Anthem MRX 540 8K vs Arcam AVR21

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Arcam AVR21
      87
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      92
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      North America
      Europe
      All
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      Highlights

      • 5.2 Channels
      • 7.1 Channel Processing
      • 100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • HDMI 2.1
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
      • 8K Passthrough
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 15.2 Channel Processing
      • 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • HDMI 2.1
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D
      • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
      • 8K Passthrough
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet

      Disclosure: We earn money from the affiliate links to products associated with content in this article.

      Table of Contents
      1. Overview
      2. Pros and Cons
      3. Advantage of Anthem MRX 540 8K
      4. Advantage of Arcam AVR21
      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses
      6. Amplifier
      7. Speaker Configurations
      8. Immersive Audio Formats
      9. HDMI
      10. Inputs and Outputs
      11. Evaluations
      12. Specifications

      1. Overview

      Here we are comparing Anthem MRX 540 8K to Arcam AVR21 to reveal their common strengths and weaknesses as well as the differences between them which will help you in making a correct decision before the purchase. The Anthem MRX 540 8K has 5 channel and the Arcam AVR21 has 7 channel amplifiers with Anthem MRX 540 8K's being less powerful.


      Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21

      Anthem MRX 540 8K was introduced in 2021. It is equipped with 5 channel amplifier with 100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video signal.

      Arcam AVR21 was introduced in 2022. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 15.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video signal.

      We evaluated Anthem MRX 540 8K and Arcam AVR21 and gave them scores of 87 and 92 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Arcam AVR21

      Amplifier
      84
      Amplifier
      91
      Audio Features
      87
      Audio Features
      94
      Video Features
      100
      Video Features
      99
      Connectivity
      87
      Connectivity
      90
      Zones
      71
      Zones
      85
      Radio
      73
      Radio
      86
      OVERALL
      87
      OVERALL
      92

      For more details about the ranking please go to    Evaluations section.

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Anthem MRX 540 8K and Arcam AVR21.

      PROS

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Arcam AVR21

      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   QFT
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   High Power Output - 110 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   15.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   MQA Decoding
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Digital Radio
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Toroidal Transformer
      •   Bluetooth 5․0

      CONS

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Arcam AVR21

      •   Few Channels - 5.2
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No DSD via HDMI
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   No USB Input
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   No Zones
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   No Tidal
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No Composite Video Inputs


      And here are some specifications which fall into average criteria and are neither in PROs nor in CONs category:

      AVERAGE

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Arcam AVR21

      •   Power Output - 100 W
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   2 Zones

      3. Advantage of Anthem MRX 540 8K

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Anthem MRX 540 8K over Arcam AVR21.

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      Anthem MRX 540 8K
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      Anthem MRX 540 8K vs Arcam AVR21
      Higher DAC Specs 768 kHz/32 Bit vs 192 kHz/24 Bit
      QFT vs
      More Optical Inputs 3 vs 2
      Phono Input vs
      +12V Trigger Output 3 vs 2
      Analog Tuner vs FM with RDS
      Higher Maximum Preout Level and Impedance 5.2 VRMS, 7.1 VRMS vs 5 Vrms/560 Ω
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Anthem MRX 540 8K.
      Yamaha RX-A4A
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      7.2 channel

      110 W

      Marantz Cinema 60
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      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Yamaha RX-V4A
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      5.2 channel

      80 W

      Yamaha RX-A6A
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      9.2 channel

      150 W

      Yamaha RX-V6A
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      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Yamaha RX-A8A
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      11.2 channel

      150 W

      Anthem MRX 740 8K
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      7.2 channel

      140 W

      Yamaha RX-A2A
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      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Arcam AVR5
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      7.2 channel

      80 W

      Onkyo TX-RZ50
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      9.2 channel

      120 W

      Denon AVR-X3800H
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      9.4 channel

      105 W

      Marantz Cinema 50
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      9.4 channel

      110 W

      4. Advantage of Arcam AVR21

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Arcam AVR21 over Anthem MRX 540 8K.

