Anthem Avm 60 vs. Marantz av8802a: Which One Would You Choose

When combined with a sold-separately power amplifier, the Marantz AV8802A 13.2-Channel Network A/V Preamplifier is designed to give sophisticated audio processing, expanded surround sound choices, 4K video upscaling, and a broad number of connectivity options. This preamplifier features both unbalanced and balanced outputs and a high-performance toroidal power supply.

Few A/V Processors can match the AVM 60’s level of innovation and performance. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio decoding are included and compatibility for UHD Blu-ray and 4K60 through HDMI 2.0a with HDR. HDCP 2.2 and 18.2 Gbps are also integrated, enabling easy switching between video formats.

A toroidal power supply, premium differential-output D/A converters with 32-bit conversion, and sampling rate tuned filters for hi-res sound are among the audiophile-friendly features. Premium A/D converters with a 106 dB signal-to-noise ratio offer the highest-quality sound when employing analog sources.

The two most popular processors are the high-end Elite Series and the low-cost VSX Series.

This article will compare these two excellent Processors with almost every aspect possible. Stay with us, and let’s get this party started;

  Anthem AVM 60 vs. Marantz av8802a, and what is the difference between them?

We’ve covered every detail to help you comprehend the differences between them. They’ve been described in their design, power wattage, control mechanism, water capacity, and water temperature range. We hope you’ll be able to tell the difference between some of these terms. 

1.  Marantz av8802a Processor

anthem avm 60 vs marantz av8802a

Main features of  Marantz av8802a Processor

  • 4K/60p and 3D video pass-through
  • free Marantz remote app lets you use your Apple or Android device as a Wi-Fi® remote
  • Setup Assistant guides you through the initial connection process and settings
  • intuitive, full-color on-screen guide
  • Video Select lets you listen to music while watching video from a different source
  • HDMI standby pass-through allows HDMI switching without powering up the receiver
  • built-in AM/FM HD Radio™ tuner
  • remote control
  • 17-3/8″W x 7-1/4″H x 17-13/16″D
  • weight: 30.6 lbs

Size and weight of  Marantz av8802a Processor

The Marantz av8802a Processor is 30.6 pounds in weight. The size of the processor would measure 17-3/8″W x 7-1/4″H x 17-13/16″ D. A substantial toroidal transformer with oxygen-free copper windings housed in an aluminum body for enhanced current delivery and reduced noise is included in the AV8802A’s extensive list of enhancements. For more excellent dynamics, large power supply capacitors provide more than twice the reserve current capacity of Marantz’s AV7702. All channels include AKM’s latest-generation 32-bit DACs, which give outstanding resolution and transparency. The sturdy copper-plated chassis of the ‘8802 features a three-piece top panel and a double-layer bottom plate for a robust, vibration-resistant base.

Design

The Marantz AV8802A is well-equipped for both video and audio sources. This preamplifier has eight HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs, with HDCP 2.2 compatible devices supported. Seven stereo RCA, two digital optical, two digital coaxial, two USB, balanced audio, and phono connections are also included. In addition, the built-in video processor can upscale video sources to 4K resolution and convert analog to digital video. You may use the included remote control or the free Marantz Remote App to control the AV8802A from your Android or iOS smart device for more control options.

Network audio capabilities like AirPlay and control via Marantz’s quirky app are supported by a hardwired network connection as well as built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

The AV8802A, on the other hand, isn’t overly equipped in the digital connection sector. There are four digital inputs on the back panel, two coaxial/two optical, but no S/PDIF outputs and no USB-B input.

Performance

The AV8802A offers a complete 4K Ultra HD high-quality video and 4K at 60 frames per second and 4:4:4 full-color resolution sub-sampling. The AV8802A can upscale 1080p material to 4K and upscale and transcode HD and SD analog video sources, allowing you to connect both current and legacy video sources to your flat panel TV or projector with only a single HDMI connection.

The AV8802 represents a significant improvement in sound quality. The guitar and percussion beats that build to a crescendo at the beginning of “Money for Nothing” are well-known. The AV8802 is a lot more dynamic than the AV8801. There is more detail and clarity, in addition to enhanced dynamics.

You may freely stream your favorite audio songs using the AV8802A’s built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless connectivity. The AV8802A features twin Bluetooth/Wi-Fi antennae, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or portable audio player. Apple AirPlay is included in the AV8802A, allowing you to play music wirelessly from your iPod touch, iPhone, or iPad.

Nonetheless, this processor can handle just about every music or AV audio file you can throw at it, from MP3 to 2.8MHz DSD and everything in between, including Dolby and DTS.

Sound Quality

There are seven HDMI 2.0 inputs, three outputs (Monitor 1 with ARC, Monitor 2, and Zone 2), dual component inputs/outputs, and enough gold-plated analog inputs and outputs to meet almost any audio requirement.

