I was speaking with someone who said the Anthem AVM40 can be now be purchased. According to him, the AVM 40 processor is an upgrade to the Anthem AVM30 but has the HDMI connections. I went to Anthem's homepage but found no mention of the AVM40. Is it available? If so I wonder why Anthem has not listed it on their home page. Could someone out there give me information regarding this unit? :confused:

Is that one for the roumor mill?
The only info are for the D2 yet.
Let them first do the D2 and then one will get the spin off from the statement line.

Best
Armin

No, I got this information from a dealer. He even gave me a retail price for the AVM40 and for an AVM50. Both, according to the dealer, have HDMI connections but that's all I know about the 2 units. He indicated the retail price for the AVM40 is :confused: $3599. I find it hard to believe because I haven't seen anything indicating that Anthem is even close to releasing the HDMI upgrade versions.

I just got off the phone with a local dealer. He has prices on the new models:
AVM-40 $3700
AVM-50 $4700
D-2 $6700
All have HDMI switching. The AVM-50 adds "broadcast" quality video processing to the AVM-40 feature set. Still no info. on the Anthem web site.

Still no info. on the Anthem web site.

Most manufactures will wait about 30days (more or less) before adding a new product to the web site to give the dealers time to get them in stock, setup, and ready to demo.

I hope this is true, been waiting since last May. Its odd that there has been no press release about the AVM-40/50. The only one I have seen is the D2

I would imagine the difference between the 40 and 50 is the Gennum processing, but this is all news to me. I haven't heard anything about this from Anthem.

AVM-40 $3700
AVM-50 $4700
D-2 $6700


That pricing would be in line with what Anthem had talked about the last time contacted them. I know they were looking at bump somewhere in range of $1500-$2000 +/- for the units with the Gennum solution (D2 and AVM50 I would assume).

Hey Kris. Are you planning on doing a review of one of these when they do come out?

This is a really interesting development. I had heard the rumors about the 50 coming, but the 40 is unexpected. And now it makes one wonder. I've been holding out on an AVM 30 knowing that the upgrade was expected soon, but now I'm not sure which way I would go. HDMI switching is a must for me for forward compatibility. But not so sure about video processing. In a few years (assuming HDDVD or Blu Ray take off and there's more broadcast HD content) how much SD material would we all be watching?

Would the 40 be upgradable to a 50 by adding the video processing later?

Anyone have an idea on the cost of an upgrade from a avm20v2 to the avm40 ?

My dealer went out of business. :(

Regards,
Jose

Anthem should be commended for giving us more choices & pricing the scaler upgrade very reasonably.

If the new Anthem's are coming, what about the PVA 7 amp? Does it meet most folks requirements or does it need an upgraded version too?
Take Aim

I just got off the phone with a local dealer. He has prices on the new models:
AVM-40 $3700
AVM-50 $4700
D-2 $6700
All have HDMI switching. The AVM-50 adds "broadcast" quality video processing to the AVM-40 feature set. Still no info. on the Anthem web site.

I wonder what the big difference (i.e. "broadcast quality") is between the AVM-40 and the AVM-50 is that justifies the $1000 bump in price? Will the AVM-50 be able to handle and process the blueray high definition DVD that will be out this summer?

I am guessing that the difference between AVM40 & AVM50 is addition of the Gennum scaling chip & if you take into account how much the Gennum & Realta based video processors are priced at, $1000.00 for true HD scaling is a bargain.

I believe you are correct about the price difference being due to the Gennum scaler.

My guess is the AVM-40 will be just an HDMI switch, with at THE MOST, transcoding for other types of video. No OSD over HD material (This is all purely just speculation of course) etc.

The Gennum is a first-rate scaler and as has been mentioned before, a real bargain at $1000. It will be able to accept, process/deinterlace/whatever and finally output nearly any resolution right up to 1080p, making it, along with the Realta chip, one of the most up to date scalers out there.

This, if it is true, is excellent news! I've been listening to all the rumours and waiting, hoping that the Gennum would be included in the new AVM model. For a while it was looking like it was just going to the D2. Here's hoping!

Anyone hear about how much to upgrade an AVM20 to AVM50 specs?

Anyone hear about how much to upgrade an AVM20 to AVM50 specs?


As far as I know, there has been NO official word from Anthem as to what upgrades will and won't even be possible, let alone how much they will cost.

The RUMOURED price, however, last time I heard was around $1500. I've also heard $2000. But that is for an upgrade to a D1 and possibly the AVM-30. If the upgrade is available for AVM-20s it is likely it will require the DSP upgrade to bring it up to AVM-30 specs, in addition to the video upgrade.

This, of course, is entirely speculation based on rumour, and is in NO WAY official.

Hey Kris. Are you planning on doing a review of one of these when they do come out?

Not sure what my role will be in the whole thing, but I don't think so. I think Piero may do the review of the D1 upgrade and Brian may do the AVM 40/50 one.

If the new Anthem's are coming, what about the PVA 7 amp? Does it meet most folks requirements or does it need an upgraded version too?

Amplifiers are completely different than SSPs. Just because an SSP is updated doesn't mean an amp needs to be. Being that solid state amplifier design hasn't changed in a really long time, I always find it funny that companies release new amps when they release new SSPs. They mainly do this to match the cosmetics among the line with very few tweaks. Besides, if the PVA 7 isn't cutting it there are three more lines above it in Anthem's catalog that should fill any hole. The MCA series is excellent and then you have the statement line after that.

A question for Mr. Deering:

In response to why the Anthem processors do not have room correction circuits when many less expensive receivers do, the dealer responded that no room correction circuit could take into account differences in the hearing capabilities of individual listeners and were therefore not very useful. What are your views on this matter?

