Brian H

Anthem vs Classe

Haven't been here in awhile, but getting ready to refresh my electronics and looking for some advice. Current set-up includes a Lexicon MC-1, Aragon 8000 series amps, and ML speakers (Quests on the front mains and center). I have Quest Summit's, Stage, Script i, and a Descent i sub on order, and am looking to my electronics next.

Couple of things in consideration....

I was thinking about going with a Classe' SSP-600 and 5200 amp, OR the Anthem D2 and P5 combo. I like the HDMI capabilies on the Anthem gear plus the higher power of the amp. Also, my local dealer is moving away from Classe' so I hate to commit to a brand they are leaving.

Anyone got any general comments or advice on Anthem vs Classe'? Also, my dealer punted Classe' for McIntosh. Should I be considering Mac??

Thx in advance!

Arthur S

Re: Anthem vs Classe

Brian

You really can't do much better than Aragon. McIntosh is pretty but not any better sound quality than Aragon. You would do much better to upgrade that Lexicon MC-1 to something like a Lexicon MC-12HD. More than a few guys with very high end systems are using Lexicon MC 12.

4VTHOKIES

Re: Anthem vs Classe

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arthur S Brian You really can't do much better than Aragon. McIntosh is pretty but not any better sound quality than Aragon. You would do much better to upgrade that Lexicon MC-1 to something like a Lexicon MC-12HD. More than a few guys with very high end systems are using Lexicon MC 12.

If sound quality is important to you give the McIntosh a listen. They are very hard to beat when it comes to pure sound quality. The only thing I can tell you is to make sure you have enough inputs to handle all your sources.

I purchased the McIntosh MX119 pre/pro about a month ago and I am extremely pleased with my purchase but I wish I would have bought the MX-135 pre/pro instead. The 119 only has 3 component inputs for my Direct TV HD/Tivo Receiver, X-Box 360 with HD DVD Add On, Panasonic Blu-Ray Player and my Denon DVD Player. As you can see I am without one connection for the Denon which I am using at this time as my 2 channel SACD, DVD Audio and CD player. I am ok because my Panasonic BD player is a pretty darn good DVD player as well.

Arthur S

Re: Anthem vs Classe

Hi Ted

If I was going to replace my Nakamichi amplification, I would seriously consider either Pass Class A, or Lamm Class A. The Lamm is solid down to 1 ohm...
This would be a good way to go with Martin Logan.

PS Of course I would have to take out a loan to pay the electric bill...

Happy New Year

Brian H

Re: Anthem vs Classe

Arthur/Ted,

Thx for both your comments. Very much appreciated.

I struggle with choking down a Lexicon MC-12. I've been in the Lexicon line since my CP-1 (I think that was the model?), and hate to leave them. Just seems like too many $$$. After all, if I am going to spend the money, why not refresh the front end and the amps?

I realize that Aragon amps are pretty tough to beat, but I would like to consolidate my 8008x2 and 8008x3 into one box if possible. Also, I have to believe that amplifier designs have improved since the Aragon's hit the drawing board. Is this a bad assumption?

I probably should consider the McIntosh gear... but (and I hate to say this up here), I HATE it's looks! If you look at my gear, I generally consider performance/$$$ and functionality/sound before looks, but there is something about the Mac stuff that I just struggle with....

That leads me to another question.... should I be concerned about local dealer support? If I look at my local dealers I have options of Anthem, Arcam, Classe, and Mac. Does it really matter if I have local support?

Brian

Arthur S

Re: Anthem vs Classe

HI Brian

Lexicon MC-12 HD is an awful lot of money...

You probably wouldn't consider a one box solution, however, the Denon 5805 MKII has just about every feature in the book, and at 92 pounds has some good amps. As far as separates, I like Classe amps...and the Aragon Sound Stage...

Have a Prosperous New Year