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Home » Arcam AVR31 Review: High-Fidelity Meets Advanced Room Correction

Arcam AVR31 Review: High-Fidelity Meets Advanced Room Correction

Arcam AVR31 Reviewon

Imagine stepping into a world of cinematic wonder right in your living room. The Arcam AVR31 is a 16-channel audio/visual receiver designed to bring this dream to life. It offers high-fidelity audio and advanced room correction technology.

The Arcam AVR31 supports immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. It has 7 channels of Class G amplification and a powerful toroidal transformer. This means you get real-world power with low noise, making your home theater experience truly cinematic.

Key Takeaways

  • The Arcam AVR31 is a 16-channel AV receiver designed for exceptional home cinema experiences.
  • It boasts native decoding of immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D.
  • The receiver incorporates 7 channels of Class G amplification and an over-engineered toroidal transformer for robust power output.
  • Dirac Live room optimization technology is integrated to ensure optimal sound quality tailored to your living space.
  • This high-fidelity AV receiver is engineered to deliver a truly immersive home theater experience.

To enhance your home entertainment system, the Arcam AVR31 is a great choice. It combines advanced audio processing with precise room correction. Get ready to be amazed by the perfect blend of high-fidelity sound and tailored acoustics in your home.

Introduction to the Arcam AVR31 Home Theater System

The Arcam AVR31 is a top-notch audio/video receiver for home theater fans. It has advanced features that make it a leader in the high-end market. With its outstanding sound, latest connectivity, and room correction tech, it offers a unique entertainment experience.

Key Features Overview

The Arcam AVR31 has many features for today’s home theaters. It supports 16 channels of Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and AURO-3D for amazing surround sound. It also has 7 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs with eARC, supporting 8K and 4K video.

At its core is Arcam’s Dirac Live room correction. It fine-tunes the sound based on the room’s acoustics. The receiver also has dual ESS 9026PRO DACs and 7 channels of Class G amplification for top-notch audio.

Market Positioning and Value Proposition

The Arcam AVR31 is a premium receiver for audiophiles and home cinema lovers. Priced at $5,250, it’s at the top of Arcam’s AVR range. It stands out with its focus on sound quality, room correction, and connectivity, making it a great choice for a high-end home theater.

Design and Build Quality

The Arcam AVR31 shows Arcam’s dedication to top-notch engineering. It’s big, measuring 171 x 433 x 425 mm (H x W x D), and heavy at 18.1 kg. It looks and feels solid. The Arcam AVR31 has a special toroidal transformer for strong power and low noise.

The receiver has a sleek grey finish that looks good and works well. Its design shows off precision and care, showing Arcam’s focus on quality sound and video.

“The Arcam AVR31 is a no-nonsense high-end receiver that prioritizes build quality and performance over flashy features.”

Unlike many modern AV receivers, the Arcam AVR31 has a classic look. Its sturdy build and high-quality materials promise it will last for many years.

If you love great sound or are a home entertainment fan, the Arcam AVR31 will wow you. Its strong build and elegant design set it apart in the AV receiver world.

Class G Amplification Technology

The Arcam AVR31 home theater receiver uses the latest Arcam Class G amplification technology. This technology offers great power output and efficiency. It makes the AVR31 stand out from other amplifiers.

Power Output Specifications

The Arcam AVR31 has impressive power ratings. It can deliver 120 watts per channel when driving two channels into 8-ohms at 20-20kHz with 0.02% THD. If you crank it up, it can reach 140 watts per channel under the same conditions.

Even when all 7-channels are driven into 8-ohms at 1kHz with 0.2% THD, it can output 100 watts per channel. This means your audio experience will be captivating.

Efficiency and Performance Benefits

The AVR31’s Class G amplification technology is unique. It uses multiple power supplies for efficient power usage. This reduces energy waste and heat generation.

