Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Agile and rhythmic sonic performance is delivered with a full and clear delivery
- Transparent sound brings subtle sonic touches to life, rare for a home cinema amp
- The DAC is the same as the higher end models, so there's no compromise for its performance
- Built to last with new core features introduced through firmware or modular cabinet designs
- It can power seven channels, which means that a 5.1.2 can be directly connected to this amplifier as of now, and can be upgraded later on
Product Considerations
- Lacks inbuilt calibration, Dirac Live Room Correction software is upgradeable access at an additional cost
- HDMI ports only support HDMI 2.0, with eARC being the only nod toward next-gen HDMI features
- The AVR5 has 11.1 channel processing for Dolby Atmos, DTS X and Auro 3D audio formats, but it can power only seven channels
- Lacks some of the functionality and usability of the competition
- The AVR5 doesn't output its full menu system to the TV or projector to which it's connected
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Denon AVC-X6700H: The Denon has more robust low end delivery, but the Arcam sounds more fleet-footed
- Compared to regular AV receivers, Arcam has a higher signal to noise ratio for stereo and multichannel mode, making it deliver more dynamic sound
Takeaway: The AVR5 is an engaging home cinema amplifier that prioritizes sound quality with sparkling clarity and agility. It is a good option for those who value sonic performance and don't necessarily need all the latest features.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
Arcam AVR5
- Positioning: Entry-level model in Arcam's AVR lineup.
- Description: Offers solid performance with Class AB amplification, delivering 60W per channel with all channels driven. Features HDMI 2.0b connectivity, which supports 4K video but lacks the 8K capabilities and advanced gaming features found in the AVR11, AVR21, and AVR31.
Arcam AVR11
- Positioning: Mid-tier model, positioned above the AVR5.
- Description: Enhances the home cinema experience with 7 channels of Class AB amplification, each delivering 85W with all channels driven. Introduces HDMI 2.1 connectivity, enabling 8K video passthrough at 60fps and 4K at 120fps, features not available in the AVR5.
Arcam AVR21
- Positioning: Higher mid-tier model, above the AVR11.
- Description: Provides increased power with 7 channels of Class AB amplification at 110W per channel, all channels driven. Supports 16-channel decoding for immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, offering more advanced processing capabilities compared to the AVR11's 12-channel decoding.
Arcam AVR31
- Positioning: Flagship AV receiver in Arcam's lineup.
- Description: Stands out with 7 channels of Class G amplification, delivering 100W per channel with all channels driven, providing higher efficiency and dynamic power reserves. While it shares the 16-channel decoding capability with the AVR21, the Class G amplification offers superior performance and efficiency over the Class AB amplification in the AVR21.
Arcam AV41
- Positioning: Dedicated AV processor without built-in amplification.
- Description: Designed for those who prefer using external power amplifiers, offering 16 channels of decoding for formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. Lacks built-in amplification but provides 16 balanced XLR outputs for high-quality connections to external amplifiers.
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Read the reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
AVR5
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Manufacturer's notes
The Arcam AVR5 is a high-performance audio/visual receiver that delivers stunning realism for the ultimate home cinema experience. Native 12-channel decoding of immersive audio from Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, the AVR5 can deliver incredible theatre experiences.
Manufacturer Specs
- Dolby Atmos & DTS:X: 7.1.4 decoding
- HDMI: 7 inputs, 2 outputs
- DAC: ESS 9026PRO
- Amplification: Class AB
- Connectivity: Wifi, Ethernet, RS232, IR control, Bluetooth aptX HD
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Average Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used Products
174
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Brand Popularity
73
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
22
Founded
1976
Our take on the brand
Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
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What if you spend a bit more?
AVR-X6800H
3499
3499
/
7
Reviews
Denon
Denon, which pioneered the AV Receiver over 110 years ago, continues to set industry standards with their HEOS Built-in technology for multi-room wireless audio. Their receivers deliver up to 13 channels of output and include 8K HDMI with eARC support, while their limited edition models like the PMA-A110 combine classic design with modern performance.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Seventeen channels of processing, 13 speaker channels, and 4 subwoofer channels
- Eleven internal amplifiers to power the 13 channels it can process, and the last two have to be powered externally
Product Considerations
- Denon Marantz startup time is 12 to 14 seconds
- There are limitations on speaker configuration, so picking the closest match will functionally work
- Compatible with Dirac Live, however, Dirac Live requires additional costs and setup
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The AVR-X6800H adds two more channels over the Denon AVRX 4800
- The AVR-X6800H has an advantage since rear surrounds or surround back speakers do not have to be disabled in order to use all the immersive channels
- The AVR-X6800H replaces the 6700 with a very similar feature set but a couple of new extras, more subwoofer counts, etc
Takeaway: The AVR-X6800H is a receiver that provides very good value, capable of creating a very immersive sound experience. It gives many speaker configuration options.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Denon, which pioneered the AV Receiver over 110 years ago, continues to set industry standards with their HEOS Built-in technology for multi-room wireless audio. Their receivers deliver up to 13 channels of output and include 8K HDMI with eARC support, while their limited edition models like the PMA-A110 combine classic design with modern performance.
