The Anthem MRX SLM is Anthem's Slim Line 4K AV receiver, offering 9.2-channel processing in a compact chassis measuring a third of the height of a conventional AV receiver. Designed for installations where rack space is limited or where a lower-profile unit is preferred, the MRX SLM brings Anthem's signature engineering to those who want high-performance home cinema without the physical bulk of a full-size separates stack.
Slim Line Design
At its core, the MRX SLM is engineered around Anthem's Slim Line chassis concept, which reduces the unit's height significantly compared to the standard MRX Series receivers. Despite its reduced footprint, the receiver retains a full complement of discrete Class A/B amplification across nine channels, delivering 85W per channel into 8 ohms. The slimmer enclosure has been achieved through careful thermal management and a purpose-designed power supply, rather than through any compromise in amplification topology.
9.2-Channel Processing
The MRX SLM processes up to 9.2 channels, covering the most popular immersive audio speaker layouts including 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X configurations. Full decoding is provided for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced content, with support for the latest DTS:X Pro and Dolby Atmos object-based formats. The 9.2 pre-amplifier output stage means the unit can feed an external amplifier to extend speaker zone capability beyond its built-in channel count.
4K Video Switching
Four HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs are provided, all built to the HDMI 2.0b specification with HDCP 2.2 content protection. The receiver supports 4K/60Hz pass-through with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG high dynamic range formats. An eARC-capable main HDMI output enables high-bandwidth audio return from compatible televisions, including lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio streams.
ARC Genesis Room Correction
Anthem Room Correction Genesis (ARC Genesis) is the centrepiece of the MRX SLM's setup and optimisation system. The ARC Genesis software, available for Windows and macOS, runs a series of measurements using the supplied microphone and applies corrective filters across all channels. The system addresses speaker distance, level, and frequency response, producing filters that are loaded directly into the receiver's DSP. Anthem's approach to room correction uses an industry-leading minimum-phase filter design that corrects the low-frequency range where room effects are most audible, while preserving the character of the loudspeaker above the crossover point.
Connectivity and Features
Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allow wireless music streaming from mobile devices and network audio sources. The receiver is compatible with AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth aptX HD for high-quality wireless audio. Four analogue audio inputs and one phono input are included for connecting legacy source components, and a USB port on the front panel supports direct playback from USB storage devices. Two zone outputs allow a secondary listening area to be fed independently from the main room, either from the same source or a different one.
Build and Configuration
Anthem's commitment to build quality is evident throughout the MRX SLM. The chassis uses a rigid steel construction with a brushed aluminium front panel available in black or silver finishes. Comprehensive speaker configuration options include bass management per channel, multiple crossover frequencies, and room correction applied at the subwoofer output. The MRX SLM is also compatible with control systems including Crestron and Control4, with IP and RS-232 control ports provided for professional installation environments.