According to an email from Nick at Anthem they have to determine if there is enough memory in the AVM20 to add the scaler. If there is the upgrade will cost 1700.00 U.S.

A question for Mr. Deering:

In response to why the Anthem processors do not have room correction circuits when many less expensive receivers do, the dealer responded that no room correction circuit could take into account differences in the hearing capabilities of individual listeners and were therefore not very useful. What are your views on this matter?

I don't want to speaker for Kris but I think the type of room correction used in less expensive receivers can only provide correction in one location and may actually make the sound worse in other places in the room. Lexicon uses a different approach in the MC-12. They claim it smoothes the frequency response throughout the room.

http://www.lexicon.com/products/details.asp?ID=15

What is the current msrp for a avm30 ? $3000 us ?

Then if the AVM40 is $3700 us

Then going from a avm30 to a avm40 would be $700 ??

How about the AVM20v2 it listed $3500 us.
So maybe going from a AVM20v2 to a avm40 would be $200 us. ??

Regards,
Jose

I am in for the AVM40...

If anyone knows of an authorized Anthem dealer in So Cal that offer
a good discount, please PM me.

This is a really interesting development. I had heard the rumors about the 50 coming, but the 40 is unexpected. And now it makes one wonder. I've been holding out on an AVM 30 knowing that the upgrade was expected soon, but now I'm not sure which way I would go. HDMI switching is a must for me for forward compatibility. But not so sure about video processing. In a few years (assuming HDDVD or Blu Ray take off and there's more broadcast HD content) how much SD material would we all be watching?

Would the 40 be upgradable to a 50 by adding the video processing later?

The other thing to consider is that Realta and Gennum chips will be pretty
inexpensive in large quantities in a year or so and many displays will probably
incorporate them.

I am in for the AVM40...

If anyone knows of an authorized Anthem dealer in So Cal that offer
a good discount, please PM me.

Tony,

Check your PM.

R

Tony,

Check your PM.

R

Thanks!

Tony,

Check your PM.

R

How about Norcal? ;)

-bd

Is the HDMI input for both audio and video or only video like a lot of the processors coming out lately? If it does audio, what version of HDMI will it have?

Is the HDMI input for both audio and video or only video like a lot of the processors coming out lately? If it does audio, what version of HDMI will it have?

Audio and Video, HDMI 1.1 compliant.

HI,

Am I remembering correctly that to get the new 7.1 Dolby true HD and DTS hidef surround formats, you have to get HDMI 1.2 or 1.3? Can 1.1 even take them in via PCM, or not?

God bless...

Mark

Yes, HDMI 1.1 can accept new Dolby & DTS formats in PCM form.

What is the current msrp for a avm30 ? $3000 us ?

Then if the AVM40 is $3700 us

Then going from a avm30 to a avm40 would be $700 ??

How about the AVM20v2 it listed $3500 us.
So maybe going from a AVM20v2 to a avm40 would be $200 us. ??

Regards,
Jose

If AVM30 and AVM40 are both new, and those prices are correct, it would seem logical it's $700 more to buy the AVM40 - except that any AVM30 NOS units will likely drop in price when the new model is released. It may be that the AVM40/AVM50 have already been held back until dealer stock of AVM30 is sufficiently depleted so the price on it does not have to dropped too much to move the remaining units..

Since the AVM20 is not a current product, the MSRP means nothing in the equation.

If you are talking about upgrades, the AVM20 probably would cost more to upgrade than the AVM30 if extra memory is needed for whatever reason.

As far as I know, the only differences (besides appearance) between the AVM20(v2) and AVM30 is additional component video and twice(?) as much internal memory.

In general though, the cost of upgrades and MSRP differences between models don't work out the same.

Yes, HDMI 1.1 can accept new Dolby & DTS formats in PCM form.

It is my understanding that HDMI 1.1 has sufficient bandwidth to carry
uncompressed TrueHD and DTS-HD ( if already decoded by Blu-Ray or
HD-DVD player ) via PCM to the new Anthem processors so these should
be good to go with the new HiDef DVD players....

I have been waiting on this capability before buying a good stand along
pre/pro and it looks like we are now here.

Time to pull the trigger! I can't wait...

I don't want to speaker for Kris but I think the type of room correction used in less expensive receivers can only provide correction in one location and may actually make the sound worse in other places in the room. Lexicon uses a different approach in the MC-12. They claim it smoothes the frequency response throughout the room.

http://www.lexicon.com/products/details.asp?ID=15

Actually the Audessy room correction software (used in the Denon AVRs) allows the user to take measurments from up to 8 different locations and it measures the full 20Hz - 20KHz range, whereas the Lexicon only corrects the bass response. Meridian does the same thing as Lexicon. Their thinking is that room problems above the bass range should be addressed through acoustic room treatment. It makes sense for them to take that stance when the average consumer buying an $8-10K prepro is probably installing it in a dedicated room.


A question for Mr. Deering:

In response to why the Anthem processors do not have room correction circuits when many less expensive receivers do, the dealer responded that no room correction circuit could take into account differences in the hearing capabilities of individual listeners and were therefore not very useful. What are your views on this matter?

There is some truth to that, as not everyone likes or wants flat in-room response, but the fix is to simply allow the user to pick a target curve for the corrected response, or giving the user the option to tweak the outcome. The current room correction programs don't have that much flexibility. The other problem with the current room correction programs is that the results rely on taking good measurements to begin with. Since the majority of consumers purchasing mid priced prepros are not well educated on room acoustics and aren't likely to hire a professional, the results vary widely and they can end up making the sound worse than the uncorrected response.

Read though any of the threads on the Denon gear that features Audessy room EQ and you will see a mix of opinions regarding the results. Many find the corrected response sounds too bright and weak in the bass.