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      Arcam AVR21
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      Anthem MRX 540 8K vs Arcam AVR21
      More Channels 5.2 vs 7.2
      Higher Power Output 100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      More Channel Processing 7.1 vs 15.2
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer vs 13.1-ch (Built-In)
      DSD via HDMI vs 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs vs
      Google Assistant vs
      Apple Siri vs
      More HDMI Outputs 2 vs 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
      USB Input for factory service vs for factory service
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 2 vs 4
      More RCA Line Inputs 4 vs 7 (1 front)
      More RCA Pre-Outs 7.2 vs 15.2
      Front A/V Inputs vs AUX (3.5 mm Audio)
      More Zones 1 vs 2
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 1 / 0 vs 2 / 0
      Digital Radio vs DAB/DAB+
      Pandora vs
      Tidal vs
      More Speaker Terminals 5 vs 7
      More Large Speaker Terminals 5 vs 7
      Universal Power Supply AC 120 V, 60 Hz vs AC 110-120 V or 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz via switch
      Toroidal Transformer vs
      Bigger Power Supply 365 W vs 1500 W
      Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC) 100 W (1% THD) vs 125 W (0.2% THD)
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Arcam AVR21.
      Marantz Cinema 40
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      9.4 channel

      125 W

      Arcam AVR31
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      7.2 channel

      120 W

      Anthem MRX 740 8K
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      7.2 channel

      140 W

      Arcam AVR11
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      7.2 channel

      80 W

      Yamaha RX-A8A
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      11.2 channel

      150 W

      Yamaha RX-A6A
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      9.2 channel

      150 W

      Anthem MRX 1140 8K
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      11.2 channel

      140 W

      Yamaha RX-A4A
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      7.2 channel

      110 W

      Marantz Cinema 30
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      11.4 channel

      140 W

      Onkyo TX-RZ70
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      11.2 channel

      140 W

      Pioneer VSX-LX805
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      11.4 channel

      150 W

      Denon AVR-X6700H
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      11.2 channel

      140 W

      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses

      We already listed pros and cons of each model. However, you may also find useful to look at their common strengths and weaknesses shown side-by-side.

      STRENGTHS Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
        Dolby Atmos up to 9.1.6 with external amp
        DTS:X Pro up to 9.1.6 with external amp
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.Anthem Room Correction (ARC Genesis) Dirac Live™
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dolby Vision
        HDMI Version2.12.1
        eARC
        New HDCP Version2.32.3
        Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
        VRR
        8K Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth aptX HD
        Chromecast Built-In
        Many HDMI Inputs77
        Many 8K Inputs77
        RCA Pre-Outs7.215.2
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM with RDS
        Spotify
      WEAKNESSES Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
        Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        No Composite Video Inputs

      6. Amplifier

      Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21

      5 channel Class A/B Amplifier: Anthem MRX 540 8K features 5 channel power amplifier with Class A/B design on Channels 1-5 and Class D design on the rest. It is rated at 100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      7 channel Class A/B Amplifier: Arcam AVR21 features 7 channel power amplifier with Class A/B design. It is rated at 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.
      • Toroidal Transformer: Arcam AVR21 has a toroidal transformer which in general costs several times more than a regular C-core transformer and radiates less electromagnetic noise outside its donut shaped core.


      AMPLIFIER Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Channels5.27.2
      Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      Amplifier DesignClass A/B on Channels 1-5 and Class D on the restClass A/B
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Bi-amp Capability

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      Anthem MRX 540 8K
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      7. Speaker Configurations

      Anthem MRX 540 8K's and Arcam AVR21's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

      • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
      • Anthem MRX 540 8K: 3.1.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Arcam AVR21: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier and 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier and 5.2.6, 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 4 channel amplifier and 7.2.6, 9.2.4 with addition of external 6 channel amplifier and 9.2.6 with addition of external 8 channel amplifier.
      • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
      • Anthem MRX 540 8K: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 3.1.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Arcam AVR21: This model supports DTS:X but not DTS:X Pro. Since DTS:X is limited with 11 channel processing some of the speaker configurations for Dolby Atmos are not supported here. The supported configurations are 5.2.2 with internal amplifier and 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier and 5.2.6, 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 4 channel amplifier.
      • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
      • Anthem MRX 540 8K: 5.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Arcam AVR21: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier and 9.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Front Wide Channel support: With the presence of two front wide speakers you can enhance the front surround stage. The following speaker configurations are available for front wide channels:
      • Anthem MRX 540 8K: Does not support.
      • Arcam AVR21: 9.2, 9.2.2, 9.2.4, 9.2.6.
      • 2-ch Bi-Amp: Both models are able to bi-amp up to 2 main channels simultaneously. During bi-amplification two amplifiers are used for one speaker. One amplifier powers the midrange and tweeter section of the speaker and another amplifier powers the low frequency woofers. Each amplifier is less loaded and performs better. In order to use this feature speakers must have 2 pairs of connectors.

