I’ve had the opportunity to explore the Anthem MRX 720 in-depth, and I’m excited to share my review with you. As a high-performance AV receiver, the MRX 720 delivers outstanding audio quality and impressive home theater functionality. In this review, let’s dive into the key features, benefits, and performance details of this incredible piece of equipment.
When it comes to immersive home theater experiences, the Anthem MRX 720 doesn’t disappoint. It boasts cutting-edge technology like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, providing users with amazing 3D surround sound.
Additionally, the 140 Watts per channel (WPC) ensures that your system packs a punch when it comes to power and volume. What sets the MRX 720 apart from its competitors, though, is Anthem Room Correction (ARC) technology – it’s this unique feature that I’ll focus on as I delve further into my review.
The Anthem MRX 720 is a powerhouse AV receiver with features that cater to both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. Stay tuned for a more detailed examination of what this exceptional AV receiver has to offer.
Design and Build Quality: Anthem MRX 720
When I first unpacked the Anthem MRX 720, I immediately noticed the sleek and modern design. The unit features an all-black chassis with a brushed aluminum front panel, which adds a touch of sophistication to any home theater setup. The LED display on the front panel is bright and easy to read, with crisp white text against the dark background.
Taking a closer look at the build quality, I found the Anthem MRX 720 to be quite sturdy and well-constructed. The heavy-duty metal casing ensures durability for years of continuous use. During my hands-on experience, the unit felt stable and strong, with no noticeable flexing when lifting or moving it around.
Additionally, the buttons and dials on the front panel are very responsive, giving me a high level of confidence in their reliability.
One aspect that I appreciate about the design of the MRX 720 is the layout of the input and output connections on the back panel. The clearly labeled ports make it easy for me to set up the system, avoiding any confusion or frustration during the installation process. Some of the connectivity options provided are:
- 7 HDMI inputs (7.1 channel input)
- 2 HDMI outputs
- Multi-channel preamp outputs
- Speaker binding posts
- Component and composite video inputs
- Optical and coaxial S/PDIF audio inputs
Furthermore, ventilation is a key factor to consider when purchasing an audio-video receiver, and the MRX 720 does not disappoint in this regard.
The top and bottom panels have large vent openings, allowing for adequate airflow and heat dissipation during operation. As a result, the unit remains cool to the touch even after several hours of use.
Another notable feature of the MRX 720 is its customization options for audio processing. The receiver is equipped with built-in Room Correction technology, known as Anthem Room Correction (ARC).
This innovative technology allows users to optimize the audio performance of their system based on their specific room acoustics, ensuring the best possible audio experience for each unique environment.
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Key Features and Specs: Anthem MRX 720
When it comes to the Anthem MRX 720, there are quite a few impressive features and specs that make this home theater receiver stand out. Let’s dive into some of its most notable aspects.
Power Output: The MRX 720 boasts a solid 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.1% THD, with 2 channels driven. This means you’ll get clear, powerful sound for both music and movies. The receiver can also support 7.2.4 speaker configurations for immersive and engaging audio experiences.
Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Support: One of the key features of the MRX 720 is its support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, providing a fully immersive 3D audio experience. It’s essential for those looking to create a cutting-edge home theater system.
Audio Streaming: The Anthem MRX 720 supports various audio streaming options, including Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay. This makes it easy to stream your favorite tunes from your phone, tablet, or computer.
Anthem Room Correction (ARC): One of my favorite features is the Anthem Room Correction (ARC) software, which helps adjust the sound for your specific room. ARC uses an included calibration microphone to analyze your space and make adjustments to the audio output, delivering a tailored audio experience.
In terms of Connectivity, the MRX 720 features:
- 8 HDMI inputs (7 rear, 1 front), including 7 HDCP 2.2 compatible inputs and 2 HDMI outputs
- Supports 4K Ultra HD pass-through with HDR and Dolby Vision
- Internet Radio (vTuner)
- Ethernet and Wireless (Dual Band 802.11n) connections
- USB input for firmware updates and ARC measurements
- Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs
- RCA analog audio inputs
- 7.1-channel preamp outputs and 2 subwoofer outputs
- 12V triggers and RS-232 support for home automation integration
The Anthem MRX 720 is certainly packed with features and specs that make it a solid choice for any home theater aficionado.
Its powerful output, 3D audio capabilities, streaming options, and room correction software put it among the top contenders in its price range, making it a worthwhile consideration for your next home theater upgrade.
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Audio Performance
When it comes to the audio performance, I found the Anthem MRX 720 to deliver an impressive sound quality that can elevate any home theater experience.
The receiver is loaded with features that ensure the audio is crisp, clear, and immersive. In this section, I’ll dive into the specifics of the MRX 720’s audio capabilities.
Without a doubt, the standout feature in the audio department is the Anthem Room Correction (ARC) technology. This advanced software is designed to optimize the sound for your specific room acoustics, providing a tailor-made listening experience.
It works by analyzing your speaker performance and the room’s unique characteristics, and then it fine-tunes the audio settings to achieve the best possible sound.