This leads to better thermal management and consistent performance, even under demanding audio loads. The result is a highly efficient amplifier. It delivers dynamic and impactful sound quality, making the Arcam AVR31 a top choice for home theater enthusiasts.

Model Power Output Amplifier Type Price
Integra DTM-7.4 110 watts/ch Class G $1,099
Onkyo TX-8470 110 watts/ch Class G $599
Yamaha R-N1000A 100 watts/ch Conventional $1,199
Arcam AVR31 120-140 watts/ch Class G $6,900

The Arcam AVR31’s Class G amplification technology, along with its impressive power output and efficiency, makes it a top choice for home theater enthusiasts. It offers exceptional audio performance.

Comprehensive Connectivity Options

The Arcam AVR31 home theater receiver has many connectivity options. It ensures easy connection with your audio-visual setup. It has 7 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs, including a special Zone 2 output. All support the latest HDMI 2.1 with HDCP2.3 protection.

It also has digital audio inputs like optical and coaxial connections. For network integration, it has a LAN port and built-in wireless LAN (Wi-Fi). Plus, it has an RS-232 port for advanced control and automation.

Wireless connectivity is also available. The AVR31 supports Bluetooth with aptX HD, Google Chromecast, and Apple AirPlay 2. These features let you stream music from devices or online services to your home theater.

Connectivity Options Specifications
HDMI Inputs 7 (HDMI 2.1 with HDCP2.3)
HDMI Outputs 3 (including 1 for Zone 2)
Digital Audio Inputs Optical, Coaxial
Network Connectivity LAN, Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi)
Wireless Streaming Bluetooth with aptX HD, Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2
Control Integration RS-232 port

The Arcam AVR31 offers flexibility in connecting with various devices. It ensures an immersive and versatile home theater experience.

Arcam AVR31 connectivity

HDMI 2.1 Implementation and Video Capabilities

The Arcam AVR31 home theater receiver has amazing HDMI 2.1 features and video capabilities. It lets you enjoy the latest in high-resolution home entertainment.

8K and 4K Support

All HDMI inputs on the AVR31 support 8K video at 60 frames per second. It also supports 4K video at 120 frames per second. This means you get unmatched clarity and smoothness, whether watching movies or playing next-generation games.

HDR Format Compatibility

The AVR31 keeps up with the changing video world. It supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). This gives you amazing color, contrast, and brightness for a cinematic feel at home.

With the latest HDMI 2.1 tech and HDR formats, the Arcam AVR31 is ready for the future. It’s perfect for 8K or 4K HDR content, making your home entertainment experience top-notch.

Advanced Audio Processing Features

The Arcam AVR31 is made to give you an amazing audio experience. It supports top surround sound tech like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. This makes your listening space immersive and engaging.

The AVR31’s Dolby Surround upmixer changes 2-channel and Dolby Digital soundtracks into something bigger. It also has Dolby Virtual Height tech for more realistic height effects. This makes the surround sound even better.

The AVR31 also has DTS Neural:X for upmixing old audio formats. It makes the sound more immersive. Plus, DTS Virtual:X adds height and surround channels without extra speakers.

Feature Description
Dolby Atmos Immersive 3D surround sound technology that places audio objects in a 3D space for a more realistic and enveloping experience.
DTS:X Advanced surround sound technology that adapts to your speaker configuration, delivering an immersive and lifelike audio experience.
Auro-3D Innovative surround sound format that adds a dedicated height layer to create a true 3D audio environment.
Dolby Surround Upmixer Transforms 2-channel and Dolby Digital audio into a more expansive and enveloping surround sound experience.
Dolby Virtual Height Generates realistic virtual height effects, enriching the overall surround sound experience.
DTS Neural:X Powerful upmixing algorithm that can map legacy audio formats to the available speaker configuration for an engaging and immersive soundscape.
DTS Virtual:X Creates virtual height and surround channels, providing a heightened sense of spatial awareness without the need for additional speakers.

The Arcam AVR31 offers an unmatched listening experience. It’s perfect for home theater fans who want the best in audio.

