The Anthem MCA 525 is a 5-channel power amplifier from Anthem's MCA series, designed and crafted in Canada to partner with the AVM 60 and AVM 70 processors as well as MRX receivers. Sitting alongside the 2-channel MCA 225 and 3-channel MCA 325, the MCA 525 delivers dedicated amplification across all five channels for home cinema systems that demand headroom and control beyond what an integrated receiver can provide.
Power and Architecture
The MCA 525 is a Class A/B amplifier rated at 225 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 400 watts per channel into 4 ohms, with all five channels driven simultaneously. Two shared power supplies, built around custom low-noise high-power toroidal transformers, distribute energy across all five channels rather than dedicating separate supplies to different channel groups. This architecture allows instant, full bursts of power to any channel without affecting channel separation.
Circuit Design
Each channel employs eight high-current bipolar output transistors, mounted on oversized aluminium heatsinks. The circuit layout has been redesigned to minimise internal cabling, resulting in a smoother, more direct signal path. Improved input transistors contribute to greater transparency, while the signal-to-noise ratio of 120 dB ensures background noise is practically nonexistent.
Advanced Load Monitoring
Anthem's exclusive Advanced Load Monitoring (ALM) technology continuously monitors internal temperature, current, and voltage to ensure safe, uninterrupted long-term operation. By eliminating internal fuses from the signal path, ALM avoids the sonic compromise of traditional fuse-based protection. If a fault occurs on one channel, unaffected channels continue operating normally.
Connectivity
The MCA 525 provides both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs for all five channels, allowing flexible integration with any processor or pre-amplifier. Audiophile-grade binding posts accommodate a wide range of speaker cable terminations. A 12-volt trigger input and output enable automatic power-on with compatible processors and receivers.
What the Press Says
- "This Class A/B amplifier is on the pricey side considering it only has five channels, but you'll be mesmerised by the power, detail, dynamic transients, and ample headroom." — Home Cinema Choice 4.5/5 (May 2023)
- Highly Recommended — Home Cinema Choice
| Channels | 5 |
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| Amplifier Class | Class A/B |
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| Power Output (8Ω) | 225 W per channel |
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| Power Output (4Ω) | 400 W per channel |
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| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 120 dB |
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| Output Devices | 8 bipolar transistors per channel |
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| Inputs | 5× balanced XLR, 5× RCA |
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| Speaker Outputs | 5× binding posts |
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| Control | 12V trigger in/out |
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| Power Consumption | 1200 W |
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| Standby Power | 2 W |
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| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 439 × 169 × 460 mm |
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| Weight | 27.5 kg |
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