I think that Anthem is very aware of this and is concerned that just throwing an EQ in the box could end up leaving the average consumer confused and unhappy with the results. They need a solution that will provide consistently good results for the "average guy".

Anyone hear if the AVM-40 or 50 will have 1394 inputs for DVD-A or SACD?

Anyone hear if the AVM-40 or 50 will have 1394 inputs for DVD-A or SACD?
If a 1394 port is there it wont be functional. Anthem has decided not to use 1394, because HDMI will pass DVD-Audio and SACD, they don’t see the point in perusing it.

At least that was the last thing I heard about it.

Just got an email from SFI Tech:

"The AVM 20 v2 becomes the AVM 20 v3, which is the same as an AVM 20 v2
except that the video processor is added (description attached) and the
number of component video connections doubles. No solid idea when.

This idea on forums that one model number changes to another is incorrect
(like too many other things there....), although the AVM 20 v3 would be the
equivalent of an AVM 50 functionally, just like an AVM 20 v2 is the
functional equivalent of the AVM 30 other than 2 vs 4 component video
inputs.

There will be no conversion of an AVM 20 to something AVM 40-like, which
will have HDMI inputs but no processing."

So , atleast avm20v2 users can go to an AVM20v3 "avm50" processor.

Regards,
Jose

Hi,

Has anyone heard the avm40, 50 or D2 yet? If so what are your thoughts for audio through HDMI? How about pic through the scaler for the 50 and d2?

God bless....

Mark

So are the new hi-rez multi-ch formats (DD+, DTS-HD) HDMI v1.3 only? I'm not in touch with HD at all.

So are the new hi-rez multi-ch formats (DD+, DTS-HD) HDMI v1.3 only? I'm not in touch with HD at all.

NO, HDMI V1.1 or better will pass a PCM single.

With the upcoming upgrade options to the Anthem AVM 30 to add 1) HDMI switching ($700) or adds HDMI switching and Scaler ($1700), are these prices fixed in stone by Anthem/dealers or can we expect some reasonalble discounts (say 10-20%) like when we purchased the AVM initially?

Seems like if you are a new buyer negotiating off MSRP for an AVM 40 or 50, the same kind of dealer discounts should be offered to returning upgrade customers.

From post #38 above
There will be no conversion of an AVM 20 to something AVM 40-like, which will have HDMI inputs but no processing. The '40 rumor was sourced from a dealer, the denial came from Anthem. I think I will believe Anthem for now.

My guess is if your dealer worked with you on the original sale they might also do something on the upgrade but it would be entirely up to the individual dealers.

When I upgraded my AVM20 to V.2 ,my dealer charged less than the MSRP of the upgrade. I'm sure this will be the case with this one, as all they're really doing is acting as the middleman between you and the factory as this upgrade will not be done at the dealer level.

Any up to date news on timing for these new pre/pro's. Are dealers taking preorders now? And if so, any expected delivery date? (are we talking weeks, months - or quarters :eek: ?)

With these price increases Anthem is moving into the Krell/Classe/Lexicon class of audio. How they survive with their minimal dealer base is beyond me.

Ok I've read this thread twice now and am still not sure what exactly the AVM-40 will be offering. Is it simply a dumb HDMI switcher or can it at least take in and process the HDMI audio? Since it doesn't offer 1394 inputs I hope it can process HDMI audio. For those of us with external video scalers already, a Pre/Pro without the Gennum would be attractive.

Just got an email from SFI Tech:

"The AVM 20 v2 becomes the AVM 20 v3, which is the same as an AVM 20 v2
except that the video processor is added (description attached) and the
number of component video connections doubles. No solid idea when.

This idea on forums that one model number changes to another is incorrect
(like too many other things there....), although the AVM 20 v3 would be the
equivalent of an AVM 50 functionally, just like an AVM 20 v2 is the
functional equivalent of the AVM 30 other than 2 vs 4 component video
inputs.

There will be no conversion of an AVM 20 to something AVM 40-like, which
will have HDMI inputs but no processing."

So , atleast avm20v2 users can go to an AVM20v3 "avm50" processor.

Regards,
Jose

I was told this same thing about the AVM-30, by an SFI Tech on the phone. Specifically I was told that Anthem would NOT offer an AVM-40 type upgrade for the AVM-30, but would only offer the AVM-50 type upgrade with the scaler, etc. This upgrade position will probably upset many AVM-20/30 owners who were hoping for an affordable ~$700 HDMI upgrade, and don't need or want a scaler in their pre-pro or want to spend $1,700 or more for it! :eek:

With these price increases Anthem is moving into the Krell/Classe/Lexicon class of audio. How they survive with their minimal dealer base is beyond me. - dsmith 901

It does sound like Anthem might be pricing themselves out of their sweetspot in the market, even with their upgrades.

That would be really short sighted decision on Anthems part not to offer just the HDMI switching upgrade for AVM30 owners. I hope this not true.

That would be really short sighted decision on Anthems part not to offer just the HDMI switching upgrade for AVM30 owners. I hope this not true.
Yesterday 01:22 PM

I hope this is not true myself, as the AVM-30 was on my short list of pre-pros to consider buying, but I'm not sure now. :confused:

Maybe I got the janitor, but I asked for customer service to discuss upgrades and that's what the guy said. Maybe the policy is not firmly in place yet either, but I guess time will tell.

I hope this is not true myself, as the AVM-30 was on my short list of pre-pros to consider buying, but I'm not sure now. :confused:

Maybe I got the janitor, but I asked for customer service to discuss upgrades and that's what the guy said. Maybe the policy is not firmly in place yet either, but I guess time will tell.

Why don't you just buy the AVM 40 with its HDMI switching capabilities?

Why don't you just buy the AVM 40 with its HDMI switching capabilities?