      8. Immersive Audio Formats

      Dolby Atmos

      Anthem MRX 540 8K and Arcam AVR21 support Dolby Atmos.

      • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Both models support Dolby Surround Upmixer. If the content is not mixed in Dolby Atmos then the Dolby surround upmixer will expand the audio to all channels including ceiling speakers. The upmixer has replaced the Dolby Pro Logic II family with improved upmixing algorithms.
      • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization: Arcam AVR21 supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization which is a digital signal processing solution that leverages Dolby's deep understanding of human audio perception to create the sensation of overhead sound from the listener-level speakers.

      DTS:X

      Anthem MRX 540 8K and Arcam AVR21 support DTS:X.

      • DTS Neural:X: Both models feature DTS Neural:X which is an advanced upmixer that can take non DTS:X content and upmix it to the DTS:X speaker layout. It has replaced the DTS Neo family with improved flexibility.
      • DTS Virtual:X: Both models feature DTS Virtual:X which bridges the gap between DTS:X codec and the reality of so many consumers' homes, allowing you to enjoy multi-dimensional sound regardless of room size, layout, or speaker configuration. If you have a limited speaker setup you will miss a full immersive potential of your entertainment system. DTS Virtual:X adds height and surround audio effect to your system without adding height speakers. It works with multiple configurations and delivers immersive sound experience out of 5.1 or even 2.1 speaker layouts.
      • DTS Dialog Control: Both models have DTS Dialog Control. This function adjusts the dialog levels during playback of the DTS:X stream. It allows you to separately increase the dialog levels in contrast with the background sound and hear dialog easily even under noisy circumstances.

      Auro-3D

      Arcam AVR21 supports Auro-3D.

      • Auro-Matic upmixer: Auro-Matic upmixer takes non Auro-3D sound and upmixes to the current speaker configuration.

      IMAX Enhanced

      Anthem MRX 540 8K and Arcam AVR21 are IMAX Enhanced certified. To qualify for IMAX Enhanced certification, 4K HDR televisions, projectors, sound bars, a/v receivers, loudspeakers, powered subwoofers and other premium home entertainment devices must meet carefully prescribed performance requirements established by IMAX, DTS and Hollywood's leading experts.

      • What makes an IMAX Enhanced A/V receiver different from an A/V receiver with DTS:X technology? DTS:X technology is commonly found in most multi-channel A/V receivers on the market today. All IMAX Enhanced A/V receivers include DTS:X technology and deliver additional features, such as auto-sensing of IMAX Enhanced content, via IMAX Mode. IMAX Mode indicates that your A/V receiver supports fully immersive IMAX signature sound.
      AUDIO DECODING Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Dolby Atmos up to 9.1.6 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic
      DTS:X Pro up to 9.1.6 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In)

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      Arcam AVR21
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      9. HDMI 2.1

      Anthem MRX 540 8K comes with 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support. It has 2 outputs which work parallelly and output the same signal.

      Arcam AVR21 comes with 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support. It has 3 outputs - 2 x 8K for MAIN and 1 x 4K for ZONE2.

      • 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough: On both receivers all inputs pass up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
      • BT.2020 Color Space: BT.2020 or Rec. 2020 is a color standard which delivers a wider color gamut compared to Rec. 709. It covers approximately 75% of the total visual spectrum while the Rec. 709 covers only 35% (available on both models).
      • HDCP 2.3 Copy Protection: Both receivers are HDCP 2.3 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
      • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

      HDR (High Dynamic Range)

      Both receivers support HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma. High dynamic range video has greater dynamic range than standard dynamic range (SDR) video with brighter whites and deeper blacks. The result is greater contrast and more details in dark and bright areas, better color and depth.


