Anthem MRX 540 8K A/V Receiver

Overview

A traditional 5.1 or 5.2 surround system still covers what most rooms need, as long as the receiver behind it is done properly. The Anthem MRX 540 8K is the entry point into Anthem's MRX receiver line, pairing 7.2 channels of processing with 5 amplified channels delivering 100 watts each into 8 ohms (two channels driven).

It uses the same ARC Genesis room correction, with Anthem's redesigned calibration microphone, and the same 32-bit/768kHz DACs as the larger MRX receivers, scaled to a 5.2 speaker layout. Two independent subwoofer outputs let ARC Genesis calibrate each sub separately, and Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced decoding are built in.

Seven HDMI 2.1 inputs and two outputs with eARC pass 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video, and the 7.2-channel processing leaves room to add a two-channel external amplifier later for a 5.2.2 layout. The Anthem Web User Interface and Remote App handle day-to-day control.

Simcoe Audio Video Insight

We recommend the MRX 540 8K to clients who want a traditional 5.1 or 5.2 surround setup done right, not stripped down. It shares ARC Genesis and the 32-bit/768kHz DAC specification with the rest of the MRX line, and it keeps two independent subwoofer outputs, so the main trade-off against the larger models is amplifier channel count.

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Why the Anthem MRX 540 8K Stands Out

7.2-Channel Processing, 5 Amplified Channels

Full pre-amp processing headroom for a future 5.2.2 layout, even though only five channels are amplified onboard.

ARC Genesis Room Correction

The same calibration engine used across Anthem's larger receivers, included with a calibrated microphone.

8K HDMI 2.1 Platform

Seven inputs and two outputs (with eARC) support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through with HDCP 2.3.

32-Bit/768kHz DACs

The same 32-bit/768kHz DAC specification used across Anthem's MRX receiver line.

Two Independent Subwoofer Outputs

Lets ARC Genesis calibrate two subwoofers independently rather than as a single blended output.

Anthem Web UI & Streaming

Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, and Spotify Connect join Bluetooth for wireless playback from a browser-based interface.

Buyer's Guide

Who It's For

  • The Traditional Surround Buyer: Wants a clean 5.1 or 5.2 layout without a wall of overhead speakers.
  • The Future Expander: Wants the option to add an external amplifier later for height channels without replacing the receiver.
  • The Value-Conscious Anthem Buyer: Wants the same processing and DAC quality as Anthem's larger receivers in a smaller channel count.

How It Compares

The MRX 540 8K and the MRX 740 8K share the same ARC Genesis platform, DACs, and HDMI 2.1 video engine, but the 740 steps up to 11.2 channels of processing and 7 amplified channels for larger object-based layouts. The 540 is the right call for a straightforward 5.1 or 5.2 room; step up to the 740 when height channels are part of the plan.

Anthem MRX 540 8K A/V Receiver Specifications

General Information
SeriesMRX Series
BrandAnthem
Channels (Processing)7.2 Channels
Channels (Amplification)5 Channels
Front Display6" TFT
ConstructionAluminum Chassis with Machined Aluminum Faceplate
Power & Amplification
Power Output (8 Ohms)100 Watts per channel (Continuous, Two-Channels Driven)
Power Output (6 Ohms)130 Watts per channel (Continuous, Two-Channels Driven)
Impedance CompatibilityGreater than 4 Ohms
Audio & Video Performance
HDMI VersionHDMI 2.1 (8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDCP 2.3)
HDR FormatsHDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, Dynamic HDR
DAC32-bit / 768 kHz High-Resolution Digital-to-Analog Converter
Surround DecodersDolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Surround
Room CorrectionARC Genesis with calibration microphone
Connectivity & Streaming
HDMI Inputs/Outputs7 In / 2 Out (including eARC)
Digital Inputs3 Optical, 2 Coaxial
Analog Inputs5 Stereo RCA Pairs
Pre-Amplifier Outputs7.2 Channels (including 2 Independent Subwoofer Outputs)
Streaming ProtocolsApple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth
Dimensions & Power
Dimensions (H x W x D)6" x 17" x 14.5" (15.24 x 43.18 x 36.4 cm)
Weight28.2 lb (12.8 kg)
Power Consumption365W (Typical), 0.3W (Standby)
Height with Rackmount Kit4U

Simcoe Audio Video Installation

Our professional team of designers and installers provide custom design solutions and installation for existing homes and new builds. We work with home owners, home builders and designers to create scalable solutions tailored to you.

Home Theatre & Media Rooms | Home Audio Solutions | AV Automation

Anthem MRX 540 8K A/V Receiver FAQs

What are the key features of the Anthem MRX 540 8K A/V Receiver?

The Anthem MRX 540 8K A/V Receiver offers 7.2 pre-amplifier channels with 5 amplifier channels, delivering 100 watts per channel into 8Ω. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced audio formats, and features native HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3, supporting 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through. The receiver also includes Anthem Room Correction (ARC) Genesis for precise room calibration.

How does the Anthem MRX 540 perform with music playback?

For music, the MRX 540 uses the same 32-bit/768kHz DACs as the larger MRX receivers and plays high-resolution FLAC, ALAC, WAV, and DSD files. AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth are built in for streaming from your phone, tablet, or computer.

What streaming services are supported by the Anthem MRX 540?

The Anthem MRX 540 8K supports Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth for wireless streaming.

What are the dimensions and weight of the Anthem MRX 540?

The Anthem MRX 540 8K measures 17" wide, 6" high, and 14.5" deep, and weighs 28.2 lb (12.8 kg). It fits a 4U rack space with Anthem's rackmount kit.

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