Good question. I was hoping to pick up a used AVM-20/30 now, and then upgrade to the HDMI switching capabilities later. That way I could spread out the cost and maybe get it done a little cheaper in the long run. A new AVM-40 is pretty much out of my budget range right now.

Good question. I was hoping to pick up a used AVM-20/30 now, and then upgrade to the HDMI switching capabilities later. That way I could spread out the cost and maybe get it done a little cheaper in the long run. A new AVM-40 is pretty much out of my budget range right now.

This is going to be my first stand alone processor purchase and $3700 m.s.r.p.
( assuming it remains at this m.s.r.p. ) with a small discount seems a bit steep
but the feature set and committment to upgrade is very compelling.

The ante is high but if I can get by on a grand or so every other year to
remain up-to-date it certainly seems to be worth it in the long run...

This is going to be my first stand alone processor purchase and $3700 m.s.r.p.
( assuming it remains at this m.s.r.p. ) with a small discount seems a bit steep
but the feature set and committment to upgrade is very compelling.

The ante is high but if I can get by on a grand or so every other year to
remain up-to-date it certainly seems to be worth it in the long run...

I agree that Anthem looks like the best long term investment for mid to high end pre-pro's around. I actually do have the funds to buy the AVM-40 right now, but my first of three teenage sons is going to college this fall, so I'm having difficulty justifying a relatively high dollar pre-pro right now. :(

But on the other hand, I could wind up spending just as much money on lower quality gear, and then selling off and upgrading the cheaper units more often. I'm really not sure what I'm going to do for a pre-pro purchase this year, but look out in ten years when my kids all graduate from college! It will be major HT/audio upgrade time :D

but my first of three teenage sons is going to college this fall, so I'm having difficulty justifying a relatively high dollar pre-pro right now. :( Wouldn't you be more eligible for grants if you had less savings? :D

Ed

Digital Craze is taking orders online. I know nothing about these guys - if they're even an authorized dealer. But their prices are tempting.

http://www.digitalcraze.com/results8.asp?Manufacturer=anthem&Submit=go&offset=8

I would be careful buying from these guys. Listed as unauthorized dealers for Arcam

http://www.aslgroup.com/scam_alert__unauthorized_websit.htm

I doubt they are authorized for Anthem.

I would be careful buying from these guys. Listed as unauthorized dealers for Arcam

http://www.aslgroup.com/scam_alert__unauthorized_websit.htm

I doubt they are authorized for Anthem.

Good find. I had a feeling it was too good to be true. To be honest, I couldn't imagine making a purchase like this over the net anyways. I'd rather buy from my local dealer who I've known for a long time.

I dunno. msrp of 5100 for d2 versus the 6.7k normally? Umm, screw the local guy. heh.

At least armed with the cost difference you should be able to go in and say, "Looky...I can buy it at 5100, but we're old time friends....how about 5200!" :D

I'm going for a avm50 and have already put money down to reserve the first one (I was getting something else fixed) /shrug. Knowing me, it will arrive during my honeymoon. *sigh*

I dunno. msrp of 5100 for d2 versus the 6.7k normally? Umm, screw the local guy. heh.

And screw the warranty and any future upgrades.

And screw the warranty and any future upgrades.

How does buying online affect future upgrades?

I know additional warranties can be purchased. YMMV if your specific dealer actually has an extended warranty not covered by the manufacturer.

In the case for the dealer I have, that is not the case. With regards to upgrades, I don't see how anthem could refuse upgrade requests for an anthem. I admit to being puzzled.

I guess I should have been a bit more clear --> I'm going to buy from my local dealer. It's just a matter of a price. And me getting it at a better price? I'm all for that.

A manufacturer can refuse to provide upgrades if you don't have a valid sales receipt from an authorized dealer. Would be interesting to know what is Anthem's policy in this matter.

Sonic Frontiers has always offered me great service on repair of my SFCD-1 player. They also did and excellent upgrade on my Line 3 Pre amp. I was not the original owner on either and it never came into the conversation. Sonic Frontiers owns Anthem and they are a top notch company.

I believe you can purchase upgrades even on used euipment but am not sure. As Vinod said it would be nice to hear Anthems policy on this.

I know when you search for Anthem products on Audiogon you get an ad warning about Anthems warranty policy. Does not mention upgrades
http://www.audiogon.com/samp/anthem/

Why would they want to turn away anyones upgrade money? Upgrade money paid to them, is basically really all the same, no matter what where when or how it originally came from. Just as long as the unit is not stolen, or that it does not have other suspicious issues like defaced/removed serial numbers.

Warranty and upgrades are totally separate issues.
Warranty is free to original owners within the warranty period.
Upgrades are obviously not free.
Walk into an Anthem dealer with a D1 you didn't buy there, show them the money for the upgrade and see what happens :)

I called a dealer to inquire of the turn around time when placing an order for the AVM 40. The dealer called Anthem, and it look like sometime in May before this unit ships. This really blows since my Pioneer Elite 49TX has lost ALL of its sound. I thought of Arcam, but I'm concerned with the hdmi ports, from what I understand, no 1.1 or PCM. Then I gave the Denon 5805 a thought, I'm sure it's great but I'll pass. I've never had seperates before, and I won't change my mind. Guess I'll have to wait.

Has anyone ever dealt with a site called HiFiTrader? They have some interesting prices on Anthem (around 18 - 20%) less than MSRP. I've been emailing them off and on for about 5 months inquiring about their products but the whole warranty/ upgrade thing concerns me. The prices they quote however are hard to dismiss. The local dealers I've talked to weren't coming anywhere near thosse prices. Has anyone had any success in dealing with websites that are not Authorized dealers?

