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Home » Anthem MRX 540 Review: 5.2-Channel Home Theater Receiver with Dolby Atmos

Anthem MRX 540 Review: 5.2-Channel Home Theater Receiver with Dolby Atmos

Anthem MRX 540 Review
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Did you know the Anthem MRX 540 has 100 watts of power per channel? This makes it a top choice for those who love immersive sound. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to improve their home audio experience.

In this review, we’ll dive into its features and how it stands out. The MRX 540 is known for its high performance and design that puts the user first. It’s a great option for anyone looking to upgrade their home theater.

In This Article

Key Takeaways

  • The Anthem MRX 540 offers 5 channels of amplification rated at 100 watts each.
  • It can process up to seven channels, making audio experiences more immersive.
  • Advanced HDMI capabilities include seven inputs and two outputs, supporting eARC.
  • Room correction with ARC Genesis can be customized with multiple listening positions.
  • The unit allows for the creation of up to 30 virtual inputs.
  • Price point starts at $1,699, representing significant value in the high-performance receiver segment.
  • The device weighs 12.8 kg, showing it’s built for serious audio setups.

Introduction to the Anthem MRX 540

The Anthem MRX 540 is a big step forward in home theater systems. It offers great sound quality at a good price. This makes it a top choice for those who love good sound.

This receiver is part of Anthem’s lineup of home theater systems. It uses Class-AB amplification for clear sound in 5.1 surround setups.

The MRX 540 has a sleek design and advanced features. It uses the latest tech for easy connectivity and use. You’ll enjoy smooth operation and better streaming for your viewing habits.

This model meets the needs of many users. It’s flexible in channel assignments and works well with other audio setups. The Anthem MRX 540 is a mix of innovation and practicality. It’s perfect for enjoying great sound in your living room.

Introduction Anthem MRX 540

Key Features of the Anthem MRX 540

The Anthem MRX 540 is a top choice for home theater receivers. It has many impressive features and specs for both audiophiles and casual listeners. Its design combines advanced technology for an amazing audio experience.

Class-AB Amplification and Power Output

This receiver uses a Class-AB amplification system. It has a continuous power output of 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms across five channels. You can also boost it to 140 watts per channel for better sound in demanding environments.

It has seven dedicated 8K HDMI inputs. This supports up to 15.2 channels of audio, perfect for full-range sound. The Anthem MRX 540 also has Auto Subwoofer Phase Adjustments and precise 0.5 dB level increments. These features let you adjust audio levels easily.

Advanced HDMI Connectivity and Specifications

The MRX 540 has HDMI 2.1 connectivity. It supports high-resolution video with pass-through capabilities for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz. This ensures it works with the latest video formats while keeping picture quality perfect.

The Enhanced Audio Return Channel (e-ARC) makes connecting audio devices easier. It also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for better gaming. The modern design features a high-resolution front panel display, adding to its advanced functionalities. For more details, visit this resource.

Anthem MRX 540 features

Anthem MRX 540 Performance

The Anthem MRX 540 has caught a lot of attention. It’s known for its amazing performance. This home theater receiver makes music and movies sound incredible.

Sound Quality and Listening Experience

People love the sound quality of the Anthem MRX 540. Its Class-AB amplification offers high fidelity. This means you get rich, full-bodied sound.

Whether you’re listening to music or watching a movie, the sound is clear. Dialogue and soundscapes are deep and detailed. It makes every note feel alive.

Multichannel Surround Sound Capabilities

The Anthem MRX 540 takes your home theater to the next level. It can handle up to seven channels and supports Dolby Atmos. This means you can enjoy a 7.2.4 setup.

This setup is perfect for movie nights or gaming. The advanced audio technology creates a huge sound field. It pulls you into the action like never before.

Anthem MRX 540 performance

Design and Build Quality

The Anthem MRX 540 design is modern and catches the eye of today’s home theater fans. It breaks away from old designs, using a sleek layout with a big graphic display. This design is not only good-looking but also makes your living space feel welcoming.

The Anthem MRX 540 is built with top-notch materials, making it strong and reliable. It weighs 28.2 lb (12.8 kg) and is 17″ x 14.5″ x 6″ (43.18 cm x 36.4 cm x 15.24 cm) in size. Every part shows off its high-quality craftsmanship, turning it into the heart of your audio system.

Getting to the controls and inputs is easy with the Anthem MRX 540 design. It lets users move through functions smoothly, making it a joy to use. This ease of use, combined with its modern look, makes it ideal for your home theater.

Anthem MRX 540 design

Feature Specification
Weight 28.2 lb (12.8 kg)
Dimensions 17″ x 14.5″ x 6″ (43.18 cm x 36.4 cm x 15.24 cm)
Guarantee Period 3 years (extendable to 6 years)
Input Connectivity 30 assignable inputs
Supported Audio Formats Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby HD

The Anthem MRX 540 design and build quality make it a great choice. It offers a mix of features, looks, and durability for your home theater receiver.

Anthem MRX 540 Review: User Interface and Ease of Use

The Anthem MRX 540’s user interface is easy to use for everyone. You can access and change settings on any device connected to it. This makes setting up your audio system simple and straightforward.

