Anthem MRX 540 8K vs Yamaha RX-A8A

      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

      • 11.2 Channels
      • 11.2 Channel Processing
      • 150 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, 4K/60Hz Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

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

      1. Overview

      Here we are comparing Anthem MRX 540 8K to Yamaha RX-A8A 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 Yamaha RX-A8A has 11 channel amplifiers with Anthem MRX 540 8K's being less powerful.


      Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A

      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.

      Yamaha RX-A8A was introduced in 2021 and represents a current flagship model of a manufacturer. It is equipped with 11 channel amplifier with 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales up to 4K 60p 4:4:4 video signal.


      We evaluated Anthem MRX 540 8K and Yamaha RX-A8A and gave them scores of 87 and 95 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

      Yamaha RX-A8A

      Amplifier
      84
      Amplifier
      96
      Audio Features
      87
      Audio Features
      92
      Video Features
      100
      Video Features
      99
      Connectivity
      87
      Connectivity
      91
      Zones
      71
      Zones
      95
      Radio
      73
      Radio
      97
      OVERALL
      87
      OVERALL
      95

      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 Yamaha RX-A8A.

      PROS

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Yamaha RX-A8A

      •   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
      •   Many Channels - 11.2
      •   High Power Output - 150 W
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   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
      •   QFT
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   XLR Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   XLR Pre-outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   4 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      CONS

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Yamaha RX-A8A

      •   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
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Digital Radio


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

      AVERAGE

      Anthem MRX 540 8K

      Yamaha RX-A8A

      •   Power Output - 100 W
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      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 Yamaha RX-A8A.

      Check the Price

      Anthem MRX 540 8K vs Yamaha RX-A8A
      Higher DAC Specs 768 kHz/32 Bit vs 384 kHz/32 Bit
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      More Optical Outputs 1 vs
      More RCA Line Outputs 1 vs
      RS-232C Interface vs
      +12V Trigger Output 3 vs 2
      Higher Maximum Preout Level and Impedance 5.2 VRMS, 7.1 VRMS vs 2.0 V unbalanced
      4.0 V balanced
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Anthem MRX 540 8K.

      4. Advantage of Yamaha RX-A8A

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Yamaha RX-A8A over Anthem MRX 540 8K.

      Check the Price

      Anthem MRX 540 8K vs Yamaha RX-A8A
      More Channels 5.2 vs 11.2
      Higher Power Output 100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      More Channel Processing 7.1 vs 11.2
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer vs
      DSD via HDMI vs 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD via USB vs 2-ch Input
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs vs
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      Google Assistant vs
      Apple Siri vs
      More HDMI Outputs 2 vs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2/4)
      USB Input for factory service vs USB memory, Portable Audio Player
      More RCA Line Inputs 4 vs 5
      XLR Line Inputs vs 1
      More RCA Pre-Outs 7.2 vs 11.2
      XLR Pre-outs vs Front L/R
      More Composite Video Inputs vs 2
      More Component Video Inputs vs 1
      Front A/V Inputs vs USB
      More Zones 1 vs 4
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 1 / 0 vs 1 / 1
      Pandora vs
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Napster vs
      SiriusXM vs
      More Speaker Terminals 5 vs 13
      More Large Speaker Terminals 5 vs 13
      Bigger Power Supply 365 W vs 600 W
      Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC) 100 W (1% THD) vs 165 W (0.9% THD)
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Yamaha RX-A8A.

      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 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Dolby Atmos
        DTS:X
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.Anthem Room Correction (ARC Genesis) YPAO sound optimization with R.S.C., Multipoint, 3D, 64-Bit High Precision EQ Calculation, Low Frequency mode and Angle measurement
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dolby Vision
        HDMI Version2.12.1
        eARC
        New HDCP Version2.32.3
        Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
        VRR
        QFT
        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 SBC, AAC
        Many HDMI Inputs77
        Many 8K Inputs77
        Phono Input
        RCA Pre-Outs7.211.2
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM/AM
        Spotify
      WEAKNESSES Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        No Front Wide Channel Support
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A

      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.

