My AVM90 is on its way and will be replacing my MRX740 which is headed to the bedroom. I'm really excited to get this beast deployed, configured and playing content! Thanks for your hard work and great insights.
I replaced my Marantz 7703 pre-pro with an Anthem AVM-90 and I’m very happy as pot I did! The Anthem is heads above the Marantz .. with Parasound Mono Blocks I am very happy. 2-channel is to die for. 6:53
I just received my AVM90 which was an upgrade from the 1120. All I can say is amazing! Thank you for helping me spend my money. I’m in Canada so can’t take you up on your dealer referrals. But if I could I would!
Nice presentation on your incorporation of the AVM-90 into your rig. It is on my list of upgrades. I like that you are experiencing pleasing results. You have sat in that room enough to know how things sound. Enjoy rediscovering your media and appreciating the sonic nirvana.
I upgraded from AVM 60 to AVM 90 and was blown away by the difference. My Paradigm Prestige 95f towers, 55 center, and 25 surrounds hit a whole new level. I experienced the bass issue with my subs from the beta update. I don't see a way to toggle beta off now that it is on. However, since May 22 this is the first beta bug that has affected me. I keep following up with Anthem team on Roon and Tidal Connect. Bummed neither of these are available yet. Update I got last week is that the Roon integration is more complex than they anticipated, but they are still hard at work on it. For now I use Spotify Connect. Curious what others use. Anthem support recommend for Tidal to get MQA is to hookup my PC or laptop directly to the AVM. I haven't tried that.
Great assessment, thanks for the detailed review. I too agree based on your review it seems to be the best pre-pro at this price point before you step into the Trinnov/Stormaudio level.
Awesome! You'll love it, I'm sure! Did you order from Audio Advice? If so, could you message me some basic order details to jaremy@techthusiasm.net, please? Their new web and affiliate system is live, and I'm trying to track referral orders. Much appreciated!
For amps I use Anthem MCA 2 for the surround back speakers and the Anthem Statement P5 for the main 5. I would love to see what this AVM90 would sound in my system.
Anthem just launched line-wide holiday pricing. All the AVM models, including the 90 are 15% MSRP now. If you need a contact, message me techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com.
Thanks for the information and I subscribed to your channel. I have an AVM 60 and will be picking up a 90 soon as the 0% interest credit card is received. I haven't heard a 90 but I'm sure it will give me a big improvement in clarity and openness that I need. Curious to know if anyone has compared the 90 to the Macintosh MX 123, which goes for $8000. I look forward to future videos and comments.
I think if I were to switch to something else within the price point the AVM 90 is the only thing I'd be interested in. I'd be interested to see what the sound quality was like and definitely would like to have those few extra channels so I could run a 9.4.4 system. It's not a slam dunk decision though so I'll most likely be riding things out a bit. Supposed to get the new Dirac soon though so that should be cool to tinker with for a while. Looks pretty complex though.
Could you please do a video explaining what these settings do- anthem logic cinema, anthem logic music etc. and when and why you would apply those to specific inputs. Thanks!
They are processed audio mode settings that Anthem has designed. I never use them, personally. Some folks like them to open up two-channel music or instead of Dolby or DTS up-mixers.
Thanks for the comprehensive review, well done! I have a question that you may have answered or explained before, but I’m not aware. Why don’t you use Anthem Power Amplifiers? Pls, keep up helping us! Best
Originally, my research suggested that the Anthem amps might not be a best match with the Focal speakers I was choosing for various reasons, but that was just hearsay. More recently, it was because I really wanted specific build Class D amps, and the Anthem MCA is not Class D. My experience though is the MCA are excellent, and folks I know that have bought them are very happy.
@@Techthusiasm thanks for the reply. I own the old A2 and planning on the STR Preamp + MCA 225. After MANY years the A2 “lost” one channel and I prefer to replace it. Had it with Paradigm and will drive now the long waited dream, JBL 100 (Classic).
Nice! Now is a crazy time to buy Anthem gear, for sure. If you need a purchasing source, please reach out techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com and I can put you in contact with folks or click through to Audio Advice. bit.ly/TM_AA_Anthem. Let me know what you get and how it goes!
I currently have an MRX1140 In my mixed use 2.2. Recently added a Bryston 4b3 cubed amp so no longer using any amplification from my MRX 1140. Considering AVM 90 for my 2.2. Maybe I'm crazy to consider a large multi channel for 2.2 and I will never prefer more speakers but I don't see any better options for my mixed use system.
I don't think it is unwise to use a 90 for a 2.2 system if you will use all the features (aside from all the channels). My living room is 2.2, and I almost did the same thing with the 70 that my 90 replaced, but I sold the 70 and stuck to the STR for the living room. The STR is really the Anthem device you're looking for though. It is built for a 2.2 system and on par with the 90 for build and sound quality. Reach out to directly if you want to discuss it (techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com), and if you're shopping your next unit with Audio Advice (per your other comment) please feel free to use my referral links or mention me to them. The STR will save you a couple grand over the 90 as well.
@@Techthusiasm If STR came with a HDMI board or at least eARC I'd be all in on it. Maybe If they update the STR with a new model version 2 and add HDMI I would for sure!