Enjoying Anthem’s ease of use is a big plus. It lets you manage your audio settings easily from your browser.

Web-Based User Interface Overview

The MRX 540’s web interface makes it simple to navigate. You can quickly change settings like volume and input selection. It also has clear visuals and guides for a smooth experience.

This means you can enjoy your favorite shows and music more. You won’t get stuck trying to figure out the controls.

Customizable Input Configurations

The Anthem MRX 540 lets you create up to 30 virtual inputs. This feature helps you customize your audio-visual setup. You can set up audio-video pairings and speaker profiles.

It also lets you configure room correction settings. This makes your experience more personalized and efficient.

Anthem MRX 540 user interface

Room Correction Features: Anthem ARC Genesis

The Anthem MRX 540 has amazing room correction features thanks to Anthem ARC Genesis. It uses a top-notch calibration microphone for precise adjustments. This makes your audio sound better, fitting your room’s acoustics perfectly.

Performance of the Calibration Microphone

The calibration microphone is key in Anthem ARC Genesis. You’ll need to place it in at least five spots for the best results. A large stand makes moving it easy and effective.

This detailed calibration makes your audio sound like it’s coming from right in front of you. It’s a more immersive experience.

How ARC Improves Sound Quality in Your Environment

ARC Genesis does more than just correct room issues. It keeps the natural warmth of your music or movies while keeping them clear and detailed. This means your favorite tunes or movie sounds stay true to their original form.

It adjusts the sound to fit your room, giving you a balanced and engaging listening experience. You can even set up to four different speaker profiles. This lets you customize your sound for different rooms or setups.

Anthem ARC Genesis room correction features

Feature Description
Calibration Process Requires measuring sound from at least five positions for optimal results.
Microphone Use Includes a large dual-pivoting microphone stand to facilitate calibration.
Subwoofer Integration Anthem Auto Phase supports up to four independent subwoofers for enhanced sound.
Speaker Profiles Allows adjustments for up to four distinct speaker configurations.
Firmware Requirements ARC Genesis Version 1.6.10 needs specific network and host firmware for functionality.

Input and Output Options

The Anthem MRX 540 offers a wide range of input and output options. It has seven HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs. This makes it great for connecting many devices.

It supports Ultra HD signals with HDMI 2.0b and HDCP 2.2. This means you can enjoy fast data transfer speeds of up to 18.2 Gbps.

This receiver also has many other connections. It has three optical digital inputs, two coaxial digital inputs, and five analog stereo inputs. This variety makes it easy to connect different media sources.

The Anthem MRX 540 also has RCA line-level pre-outs. This feature lets you connect external amplifiers and subwoofers. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for the latest surround sound.

It has dual subwoofer outputs and multiple listening modes. You can change settings or switch inputs easily with its web-based interface. This makes customizing your audio preferences simple.

Here is a detailed overview of the Anthem MRX 540 input output options:

Type Quantity Features
HDMI Inputs 7 Support up to 18.2 Gbps for Ultra HD, with HDMI 2.0b and eARC connectivity
HDMI Outputs 2 Supports multiple output configurations
Optical Digital Inputs 3 Compatible with various devices for superior audio quality
Coaxial Digital Inputs 2 Ensures high-fidelity audio transmission
Analog Stereo Inputs 5 Allows connection to classical stereo sources
RCA Line-Level Pre-Outs Varies Provides flexibility for additional amplification or subwoofer connections

The Anthem MRX 540’s wide range of input and output options makes it a top choice. It offers unmatched connectivity and integration with your audio systems. This ensures an amazing listening experience.

Anthem MRX 540 input output options connectivity

Anthem MRX 540 vs Competitors

When we look at the Anthem MRX 540 against Yamaha and Denon, some key points stand out. People love the MRX line for its sound quality and easy-to-use interface. This makes it a top choice in the mid-range market.

Comparative Review: MRX 540 vs Yamaha and Denon Receivers

The Anthem MRX 540 shines with its Class-AB amplification and AKM 32/768 DACs. These features lead to better sound. Yamaha is known for streaming, and Denon for solid performance. But the MRX 540 stands out with Anthem Room Correction (ARC) Genesis and customizable settings.

Anthem MRX 540 comparison

Feature Anthem MRX 540 Yamaha Denon
Amplification Class-AB Class-D Class-AB
DAC 32/768 AKM 24/192 32/192
Room Correction ARC Genesis YPAO Audyssey MultEQ
Streaming Options Chromecast, Airplay 2, Bluetooth MusicCast Compatible HEOS Compatible
Price £1,500 Varies (starting around £600) Varies (starting around £500)

Value Proposition Compared to Similar Brands

The Anthem MRX 540 offers great value with its sound quality and room correction. It’s a favorite among audiophiles for its price and performance. Denon also offers good value but might not have all the MRX 540’s advanced features.

When deciding between these brands, think about what matters most to you in sound and home theater needs.

