Review: Anthem MRX740 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X AV Amplifier

Last updated May 12, 2023

With custom room correction and premium components, the Anthem MRX 740 anticipates your home theater experience.
Putting sound first
Like other Anthem products, the MRX 740 puts sound quality before functionality. Using a high-quality CLASS AB amplifier with discrete components (Class D for Atmos channels), the MRX 740 delivers detailed, dynamic sound. The class-leading room calibration system, ARC Genesis, sets the Ion apart from the opposition. A wide range of streaming music options makes this generation of Anthem AV amplifiers ideal as a complete hub for movies and music.
The Anthem MRX740 is a brilliantly refreshing design by Anthem AV and includes all the latest protocols in a high-performance package.

Based on the feature set of our previous models, we’ve added the latest version of ARC Genesis, a redesigned and more accurate calibration microphone, Anthem’s web UI, built-in streaming support, object-oriented audio codecs with support for up to 15.2 channels, and the clean power delivery anthem is known for with up to 140 watts per channel.

The MRX 540, 740 and 1140 are a great way to bring premium audio to any home theater or media room. Seamlessly integrate your smart TV or projector with 7 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, plus eARC. Ultra HD signals are passed up to 18.2 Gbps unchanged with Dolby Vision, HDR and Hybrid Log Gamma support.

The Anthem MRX 740 boasts seven HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs, with a third output for a second zone. The main output supports eARC and all HDMI ports are compatible with popular HDR formats like HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision. However, it doesn’t support passthrough of HDR10+ or ALLM, VRR, or 4K/120Hz. But, an optional HDMI 2.1 8K upgrade will be available early next year to keep up with future technology.

Aside from HDMI, the MRX 740 has five analogue inputs, three optical digital inputs, a pair of coaxial digital inputs, a USB port, an IR input, 12V triggers, and an RS232 serial connector. The device has dual antennas for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, with the option to connect via Ethernet. The set-up is straightforward, and wireless connection requires Google Home. The MRX 740 supports Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, with Spotify Connect and Roon support to be added soon.

Installation is easy, thanks to the well-designed and labelled rear panel. Users can connect up to two subwoofers and choose from 5.1, 7.1, and 5.1.2 systems out of the box, with the option to add extra amplification for 5.1.4, 7.1.2, and 7.1.4 systems. The MRX 740 is compatible with third-party control solutions like Control4 and Crestron.

Anthem’s USER web interface is now integrated into all MRX receivers and AVM processors. Using a phone, tablet, or laptop, owners can easily access any feature or settings and make changes on the go. Turn the main or second area on or off, adjust the volume, change audio modes, or adjust channel settings for a seamless surround sound experience. The web UI can also be used to calibrate speaker delays and levels and configure network settings/control options. Source devices can be renamed, simplifying configuration by allowing unused entries to be deleted. Installers can import and export files to make remote management simple and convenient.

ARC Genesis – the difference between the
In addition to premium electronics, Anthem’s distinctive feature is ARC (Anthem Room Correction). The latest ARC Genesis software takes a big step forward, giving you seamless room integration, ensuring you make the most of the MRX 740’s potential. Compatible with Mac and Windows, this third-generation room correction system uses custom Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and a dedicated microphone. Once set up, you will feel an incredible improvement as more integrated and “together” is sound. (Professional configuration recommended).

The magic of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X use ceiling speakers or triggers for three-dimensional, fully immersive sound. Whether the rain falls into a rainforest or the intense sound of aerial shooting, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X put you at the center of the action.

Be even more immersed: with 11.2 channel processing
With processing for 11.2 or 7.2.4 channels, you can add a 4-channel power amplifier (or two stereo power amplifiers) and not only double the number of ceiling speakers, but also add additional effect speakers, providing total sound immersion.

Certificate for IMAX Enhanced
A partnership between IMAX, DTS and Hollywood’s award-winning sound mixers offers an impressive new audio format: IMAX Enhanced. Only the highest quality home theater equipment meets the standard, with advanced IMAX content available in HDR streaming and UHD Blu-ray disc.

Set up speakers your way
Channel reassignment allows you to configure speakers the way you want. With seven-channel powered outputs, unused outputs can be used to amplify front speakers, adding a second zone or additional presence speakers in a 7.2 configuration. Thanks to ARC Genesis, the perfect presentation is guaranteed, whatever the format.

Zone 2 HDMI
For a fully independent AV output, the Anthem MRX 740 features an HDMI Zone 2 output. This allows you to vary the audio and visual output on another screen, such as a TV in another room. In addition, there are two HDMI outputs at the main source, ideal if you are using a protection and a TV in the same room.

Premium digital processing
With a premium 32-bit/768 kHz differential output DAC (digital to analog converters), the Anthem MRX740 amplifier decodes digital signals to the highest standards. These high-resolution DACs don’t miss a breath of action and make both movies and music brilliant.

Updatable HDMI Card – Supports Dolby Vision, HDR, HLG and eARC
Featuring an upgradeable HDMI interface with 7-inch/3 outputs, the Anthem MRX 740 amplifier supports a wide range of high dynamic range video formats. These include Dolby Vision, HDR and HLG. It also supports enhanced audio return channel (eARC), the latest return channel audio system that transmits uncompressed surround sound signals, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, from compatible TV to amplifier. The removable card allows for future HDMI updates (reseller return required). Photo:Anthem

AirPlay 2, Chromecast and Bluetooth: your streaming choice
Connect to your network via wi-fi or Ethernet and stream from your music app of your choice. Compatible with AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, the player adapts to most music apps available on Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. Bluetooth provides a quick and easy wireless connection to your smartphone, tablet or computer for easy music streaming. A free and future update will also include support for Spotify and Roon, making the MRX 740 even more versatile.

Update your home theater sound and vision with the Anthem MRX 740.

Anthem MRX 740 – CHROMECAST SETUP

Wired Connection:

Connect an ethernet cable to the Receiver/Processor.

Wired & Wireless Connection:

Download and open the Google Home app.

Update your home theater sound and vision with the Anthem MRX 740.

You should be prompted that there is a device available for setup. If not, simply tap “Add” followed by “Setup a

Device.” Select the Receiver/Processor and follow the instructions on screen.

To listen to cast audio from any supported application on your Receiver/Processor, ensure your device is connected

to the same network as the Receiver/Processor.

Tap the Chromecast built-in icon from within the application and select the Receiver/Processor as the playback

device

Anthem MRX 740 Bluetooth Setup

Bluetooth connection requires both wireless antennas to be attached. Once the antennas are attached, you must be

on the Bluetooth input for the MRX/AVM to enter Bluetooth pairing mode. Note that when you switch oﬀ of the

Bluetooth input or change inputs, the MRX will lose the pairing. The unpairing happens because Bluetooth was

designed for individual speakers and if it automatically reconnects to the receiver, it can switch your input and play

unwanted audio from something like background audio on a website that may be too loud.

Anthem MRX740 DTS:X AV Amplifier