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Parasound and Anthem are the leading brands of high-quality audio amplifiers for audiophiles. Choosing the right amplifiers can be a daunting task. In this article, we look at the features that differentiate Parasound and Anthem, reflecting on our own personal experiences with these devices.
The main difference between Parasound and Anthem is their target audience. Parasound’s target audience lies in audiophiles who are looking for high-end equipment that can provide high-quality sound with minimal interference from other devices. On the other hand, Anthem’s target audience lies in people who want a simple system that delivers good sound quality without spending too much money on expensive components.
Another big difference between the two is that Parasound has the best sound quality. Their receivers have a lot of power, so they can handle any speaker you throw at them.
Anthem, on the other hand, is a little more mainstream. They make great gear but its not always the best-sounding gear out there. They make great budget equipment that will blow your socks off for what you pay for it, but if you want to get into high-end audio gear then Anthem isn’t going to give you what you want.
Comparing Parasound and Anthem Amplifiers
When it comes to amplifiers, Parasound and Anthem are two popular brands known for producing high-quality audio equipment. Both companies have a reputation for creating amplifiers that deliver excellent sound quality, durability, and performance. In this blog post, we will compare the Parasound and Anthem amplifiers in terms of their key features, specifications, and overall performance.
| Parasound | Anthem | |
|---|---|---|
| Price range | $$$-$$$$ | $$$$ |
| Product types | Amplifiers, processors, speakers, CD players | Amplifiers, processors, speakers |
| Key features | High power output, audiophile-grade components, customizable audio settings, optional phono stages | High power output, audiophile-grade components, customizable audio settings, advanced DSP processing |
| Customer reviews | Generally positive | Generally positive |
1. Performance
While both amplifiers are great, one of them will be better suited to your needs. If you’re looking for a slightly higher power output and a better noise rating, then Anthem is the way to go. However, if you need more flexibility with your inputs and outputs, then Parasound is the winner.
Regardless of which amplifier you choose, both companies make exceptional products that deliver quality audio performance.
2. Price
Anthem products are less expensive than Parasound products, but you get what you pay for. If you decide to go with an Anthem amplifier and add an extra $3500-$4000 in upgrades, then it will be comparable to a similarly upgraded and better-sounding Parasound product.
3. Noise
Noise is the amount of unwanted electrical interference present in an amplifier. It’s measured in decibels (dB). The lower the noise, the better. Parasound amps have lower noise than Anthem amps, which means that their sound quality is cleaner and more accurate.
4. Sound Quality
Sound quality is something that’s highly subjective. Some people prefer the sound of tube amplifiers, while others prefer a solid state. Individual preferences differ on what they consider to be a good sound quality, but there are some general characteristics that nearly all agree on:
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- Clarity and transparency. If an amplifier can’t separate individual instruments or sounds from one another, it doesn’t have a good sound quality.
- Bass extension and impact. The bass response of an amplifier is measured in decibels below 20 Hertz (Hz). The lower number indicates how low the amplifier can reproduce frequencies. The better the bass response, the more powerful your system will be able to reproduce deep bass notes without sounding muddy or overdriven at higher volume levels.
- Soundstage width and depth.
- The tonal balance between instruments and voices.
- Imaging: how well each instrument sounds like it’s coming from its own area within your listening room instead of just being smeared together.
5. Power Output and Load Impedance
Let’s talk about power output and load impedance. Both Parasound and Anthem are solidly built amps, but there are some differences between them that might make you choose one over the other depending on your needs. If you’re planning to use a subwoofer or two with your speakers and don’t want to be limited by the power output of your amplifier, then another brand may offer better value for money.
Para is clearly more expensive than Anthem; however, they have better noise performance plus sound quality on all counts, and more power output at lower impedances. Anthems have slightly better frequency response across all channels but overall cannot keep up with great brands like these two giants in terms of volume output or range of connectivity options
6. Frequency Response
The frequency response of an amplifier is the range of frequencies that it can reproduce. Frequency response is measured in Hertz, typically from 20Hz to 20kHz. Most amplifiers have a frequency response between 20Hz and 100kHz, which is considered excellent for home audio equipment. Some amplifiers may also have a -3dB point at lower frequencies like 10Hz or 5Hz, but it’s not typical for home audio systems.
The higher the bandwidth of your system the wider its range, and the better it will sound with music that contains complex harmonics and overtones. For example, live performances by string quartets or full orchestras because they’ll be reproduced accurately without being colored by distortion or other artifacts.
7. Connection and Control Options
There are a few differences here. Parasound amplifiers have more connectors, while Anthem amplifiers have more options for controlling the volume. Parasound amps use a really high-quality power supply, while Anthem amps sound better.
Overall, both Parasound and Anthem amplifiers are excellent choices for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. While Parasound amplifiers offer high-quality sound at an affordable price point, Anthem amplifiers deliver even higher power output and advanced features for a premium price. Ultimately, the choice between these two brands will depend on your individual needs and preferences, as well as your budget.
Parasound Amplifiers
Parasound amplifiers are known for their high performance and reliability, and for their ability to provide a true reference-class experience in the home. They’re also known for being some of the most affordable reference-grade amps on the market.
Parasound amplifiers are designed with audiophiles in mind; they’re made with premium parts, including high-quality capacitors and resistors that won’t lose their effectiveness over time. They also feature a topology rarely seen in other products. All Parasound amplifiers have a solid-state output stage with no feedback loop.
Pros:
- The Parasound amps are known for their quality and sound. They are also highly reliable and durable.
- The Parasound amps are very affordable in comparison to other brands, but they still provide great value for money.
- The Parasound amps are very easy to use, so you don’t need to be an expert in order to get the best out of them.
Cons:
- The Parasound amps have limited options when it comes to customization, which can be frustrating if you want something more specific than what’s offered by the company itself.
- Some people feel that the price tag on these amps is too high. If you’re looking for an amp that costs less, check out some other brands.
Anthem Amplifiers
The Anthem Amplifiers are a great choice for those who want to add a little something extra to their home sound system. They come in a variety of different sizes, and they can be used with a variety of different types of speakers. With their sleek look and powerful sound, they’re definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for new amps for your home theater.
However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Anthem Amplifiers may not be the best choice for you. They’re pretty expensive compared to some other models on the market right now, but if you want high-quality sound and design, they may be worth considering.
Pros:
- The sound is rich and detailed.
- They have a wide range of power outputs, so they are great options for both professional musicians and beginners alike.
- They are well built and have a long lifespan.
Cons:
- The only real downside of Anthem amps is that they have a higher price tag than other brands, but you get what you pay for.
Final Verdict
All in all, it’s clear that Parasound and Anthem are two of the best amplifier brands on the market today. They both offer great sound quality, and plenty of power output. This is even with high impedance loads and a wide range of connection options. If you want to know which one is right for your needs, it’s important to consider factors like price, noise levels, and power output. Also, check for how much control over the volume or input source selection you want from your amp.
