The new Anthem MRX range of AV receivers replaces the current “MRX” range and brings it up to date with the casing design already used on the STR products, with impressive performance and features updates.
Anthem MRX 540 AV Receiver
Anthem MRX 540 is a fantastic entry to the new MRX series of AVRs. Key features include external control and IP control capabilities for easy customisation and compatibility with third-party solutions. As well as 5 channels for all your external passive speakers, Dolby Atmos intergration, Apple AirPlay2 and Google Chromecast which lets the user stream content from any Android device like a phone, tablet, or laptop. Powering the power amplifier in the MRX 540 is a 100w (per channel) into 8 Ohms. Overall the MRX 540 is a perfectly placed unit technically and within the Anthem product range.
Anthem MRX 740 AV Receiver
A step up from the 540, the MRX 740 offers greater specification. A key benefit of the 740 is the added amplifier channels to 7 allowing for more scope when you are setting up a larger/more demanding system. In addition to the added amplifier channels, the pre amplifier on the 740 is full 11.2. The power amplifier within is also improved with an added 40w on the 540 taking the total power per channel to 140w into 8 Ohms. This upgrade in power adds greater speaker control and increased dynamics when compared to the lower power of the entry-level 540. The MRX 740 is designed to be versatile and setups can range from home audio enthusiast systems right through the advanced home cinema set ups. MRX740 is ready for HDMI 2.0 HDCP 2.2. A hardware upgrade, however, to an HDMI 2.1 (8K) will be optional to install when it becomes available. All of the MRX range has a new HDMI e-ARC input/output.
Anthem MRX 1140 AV Receiver
The MRX 1140 is the premium in AV receivers, Anthem’s MRX1140 is the revised replacement of Anthem’s older model, the MRX1120. The new much improved 1140 features state of the art design and technical build quality. The 1140 is capable of powering the largest of spaces and home cinema systems with an outstanding 11 channels of speaker output. Powering the MRX 1140 is the same upgraded power amplifier found in the 740 offering upto 140w per channel (Yes, all 11) .
The 1140 also offers all the range standard connectivity spanning both analogue and digital. The 1140 is fully kitted with Dolby features – both Dolby Vision and Atmos making your video look amazing and audio sound amazing. Digital connectivity is varied and gives plenty of options (Airplay 2, Google Chrome cast, Spotify, Bluetooth and Roon). The analogue connections are also extensive. An added feature to both the 740 and 1140 is the ability to reassign channels – unused amplifier channels can be re-assigned to bi-amplify demanding front speakers, power surrounds, presence speakers, or a second zone (Available on MRX 1140 and MRX 740).
In conclusion, the whole range of new and updated MRX devices are amazing in both design and technically specification. The range is well placed with all 3 products giving different levels of control for all setups no matter what size is required. The simple modern look to the front panel of the whole range gives a clean finish that compliments any room whilst discretely blending into the surroundings.