      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

      Anthem MRX 540 8K and Arcam AVR21 support Audio Return Channel (ARC) which allows the compatible TV to send audio signal to the a/v receiver through the same HDMI cable which is used to send audio and video signals to the TV. So one HDMI cable is used to transfer audio signal in both directions. New Enhanced ARC will support uncompressed audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio whereas the previous ARC could support only Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, DTS HD, and PCM.


      Gaming Features

      Anthem MRX 540 8K supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) Arcam AVR21 supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



      VIDEO FEATURES Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDMI Version2.12.1
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.32.3
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4

      Check the Price

      Anthem MRX 540 8K
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      10. Inputs and Outputs

      Audio

      • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Anthem MRX 540 8K with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
      • Analog Pre-Outs: Anthem MRX 540 8K has 7.2 and Arcam AVR21 has 15.2 preamplifier outputs which allow you to connect the receivers to the external power amplifiers. You may want to use a high quality external amplifier for certain channels, usually for front L/R and center, and use the receiver to power the rest. Also, Anthem MRX 540 8K has 7 channel processing but has only 5 channel amplifier and Arcam AVR21 has 15 channel processing but has only 5 channel amplifier, so they need external amplifiers connected to their analog pre-outs in order to reach their maximum speaker configurations.
      • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 4 pair of line inputs on Anthem MRX 540 8K and 7 pair of line inputs on Arcam AVR21 for connecting sources with analog outputs. There are also 1 pair of line outputs on the receivers.
      • Digital Inputs and Outputs: 3 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Anthem MRX 540 8K and 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 4 coaxial inputs are available on Arcam AVR21 for digital audio connections.
      • Headphone Output: There is a 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output jack on the front panel of each receiver.

      Video

      • HDMI:
      • Anthem MRX 540 8K
        Inputs:         7   Outputs: 2
        8K Inputs: 7.
      • Arcam AVR21
        Inputs:         7   Outputs: 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
        8K Inputs: 7.

      Front A/V Inputs

      • Anthem MRX 540 8K: None
      • Arcam AVR21: AUX (3.5 mm Audio)

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

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      Arcam AVR21

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      TERMINALS Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      HDMI Inputs77
      HDMI Outputs23 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
      8K Inputs77
      USB Input for factory service for factory service
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs32
      Optical Outputs11
      Coaxial Inputs24
      RCA Line Inputs47 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs11
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input
      RCA Pre-Outs7.215.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs
      Composite Video Outputs
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs
      Component Video Outputs

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      Arcam AVR21
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      11. Evaluations

      We evaluated Anthem MRX 540 8K and Arcam AVR21 and gave them scores of 87 and 92 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Arcam AVR21

      OVERALL
      87
      OVERALL
      92

      Amplifier

      GOOD
      84
      •   Few Channels - 5.2
      •   Power Output - 100 W
      EXCELLENT
      91
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   High Power Output - 110 W
      •   Toroidal Transformer

      Audio Features

      EXCELLENT
      87
      •   Few Channels - 5.2
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No DSD via HDMI
      EXCELLENT
      94
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   15.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   MQA Decoding
      •   DSD via HDMI

      Video Features

      EXCELLENT
      100
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   QFT
      •   8K Passthrough
      EXCELLENT
      99
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   8K Passthrough

      Connectivity

      EXCELLENT
      87
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   No USB Input
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 5․0

      Zones

      GOOD
      71
      •   No Zones
      EXCELLENT
      85
      •   2 Zones

      Radio

      GOOD
      73
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   No Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   No Tidal
      EXCELLENT
      86
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      12. Specifications