The rear panel also has moving-magnet phono input, twin antenna hookups for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, an HD Radio (AM/FM) connection, a single set of XLR balanced inputs, and a second USB port in case you wish to permanently connect a storage device loaded with music and photographs.

The video processing component isn’t harmful either. The AV8802A supports 4K/Ultra HD at 50Hz/60Hz and complete 4:4:4 subsampling. It can upscale 1080p footage to 4K resolution and even convert HD and SD analog sources.

Suppose that isn’t enough to pique your interest in video imaging. In that case, the processor is also certified by the Imaging Science Foundation and comes with a slew of sophisticated ISFccc video altering options.

The above description merely scratches the surface of the AV8802’s feature set; for more information on the AV8802’s current features and capabilities, please visit the Marantz website.

In addition to the improved feature set, Marantz made several adjustments to the components that impact the AV8802’s performance. While these changes might not stand out on the spec sheet, they are just as vital as the new features.

2. Anthem AVM 60 Processor

Anthem AVM 60 Processor

The main feature of the Anthem AVM 60 Processor

Preamplifier measured at the XLR output:

  • Maximum Output (<0.1% THD) 8.4 Vrms, subwoofer channel 9.9 Vrms
  • Frequency Response (2 Vrms output) 10 Hz — 35 kHz (+0, -0.25 dB)
  • Frequency Response, Analog-Direct (2 Vrms output) 10 Hz — 80 kHz (+0, -0.25 dB)
  • THD+N (2 Vrms output) -95 dB
  • S/N Ratio (2 Vrms output, IEC-A filter) 110 dB

Immersive Audio Formats Supported

  • Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD
  • DTS:X (via forthcoming firmware), DTS HD

Power Consumption

  • Typical Load 60 W
  • Standby 0.3 W
  • Standby IP Control Enabled 4.7 W
  • Standby HDMI Bypass Enabled 8.2 W

Dimensions

  • Height 6-1/2″ (16.5 cm)
  • Height with Rackmount Kit 4U
  • Width 17-1/4″ (43.9 cm)
  • Depth (not including power cord) 14-1/2″ (36.4 cm)
  • Weight 20 lb (9 kg)

Size and weight of Anthem AVM 60 Processor

The Anthem AVM 60 Processor is roughly 20.6 pounds in weight. The dimensions of the Processor are 17.2 x 6.6 x 14.3 inches (W x H x D, inches). The excellent design of the Anthem AVM 60 Processor not only makes it simple to stow on your desk or in remote locations, but it also provides functional advantages. Anthem’s AVM 60 is the long-awaited successor to the famous AVM 50v 3D pre-pro. It ticks virtually all of the critical boxes. HDMI 2.0a on-board with HDCP 2.2, HDR, and BT.2020 are all standard.

There are seven HDMI inputs on the back and one on the front. MHL capability is available on the front HDMI and HDMI Input 7. Although there are two parallel HDMI outputs, only HDMI Output 1 has an audio return channel.

Design

Despite its lack of popularity compared to other manufacturers, Anthem AVM 60AV Processor is high-quality and well worth considering if you are in the market for a Processor. The two top Processors are the high-end Elite Series and the low-cost VSX Series.

The processor is set to 11.2-mode, allowing you to adjust the 7.2.4 parameters. On the other hand, the two subwoofers cannot be regulated independently. This system has nine power amplifiers that, depending on the configuration, may provide dynamic sound in two adjacent rooms. It may also use the pre-outs to passively supply audio signals to the third listening area.

The HDMI ports are HDMI 2.0a compatible and enable HDCP 2.2. The AVM 60 supports HDMI video switching and video pass-through at 4K 50/60Hz resolution and HDR (high dynamic range), BT. 2020 wide color gamut, and 4:4:4 subsampling at 4K60 (18.2 Gbps). Because of these capabilities, the AVM 60 is compatible with the newest 4K UHD televisions and 4K UHD Blu-ray players, as well as HDR10 and Dolby Vision.

Performance

It supports the vast majority of multichannel audio formats, such as DTS: X, Dolby Atmos, and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, as well as sophisticated music features such as Dialog Enhancement. The unit also includes pre-outs for connecting to a second, more powerful amplifier to create an 11.2 or 7.2.4-channel home cinema system for even more immersion.

The Anthem AVM 60 Processor is one that you will have for a long time. It’s self-contained, with multi-channel and network audio playback capabilities and plenty of power. Furthermore, placing the speakers in a location where they are entirely covered improves the readability of special effects. And this is the finest Anthem AVM 60Processor, which costs roughly $1000.

It continues its long tradition of offering outstanding sound to its clients. This is the finest Anthem AVM 60 Processor for constructing a high-performance home theater system capable of handling all the latest video and audio formats.

In that mindset, we must confess to dabbling in some streaming Devo since the synth parts appeared to bounce about the room intriguingly. If you’re going to renounce purism, this is the organization to join. For more traditional music, we selected stereo or Pure Direct listening settings.