I hope the STR2 will get HDMI, the web UI, and a few other things like that it is missing, but we'll see. No idea when that might come. Thanks for offering to use the AA links, much appreciated! It means a ton for the channel and what I can do. There's an open box AVM 90 at Audio Advice right now. bit.ly/TM_AA_OpenBox_Anthem And you can use my discount code TECH15OB for another 15%. If you're really considering that model, I'd jump on that open box in a heartbeat before it is gone.
My original Marantz to Anthem 70 upgrade was quite tangible. Great gear. We have a community member with a used AVM 70 right now. Feel free to reach out and I can put in contact. Message at techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com.
I have a 90 and before the ARC was used I calibrated my 7.2.4 system with a radio shack analog SPL meter. The sound was much better than what I was getting with my Integra DRC-R1 pre-pro. A few days later the dealer I purchased the 90 from used the ARC to calibrate my system. I noticed right away my atmos and side surrounds were not as loud. I used the SPL meter to check the sound level coming from my speakers. The atmos speakers were about 7 db lower and the 4 side surrounds were about 6.5 db lower. Is this typical to see that much difference in sound level between the two calibration methods?
Mic placement can affect the levels the system chooses even though the pattern is supposed to offset anomalies. I have done enough ARC-g calibrations to accept the software does what it does. Personally, I adjust sides, rears, and heights as needed because no room and no measurement is perfect. The calibration is more about applying filters for standing waves and suck outs as well as time alignment for impact.
Thanks for your reply. The guy that did the calibration didn’t use the tripod for the mic. He simply set in the 4 front chairs and one second row chair to calibrate. Would using the tripod be the correct way to go and perhaps balance the speakers better?
After calibration your peaks may have dropped resulting in -6-7db, this is where you access the quick measure menu and adjust your level for each speaker back to read 75db. after that you should be set :)
Oh yeah i forgot to mention i bought the flagship x8500h denon and so glad i did because the denon is the reason why I'm buying the anthem avm90, i have been telling denon,gene youthman tech no dad everybody the denon was clipping my subs causing them a nasty popping noise while watching movies for the pass 3 years denon did not believe me the lady didn't want to hear it...she wad blaming my new subs...anyway everybody swear by denon and I'm here to say they are garbage just like the klipsch subwoofer i had for only 1year and gave out....cant wait to upgrade this week....will send an update to see what happens.😮😮😢😢
Those guys don’t know anything. This guy does. Youthman calibration makes no sense and techno dad has weird speakers that are no cohesive. They’re just trying to get content for month. This guy actually knows what he’s talking about.
Great Video! Now that you've listened to the 90 would you agree that the sound quality is on par with your STR or does it supercede it? Will you keep the STR if you feel it's at least equal to your 90? I never deal with Betas. These units cost too much for that!
I would say on par, although I have only heard them in the different rooms, so it is not a direct comparison. I will be keeping the STR for the living room. I already sold and shipped off the 70. I do look forward to an STR2 though eventually. I'd like HDMI and the same web UI on it. Maybe we'll see that before long.
I have a MRX-1140 + MCA325 running 7.2.4. Upgrading to the AVM90 involves MANY new amps. I love both movies/mutli-ch music and 2-ch music. I have a Roon Nucleus as well as a Zidoo Z1000Pro being used as the Roon endpoint into the 1140 via HDMI. I know you have the Anthem STR. I only and will only ever have 2 subs. If I want to get to the top level of 2-ch sound, would my best route be to add an STR pre to my system in theatre by-pass?
So, you'd need 8 more amp channels... That's not easy to do with Anthem amps as you'd need dual MCA 525. Or go looking for an 8 channel Class D maybe. For your processor, it's either replace with the 90 or add the STR, as you say. You'll get similar performance for music either way, just a matter how you get there. Just adding the STR and doing the HT bypass would come off much less expensive and probably get you want you want well enough to not go farther. MSRP on the 90 is $7,500 vs. the STR preamp at "only" $4,300. Either way, message me at techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com and I can you give a direct contact at Audio Advice to discuss.
I have owned the AVM 90 now for almost a year, alongside 4 subs, and couldn't be happier. I would love to see the promised DTX-PRO being implemented and IMO a way overdue upgrade to Arc where DSP like features are being used, such us seeing how 2/3/4 subs behave all at once in quick measure. Question; have you used DSP in the past, and how do you think Arc compares vs DSP when it comes to calibrating multiple subs?
Hi Jermey, A quick question, Sir. Could kindly direct me to where you purchased your label clips for your wiring of your Home Theater rack,please? I literally need to a page out of your book 😊 As Always we Truly Appreciate Your Work on TH-cam😊
Why is Anthem still not allowing you to calibrate all the subs together, I bought this receiver especially for having 4 subwoofers! Does the Marantz AV10 has the ability to calibrate all four subs at once?
i am wondering what's happen if you watch movie has Auro-3D ( How AVM90 deal with it ?) because as you know the AVM90 doesn't support Auro-3D Audio file. Because, I am planning to buy AVM90 but I am confused and afraid because he doesn't support Auro-3D Audio file. Thanks in advance for your kind response in regard.
Sweet! I'm sure you'll enjoy it too. I fun Focal 1000 series in-wall speakers and a mix of Parasound Halo and NAD Masters amps now. If you spring for the 90, please consider Audio Advice with my affiliate relationship. Also, there's a sweet deal on an open box right now, FYI. bit.ly/TM_AA_OpenBox_Anthem plus 15% off with my code TECH15OB.
