Anthem's New Surround Sound Lineup Provides Consumers with Highly Anticipated Upgrades

Published On: October 30, 2020
Last Updated on: March 9, 2022
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Anthem's New Surround Sound Lineup Provides Consumers with Highly Anticipated Upgrades

The new MRX AV receivers, AVM AV processors, and MCA amplifiers deliver more channels, more features, and easier setup

Anthem's New Surround Sound Lineup Provides Consumers with Highly Anticipated Upgrades

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Anthem's launch of its latest receiver, processor and amplifier lines comes in tandem with new programs, all of which will be available this upcoming December.

Anthem's new AVM A/V Processors, the AVM 70 and AVM 90, combine a host of new features, including a new platform with HDMI 2.0b (for now), HDCP 2.2 (again, for now), and a new networking platform with web-based configuration and wireless updates. The new processors, which are equipped with the latest version of ARC Genesis Room Correction, can support up to 15.4 channels, have four independent subwoofer outputs, and are designed to accommodate a hardware upgrade to HDMI 2.1 capabilities down the road. Both the AVM 70 AND AVM 90 are built with a next-generation multicore DSP platform and a redesigned microphone. For audio streaming, the new processors are equipped with Bluetooth 4.2, AirPlay 2, and Google Chromecast -- with Spotify Connect and Roon coming soon -- and for video support, the AVM 70 and AVM 90 have seven HDMI 2.0b inputs and two outputs, as well as eARC. The AVM 90 A/V Processor has upgraded circuitry, four independent subwoofer outputs, and a 768kHz/32-bit DAC. The AVM 70 retails for $3,499, and the AVM retails for $6,999.

The new MRX 540, MRX 740, and MRX 1140 A/V Receivers are focused on giving consumers more bang for the buck. In addition to the latest version of ARC Genesis Room Correction and support for HDMI 2.0b and HDCP 2.2, the new receivers also have the same networking platform as the AVM line, enabling web-based configuration and wireless updates. With seven HDMI 2.0b inputs and two outputs, the new MRX line's hardware supports pass-through of Ultra HD signals and eARC for smart TV integration, and will be eligible for an HDMI 2.1 hardware upgrade in the future. For audio streaming, the MRX 540, 740 and 1140 all have AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, and Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, with Spotify Connect and Roon coming soon. Additionally, the new MRX line has a redesigned microphone and amplifier reassignment with up to ten channels on the MRX 1140, six channels on the MRX 740, and four channels on the MRX 540, meaning those channels can be used to bi-amp speakers, power multi-zone audio, or configured as height, width, or presence speakers. The MRX 540 retails for $1,599, the MRX 740 retails for $2,699, and the MRX 1140 retails for $3,699.

Last but not least, the MCA 525 GEN2, MCA 325 GEN2, and MCA 225 GEN2 power amplifiers have five, three, and two channels, respectively, and boast 120dB signal-to-noise ratio. Each amp has eight paired bipolar output devices per channel and a new load-monitoring system for peak performance. Every model in the new MCA line delivers 225 continuous watts per channel power into 8 ohms and promise to provide stable power up to 600 watts into 2-ohm loads. The MCA 525 retails for $3,499, the MCA 325 retails for $2,499, and the MCA 225 retails for $1,999.

Additional Resources
• Visit the Anthem website for more information and product specs
• Read more about acoustic room treatments
• Here's a review of Anthem's MDX- Distribution Amp
• Check out our AV Receiver Buyer's Guide

 

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