The four new units offer seven or nine channels of amplification along with four HDMI inputs and one output. The MRX 300, MRX 500 and MRX 700 (pictured) all feature seven channels of amplification and four HDMI inputs/one output, while the MRX 900 offers nine channels of amplification and seven HDMI inputs/one output.
The specification of the new receivers also includes the Anthem Room Correction (ARC) system, accommodation of many current audio formats (including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Pro Logic IIz and DTS-HD Master Audio) and internet radio (except the MRX 300), and the ability to process 3D movies and television when paired with a 3DTV and a 3D capable source component.
The first two models – the MRX 500 and MRX 700 – are expected to reach specialty dealers by late summer. Anthem is also readying an optional add-on accessory for use with all MRX receivers, the MDX 1 iPod/iPhone dock, for release at the start of 2011.
Regarding the prospects for the 3D market, Anthem AV Solutions product specialist Tom Garrett told IE Residential: “3D is an exciting technology that offers a totally enveloping experience and is causing a great deal of excitement with consumers. The adoption of 3D is only limited by the availability of content at the moment, a restriction that is quickly disappearing, meaning customers want to be ready for this stunning new technology. Anthem’s new receivers are state-of-the-art and enable the custom installer to specify 3D systems from this premium brand. The D2v and AVM50v processors will move to 3D functionality very soon, with processors already purchased being upgradeable.”