Additionally, the Anthem MRX 720 fully supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X codecs, providing an immersive 3D audio experience that brings movies and music to life.
With support for 7.1.4 speaker configurations, the MRX 720 can handle even the largest home theaters. Moreover, the receiver features a built-in Class-D amplifier that produces 140 watts per channel for 8-ohm speakers and 225 watts per channel for 4-ohm speakers. This ensures the audio is both powerful and remains distortion-free, even at higher volumes.
Audiophiles will appreciate the high-resolution audio support offered by the Anthem MRX 720. It’s compatible with several high-res audio file formats such as:
- FLAC
- ALAC
- DSD
In my tests, the audio playback was detailed and accurate, with excellent dynamics and tight bass. It’s evident that Anthem focused on maintaining audio integrity for the discerning listener.
A few other audio-focused features of the MRX 720 that deserve a mention are:
- Advanced Load Monitoring (ALM): This feature protects the amplifier channels from overheating, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- 11.1 channel pre-outs: The receiver comes with pre-outs for all channels, should you wish to connect external power amplifiers.
- Zone 2 audio: The MRX 720 supports multi-room audio setups, allowing you to enjoy music in different areas of your home.
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Setup and Calibration
I found the setup and calibration process of the Anthem MRX 720 to be quite user-friendly. The Anthem Room Correction (ARC) system simplifies the process of achieving optimal sound quality. Here’s a closer look at how I went about setting it up and calibrating it.
First, I connected the MRX 720 to my speakers and other devices using the appropriate cables. For my home theater setup, I used HDMI and HDMI ARC connections. Next, I powered it up and navigated the on-screen menu to configure the system settings. I have to say, the on-screen menu is intuitive and easy to understand.
The real magic began when I started to use the Anthem Room Correction (ARC) system. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps:
- Download ARC software to your computer or laptop and connect the included calibrated microphone.
- Position the microphone in your room’s primary listening area.
- Run the ARC software, which will guide you through the calibration process.
During the calibration, ARC will:
- Measure the room’s acoustic properties
- Optimize audio settings for your specific room
Some critical aspects of the calibration process include:
- Measurement of audio frequencies
- Identification of speaker distances
- Elimination of audio issues caused by reflections or standing waves
The result? I experienced a well-balanced audio reproduction that was tailored to my room’s characteristics. This custom audio calibration made a significant difference in the overall sound quality and clarity.
Home Theater Integration
When I first tested the Anthem MRX 720, I quickly realized it’s designed to seamlessly integrate with any home theater setup. This receiver boasts a plethora of features that’ll elevate your entertainment experience. In this section, I’ll discuss some of the specifics that impressed me the most concerning home theater integration.
A standout aspect of the MRX 720 is its ability to support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding. These technologies create an immersive, three-dimensional audio experience that takes your home theater setup to new heights.
With 7.2 channels and support for up to 11.2 channels via external amplification, you’ll be enveloped by the crisp, dynamic sound that the MRX 720 delivers.
Connectivity options are essential when evaluating a receiver’s performance in home theater integration. The MRX 720 certainly doesn’t disappoint with its array of inputs and outputs. Some notable connections include:
- 7 HDMI inputs
- 2 HDMI outputs
- 5 rear and 1 front-panel RCA inputs
- 2 optical and 2 coaxial digital audio inputs
- Pre-outs for all 11.2 channels
Moreover, this receiver supports 4K Ultra HD and High Dynamic Range (HDR) pass-through for an enhanced visual experience. It’s capable of scaling content to accommodate the resolution of your display, which is essential for producing vivid, lifelike images on the screen.
Another essential element for a seamless home theater experience is system calibration. The Anthem MRX 720 handles this beautifully through its integrated Anthem Room Correction (ARC).
With this advanced technology, the receiver quickly and accurately analyzes your room’s acoustics, optimizing your speakers to deliver a tailored sound profile. This results in an improved audio performance that’s customized to your unique listening environment.
Integration with home automation systems is also a vital feature that the MRX 720 brings to the table. The receiver is compatible with popular platforms such as Control4, Crestron, and RTI. This compatibility ensures smooth operation with your existing home automation setup.
Lastly, the Anthem MRX 720 introduces wireless streaming capabilities via DTS Play-Fi technology. This enables you to wirelessly stream music from compatible devices directly to the receiver, providing easy access to your favorite tunes without sacrificing sound quality.
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Room Correction Capabilities
Anthem’s MRX 720 truly excels in its room correction capabilities, thanks to the Anthem Room Correction (ARC) system. I’ve personally experienced the difference it can make in sound quality when using this AV receiver, and it’s impressive. Let us delve deeper into the various aspects of ARC.
The ARC system utilizes advanced digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms to optimize audio performance in any given environment. By taking measurements of a room’s acoustics, ARC can accurately adjust the audio output to match the unique characteristics of that particular space. The benefits include:
- More natural and balanced sound distribution
- Enhanced precision and clarity
- Reduced unwanted reverberations or echoes
Using ARC is straightforward as well. The MRX 720 comes with a calibration microphone that connects to your computer via USB.