Can you quantify or qualify the audio quality differences between the 70 and the 90? Just generally how much better do you find the audio quality of the 90? If I was moving up from an older Marantz how would I find the audio quality of the 70?
To me, 90 > 70 > my prior Marantz 7704. I feel I noticed improved audio quality with each step. How I quantify that though is hard to say. Detail, clarity. I much prefer various operations of the Anthem and ARC room correction. The 90 also gave me 4 discrete subwoofers. The 70 would still be a nice upgrade for you. If you can spend for it and you have or think you might go to more than 2 subs, then just the 90 and have no doubts you've reached an end game.
@@Techthusiasm Thank-you for the feedback and info regarding the sound quality differences. I may start with an AV7706 for now, but I will seriously consider the AVM70 instead. I do like bass though, and some say the 7706 has more bass and/or is warmer sounding than the AVM70. Spec of Techs review of the 70 vs 90 was puzzling because the 70 seemed like it lacked a lot of bass vs the 90. Not sure why that would be, but, another person and another test review. I thought years ago the idea of multiple subwoofers was not thought of as a good idea because they interfere with each other. Have things changed that much? Have calibration software advanced so much that you can make multiple subwoofers sound better, flatter response and cleaner than a single subwoofer? (I have one Mirage BPS 400 subwoofer in my living room home theatre and I have a second identical subwoofer that needs electronic repairs, which I could ultimately use in this same system, however; I live in a townhouse and so far my neighbors have been very tolerant of my crazy loud movie watching, so I may not want to push my luck. I may fix the other subwoofer and use it in a separate mostly music only setup in another room...lol)
A lot of bass tuning with these processors comes down to using the room correction features and often tweaking to your liking. I know even with my 90, I specifically adjust ARC results to push more bass power. Multiple subwoofers are the overall recommendation for home theater now. It allows the units to work together to cover up for individual deficiencies as often in our rooms one sub in one location can be negatively impacted by the room. Two subs help. Four subs conquer this in most cases. ARC completely addresses this and integrates multiples sub together and with your speakers exceptionally well. If you need help sourcing anything, contact me directly, and I can give you some referrals or just check in with bit.ly/TM_Audio_Advice. Thanks!
@@Techthusiasm I see now with a little research, like you say, 2 to 4 subs is often an improvement over 1 subwoofer. I do have two Mirage BPS400 and so I could try to work with the two in the room and see what the response is like with two subs vs one. My setup is not a square room, but rather a somewhat convoluted rectangular living room connected to a hallway at one end and a doorway into another room, my kitchen, at another end. Who knows what this means, however; at most seating positions on my sofa, I usually hear clean deep bass during movies and listening to other material. Who knows, perhaps my non-square room has benefits. I will check out your link, though I am up here in the Toronto area of Canada.
Yes, I do have the rack mount. Just not currently using it. It is nice though. I probably should use it, but I opted for the shelf still in case I test any other preamps at some point. @ThePaulromi per my other comment, did you buy your 90 from Audio Advice by chance? If so, can you send some order details to jaremy@techthusiasm.net please. I didn't get credit for it in the affiliate system.
How is input switching? I saw an older review on the 70 and heard the amount of time it takes to switch inputs it’s painfully slow. Not sure if that was more an issue with the 70 or if it was fixed with firmware. For me, that would drive me absolute nuts especially at this price point. The no (or horrible/cheap/ugly) OSD also is annoying. Sure that doesn’t affect sound but I think it still affects the whole package. Aesthetically the unit itself is beautiful, everyone says the sound quality of these is amazing. I wish they’d change these small things. Great review though, I’m definitely still interested in the Anthem’s. Anthem vs Marantz is my current decision
I've had no issues with my 70 or this 90 changing inputs. Maybe something fixed earlier in firmware. Many devices lack on-screen UIs now. It's all web and app-based, which Anthem does quite well. The little overlay at least tells you volume and some format and input details. But yeah, no full menu access. Thanks! I'd go Anthem 100% over Marantz having been a long time Marantz owner.
@@Techthusiasm thanks for the feedback! Good to know you have no issues/delays switching inputs. Even if I paid $1k that would drive me nuts but at these prices it better work, and work well :) I keep hearing people like you saying they’d without a doubt go Anthem over Marantz, and not that marantz was bad whatsoever, just that the Anthem was better enough to the point the decision was easy.
@@Techthusiasm btw, your comments made me feel much better about this being the choice over Marantz, for me. I ended up picking up the AVM 90 along with the MCA 325 amp. Setup was VERY simple! Turned it on, went to IP address, it popped up immediately, updated firmware, set a few things, and it just worked… as it should and as I’d expect. Now unfortunately my two towers I currents have are cheap and old so I don’t get to see how great it really is yet, but I have KEF R11 Meta’s on the way and that’ll be the true test which I’m sure will be amazing. I may have to hook the R11’s up to my old Denon first for a good comparison before I sell it. Also gotta mention how clean and great this thing looks! Thanks for getting me over the edge, I’m very happy with my decision.
They serve somewhat different purposes, so that's a hard question. In a basic room with 11 speakers like mine, I can't imagine the Trinnov would sound any better than the 90, especially by any margin to justify the extra cost. Trinnov is for rooms with crazy speakers counts and all kind of specialist adjustments required, then you really get the power out of it, IMO.
