Anthem MRX 740 8K AV Receiver

The Anthem MRX 740 8K is the mid-range model in Anthem’s MRX Series of AV receivers, positioned between the MRX 540 8K (7.2 pre-amplifier / 5 amplifier channels) and the flagship MRX 1140 8K (15.2 pre-amplifier / 11 amplifier channels). With 11.2-channel pre-amplifier processing and seven built-in amplifier channels rated at 140W per channel into 8Ω, the MRX 740 8K provides a practical balance of immersive surround-sound capability and future-proof 8K video switching.

Amplification

Five of the seven amplifier channels are Class A/B, delivering 140W into 8Ω or 170W into 6Ω. The remaining two channels are Class B, rated at 60W into 8Ω or 75W into 6Ω. All channels are compatible with speakers rated at 4Ω or higher. The intelligent channel reassignment system allows unused amplifier channels to be repurposed for bi-amping front speakers or driving a second zone, making the most of the available power without requiring an external amplifier.

8K Video & HDMI 2.1

The MRX 740 8K is equipped with seven dedicated 8K HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs, all built to the HDMI 2.1 specification with HDCP 2.3 content protection. The receiver supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through alongside gaming features including Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). The main HDMI output includes eARC for high-bandwidth audio return from compatible televisions.

Immersive Audio Processing

With 11.2 channels of processing, the MRX 740 8K decodes Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced content. The 32-bit/768kHz digital-to-analogue conversion stage ensures high-resolution audio sources are reproduced with precision. The 11.2 pre-amplifier outputs allow expansion to a full object-based surround configuration when paired with an external amplifier such as the Anthem MCA 225 or MCA 325.

ARC Genesis Room Correction

Every MRX 740 8K includes Anthem’s ARC Genesis room correction system with a precision calibration microphone. ARC Genesis measures the acoustic characteristics of the listening room and applies correction filters designed to solve room-induced problems rather than mask them. The system supports four storable profiles, allowing different correction curves for different seating positions or room configurations. The calibration software runs on both macOS and Windows.

Streaming & Control

Built-in streaming support includes Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth. The receiver connects to the home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. A web-based user interface provides full access to all setup menus from any browser on the local network, and the Anthem Remote App adds Wi-Fi-based control from a smartphone. For custom installations, the MRX 740 8K offers IP control compatibility with Savant, Control4, RTI, URC, Crestron, and ELAN systems, alongside RS-232 serial control.

Design

The MRX 740 8K features a distinctive two-tone facia with black glass on the left housing a large display and matte black on the right, following Anthem’s redesigned aesthetic. The front panel carries a large volume dial, discrete function buttons, and a headphone output.

What the Press Says

• “A competitively priced and well-specified premium AVR that sounds superb.” — Home Cinema Choice ★★★★★ (August 2021)
• Home Cinema Choice Best Buy