This microphone is used to take measurements in various listening positions around the room. Then, the ARC software analyzes these measurements and creates custom filters for your AV receiver to compensate for the room’s acoustic anomalies.
Furthermore, ARC allows you to customize target curves according to your preferences. This means you can tweak the overall sound signature to suit your tastes or the type of content you’re listening to. This level of personalization sets the MRX 720 apart from many other AV receivers.
In terms of compatibility, the MRX 720 supports ARC Genesis, the latest version of Anthem Room Correction. ARC Genesis offers several improvements over earlier versions, such as enhanced room analysis capabilities and a more refined user interface. This means that you’ll benefit from the most advanced room correction technology available when using the Anthem MRX 720.
All in all, the room correction capabilities of the Anthem MRX 720, powered by the Anthem Room Correction system, can markedly improve the sound quality of your home theater experience. From accurate measurements to sophisticated DSP algorithms and personalized target curves, you’ll appreciate the difference ARC can make.
Comparing to Competitors
When comparing the Anthem MRX 720 to its competitors, it’s important to emphasize the unique features and benefits that set it apart. Two of its main competitors include the Marantz SR7011 and the Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080. Let’s take a closer look at how they differ:
Audio Processing
The Anthem MRX 720 is well-known for its superior audio processing capabilities. The built-in Anthem Room Correction (ARC) system sets it apart, as it’s designed to optimize audio performance based on your listening environment.
While both the Marantz SR7011 and Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080 offer room correction software, neither can match the top-notch performance of Anthem’s ARC system.
Power Output
Comparing power output is an important variable when considering AV receivers. The Anthem MRX 720’s power output is 140 watts per channel (with 2 channels driven), whereas the Marantz SR7011 has 125 watts per channel and the Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080 delivers 140 watts per channel.
This gives the MRX 720 a slight edge over the Marantz SR7011 and ties it with the Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080.
| AV Receiver | Power Output (Watts per channel, 2 channels driven) |
|---|---|
| Anthem MRX 720 | 140 |
| Marantz SR7011 | 125 |
| Yamaha RX-A2080 | 140 |
Build Quality
When it comes to building quality, the Anthem MRX 720 truly stands out. Its robust construction and high-quality components ensure long-lasting, reliable performance. Although both the Marantz SR7011 and the Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080 boast solid build quality, the MRX 720’s durability offers an added level of confidence for the buyer.
Connectivity
All three receivers offer extensive connectivity options, which include a multitude of HDMI inputs and outputs. The Anthem MRX 720 offers 7 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs, compared to the Marantz SR7011’s 8 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs, and the Yamaha Aventage RX-A2080’s 7 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs. The additional HDMI outputs on both the Marantz and Yamaha models may provide greater versatility for some users.
Pros and Cons
Throughout my experience with the Anthem MRX 720, I’ve noticed several pros and cons that will help potential buyers decide if this AV receiver is the right fit for their home theater setup.
Let’s dive into the details of what makes this product stand out, and a few areas where it could improve.
Pros:
- One of the key strengths of the Anthem MRX 720 is its outstanding audio quality. The device delivers an immersive, crystal-clear sound that truly brings movies and music to life.
- The receiver is equipped with Anthem’s Room Correction (ARC) system, which significantly enhances the listening experience by automatically fine-tuning your speakers to your room’s unique acoustics.
- With support for 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, the MRX 720 allows you to experience the best in object-based surround sound during movie playback, making you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.
- The Anthem MRX 720 boasts an impressive set of connectivity options, which includes 8 HDMI inputs, 2 HDMI outputs, and a wide range of digital and analog inputs. It also supports Bluetooth and the latest video standards, such as HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision.
Cons:
- The Anthem MRX 720’s remote control isn’t the most user-friendly device. It’s somewhat cluttered in design and can be challenging to navigate in low-light conditions.
- Some users may find the receiver’s price point to be a limiting factor, as it’s on the higher end for AV receivers.
- The user interface of the MRX 720 has room for improvement. Though it’s functional, it lacks the polish and intuitiveness found in similar competitor products.
- As the MRX 720 is a 7-channel receiver, those looking to utilize a 9-channel or 11-channel setup for expanded home theater systems may need to look elsewhere.
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Conclusion
After spending considerable time evaluating the Anthem MRX 720, it’s safe to say that this AV receiver is an impressive performer. Combining a powerful set of features with high-quality sound performance, the MRX 720 is one of the top contenders in its class.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the MRX 720 may not be the best fit for those who prioritize simplicity and a user-friendly interface. Some of the settings and configuration options can feel a bit overwhelming for first-time users. That said, the comprehensive manual and helpful customer support can surely aid in the process.
In summary, the Anthem MRX 720 is a powerful and high-performing AV receiver that can level up your home theater experience. It may not be the most budget-friendly option or the easiest to use, but for those who are after remarkable sound quality and advanced features, it’s definitely worth considering.