Only real complaint… no high res-DSD capacity… it is really my biggest issue … and at this range of high quality, I do not yet understand… having the SRT receiver over the AVM 90 , older technology, seems a shame to me…
I don’t know why people so obsessed with av processor, for me something that could decode what was originally encoded by audio mastering is enough I don’t want to recreate a surround track … save money but your money on front stage speaker and rest will do fine.
@@balakrishnan2997 maybe not double but you’ll definitely see a good difference in quality of the music and movies I think speakers are a close second to a good processor because speakers can only play what is being fed through the dac and components of your processor anyway that’s what made the biggest difference in my system
The Maranztz AV10 is the competitor. The build quality and DACS is a toss off on what is the better? I mean some of the copper windings and quality of the build and power supply might make the nod to the Marantz.
Compared to my prior AV77XX series Marantz, I felt Anthem was a clear upgrade. The new Marantz are stepping up their game, but I'd still take the 90 over the AV10. Though I do want to play with DIRAC sometime.
@Techthusiasm oh the old 7706 is not at all simular to the Marantz Cinema AV10. The AV10 and AVM90 are the power heavy weight $7k processor class. The AV10 has 8 x differential stereo DAC chips and processor rolloff settings.
@@Techthusiasm You just compared AVM 70 and AVM90, and you said that the difference is obvious! Why did you now remember the Marantz AV77.. series? Its not even 8805A!! The AV10 is much cooler in terms of technology, quality of materials and just looks!
I've said in the past that when I went AV7704 to AVM 70, I felt I heard a tangible improvement in the sound. Going from 70 to 90 again, I feel there is again some improvement. I haven't tried an AV10 in my spaces, so I cannot comment on that unit firsthand, but Denon/Marantz is definitely stepping up their game since the latest wave of new models.
Good review, I have a 90 and got caught in the Beta problem, It replaced a Lexicon mC12HD which would have been the "trinnov or Storm" when I bought it thirteen years ago, I miss some of the aspects of the Lexicon (the L7 mode, the on screen display, etc), but, no if, ands or buts the Anthem is a sonically superior device
You don't "plug it into a computer". Once the AVM is on your network, you access the configuration pages in a web browser. This is actually a far superior configuration method than an OSD for home theater devices, at least IMO. The basic OSD just shows you input changes, audio format changes, and volume level. It's plenty good enough for an OSD.
The words you use make it a little hard to understand your comments. I would say, yes, using a web browser via PC/Mac is an "access point" method to the Anthem.
If you're interested in Anthem or other awesome home theater or hi-fi gear, please consider shopping with my friends at Audio Advice. bit.ly/3sRb1L2
My AVM90 is on its way and will be replacing my MRX740 which is headed to the bedroom. I'm really excited to get this beast deployed, configured and playing content! Thanks for your hard work and great insights.
Awesome! You'll love it. Hopefully you picked it up from Audio Advice with my referral! 😀
@@Techthusiasm I did pick it up from audio advice but went direct. I didn't find this video until after I ordered ..
Nice! Well consider dropping me as a referral for any future business you do with them.
I replaced my Marantz 7703 pre-pro with an Anthem AVM-90 and I’m very happy as pot I did! The Anthem is heads above the Marantz .. with Parasound Mono Blocks I am very happy. 2-channel is to die for. 6:53
I just received my AVM90 which was an upgrade from the 1120. All I can say is amazing! Thank you for helping me spend my money. I’m in Canada so can’t take you up on your dealer referrals. But if I could I would!
Sweet! I'm sure you'll love it!
I use the AVM-90 along with Parasound Mono blocks! 1:08 1:09
Nice!
Nice presentation on your incorporation of the AVM-90 into your rig. It is on my list of upgrades. I like that you are experiencing pleasing results. You have sat in that room enough to know how things sound. Enjoy rediscovering your media and appreciating the sonic nirvana.
Thanks!
I upgraded from AVM 60 to AVM 90 and was blown away by the difference. My Paradigm Prestige 95f towers, 55 center, and 25 surrounds hit a whole new level. I experienced the bass issue with my subs from the beta update. I don't see a way to toggle beta off now that it is on. However, since May 22 this is the first beta bug that has affected me. I keep following up with Anthem team on Roon and Tidal Connect. Bummed neither of these are available yet. Update I got last week is that the Roon integration is more complex than they anticipated, but they are still hard at work on it. For now I use Spotify Connect. Curious what others use. Anthem support recommend for Tidal to get MQA is to hookup my PC or laptop directly to the AVM. I haven't tried that.
Excellent! I'm just an Apple Music user via Apple TV.
I think a Wiim Pro streamer would be a very good solution that won’t cost too much.
Nice video. I ended up going with two AVM70’s for my systems. Was not convinced enough to buy two 90’s.
AVM 70 is awesome, congrats!
Great assessment, thanks for the detailed review. I too agree based on your review it seems to be the best pre-pro at this price point before you step into the Trinnov/Stormaudio level.
Totally agree!
Thanks for this. My Avm90 arriving Tuesday
Awesome! You'll love it, I'm sure! Did you order from Audio Advice? If so, could you message me some basic order details to jaremy@techthusiasm.net, please? Their new web and affiliate system is live, and I'm trying to track referral orders. Much appreciated!
For amps I use Anthem MCA 2 for the surround back speakers and the Anthem Statement P5 for the main 5. I would love to see what this AVM90 would sound in my system.