Pros and Cons of the Anthem MRX 540

The Anthem MRX 540 has both good and bad points to think about. Here’s a quick look at what you should know about its pros and cons:

  • Advantages:
    • It has solid Class-AB power output for great sound.
    • The web-based interface is easy to use.
    • You can customize the inputs for different setups.
  • Disadvantages:
    • It doesn’t have built-in streaming services.
    • It doesn’t have USB-B or phono inputs for some devices.

When you’re looking at the Anthem MRX 540, think about these points. Knowing the pros and cons will help you decide if it’s right for you.

Anthem MRX 540 pros and cons

Pricing and Availability

The Anthem MRX 540 costs about $1,699. It’s a great option in the mid-range AV receiver market. It offers a lot of features and high-quality sound, perfect for those who love great audio.

You can find the MRX 540 at many electronic stores and online. If you’re planning to buy, shipments are set for mid to late December. It’s a good idea to check with authorized dealers for the exact dates.

For more details on how it stacks up against others, see this review. Knowing the Anthem MRX 540 price and its features will help you decide if it’s right for you.

Conclusion on the Anthem MRX 540

The Anthem MRX 540 is a top-notch home theater receiver. It combines advanced tech with a sleek design. Its Class AB amplification ensures great sound quality for music and movies.

Some might miss built-in streaming options. But, the rich audio and customization features make it stand out. It’s a strong choice in its class.

The Anthem MRX 540 review concludes with praise for its Anthem Room Correction (ARC) Genesis system. It’s considered one of the best. This tech lets you tailor sound to your room, improving your listening experience.

Adjusting settings is easy through a web interface. This makes managing your audio preferences simple. It shows Anthem’s focus on user needs.

In summary, the Anthem MRX 540 offers top-notch audio and connectivity. It meets the needs of both serious audiophiles and casual listeners. If you’re looking to upgrade your home theater, this model is worth checking out. See how it stacks up against others, like the NAD T 758 V3i, at [Anthem vs NAD T 758 V3i].

FAQ

What are the key features of the Anthem MRX 540?

The Anthem MRX 540 has 100 watts per channel Class-AB amplification. It also supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through. You can customize inputs and use ARC Genesis for room correction.

How does the sound quality of the Anthem MRX 540 compare to its competitors?

The MRX 540 is known for its top-notch sound quality. It often beats Yamaha and Denon. Its Class-AB amplification gives a rich audio experience for music and movies.

Is the Anthem MRX 540 suitable for gaming?

Yes, it’s great for gaming. It supports Dolby Atmos and HDMI 2.1. This makes the audio-visual experience during games better.

How user-friendly is the Anthem MRX 540?

The MRX 540 is easy to use. It has a web-based interface for customization. You can access settings from any network-connected device.

What kind of inputs and outputs does the Anthem MRX 540 offer?

It has seven HDMI inputs and many analog and digital connections. It also has RCA line-level pre-outs. This offers a wide range of connectivity options.

What is the significance of the ARC Genesis technology in the MRX 540?

ARC Genesis uses a calibration microphone. It adjusts audio to fit your room’s acoustics. This ensures a balanced and immersive listening experience.

What are some pros and cons of the Anthem MRX 540?

Pros include solid power output, a user-friendly interface, and customizable inputs. But, it lacks built-in streaming services and USB-B or phono inputs.

What is the approximate price of the Anthem MRX 540?

The Anthem MRX 540 costs about

FAQ

What are the key features of the Anthem MRX 540?

The Anthem MRX 540 has 100 watts per channel Class-AB amplification. It also supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through. You can customize inputs and use ARC Genesis for room correction.

How does the sound quality of the Anthem MRX 540 compare to its competitors?

The MRX 540 is known for its top-notch sound quality. It often beats Yamaha and Denon. Its Class-AB amplification gives a rich audio experience for music and movies.

Is the Anthem MRX 540 suitable for gaming?

Yes, it’s great for gaming. It supports Dolby Atmos and HDMI 2.1. This makes the audio-visual experience during games better.

How user-friendly is the Anthem MRX 540?

The MRX 540 is easy to use. It has a web-based interface for customization. You can access settings from any network-connected device.

What kind of inputs and outputs does the Anthem MRX 540 offer?

It has seven HDMI inputs and many analog and digital connections. It also has RCA line-level pre-outs. This offers a wide range of connectivity options.

What is the significance of the ARC Genesis technology in the MRX 540?

ARC Genesis uses a calibration microphone. It adjusts audio to fit your room’s acoustics. This ensures a balanced and immersive listening experience.

What are some pros and cons of the Anthem MRX 540?

Pros include solid power output, a user-friendly interface, and customizable inputs. But, it lacks built-in streaming services and USB-B or phono inputs.

What is the approximate price of the Anthem MRX 540?

The Anthem MRX 540 costs about $1,699. It’s a good deal in the mid-range AV receiver market.

Can I create virtual input configurations on the MRX 540?

Yes, you can create up to 30 virtual inputs. This lets you tailor audio-video assignments and speaker profiles. It enhances your experience.

,699. It’s a good deal in the mid-range AV receiver market.

Can I create virtual input configurations on the MRX 540?

Yes, you can create up to 30 virtual inputs. This lets you tailor audio-video assignments and speaker profiles. It enhances your experience.