      11 channel Amplifier: Yamaha RX-A8A features 11 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.



        AMPLIFIER Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Channels5.211.2
        Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability

        Check the Price

        7. Speaker Configurations

        Anthem MRX 540 8K's and Yamaha RX-A8A'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.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2, 7.2.4 with internal 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.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2, 7.2.4 with internal 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.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
        • 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 Yamaha RX-A8A 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: Yamaha RX-A8A 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 Yamaha RX-A8A 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: Anthem MRX 540 8K supports 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

        Yamaha RX-A8A 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 is 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 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Dolby Atmos
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic
        DTS:X
        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

        Check the Price

        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.

        Yamaha RX-A8A comes with 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for ZONE2/4.

        • 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.
        • 4K Upscaling on Yamaha RX-A8A: It can upscale up to 4K 60p 4:4:4 from HDMI and analog sources.
        • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Yamaha RX-A8A supports analog to HDMI Upconversion, so you can input your analog video sources and output them digitally via HDMI. This means that you will need only one HDMI cable to connect to your TV.
        • 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.
        • Quick Media Switching (QMS): With HDMI 2.1a, Quick Media Switching for movies and video uses the HDMI VRR mechanism to eliminate the blackout period when an HDMI Source device switches its video mode. As long as the resolution remains the same and only the frame rate changes, QMS will instantly switch between frame rates. QMS eliminates A/V blackouts by using VRR technology to change frame rates, allowing instant changes from 24Hz to 60Hz frame rate, and anywhere in-between. The viewer never sees blank screens and gets a seamless experience (available on Yamaha RX-A8A only).
        • 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 Yamaha RX-A8A 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

        Both receivers support Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



        VIDEO FEATURES Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        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

        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Anthem MRX 540 8K and Yamaha RX-A8A 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 Yamaha RX-A8A has 11.2 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, so it needs external amplifier connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach its maximum speaker configuration.
        • XLR Inputs and Outputs: There is one pair of XLR inputs on Yamaha RX-A8A. If your CD player, Blu-Ray player or other source have XLR outputs you can connect them to the receiver's XLR Inputs for higher quality balanced connection. Besides unbalanced RCA pre-outs Yamaha RX-A8A also has XLR outputs. In case your external power amplifier has XLR inputs you can use the balanced connection for higher audio quality.
        • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 4 pair of line inputs on Anthem MRX 540 8K and 5 pair of line inputs on Yamaha RX-A8A for connecting sources with analog outputs. There is also 1 pair of line outputs on Anthem MRX 540 8K.
        • Digital Inputs and Outputs: 3 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Anthem MRX 540 8K and 3 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Yamaha RX-A8A 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.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A
          Inputs:
          7   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2/4)
          8K Inputs: 7.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Anthem MRX 540 8K
          Inputs:
          0   Outputs: 0.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A
          Inputs:
          2   Outputs: 0.
        • Component Video: Component video connection gives you the higher quality video compared to the composite video connection. So in case your old DVD player and other equipment do not have an HDMI output but have Component video output use this connection over the composite one. resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A supports up to 1080i resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Anthem MRX 540 8K
          Inputs:
          0   Outputs: 0.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A
          Inputs:
          1   Outputs: 0.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Anthem MRX 540 8K: None
        • Yamaha RX-A8A: USB

        Anthem MRX 540 8K

        Image cannot be found Image cannot be found

        Yamaha RX-A8A

        Image cannot be found Image cannot be found
        TERMINALS Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        HDMI Inputs77
        HDMI Outputs23 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2/4)
        8K Inputs77
        USB Input for factory serviceUSB memory, Portable Audio Player
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs33
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs22
        RCA Line Inputs45
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs1
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs7.211.2
        XLR Pre-outsFront L/R
        Composite Video Inputs2
        Composite Video Outputs
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs1
        Component Video Outputs