Well, today I pre-ordered the AVM 40 and purchased the MCA 50. Got a little better than the standard 10% off with financing and two years no interest. I have the option to upgrade to the AVM 50 (which will be released in a couple weeks, a month sooner than the AVM 40) but wonder if the Realta and Gennum chips would be worth it since I already have a tv that upscales to 1080p (60" SXRD). I know nothing of these chips and am not saying the SXRD is better, hence the question.

Yatchaks,

2 years no interest? That sounds good. Did you get that from your local dealer or someone national? Gotta research these Gennum chips.

Yatchaks,

2 years no interest? That sounds good. Did you get that from your local dealer or someone national? Gotta research these Gennum chips.

Local dealer in Ann Arbor, MI. If anyone is interested, I can call my salesman and see if he would do a credit app and similar sale price over the phone.

Well, today I pre-ordered the AVM 40 and purchased the MCA 50. Got a little better than the standard 10% off with financing and two years no interest. I have the option to upgrade to the AVM 50 (which will be released in a couple weeks, a month sooner than the AVM 40) but wonder if the Realta and Gennum chips would be worth it since I already have a tv that upscales to 1080p (60" SXRD). I know nothing of these chips and am not saying the SXRD is better, hence the question.

yatchaks - awesome order! Are you sure about the dates (few weeks to month for 40/50)? My dealer here in Toronto contacted Anthem and they didn't have any expected shipping date for these products.

I just bought an AVM 30 (local dealer has cut price below $2000 so I went for the 30 over a rotel 1068) this week. Can you help me out with the DTS-HD and output from SACD and DVD-A. Do these require HDMI or can digital co-ax handle them? If dig co-ax can't handle these formats is this a new tech I'll have to miss out on until they come out with an HDMI upgrade for the 30? Can a scaler help?

Thanks for the help!
Theo

You guys are not doing your dealers any favours by posting prices. Try to discuss that in PM.

yatchaks - awesome order! Are you sure about the dates (few weeks to month for 40/50)? My dealer here in Toronto contacted Anthem and they didn't have any expected shipping date for these products.

A few days ago when I initially contacted the dealer and inquired of the AVM-40 over the phone, my salesperson wasn't sure of the products release. He said he would call Anthem and call me back. Upon receiving his call, Anthem told him the AVM-50 would be released after the D-2. D-2 releasing end of March, Avm-50 first half of April and the
AVM-40 first half of May. I hope he is correct. We thought in knid of odd that they would release in that order. I might try calling Anthem myself and inquire if the prompts funnel me to the right people.

A few days ago when I initially contacted the dealer and inquired of the AVM-40 over the phone, my salesperson wasn't sure of the products release. He said he would call Anthem and call me back. Upon receiving his call, Anthem told him the AVM-50 would be released after the D-2. D-2 releasing end of March, Avm-50 first half of April and the
AVM-40 first half of May. I hope he is correct. We thought in knid of odd that they would release in that order. I might try calling Anthem myself and inquire if the prompts funnel me to the right people.

Let us know if you get any good information. It seems like Anthem has been rumoring HDMI switching for 2 years now.

Just spoke with my dealer, he says the same thing - higher end pieces will come out first because they want to book those orders on the anticipation people will say..."forget the AVM40 and the wait, I WANT IT NOW!!!" and order thd 50 or the D2. Other thing about shipping in this order has to do with a manufacturers "newest" products ~ you would want to ship the best first, as it'll get the reviews from the magazines and the buzz about "the best thing since sliced bread with all these cool features..." smart marketing!

Stieger

Well, after a year of research I finally stepped up the plate and pulled the trigger on the AVM-30 and MCA50. I found a place in SoCal that worked with me to get a fair deal. Here's hoping that the Anthem/Paradigm combination proves to be everything I've read it to be.

Well, after a year of research I finally stepped up the plate and pulled the trigger on the AVM-30 and MCA50.

I just made the same purchase, and will be running Paradigm Studio speakers. My dealer had to order the MCA50 so I'm patiently waiting for it to arrive. It's a real bummer looking at my new AVM30 sitting on the rack doing absolutely nothing. My old Rotel amp sold quickly on Ebay so I'm ampless until the MCA50 comes in.

I just ordered an AVM30 today (27 March) and the Paradigm/Anthem Rep had been in this afternoon and asked if I wanted to delay for the 40. He stated it had full HDMI switching and was being released in 2 weeks (in Canada) - the Dealer said he would have one in 2 1/2 to 3 weeks. The Dealer had no prices but suggested it would be around an 800CAD increase over the AVM30.

I decided to go with the AVM-30 for now then eventually get the upgrades to make it a "50" since the Gennun chip will scale everything up to 1080p (if I understand that correctly). Right now there aren't very many 1080p flat panels(They are on the way) or 1080p content to warrant going for the advantages of the AVM-50.

Tomcat:

The only US distributor of for Arcam products has this to say about HiFiTrader selling arcam products (not sure about anthem):

Another unauthorized website is HiFiTrader.com. However he does clearly state that Arcam products purchased on that site have no manufacturer's warranty. He also has Arcam products listed with his "Certified Mint" logo (rather than his "New" logo) clearly indicating that you are not buying new products. So, rather than being a scam, like the Uncle's sites, this website just appears to be a seller of used products.

My dealer is trying to sell me an AVM-30 as he's clearing them aout ahead of the avm-40/50. I wonder how much he'll sell it to me for. How much does a poweramp cost around about?

