the pairing of the MCA-50 amps that I've used in a couple different set up's. I'm currently using a Pass Labs X-5 with my AVM-30, and the sound is totally awesome. Anthem has great customer service, and firmware upgrades are a snap. I would suggest picking up a used 20, or 30 on audiogon, and I think you'll be more than happy. I can't vouch for the D-1, as I haven't had any experince with it. I'm sure it's very good because of the company. I have also had very good experiences with Dunlavy speakers, and would highly recommend them. They are no longer in business, but come up for sale quite often on audiogon. Any of their monitors would mate well with the Velodyne subwoofer. You can see my system in virtual systems labeled as small home theater. Feel free to ask me any questions. I love the A/V hobby!

in late but... good stuff on the Anthem product. My slant is on the Velodyne. I had a DD-12, which at the time I got it I thought it was totally awesome and I thought I'd died and went to subwoofer heaven. HOWEVER, I upgraded it to a DD-18 recently and am now writing this from there! Get the biggest, baddest one you can (or can't) afford. They are awesome, blend into any room (mine has one wall of glass sliders!) and what they do for my B&W 9nt floor standers listening to vinyl has made me not even think about getting better ones. Truly a great piece of gear. Yes, 4,999 retail on a subwoofer might be close to 'stupid' money for some - but once you have one you'll know!