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Verdict on asking price: At USD$949, this is a solid buy for a 2009-era integrated amp with genuine muscle. The Integrated 225 originally retailed for USD$1,499 and punches well above its weight class—225 watts per channel into 8 ohms with a built-in phono stage and balanced XLR inputs. Used examples in decent condition typically move in the USD$800–USD$1,200 range depending on cosmetics and functionality, so USD$949 sits comfortably in fair-market territory, neither a steal nor overpriced. You're paying for a warm, authoritative amp with real build quality and no obvious weak link in the signal path.

What to verify before buying: First, confirm the phono stage works cleanly across both MM and MC modes—the 35dB gain is modest, so test it with a known cartridge if possible, or ask the seller for a demo. Second, listen for any hum, hiss, or channel imbalance at moderate volumes; these amps are robust, but a 15-year-old unit deserves a thorough ear-check. Confirm the remote is included and functional, and verify the amp powers up without thermal or protection-circuit hiccups. Ask about service history and whether it's been recapped—original capacitors that old can drift.

Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.

About Anthem

Anthem traces its roots to the 1990s in Canada, emerging from the acclaimed Sonic Frontiers, a brand celebrated for its no-compromise high-fidelity components crafted by dedicated engineers and audiophiles. In 1998, Paradigm acquired Sonic Frontiers, including Anthem, marking a pivotal shift toward innovative home theater electronics while preserving the pursuit of pure, unadulterated sound. This heritage of passion fused with scientific precision defines Anthem's enduring Canadian legacy.

The brand excels in premium amplification and processing, renowned for AV receivers like the MRX series, high-end processors such as the AVM line, and MCA power amplifiers. These products integrate proprietary technologies, including Anthem Room Correction (ARC), the pioneering room optimization system born from advanced research. While not venturing into speakers, turntables, DACs, headphones, or cables, Anthem's focus on electronics delivers reference-level performance tailored for discerning home theater and hi-fi setups.

Anthem holds a commanding position in the high-end market, topping charts as the leading brand for home theater preamps/processors with 30% share and ranking fourth in AV receivers at 31%. Repurchased in 2019 by Paradigm co-founder Scott Bagby and his brother John, restoring original stewardship, Anthem embodies premium Canadian engineering—reliable, innovative, and free of excess—for knowledgeable buyers seeking world-class audio without compromise.

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