Arcam AVR31 audio processing

“The Arcam AVR31 is a true audiophile-grade receiver, with its advanced audio processing capabilities delivering an unparalleled listening experience.”

Arcam AVR31 Reviewon: Performance Analysis

The Arcam AVR31 is a top-notch home theater receiver. It offers amazing audio and video quality. It’s perfect for those who love great sound and visuals.

It uses advanced Class G amplification and dual ESS 9026PRO DACs. This means you get a high-quality audio experience. It’s designed to impress your senses.

The receiver supports many audio formats, including high-resolution and multichannel audio. This ensures you get the best sound for your music and movies. It also has top-notch video processing. It supports HDMI 2.1 with 8K@60fps and 4K@120fps.

Key Specifications Arcam AVR31
Amplifier Power 7 x 160W (8 Ohms, 20Hz-20kHz,
Audio Decoding Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, Auro-3D
Video Processing 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG
Connectivity 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs, 3 HDMI 2.1 outputs (1 with eARC)
Room Correction Dirac Live (with up to 3 profiles)

The Arcam AVR31 also comes with Dirac Live room correction. This technology helps improve sound quality based on your room’s acoustics. It uses a microphone to measure and correct the sound.

If you’re an audiophile or a home theater fan, the Arcam AVR31 is a great choice. It offers high-fidelity audio, advanced video processing, and great connectivity. It’s a top pick in the premium home theater receiver market.

Dirac Live Room Correction Technology

The Arcam AVR31 home theater receiver has Dirac Live, a top-notch room correction tech. It’s designed to make your audio experience better. You can use a computer app for Windows or Mac to set it up and calibrate your speakers easily.

Setup Process and Calibration

Setting up Dirac Live on the AVR31 is simple and easy to follow. It comes with a high-quality calibration microphone. This microphone helps measure your room’s acoustics.

The Dirac Live software then uses this data to figure out the right room equalization filter values. This ensures your audio sounds its best.

You can save up to three Dirac Live EQ curves on the Arcam AVR31. This lets you customize the sound for different listening situations. If you want more bass control, you can get the Dirac Live Bass Control feature as an upgrade.

Impact on Sound Quality

  • Improved clarity and detail in the audio reproduction
  • Enhanced soundstage and imaging, creating a more immersive listening experience
  • Reduced room-induced frequency imbalances and distortions
  • Seamless integration of the speakers with the room acoustics

Dirac Live room correction technology in the Arcam AVR31 is a big deal. It lets you enjoy your favorite movies, music, and media with better sound quality. This feature makes the AVR31 stand out, perfect for audiophiles and home theater fans who want the best sound.

Dirac Live room correction

Multi-Channel Audio Configuration Options

The Arcam AVR31 lets you choose from many multi-channel audio setups. You can pick from 7.1-channel surround sound or Dolby Atmos. It’s all about making your home theater just right for you.

It supports a variety of speaker setups. You can go for 7.1-channel surround back, 5.1-channel biamp, or 5.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos. You can also add more speakers for 5.1.4, 7.1.2, and more.

This flexibility means you can design a home theater that fits your space perfectly. Whether you want the latest multi-channel audio or the best Dolby Atmos experience, the Arcam AVR31 makes it possible.

“The Arcam AVR31 offers an unparalleled level of customization, empowering you to craft the ultimate home theater experience tailored to your unique space and preferences.”

Streaming and Network Capabilities

The Arcam AVR31 home theater receiver has lots of streaming and network features. It fits well into your modern digital life. It supports popular network streaming and wireless audio technologies. This makes it easy to access your favorite music streaming services.

Wireless Connectivity Features

The AVR31 has many wireless options. It has Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth with aptX HD. These let you stream music, podcasts, and more from your devices to the receiver. It’s a great way to enjoy music without wires.