I read that statement also. They list prices as well for the new stuff coming out so I find it hard to believe that it could be all used. I don't know what the deal is but if I weren't so concerned about the warranty issue I'd go with them for the prices they offer. I may use them in the future. As for the poweramp, I would work both the amp and the receiver as a package with the dealer. If you go for only one piece they still have some leverage to stay below 10% but if you offer to buy two pieces from him them, I would think that you have some leverage. Get him to start at 10% off and work what you can from there. When I did my deal I had the leverage because I was willing to get the AVM,MCA and some speakers. No way his was going to let that walk out the door. PM me if you need the MSRP's so you know where to start.

considering even at a discount it sounds as though I'd spend at least near $3k, that's a bit too rich for my blood this year... Maybe in a few years :)

Right now there aren't very many 1080p flat panels(They are on the way) or 1080p content to warrant going for the advantages of the AVM-50.

We don't know for sure if Blu-Ray will be 1080p24, 50 or 60, or something else. Even HD-DVD should be 1080p later. So the Gennum scaler will be able to make the conversion to match your display timings.

We don't know for sure if Blu-Ray will be 1080p24, 50 or 60, or something else. Even HD-DVD should be 1080p later. So the Gennum scaler will be able to make the conversion to match your display timings.


Can anyone confirm for sure that the Gennunm VP can convert any video 480/720/1080i to 1080p on a 1080p display or did I read it wrong? If that's the case, then AVM-50 or 30 upgrade combined with a 1080p display should leave you fat and happy for a good while. At least I would be. :D

Can Anthem's implementation of the Gennum chip output other resolutions besides 480p, 720p or 1080p? I want to pair it with a plasma with a native resolution of 1368 x 768 and bypass the internal scaler. I also have a HD set top box that can output native rate. I would like my preamp to handle all the deinterlacing and scaling and feed the output to the plasma at it's native res.

I just ordered an AVM30 today (27 March) and the Paradigm/Anthem Rep had been in this afternoon and asked if I wanted to delay for the 40. He stated it had full HDMI switching and was being released in 2 weeks (in Canada) - the Dealer said he would have one in 2 1/2 to 3 weeks. The Dealer had no prices but suggested it would be around an 800CAD increase over the AVM30.
Hey PaulT_BC what dealer in BC? In Vancouver?

Ron,

I don't have first hand experience with the Anthem/Gennum processor as I am one who's awaiting a D2 (and, I have a 1080P DLP). But, I remember reading LEVESQUE's response to a similar question in another Anthem post (and he knows this topic very well, btw).

Originally posted by bkzoller

Question:
Is the upgraded D1 expected to transcode video inputs to 720p or 1080i for output on HDMI, or is that speculation? The upcoming Onkyo/Integra/IR products will transcode video inputs only up to 480p for the HDMI output and 480i for the component output, according to what I found in the manual.

Response:
The D1 will do alot more then that. It will upscale to 720p and 1080i, but we will also be able to perform custom resolutions to match any display non-standard resolution (other then 720p or 1080i).

Hope it helps,
Ken

Can Anthem's implementation of the Gennum chip output other resolutions besides 480p, 720p or 1080p? I want to pair it with a plasma with a native resolution of 1368 x 768 and bypass the internal scaler..

There is a whole bunch of standard and non-standard resolutions supported. Not only 480p, 720p and 1080p. And yes, your resolution is supported also. You will be able to use it. :D

It's an integrated scaler. Just like a dedicated external scaler, but integrated in the pre/pro.

It's an integrated scaler. Just like a dedicated external scaler, but integrated in the pre/pro.

That is really the reason I am going to buy the AVM 40 instead - just spend
some time on the video processor forum and all of the issues scare me
away from the AVM 50.

What are the chances that Anthem with their first venture into video processing
will get it right? I know the chip is probably stable its the software that scares
me...

That is really the reason I am going to buy the AVM 40 instead - just spend
some time on the video processor forum and all of the issues scare me
away from the AVM 50.

What are the chances that Anthem with their first venture into video processing
will get it right? I know the chip is probably stable its the software that scares
me...

Tony, I recently pre ordered the AVM 40, and am thinking about getting the AVM 50 instead. Could you point me to a spefic thread that talks of the AVM 50 and possible issues? Or, what you feel or what you have learned of AVM 50's video processing? I realize were talking of a product that has yet to be released, but I would still enjoy the information.

If there is an issue I'd feel comfortable that Anthem would resolve it pretty quickly.

On the other hand, perhaps they've had ample time to learn from other's mistakes.

Tony, I recently pre ordered the AVM 40, and am thinking about getting the AVM 50 instead. Could you point me to a spefic thread that talks of the AVM 50 and possible issues? Or, what you feel or what you have learned of AVM 50's video processing? I realize were talking of a product that has yet to be released, but I would still enjoy the information.

I don't believe there is any thread that talks about the AVM50 but just
about every processor introduced to date appears to have a number of
issues and many of these are from companies that have been in the VP
business for many years...

I don't believe there is any thread that talks about the AVM50 but just
about every processor introduced to date appears to have a number of
issues and many of these are from companies that have been in the VP
business for many years...

Even if they have been in the business for many years you can still run into issues if you try to be early into the market.

Often, it's a calculated risk vs. potential benefit - come out early, or work out a few more issues.

With the computer software updates as prevalent as they are, I think people are more tolerant of bugs in general if the company appears to be proactive in resolution. Hand in hand with that, I think these days it is easier to justify coming to market earlier rather than a little better, but later. If one is too late, the brand recognition is not there and harder to make up, IMO, of course. Again, calculated risk.

Even if they have been in the business for many years you can still run into issues if you try to be early into the market.

Often, it's a calculated risk vs. potential benefit - come out early, or work out a few more issues.

With the computer software updates as prevalent as they are, I think people are more tolerant of bugs in general if the company appears to be proactive in resolution. Hand in hand with that, I think these days it is easier to justify coming to market earlier rather than a little better, but later. If one is too late, the brand recognition is not there and harder to make up, IMO, of course. Again, calculated risk.