Anthem just launched line-wide holiday pricing. All the AVM models, including the 90 are 15% MSRP now. If you need a contact, message me techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com.
Thanks for the information and I subscribed to your channel.
I have an AVM 60 and will be picking up a 90 soon as the 0% interest credit card is received.
I haven't heard a 90 but I'm sure it will give me a big improvement in clarity and openness that I need.
Curious to know if anyone has compared the 90 to the Macintosh MX 123, which goes for $8000.
I look forward to future videos and comments.
You'll be very happy with the AVM 90, I'm sure. Please consider buying through my affiliate with Audio Advice, if you would. bit.ly/3sRb1L2
I think if I were to switch to something else within the price point the AVM 90 is the only thing I'd be interested in. I'd be interested to see what the sound quality was like and definitely would like to have those few extra channels so I could run a 9.4.4 system. It's not a slam dunk decision though so I'll most likely be riding things out a bit. Supposed to get the new Dirac soon though so that should be cool to tinker with for a while. Looks pretty complex though.
Per the video, I think it's the best unit out there until you get to Storm/Trinnov.
Ordering my avm 90 this week ,thanks for the review..it drop in price so i think its time...thks merry Christmas
Awesome, I'm sure you'll enjoy it!
What was the sale price?
Audio Advice is my go to. Excellent Service
Good choice!
Could you please do a video explaining what these settings do- anthem logic cinema, anthem logic music etc. and when and why you would apply those to specific inputs. Thanks!
They are processed audio mode settings that Anthem has designed. I never use them, personally. Some folks like them to open up two-channel music or instead of Dolby or DTS up-mixers.
@@Techthusiasm so the DTS, Dolby ones would Upmix a 5.1 signal to Atmos?
Hmm, I'm not actually if Logic Cinema up mixes to immersive channels or just bed layers. I would just stick to the Dolby up mixer.
Thanks for the comprehensive review, well done! I have a question that you may have answered or explained before, but I’m not aware. Why don’t you use Anthem Power Amplifiers? Pls, keep up helping us! Best
Originally, my research suggested that the Anthem amps might not be a best match with the Focal speakers I was choosing for various reasons, but that was just hearsay. More recently, it was because I really wanted specific build Class D amps, and the Anthem MCA is not Class D. My experience though is the MCA are excellent, and folks I know that have bought them are very happy.
@@Techthusiasm thanks for the reply. I own the old A2 and planning on the STR Preamp + MCA 225. After MANY years the A2 “lost” one channel and I prefer to replace it. Had it with Paradigm and will drive now the long waited dream, JBL 100 (Classic).
Nice! Now is a crazy time to buy Anthem gear, for sure. If you need a purchasing source, please reach out techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com and I can put you in contact with folks or click through to Audio Advice. bit.ly/TM_AA_Anthem. Let me know what you get and how it goes!
@@Techthusiasmunfortunately I am in Brazil, so this is feasible to me…
I currently have an MRX1140 In my mixed use 2.2. Recently added a Bryston 4b3 cubed amp so no longer using any amplification from my MRX 1140. Considering AVM 90 for my 2.2. Maybe I'm crazy to consider a large multi channel for 2.2 and I will never prefer more speakers but I don't see any better options for my mixed use system.
I don't think it is unwise to use a 90 for a 2.2 system if you will use all the features (aside from all the channels). My living room is 2.2, and I almost did the same thing with the 70 that my 90 replaced, but I sold the 70 and stuck to the STR for the living room. The STR is really the Anthem device you're looking for though. It is built for a 2.2 system and on par with the 90 for build and sound quality. Reach out to directly if you want to discuss it (techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com), and if you're shopping your next unit with Audio Advice (per your other comment) please feel free to use my referral links or mention me to them. The STR will save you a couple grand over the 90 as well.
@@Techthusiasm If STR came with a HDMI board or at least eARC I'd be all in on it. Maybe If they update the STR with a new model version 2 and add HDMI I would for sure!
@@Techthusiasm And of course I'll be happy to use your link when purchasing from Audio Advice
I hope the STR2 will get HDMI, the web UI, and a few other things like that it is missing, but we'll see. No idea when that might come. Thanks for offering to use the AA links, much appreciated! It means a ton for the channel and what I can do. There's an open box AVM 90 at Audio Advice right now. bit.ly/TM_AA_OpenBox_Anthem And you can use my discount code TECH15OB for another 15%. If you're really considering that model, I'd jump on that open box in a heartbeat before it is gone.
Awesome review!
I want to upgrade to the AVM 70 soon I hope!
Coming from a Marantz sr7012
Thanks for the video!
My original Marantz to Anthem 70 upgrade was quite tangible. Great gear. We have a community member with a used AVM 70 right now. Feel free to reach out and I can put in contact. Message at techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com.
Excellent overview of the AVM90. Hope you enjoy it!
It is excellent!
I have a 90 and before the ARC was used I calibrated my 7.2.4 system with a radio shack analog SPL meter. The sound was much better than what I was getting with my Integra DRC-R1 pre-pro. A few days later the dealer I purchased the 90 from used the ARC to calibrate my system. I noticed right away my atmos and side surrounds were not as loud. I used the SPL meter to check the sound level coming from my speakers. The atmos speakers were about 7 db lower and the 4 side surrounds were about 6.5 db lower. Is this typical to see that much difference in sound level between the two calibration methods?