      GENERAL Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      BrandAnthemArcam
      SeriesHDA
      ModelMRX 540 8KAVR21
      TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
      CountryNorth AmericaAll
      Release Year20212022
      PredecessorArcam AVR20
      AMPLIFIER Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Channels5.27.2
      Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      Amplifier DesignClass A/B on Channels 1-5 and Class D on the restClass A/B
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Bi-amp Capability
      AUDIO FEATURES Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineNext-Generation DSP Platform
      DACDual ESS 9026PRO
      DAC Specs768 kHz/32 Bit192 kHz/24 Bit
      Maximum Channel Processing7.115.2
      Dolby Atmos up to 9.1.6 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic
      Dolby Digital EX
      DTS:X Pro up to 9.1.6 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In)
      MQA Decoding
      PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, MQA
      Music Playback via USB
      High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 192 kHz
      Gapless Playback
      DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD via USB
      DSD to PCM Converter
      USB DAC
      DTS Dialogue Control
      Dialog normalization
      Dialogue Lift
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume
      Audyssey LFC
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT
      Audyssey DSX
      Direct Mode Stereo Direct, CD Direct
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs
      CALIBRATION Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.Anthem Room Correction (ARC Genesis) Dirac Live™
      VIDEO FEATURES Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDMI Version2.12.1
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.32.3
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      DSC (Display Stream Compression)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      CONNECTIVITY Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Wi-Fi
      Bluetooth aptX HD
      Works with Amazon Alexa
      Google Assistant
      Chromecast Built-In
      Apple Siri
      Works with SonoS
      DTS Play-Fi
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay 2
      Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod, iPhone and iPad
      Remote App Anthem Remote App Arcam control app
      TERMINALS Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      HDMI Inputs77
      HDMI Outputs23 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
      8K Inputs77
      USB Input for factory service for factory service
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs32
      Optical Outputs11
      Coaxial Inputs24
      RCA Line Inputs47 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs11
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input
      RCA Pre-Outs7.215.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs
      Composite Video Outputs
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs
      Component Video Outputs
      Ethernet
      Ethernet Switch
      PC In
      Front A/V InputsAUX (3.5 mm Audio)
      Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")3.5 mm (1/8")
      Detachable Power Cord
      ZONES Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Number of Zones12
      Powered Zones 2
      Zone 2 OutsHDMI, Pre Out
      RS-232C Interface
      +12V Trigger Output32
      Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 02 / 0
      MISCELLANEOUS Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      IP Control
      PreAmp Mode
      DisplayLarge front-panel LCD display
      RADIO Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Analog Tuner FM with RDS
      Presets50
      Digital Radio DAB/DAB+
      Internet Radio TuneIn
      Pandora
      Spotify
      Tidal
      Deezer
      Napster
      SiriusXM
      CONSTRUCTION Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Speaker Terminals57
      Large Speaker Terminals57
      POWER Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 110-120 V or 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz via switch
      Toroidal Transformer
      Power Consumption365 W1500 W
      Standby Power0.3 W0.5 W
      PHYSICAL Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Dimensions (W x H x D)431.8 mm x 152.4 mm x 364 mm
      17" x 6" x 14-1/2" x       		433 mm x 171 mm x 425 mm
      17.06" x 6.69" x 18.56"
      Weight12.8 kg (28.2 lbs)16.6 kg (36.4 lbs)
      Weight of Package19.9 kg
      SPECIFICATIONS Anthem MRX 540 8K Arcam AVR21
      Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)110 W (0.02% THD)
      Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)100 W (1% THD)125 W (0.2% THD)
      Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)130 W (1% THD)
      Power Output (4 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel Driven)175 W (0.2% THD)
      Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)190 W (0.2% THD)
      Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive90 W (7 channels driven, 1kHz, 8 Ω, 0.2% THD)
      110 W (7 channels driven, 1kHz, 4 Ω, 0.2% THD)
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)1V, 2V, 4V (user adjustable)/47 kΩ
      Maximum Input Sensitivity (Line)4.5 Vrms
      Rated Preout Level and Impedance1 Vrms/560 Ω
      Maximum Preout Level and Impedance5.2 VRMS, 7.1 VRMS5 Vrms/560 Ω
      Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance32 Ω - 600 Ω5 Vrms/100 Ω
      S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)110 dB93 dB (normal)
      110 dB (stereo direct)
      Frequency Response (Analog In)20 Hz - 30 kHz +/-0.2 dB±0.2 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
      Residual noise (IHF-A Network)0.15 mV
      DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz
      Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 ac
      Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
      Bluetooth Version5․0
      Warranty5 Years

      * - 480i/576i and 480p/576p only
      ** - 480i/576i only
      *** - no 1080p/24 upconversion
      **** - 1080p signal is not converted

      Discussion

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