        Check the Price

        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Anthem MRX 540 8K and Yamaha RX-A8A and gave them scores of 87 and 95 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

        Yamaha RX-A8A

        OVERALL
        87
        OVERALL
        95

        Amplifier

        GOOD
        84
        •   Few Channels - 5.2
        •   Power Output - 100 W
        EXCELLENT
        96
        •   Many Channels - 11.2
        •   High Power Output - 150 W

        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
        92
        •   Many Channels - 11.2
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   11.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   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
        •   QFT
        •   8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

        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
        91
        •   eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Works with Amazon Alexa
        •   Google Assistant
        •   7 HDMI Inputs
        •   4 HDMI Outputs
        •   7 8K Inputs
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   XLR Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   XLR Pre-outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 4․2

        Zones

        GOOD
        71
        •   No Zones
        EXCELLENT
        95
        •   4 Zones

        Radio

        GOOD
        73
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   No Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   No Tidal
        EXCELLENT
        97
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        BrandAnthemYamaha
        SeriesAventage
        ModelMRX 540 8KRX-A8A
        TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
        CountryNorth AmericaUSA
        Release Year20212021
        PredecessorYamaha RX-A3080
        AMPLIFIER Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Channels5.211.2
        Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)150 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 rest
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability
        AUDIO FEATURES Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineNext-Generation DSP Platform
        Surround:AI™
        DACESS Hyperstream DAC ES9026PRO x2
        DAC Specs768 kHz/32 Bit384 kHz/32 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing7.111.2
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic
        Dolby Digital EX
        DTS:X
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 384 kHz/32 Bit
        High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        Gapless Playback
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        DSD via USB 2-ch Input
        DSD to PCM Converter
        USB DAC
        Jitter ReductionUltra Low Jitter PLL
        DTS Dialogue Control
        Dialog Level Adjustment
        Dialog normalization
        Dialogue Lift
        Compressed Music Enhancer
        High-resolution Music Enhancer
        Adaptive DRC (Dynamic Range Control)
        Initial Volume & Maximum Volume Setting
        Audyssey Dynamic EQ
        Audyssey Dynamic Volume
        Audyssey LFC
        Audyssey Sub EQ HT
        Audyssey DSX
        Straight Decoding Mode
        Pure Direct Mode
        CINEMA DSP HD3
        DSP Programs24
        SILENT CINEMA / Virtual CINEMA DSP
        Virtual Speakers including surround back
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.Anthem Room Correction (ARC Genesis) YPAO sound optimization with R.S.C., Multipoint, 3D, 64-Bit High Precision EQ Calculation, Low Frequency mode and Angle measurement
        YPAO Volume
        PEQ for SUBDown to 15.6 Hz
        VIDEO FEATURES Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDMI Version2.12.1
        HDBaseT Compatible
        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)
        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
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 60p 4:4:4
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component****, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution1080i
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Google Assistant
        Chromecast Built-In
        Apple Siri
        Works with SonoS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input
        MusicCast
        AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay 2
        Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod, iPhone and iPad
        Remote App Anthem Remote App (iPhone® / iPad® / Android™ phone / tablet)
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        HDMI Inputs77
        HDMI Outputs23 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2/4)
        8K Inputs77
        USB Input for factory serviceUSB memory, Portable Audio Player
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs33
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs22
        RCA Line Inputs45
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs1
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs7.211.2
        XLR Pre-outsFront L/R
        Composite Video Inputs2
        Composite Video Outputs