Mic placement can affect the levels the system chooses even though the pattern is supposed to offset anomalies. I have done enough ARC-g calibrations to accept the software does what it does. Personally, I adjust sides, rears, and heights as needed because no room and no measurement is perfect. The calibration is more about applying filters for standing waves and suck outs as well as time alignment for impact.
Thanks for your reply. The guy that did the calibration didn’t use the tripod for the mic. He simply set in the 4 front chairs and one second row chair to calibrate. Would using the tripod be the correct way to go and perhaps balance the speakers better?
After calibration your peaks may have dropped resulting in -6-7db, this is where you access the quick measure menu and adjust your level for each speaker back to read 75db. after that you should be set :)
Oh yeah i forgot to mention i bought the flagship x8500h denon and so glad i did because the denon is the reason why I'm buying the anthem avm90, i have been telling denon,gene youthman tech no dad everybody the denon was clipping my subs causing them a nasty popping noise while watching movies for the pass 3 years denon did not believe me the lady didn't want to hear it...she wad blaming my new subs...anyway everybody swear by denon and I'm here to say they are garbage just like the klipsch subwoofer i had for only 1year and gave out....cant wait to upgrade this week....will send an update to see what happens.😮😮😢😢
Those guys don’t know anything. This guy does. Youthman calibration makes no sense and techno dad has weird speakers that are no cohesive. They’re just trying to get content for month. This guy actually knows what he’s talking about.
Great Video! Now that you've listened to the 90 would you agree that the sound quality is on par with your STR or does it supercede it? Will you keep the STR if you feel it's at least equal to your 90? I never deal with Betas. These units cost too much for that!
I would say on par, although I have only heard them in the different rooms, so it is not a direct comparison. I will be keeping the STR for the living room. I already sold and shipped off the 70. I do look forward to an STR2 though eventually. I'd like HDMI and the same web UI on it. Maybe we'll see that before long.
I have a MRX-1140 + MCA325 running 7.2.4. Upgrading to the AVM90 involves MANY new amps. I love both movies/mutli-ch music and 2-ch music. I have a Roon Nucleus as well as a Zidoo Z1000Pro being used as the Roon endpoint into the 1140 via HDMI. I know you have the Anthem STR. I only and will only ever have 2 subs. If I want to get to the top level of 2-ch sound, would my best route be to add an STR pre to my system in theatre by-pass?
So, you'd need 8 more amp channels... That's not easy to do with Anthem amps as you'd need dual MCA 525. Or go looking for an 8 channel Class D maybe. For your processor, it's either replace with the 90 or add the STR, as you say. You'll get similar performance for music either way, just a matter how you get there. Just adding the STR and doing the HT bypass would come off much less expensive and probably get you want you want well enough to not go farther. MSRP on the 90 is $7,500 vs. the STR preamp at "only" $4,300. Either way, message me at techthusiasm_jp@outlook.com and I can you give a direct contact at Audio Advice to discuss.
I have owned the AVM 90 now for almost a year, alongside 4 subs, and couldn't be happier. I would love to see the promised DTX-PRO being implemented and IMO a way overdue upgrade to Arc where DSP like features are being used, such us seeing how 2/3/4 subs behave all at once in quick measure. Question; have you used DSP in the past, and how do you think Arc compares vs DSP when it comes to calibrating multiple subs?
I've used some PEQ in my subs, but nothing else really outside of the Anthem units. I agree those features would be great.
Hi Jermey,
A quick question, Sir. Could kindly direct me to where you purchased your label clips for your wiring of your Home Theater rack,please? I literally need to a page out of your book 😊
As Always we Truly Appreciate Your Work on TH-cam😊
I've had them so long, I don't even remember. I'm sure it was something just off Amazon. Thanks!
@@Techthusiasm Thanks, Sir. Enjoy the Holiday Season.
Why is Anthem still not allowing you to calibrate all the subs together, I bought this receiver especially for having 4 subwoofers! Does the Marantz AV10 has the ability to calibrate all four subs at once?
The AVM 90 discretely calibrates 4 subs.
i am wondering what's happen if you watch movie has Auro-3D ( How AVM90 deal with it ?) because as you know the AVM90 doesn't support Auro-3D Audio file.
Because, I am planning to buy AVM90 but I am confused and afraid because he doesn't support Auro-3D Audio file.
Thanks in advance for your kind response in regard.
Hmm, I'm not sure. I don't use Auro-3D at all.
Why is ARC Genesis still completely wrong regarding the distance of my speakers? What’s wrong with it or what am I doing wrong?
ARC uses time delay, not physical distance. It's all good.
Okive never had a single problem with AVM-90 0:30 0:30
Nice review. Once I have enough saved I’ll probably get the 90. What speakers and amps do you have it paired with?
Sweet! I'm sure you'll enjoy it too. I fun Focal 1000 series in-wall speakers and a mix of Parasound Halo and NAD Masters amps now. If you spring for the 90, please consider Audio Advice with my affiliate relationship. Also, there's a sweet deal on an open box right now, FYI. bit.ly/TM_AA_OpenBox_Anthem plus 15% off with my code TECH15OB.
Can you quantify or qualify the audio quality differences between the 70 and the 90? Just generally how much better do you find the audio quality of the 90? If I was moving up from an older Marantz how would I find the audio quality of the 70?