Let us know how it goes :-)

Let us know how it goes :-)

Probably won't come to pass for me. But, if it does, it would probably be in the form of an upgrade to my AVM 20. By the time that comes to pass, hopefully they'll have most of the bugs worked out. :)

Probably won't come to pass for me. But, if it does, it would probably be in the form of an upgrade to my AVM 20. By the time that comes to pass, hopefully they'll have most of the bugs worked out. :)

I am going to go with the AVM 40 which I believe is basically the AVM 30
with HDMI switching. My main care about is being able to send the AVM 40
decoded DTS-HD over HDMI 1.1 from my High-Def DVD player when purchased.

I will wait for the Video Processing settle which probably be about the time
VP chips will already be widely incorporated into high end displays :-)

It will be interesting to see if any other upgrades on any kind come with the AVM 40. To me, it seems the additional $700.00 retail price over the AVM 30 is expensive for nothing more than HDMI switching. Hopefully, Anthem's website will be upgraded in a week or two and give us info on the new models.

Tony - Couple of quick comments and a question. Don't read too much into the video processing posts. I've been happily using my HD Leeza which has been de-interlacing 1080i for years but it usually gets thoroughly trashed over there by those looking for the latest and greatest VP.

Maybe I misunderstand what you are saying above but you said the new audio standards are a concern for you. Are you thinking the AVM-40 will get its HDMI upgraded from switching to inputting down the road? Why not just get the 50 now and bypass the video processor and have the audio support? :)

Tony - Couple of quick comments and a question. Don't read too much into the video processing posts. I've been happily using my HD Leeza which has been de-interlacing 1080i for years but it usually gets thoroughly trashed over there by those looking for the latest and greatest VP.

Maybe I misunderstand what you are saying above but you said the new audio standards are a concern for you. Are you thinking the AVM-40 will get its HDMI upgraded from switching to inputting down the road? Why not just get the 50 now and bypass the video processor and have the audio support? :)

It is my understanding that the HDMI 1.1 on the AVM 40 will handle the
new audio formats...

Interesting I thought the AVM-40 was switching only, but could never get anyone to confirm this. Do you have a source where it says in can accept audio on the HDMI inputs?

Do you have a source where it says in can accept audio on the HDMI inputs?

I have a D2. It's an HDMI 1.1 connection. So all audio formats are supported (DVD-A included) except SACD.

Levesque - I've been following your exploits on the 79AVi and D2 for quite some time. Lucky b*stard :) I understand the D2 and AVM-50 are HDMI1.1 but everyone has been saying the AVM-40 is switching only, which to me implies pass through only, no audio processing. So are you saying the AVM-40 switches and accepts HDMI audio for processing?

Levesque - I've been following your exploits on the 79AVi and D2 for quite some time. Lucky b*stard :) I understand the D2 and AVM-50 are HDMI1.1 but everyone has been saying the AVM-40 is switching only, which to me implies pass through only, no audio processing. So are you saying the AVM-40 switches and accepts HDMI audio for processing?

Not to answer for Levesque but is my understanding that the only difference
between the AVM 50 and the AMV 40 is the addition of video processing. I
believe the both have HDMI 1.1 and can receive both audio and video over
HDMI...

I guess I was just being pessimistic, everything I read was saying switching only. Since I already have an external video processor the AVM-40 would fit my needs nicely. Hopefully Anthem will update their site soon with the D2, AVM-50 and 40 specs.

So if it doesn't have video processing I wonder if it can do OSD through the HDMI?

So did the Video transcoding and Zone 2 component assignment make it into the upgrade. Anyone try these features yet?

Anyone heard any recent news on the AVM upgrades? when is this going to be available.

thanks!

Anyone heard any recent news on the AVM upgrades? when is this going to be available.

I emailed Nick around at the end of last month and at that time they were thinking 2-3 months.

They would have to release the new products before they upgrade older models. My dealer tells me April for AVM-50 release, hoping thats true

I emailed Nick around at the end of last month and at that time they were thinking 2-3 months.


I hope that is a very conservative estimate...

Any word on when the AVM40 or 50 will ship? My dealer told me sometime early April. it's now May.

Any word on when the AVM40 or 50 will ship? My dealer told me sometime early April. it's now May.

Agreed - is this ever being released?

I e-mailed Nick at Anthem a couple days ago and he said the AVM 50 is in the building stage now and will ship soon. Yes, I realize soon doesn't specify a date. It is however a plus knowing it is in the building stages.

Here is the comparison chart of the 30,40,50 and d2...I didn't see it posted yet.

Just received this from my dealer.

Nice! Gives me something to stare at until mine comes in. I wonder who will get to start the "Official AVM 50 thread".

I just received an email from Nick today with the following (I enquired as to upgrade path from AVM30 to 40 and time frame for it):

His response>>>>>

AVM 30 upgrade will be to AVM 50 level, not 40.

The AVM 50 is now shipping, upgrades for existing units guessed at 60-90 days but predicting software completion is futile. AVM 40 somewhere in there too (HDMI switching but no video processing). Announcement on our web site once available.

>>>

so - the 50 is out the door, the 40 soon (I am reading somewhere within 2 to 3 months), and AVM30 owners might expect to be able to upgrade to AVM50 in 2 to 3 months (but not to the AVM40 level).

I'm a bit disappointed I can't go from the 30 to 40, but hey, might as well go whole hog.

So what is the cost to upgrade from the AVM30 to AVM50? And by 60-90 days did he mean that is when they will start accepting upgrades for the AVM30, or is that how long it takes to do the upgrade?

AVM 30 upgrade will be to AVM 50 level, not 40.
This is consistent with what was stated a few months ago either in this or one of the others threads that was started about the AVM 40/50.