Supported Streaming Services

The Arcam AVR31 works with many music streaming services. It supports Spotify, Tidal, and Roon. You can easily find your favorite music and radio stations. It also has a free MusicLife app for iOS and Android. This app makes controlling and streaming from your devices easy.

Streaming Service Supported on Arcam AVR31
Spotify Yes
Tidal Yes
Roon Yes
Amazon Music No
Apple Music No

network streaming

The Arcam AVR31 offers great network streaming and wireless audio features. It lets you enjoy your favorite music streaming services easily. This makes for a rich and flexible home entertainment experience.

Audio Format Support and Decoding

The Arcam AVR31 is a top choice for audio format support and decoding. It can handle many immersive and high-resolution audio formats. This makes it perfect for both music and movie lovers.

The AVR31 supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced. These surround sound technologies create a three-dimensional soundscape. You’ll feel like you’re right in the middle of the action, whether it’s a movie or music.

But there’s more. The AVR31 also supports high-resolution audio formats like MQA, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect. It can decode various bitstream formats through HDMI and optical/coaxial inputs. This means you get the best sound quality, from lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio to uncompressed PCM up to 8 channels.

With its wide range of audio format support and decoding, the Arcam AVR31 is a true powerhouse. It’s ready to take your home entertainment to new levels.

“The Arcam AVR31 is a true audiophile delight, with its extensive support for cutting-edge audio formats and unwavering commitment to high-fidelity sound reproduction.”

User Interface and Control Options

The Arcam AVR31 gives you many ways to control it. You can use the remote, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, RS232, or IR. The on-screen display makes setting it up simple. It lets you easily go through menus and settings.

You can also control the AVR31 with smartphone apps for iOS and Android. These apps let you change volume, switch inputs, and access advanced settings. This way, you can manage your home theater easily, whether with buttons or an app.

The AVR31’s interface and control options make it easy to fit into your system. You can adjust settings and functions from anywhere. This means you get a home entertainment experience that’s just right for you.

FAQ

What are the key features of the Arcam AVR31 home theater system?

The Arcam AVR31 is a powerful, 16-channel audio/visual receiver. It supports immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. It has 7 channels of Class G amplification and an over-engineered toroidal transformer.

It also features Dirac Live room optimization technology.

What are the connectivity options on the Arcam AVR31?

The AVR31 has 7 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs with eARC compatibility. It supports 8K@60fps and 4K@120fps video. It also includes optical and coaxial digital inputs, LAN connection, and wireless LAN.

It has Bluetooth with aptX HD, Google Chromecast, and Apple AirPlay2.

What are the video capabilities of the Arcam AVR31?

The AVR31 supports 8K@60fps and 4K@120fps video. It’s compatible with the latest video standards and technologies. It also supports various HDR formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG.

What audio processing technologies does the Arcam AVR31 support?

The AVR31 supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. It includes Dolby Surround for upmixing and Dolby Virtual Height for virtual height effects. It also has DTS Neural:X for immersive audio remapping and DTS Virtual:X for virtual height and surround processing.

How does the Arcam AVR31 handle room correction?

The AVR31 includes Dirac Live room correction technology. It uses a computer application to set up and calibrate the speaker system. It calculates room equalization filter values to optimize audio performance.

It supports up to 3 Dirac Live EQ curves.

What are the multi-channel audio configuration options on the Arcam AVR31?

The AVR31 offers flexible multi-channel audio configurations. It includes 7.1ch Surround Back, 5.1ch Biamp, and 5.1.2ch Dolby Atmos. It also supports 5.1.4ch, 7.1.2ch, 7.1.4ch, 7.1.6ch, 9.1.2ch, 9.1.4ch, and 9.1.6ch setups with additional amplifiers.

What audio formats does the Arcam AVR31 support?

The AVR31 supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D, and high-resolution audio. It can decode various bitstream formats through HDMI and optical/coaxial inputs. It supports Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and PCM up to 8 channels.

The receiver also supports the MQA audio format.