To me, 90 > 70 > my prior Marantz 7704. I feel I noticed improved audio quality with each step. How I quantify that though is hard to say. Detail, clarity. I much prefer various operations of the Anthem and ARC room correction. The 90 also gave me 4 discrete subwoofers. The 70 would still be a nice upgrade for you. If you can spend for it and you have or think you might go to more than 2 subs, then just the 90 and have no doubts you've reached an end game.
@@Techthusiasm Thank-you for the feedback and info regarding the sound quality differences. I may start with an AV7706 for now, but I will seriously consider the AVM70 instead. I do like bass though, and some say the 7706 has more bass and/or is warmer sounding than the AVM70. Spec of Techs review of the 70 vs 90 was puzzling because the 70 seemed like it lacked a lot of bass vs the 90. Not sure why that would be, but, another person and another test review.
I thought years ago the idea of multiple subwoofers was not thought of as a good idea because they interfere with each other. Have things changed that much? Have calibration software advanced so much that you can make multiple subwoofers sound better, flatter response and cleaner than a single subwoofer? (I have one Mirage BPS 400 subwoofer in my living room home theatre and I have a second identical subwoofer that needs electronic repairs, which I could ultimately use in this same system, however; I live in a townhouse and so far my neighbors have been very tolerant of my crazy loud movie watching, so I may not want to push my luck. I may fix the other subwoofer and use it in a separate mostly music only setup in another room...lol)
A lot of bass tuning with these processors comes down to using the room correction features and often tweaking to your liking. I know even with my 90, I specifically adjust ARC results to push more bass power.
Multiple subwoofers are the overall recommendation for home theater now. It allows the units to work together to cover up for individual deficiencies as often in our rooms one sub in one location can be negatively impacted by the room. Two subs help. Four subs conquer this in most cases. ARC completely addresses this and integrates multiples sub together and with your speakers exceptionally well.
If you need help sourcing anything, contact me directly, and I can give you some referrals or just check in with bit.ly/TM_Audio_Advice. Thanks!
@@Techthusiasm I see now with a little research, like you say, 2 to 4 subs is often an improvement over 1 subwoofer. I do have two Mirage BPS400 and so I could try to work with the two in the room and see what the response is like with two subs vs one. My setup is not a square room, but rather a somewhat convoluted rectangular living room connected to a hallway at one end and a doorway into another room, my kitchen, at another end. Who knows what this means, however; at most seating positions on my sofa, I usually hear clean deep bass during movies and listening to other material. Who knows, perhaps my non-square room has benefits. I will check out your link, though I am up here in the Toronto area of Canada.
Nice review. What brand/type did you use for XLR cables?
I only use these cables now. amzn.to/3RJ0dsz 2549 wire with the Neutrik gold connectors.
Thanks!
Did you buy the rack mount kit for yours?
Yes, I do have the rack mount. Just not currently using it. It is nice though. I probably should use it, but I opted for the shelf still in case I test any other preamps at some point. @ThePaulromi per my other comment, did you buy your 90 from Audio Advice by chance? If so, can you send some order details to jaremy@techthusiasm.net please. I didn't get credit for it in the affiliate system.
How is input switching? I saw an older review on the 70 and heard the amount of time it takes to switch inputs it’s painfully slow. Not sure if that was more an issue with the 70 or if it was fixed with firmware.
For me, that would drive me absolute nuts especially at this price point.
The no (or horrible/cheap/ugly) OSD also is annoying. Sure that doesn’t affect sound but I think it still affects the whole package. Aesthetically the unit itself is beautiful, everyone says the sound quality of these is amazing. I wish they’d change these small things.
Great review though, I’m definitely still interested in the Anthem’s. Anthem vs Marantz is my current decision
I've had no issues with my 70 or this 90 changing inputs. Maybe something fixed earlier in firmware. Many devices lack on-screen UIs now. It's all web and app-based, which Anthem does quite well. The little overlay at least tells you volume and some format and input details. But yeah, no full menu access. Thanks! I'd go Anthem 100% over Marantz having been a long time Marantz owner.
@@Techthusiasm thanks for the feedback! Good to know you have no issues/delays switching inputs. Even if I paid $1k that would drive me nuts but at these prices it better work, and work well :)
I keep hearing people like you saying they’d without a doubt go Anthem over Marantz, and not that marantz was bad whatsoever, just that the Anthem was better enough to the point the decision was easy.
@@Techthusiasm btw, your comments made me feel much better about this being the choice over Marantz, for me. I ended up picking up the AVM 90 along with the MCA 325 amp.
Setup was VERY simple! Turned it on, went to IP address, it popped up immediately, updated firmware, set a few things, and it just worked… as it should and as I’d expect.
Now unfortunately my two towers I currents have are cheap and old so I don’t get to see how great it really is yet, but I have KEF R11 Meta’s on the way and that’ll be the true test which I’m sure will be amazing. I may have to hook the R11’s up to my old Denon first for a good comparison before I sell it.
Also gotta mention how clean and great this thing looks!
Thanks for getting me over the edge, I’m very happy with my decision.
What are you using for your rack shelves with that 1U blank below it?
My rack is a SnapAV Strong model. The shelves came with it along with the blanks and other bits and pieces, all Snap parts.