So what is the cost to upgrade from the AVM30 to AVM50? And by 60-90 days did he mean that is when they will start accepting upgrades for the AVM30, or is that how long it takes to do the upgrade?

My read on this is they will start accepting the units for upgrade in 60-90 days. I would assume :) that 'minimum' upgrade price would be the difference between the cost of the 2 units, but I could be just blowing smoke.

My read on this is they will start accepting the units for upgrade in 60-90 days. I would assume :) that 'minimum' upgrade price would be the difference between the cost of the 2 units, but I could be just blowing smoke.

I think if you go thru your dealer, they 'may' offer typical discounts of 10-20% off the $1700 upgrade price. This makes sense because a new AVM 50 buyer would get a similar discount off the MSRP of $4699. Why would early product adaptors get penalized and expected to pay full retail on the upgrade. Of course this is all up to your dealers pricing policies and practices. ... but I could be just blowing smoke too. I am hoping for the best possible upgrade price if/when I decide to upgrade.

It looks like the video processing is the same for the D-2 and the AVM 50. Does anyone think that the additional audio capabilities of the D-2 are worth the extra $2,000 ?

It looks like the video processing is the same for the D-2 and the AVM 50. Does anyone think that the additional audio capabilities of the D-2 are worth the extra $2,000 ?


This was discussed extensively when the AVM 30 and D1 were introduced. do a search....

The key differences are the D1/2 has dual moto processors, upsamples all audio to 24-bit/192-kHz and uses 'better' components. All other featues including HDMI switching and the new scaler are the same. There are many that do think these are worth the extra $2k based on D1/D2 sales.

It looks like the video processing is the same for the D-2 and the AVM 50. Does anyone think that the additional audio capabilities of the D-2 are worth the extra $2,000 ?


I demoed the D1 and AVM 30 with the A5 amp pushing it. I could not see a $2000 difference in the features that I was concerned about so I was all set to get the AVM 30. Lucky for me I had a few months before my new house was going to be ready and the D2 was coming out. My dealer sold me his D1 floor model that he had for just about the cost of a AVM 30 and with the upgrade I will have a D2 for less than MSRP of the AVM 50 (in a few months)

The D1/D2 have features over the AVM 30/50 that I am sure are worth $2000 more. For my setup the D1/D2 is over kill. I am sure in a few months of playing around with my D1 I will be thinking how I ever lived without it :D

I demoed the D1 and AVM 30 with the A5 amp pushing it. I could not see a $2000 difference in the features that I was concerned about so I was all set to get the AVM 30. Lucky for me I had a few months before my new house was going to be ready and the D2 was coming out. My dealer sold me his D1 floor model that he had for just about the cost of a AVM 30 and with the upgrade I will have a D2 for less than MSRP of the AVM 50 (in a few months)

The D1/D2 have features over the AVM 30/50 that I am sure are worth $2000 more. For my setup the D1/D2 is over kill. I am sure in a few months of playing around with my D1 I will be thinking how I ever lived without it :D

What features does the D2 have that the AVM 50 doesn't?

What features does the D2 have that the AVM 50 doesn't?

Look up three posts..... :eek:

What features does the D2 have that the AVM 50 doesn't?


Look at the comparison chart PDF in this post.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7602024&&#post7602024

If the AVM 50 is already shipping, it's odd that the Anthem web site still says "Introducing the AVM 30".

If the AVM 50 is already shipping, it's odd that the Anthem web site still says "Introducing the AVM 30".

Not surprising at all. For a small company like Anthem, the Marketing group probably does the beta program, the support program, etc etc. Actual marketing always comes last when you have to make a choice between all those requirements (if they are a good product company anyhow).

Also, this probably an unannounced official release... what I call the Beta level 2. Get the product out there in quantities you can manage from a delivery and support perspecitive. If all goes well in the first x weeks then let it loose with both barrels!

Just my personal perspective from experience in marketing for a small to mid size technical product company, not a/v related unfortunately :(

Look at the comparison chart PDF in this post.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7602024&&#post7602024

Thanks!

If the AVM 50 is already shipping, it's odd that the Anthem web site still says "Introducing the AVM 30".

The Anthem web site was updated today and now has everything from spec sheets to operating manuals for the AVM 30/40/50s available to download.

See: http://www.anthemav.com/NewSitev2.0/AnthemProduct/AVM30_40_50/AVM30_40_50.html

There has been speculation in some posts that there will be an AVM20 -> AVM50 upgrade. Can anyone confirm this?

So if the upgrades are going to be coming in the mid-to-late summer timeframe, does anyone have an idea of how long they take to turn one around? Days, weeks or months? I'd hate to have my theater down for more than a week or two waiting on this.

There has been speculation in some posts that there will be an AVM20 -> AVM50 upgrade. Can anyone confirm this?
According to this poster in another thread, they contacted Anthem and received an affirmative -
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7686713&&#post7686713
Probably best to email Nick yourself to confirm.

I contacted Anthem, and they did confirm that the avm20v2 will be upgraded to a avm20v3 (avm50 compatible). I think the price will be $1500-1700 for the upgrade.

I also contacted them again this past week and their's no set date on when the upgrade will be available.

In one of the old AVM40 threads I posted my email response from anthem.

I probably won't do the upgrade till I replace my current RPTV which is only 2 yrs old with a new 1080p display.

Regards,
Jose

I am considering getting a Lexicon but came across the AVM 50 today and I was curious if anyone knew how it would compare sound wise to the Lexicon MC-4 or MC-8. Obviously the AVM 50 has more inputs / outputs among other abilities which gives it a big leg up but if it doesnt sound as good as the Lexicons then all the additional add ons it has really wouldnt matter

Does anyone have any thoughts to share about the AVM 40? It sounds like a terrific front end.

Thanks in advance,

Ron