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs1
        Component Video Outputs
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsUSB
        Speaker A/B
        Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        dockport
        ZONES Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Number of Zones14
        Powered ZonesZone 2 / 3
        Zone 2 OutsHDMI, RCA Preout
        Zone 3 OutsRCA Preout
        Zone 4 OutsHDMI
        Zone B Video OutputHDMI
        Zone GUI
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output32
        Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 01 / 1
        Party Mode
        MISCELLANEOUS Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        On-Screen DisplayGraphical User Interface
        SCENESCENE (8 sets)
        Web Control
        IP Control
        PreAmp Mode
        DisplayHigh-resolution LCD display
        RADIO Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Analog Tuner FM/AM
        Presets40
        Digital Radio
        Internet Radio
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        A.R.T. Wedge
        Speaker Terminals513
        Large Speaker Terminals513
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
        Toroidal Transformer
        Power Consumption365 W600 W
        Standby Power0.3 W0.4 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        Auto Power Standby
        PHYSICAL Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Dimensions (W x H x D)431.8 mm x 152.4 mm x 364 mm
        17" x 6" x 14-1/2" x
        435 mm x 192 mm x 477 mm (with antenna: 435 mm x 271 mm x 477 mm)
        17-1/8" x 7-1/2" x 18-3/4" (with antenna up: 17-1/8" x 10-5/8" x 18-3/4")
        Weight12.8 kg (28.2 lbs)21.4 kg (47.2 lbs)
        SPECIFICATIONS Anthem MRX 540 8K Yamaha RX-A8A
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)150 W (0.06% THD)
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)100 W (1% THD)165 W (0.9% THD)
        Rated Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel Driven)185 W (0.9% THD)
        Maximum Effective Output Power (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel Driven, JEITA)220 W (10% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)130 W (1% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, FTC)200 W (0.9% THD)
        Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)250 W (10% THD)
        Rated Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel Driven)230 W (0.9% THD, Front)
        THD0.05% (AUDIO 2 etc. to Speaker Out, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 75 W, 8 Ω)
        THD (Phono)0.04% (Phono to PRE OUT, 1 kHz, 1 V)
        Damping Factor140 (Front, 1 kHz, 8 Ω)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)250 mV/47 kΩ unbalanced
        260 mV/200 kΩ balanced (attenuator off)
        520 mV/200 kΩ balanced (attenuator on)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)4.5 mV/47 kΩ
        Maximum Input Sensitivity (Line)2.4 V (1 kHz, 0.5% THD) unbalanced
        2.4 V (1 kHz, 0.5% THD) balanced (attenuator off)
        4.8 V balanced (attenuator on)
        Maximum Input Sensitivity (Phono)45 mV (1 kHz, 0.5% THD)
        Rated Preout Level and Impedance1.0 V/470 Ω unbalanced
        2.0 V/470 Ω balanced
        Maximum Preout Level and Impedance5.2 VRMS, 7.1 VRMS2.0 V unbalanced
        4.0 V balanced
        Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance32 Ω - 600 Ω
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)110 dB110 dB
        S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)95 dB
        Phono RIAA Deviation0±0.5 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
        Frequency Response (Analog In)20 Hz - 30 kHz +/-0.2 dB+0/-3 dB (AUDIO 2 etc. to Front, Pure Direct, 10 Hz to 100 kHz)
        Residual noise (IHF-A Network)150 µV (Speaker Out)
        Channel Separation at 1 kHz/10 kHz (LINE)75 dB/61 dB
        Channel Separation at 1 kHz/10 kHz (Phono)75 dB/60 dB
        DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz
        DSD Sampling Rates via USB11.2 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
        Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
        1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
        Video Maximum Input1.5 Vp-p
        Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
        Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
        Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency2.4 GHz, 5 GHz
        Bluetooth Version4․2
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
        USB TerminalUSB2.0 5 V, 1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz
        FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 3 µV (20.8 dBf)
        FM S/N RatioMono/Stereo: 69 dB/68 dB
        FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)Mono/Stereo: 0.5%/0.6%
        AM Frequency530 kHz - 1710 kHz
        Warranty3 Years

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

        Discussion

        Amazon Affiliate Disclosure
        ZKelectronics is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon (.com, .co.uk, .ca, etc) and any other websites that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program.