Emotiva has introduced its latest offering, the BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Cinema Receiver, in a move to bolster its lineup of home theater equipment. The device has a unique combination of a high-performance 13.2 channel immersive surround sound processor and an audiophile-quality 9 channel power amplifier, all housed within a single chassis, which should be an attractive option for all those seeking a robust and versatile audio solution.
Priced at $1,599, the BasX MR1L positions itself competitively in the market, comparable to the latest AVRs from established brands like Marantz and Denon. While the MR1L shares similar features and power output with its competitors, it lacks support for Dirac Live, which some AVRs in its price range have adopted as a standard feature.
The processor section of the MR1L offers comprehensive support for 4K UHD video, including High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Dolby Vision, enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), and the latest Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive surround sound formats.
Users will appreciate the inclusion of six HDMI 2.0b video inputs, all capable of handling 4K UHD HDR video, alongside enhanced eARC support. Additionally, Emotiva provides a measurement microphone and the latest version of EmoQ, an automatic room correction system well-regarded for its effectiveness.
To complement its processor capabilities, the BasX MR1L contains an audiophile-grade Class A/B amplifier section, powered by a robust 660 VA toroidal transformer. This design should ensure excellent sound quality and reliable operation even when driving demanding speaker systems with low impedance. Furthermore, the MR1L features a full set of line-level 13.2 channel preamp outputs, allowing you to utilize it as a dedicated surround sound processor if you wish.
One of the main features of the MR1L is its precision high-speed video switches, which enable direct routing of video signals from the selected input to the output without unnecessary processing, guaranteeing optimal picture quality from HD and 4K UHD video sources. Additionally, the MR1L's support for both ARC and Enhanced eARC ensures seamless compatibility with various audio devices, providing users with more flexibility in their setup.
Emotiva has also addressed potential issues arising from differing video capabilities among connected devices by offering simple solutions. Users can disable each HDMI Output individually, preventing one device's video format from affecting the other connected devices. This feature will allow you to fully maximize your 4K video potential without limitations caused by conflicting resolutions or HDR settings.
With powerful Analog Devices SHARC DSP support, the MR1L accommodates various audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, Dolby Surround, DTS, DTS:X, and DTS Neural X.
Perhaps one of the most remarkable features of the MR1L is its inclusion of Emotiva's latest and most advanced version of the EMO-Q Automatic Room Correction System. This intuitive system offers a visual interface that displays graphs of both the measured and corrected room response, allowing you to fine-tune individual channels for optimal audio performance.
The BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Cinema Receiver is now available for purchase at the Emotiva website, priced at $1,599. With its impressive performance, versatility, and audiophile-grade components, the BasX MR1L promises to be a compelling addition to any home theater setup.