Anthem MRX 540 8K A/V Receiver

Overview

The Anthem MRX 540 8K is the entry point into Anthem's MRX receiver line, built for a clean 5.2-channel home theater without the compromises that usually come with a lower-priced receiver. It pairs a 7.2-channel pre-amplifier stage with 5 onboard amplifier channels delivering 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms.

It runs the same ARC Genesis room correction, 32-bit/768kHz DACs, and 8K-ready HDMI 2.1 platform (7 inputs, 2 outputs) found in Anthem's larger MRX receivers, just scaled to a 5.2 speaker layout rather than a full object-based system. Two independent subwoofer outputs and object-based decoding for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced round out the package.

The Anthem Web User Interface and Remote App handle day-to-day control, and the receiver's 7.2-channel processing means there's room to add a two-channel external amplifier later for a 5.2.2 Atmos layout without replacing the receiver itself.

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. Anthem doesn't cut the processing or DAC quality to hit this price point, so the sound stays consistent with the rest of the MRX line even though the amplifier channel count is lower.

More Info

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 digital-to-analog conversion quality found in Anthem's flagship processors.

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
DesignModern 2-Tone Chassis with High-Res Front Display
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)
Amplifier TypeClass AB
Impedance CompatibilityCompatible with 4 Ohms or higher
Audio & Video Performance
HDMI VersionHDMI 2.1 (8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDCP 2.3)
HDR FormatsDolby Vision, HDR10+, 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 (Software and Calibrated Mic included)
Connectivity & Streaming
HDMI Inputs/Outputs7 In / 2 Out (including eARC)
Digital Inputs3 Optical, 2 Coaxial
Analog Inputs5 Stereo RCA Pairs
Pre-Amplifier Outputs7.2 Channel RCA (including 2 Independent Subwoofer Outs)
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 lbs (12.8 kg)
Power Consumption365W (Typical), 0.3W (Standby)
Rack Space4U (with optional rackmount kit)

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?

The Anthem MRX 540 delivers excellent sound quality, providing clear and detailed audio reproduction. Its Class-AB amplification ensures low distortion and high fidelity, making it suitable for both movies and music.

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 measures 17" in width, 6" in height, and 14.5" in depth, weighing approximately 28.2 pounds.