Has anyone tried the Dolby up mixer on the avm90, specifically for dts x content, with a 9.4.6 setup?
I use the up mixers all the time, yes.
@ what are your thoughts on the upmixer for dts x content, does the upmixer do a good job of expanding 7.1.4 dts x content to more channels?
I use the Dolby Surround up mixer for Dolby content and the DTS:X one for DTS content. Works great to me!
@@Techthusiasm does the DTS upmixer utilize all 9.4.6 channels?
Not sure, I only have 7.4.4.
How do you set up your sub volume before launching arc
Most subs either have a volume dial on the back or there may be a mobile app for control.
@@Techthusiasm I know this did you do quick measure to set up the correct db on the subs before running arc
Oh, yes. I turned them down to around 66 dB using quick measure, since I have 4 subs in the room.
@@Techthusiasm do you find arc sets the subs too low for you increase them at the sub afterwards?
Yes, I always end up boosting bass in my adjustment to ARC when I run it.
How long did it take to calibrate?
A full ARC run is roughly a half hour once you know your way around the software and depending on how many speakers and subs you have in your system.
@@Techthusiasm full run meaning 1 scan? and you did a couple of scans, correct?
I mean one full ARC setup, start to finish, takes about a half hour or so.
@@Techthusiasm you mentioned that you took a couple of measurements in different points of the room, did that take extra time?
The default measurement set is 5 points. It will take longer if you add more points or add multiple measurement sequences.
What happened with Trinnov?
The Trinnov I had early on in the channel was just a short term demo. It wasn't mine.
What sounds better ? AVM90 or Trinnov? I use the Audio Control X9 and love it!
They serve somewhat different purposes, so that's a hard question. In a basic room with 11 speakers like mine, I can't imagine the Trinnov would sound any better than the 90, especially by any margin to justify the extra cost. Trinnov is for rooms with crazy speakers counts and all kind of specialist adjustments required, then you really get the power out of it, IMO.
Only real complaint… no high res-DSD capacity… it is really my biggest issue … and at this range of high quality, I do not yet understand… having the SRT receiver over the AVM 90 , older technology, seems a shame to me…
I don’t know why people so obsessed with av processor, for me something that could decode what was originally encoded by audio mastering is enough I don’t want to recreate a surround track … save money but your money on front stage speaker and rest will do fine.
The audio processor makes a huge impact on your system performance.
The biggest impact imo
That’s what everybody says , I don’t think 6k processor will double the quality of 3k ….just saying
@@balakrishnan2997 maybe not double but you’ll definitely see a good difference in quality of the music and movies I think speakers are a close second to a good processor because speakers can only play what is being fed through the dac and components of your processor anyway that’s what made the biggest difference in my system
Any word on if they will finally support DTS:X Pro? Seems like a massive feature oversight that was announced but rolled back on the pre 8K models...
None that I'm aware of. I believe it is still on the list, like Roon.
The Maranztz AV10 is the competitor. The build quality and DACS is a toss off on what is the better?
I mean some of the copper windings and quality of the build and power supply might make the nod to the Marantz.
Compared to my prior AV77XX series Marantz, I felt Anthem was a clear upgrade. The new Marantz are stepping up their game, but I'd still take the 90 over the AV10. Though I do want to play with DIRAC sometime.
@Techthusiasm oh the old 7706 is not at all simular to the Marantz Cinema AV10. The AV10 and AVM90 are the power heavy weight $7k processor class. The AV10 has 8 x differential stereo DAC chips and processor rolloff settings.
@@chebrubinwhat dac does the av10 have ?
@@Techthusiasm You just compared AVM 70 and AVM90, and you said that the difference is obvious! Why did you now remember the Marantz AV77.. series? Its not even 8805A!! The AV10 is much cooler in terms of technology, quality of materials and just looks!
I've said in the past that when I went AV7704 to AVM 70, I felt I heard a tangible improvement in the sound. Going from 70 to 90 again, I feel there is again some improvement. I haven't tried an AV10 in my spaces, so I cannot comment on that unit firsthand, but Denon/Marantz is definitely stepping up their game since the latest wave of new models.
Good review, I have a 90 and got caught in the Beta problem, It replaced a Lexicon mC12HD which would have been the "trinnov or Storm" when I bought it thirteen years ago, I miss some of the aspects of the Lexicon (the L7 mode, the on screen display, etc), but, no if, ands or buts the Anthem is a sonically superior device
Nice! I'm glad the resolved the last beta issue.
No on-screen display you need to plug it into a computer for set up after spending 6k
You don't "plug it into a computer". Once the AVM is on your network, you access the configuration pages in a web browser. This is actually a far superior configuration method than an OSD for home theater devices, at least IMO. The basic OSD just shows you input changes, audio format changes, and volume level. It's plenty good enough for an OSD.
Isn't a web browser a computer access point
The words you use make it a little hard to understand your comments. I would say, yes, using a web browser via PC/Mac is an "access point" method to the Anthem.
I love Anthem gear, but their processors have too many bugs, I’ll wait a little longer and get one used.
I think the current AVM/MRX has been on the market long enough now that the initial bugs are worked out.
Marantz AV10 💪💪💪
Is pretty solid too, but I think I still prefer the Anthem.
@@Techthusiasm I do like the display of the Anthem
I paid 6700 for avm90
8000 $ and no golden RCA out 😜😜😜😜😜