Sound Quality

We thought this Processor was “simple and wonderful” after spending some time with it. It performed flawlessly whether we were spinning vinyl or passing Ultra-HD Blu-ray signals through it.

The AVM 60 employs quad-core 32-bit digital signal processing and AKM’s superior 32-bit/768kHz differential-output digital-to-analog converters. It supports digital transmissions with resolutions up to 24/192 but not native DSD signals. It supports Dolby Surround, DTS Neo:6 Cinema and Music, Anthem Logic for 11.2 channels, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, and DTS-HD Master Audio – and will ultimately support DTS:X, with a firmware upgrade planned by the end of 2017.

LIKE MANY CURRENT A/V COMPONENTS, the AVM 60’s back panel, like many current A/V components, includes primarily digital connections: seven HDMI (plus one HDMI on the front that supports MHL), two coaxial, and three optical audio inputs. In addition, there are five analog stereo audio inputs (RCA). The AVM 60 lacks analog video inputs, which may concern individuals who have older video sources. However, such is becoming increasingly rare these days.

What should be considered before buying a Processor

What should be considered before buying a Processor

Before purchasing any new equipment, it is critical to understand what features are required to achieve the most outstanding results. Similarly, before purchasing a Processor, you must determine whether the feature is necessary for the best cook. So, let’s take a look at what you should think about while purchasing a receiving machine.

Consideration 1: Power output

The energy generated is comparable to the maximum volume at which music may be played. The more powerful the Processor or, the larger the area, the more electricity you’ll use (much to the disgust of your neighbors and roommates!). However, you may not need as much power as you believe. The majority of parties will be blown off the roof by 10W, while the majority of parties will be blown off at 100W!

Consideration 2: System matching

The link between a Processor and a stereo Processor is crucial. There are a few things to keep in mind when pairing Wensleydale cheese with wheat crackers. A Processor’s power output (the number of watts it can supply to each channel of a music transmission) is critical, but so are impedance (measured in ohms) and sensitivity (measured in decibels) (dB).

The resistance of a Processor indicates how difficult it is to drive the speaker. On the other hand, a speaker’s sensitivity is a measurement of how loud it can go given a specific input.

Consideration 3: Classes of Processor

Processor classification is based on its underlying circuitry. The bulk of applications falls into the Class-A and Class-D categories. Audio quality is often best in Class-A models and decreases as you move down the alphabet. On the other hand, Class-A loudspeakers preserve the entire linear audio signal at the expense of power efficiency. While audio quality may deteriorate as you progress from Class A to Class B, C, and D, efficiency and operating expenses will rise.

Consideration 4: Inputs & Connections

Check to verify sure you have enough inputs to accommodate everything you’ll be plugging in. It’s also important to consider how you’ll link them. Only a few connectors are available, including stereo audio (RCA), HDMI optical, and digital coax. Stereo audio has two sound channels; it does not allow 5.1 surround sound or digital audio. The 5.1 surround signal is sent through a digital coax connection via an RCA wire. Light is used to deliver a 5.1 signal across optical networks. RCA cables are “unbalanced” in comparison to the somewhat balanced TRS and XLR connectors. A balanced cable is less susceptible to interference and may carry low signals over greater distances.

FAQs;

  • Question: Is Marantz av8802a high-end?

Answer: Marantz av8802a has a long history of making high-quality audio equipment. The Marantz av8802a’s SR Processor is their top-of-the-line model. Consequently, you can be confident that their AV Processor will be treated similarly.

  • Question: Why are vintage Marantz av8802a so expensive?

Answer: High-end audio equipment is as pricey today as in the past due to its superior performance. Expensive historical audio equipment was top-of-the-line when it was initially produced. It had maintained that performance into the modern-day, making it just as valuable, if not more, than when it was first made.

  • Question: Are Anthem AVM 60 Processors any good?

Answer: The Anthem AVM 60AV Processor is an excellent complement to any home entertainment system. The Anthem AVM 60AV Processor is high-quality and well-worth considering if you’re looking for a Processor. There are two processors available: the high-end Elite Series and the low-cost VSX Series.

  • Question: Does the Processor improve sound quality?

Answer: Processors enable you to manage audio over many speakers by employing 5.1 and 7.2 channel audio options and boosting and doing single room correction on the signal, all of which improve sound quality.

Conclusion

Today, we went through every Anthem AVM 60 and Marantz av8802a Processor function. As you can see, both devices have advantages and disadvantages. It is now up to you to choose which one best matches my requirements and fits my culinary lifestyle.

Marantz av8802a, on the other hand, is not ineffective, in our opinion. The Anthem AVM 60Processor is a high-performance, high-quality gadget. If you’re serious about your home theater and have this much money to invest in a Processor, you should look into it. Check it out first to determine whether it’s a good fit for your lifestyle.

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