Visit our
AVR-X6800H
page
Product Page
DRX-8.4
3200
3200
/
6
Reviews
Integra
Integra is a hifi brand that designs AV receivers with custom installation in mind, featuring a bright white back panel for easier connections, built-in HDMI diagnostics, and compatibility with remote monitoring systems. Their receivers include specialized features like Klipsch Optimized Mode for automatic speaker optimization and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer for creating virtual surround effects without extra speakers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Premium Dirac Live license for room correction is included, which is considered top-of-the-line
- 11.4 channels with 150 watts per channel (into 8 ohms) are offered, and Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, IMAX Enhanced, and Dolby Atmos Music are supported
- XLR outputs for front left, center, and right channels, as well as discrete subwoofer channels, are featured, which are uncommon in this category and provide a balanced audio signal less susceptible to noise
- Amplified and preamp zone 2 and zone 3 outputs are provided without sacrificing main zone amp outputs, and a dedicated subwoofer RCA output for each of these zones is included
- Designed with custom installers in mind, it features easy setup, configuration, and integration with third-party control platforms, as well as a white backplate for easy connection visibility
Product Considerations
- Despite having four RCA subwoofer outputs, only two are independent channels, the other two are parallel outputs mirroring the same signal
- Integra does not publish power ratings for all channels driven simultaneously, the 150 watts per channel is only rated with two channels driven
- The unit is heavy, weighing nearly 50 pounds, which may pose a challenge for placement in tight spaces
- Dirac implementation had initial issues with subwoofer level matching when setting up on a PC, and the upload section was broken after a software update, requiring the use of the iPad app and the basic microphone instead
- The unit's styling and appearance are considered generic and not particularly elegant
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the last generation DRX-7.3, the DRX-8.4 has an upgraded amplifier—providing a worthy step-up in power
- Sonically similar to the Onkyo TX-RZ70 due to similar ESS Sabre DACs, although the Integra has a slightly higher power rating (150W vs 140W)
- In a blind test, the DRX-8.4 had better clarity of highs in dialogue compared to the Denon AVR-X8500HA, despite tonal similarities
- Compared to the Marantz Cinema 40, the Integra DRX-8.4 has 11 channels of onboard amplification versus only 9, and it offers XLR outputs for the front LCR preamp channels, which the Marantz does not
Takeaway: The Integra DRX-8.4 is a feature-rich AV receiver that sounds great and is easy to integrate into a smart home system. It is a solid choice for users who want high-end audio performance and flexible multi-zone capabilities.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Integra is a hifi brand that designs AV receivers with custom installation in mind, featuring a bright white back panel for easier connections, built-in HDMI diagnostics, and compatibility with remote monitoring systems. Their receivers include specialized features like Klipsch Optimized Mode for automatic speaker optimization and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer for creating virtual surround effects without extra speakers.
Visit our
DRX-8.4
page
Product Page
Cinema 30
3299
3299
/
5
Reviews
Marantz
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Commanding authority across the entire frequency spectrum results in a visceral listening experience
- Excellent stereo performance with solid midrange, detailed highs, and great spatial rendition; the sound is warm and non-fatiguing for long listening sessions
- An immersive surround-sound experience with accurate surround steering and great sonic balance across the audio spectrum
- A premium design with a metal faceplate remote, copper-plated chassis, and high-quality components like 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC chips and a toroidal transformer
Product Considerations
- The 40Gbps HDMI limit might be a small issue in the future
- Dirac Live and Bass Control are paid options, not standard
- Audyssey automatic setup still makes the obligatory 80Hz crossover changes from the detected full-range mains
- The unit might become rather warm to the touch when driven hard at a very loud volume level
- While the scaling and video processing are acceptable, modern TVs or source components offer better image processing
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Marantz Cinema 40: Sonic improvements—a tad clearer and more refined, with better composure at high volumes
- Vs Denon AVC-X6800H: Several significant departures to ensure the Cinema 30 contains true Marantz performance across many critical components, though both share commonalities; the reviewer prefers the house sound of the Marantz if one doesn't want to mess with room EQ
Takeaway: The Marantz Cinema 30 is a high-end AV receiver that excels in both home theater and stereo applications. It delivers powerful, immersive sound and offers a range of features for both audio and video enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Visit our
Cinema 30
page
Product Page
AVR-X8500HA
4599
4599
/
2
Reviews
Denon
Denon, which pioneered the AV Receiver over 110 years ago, continues to set industry standards with their HEOS Built-in technology for multi-room wireless audio. Their receivers deliver up to 13 channels of output and include 8K HDMI with eARC support, while their limited edition models like the PMA-A110 combine classic design with modern performance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- HDMI 2.1 provides future-proofing in terms of 8K and 4K 120, plus next-gen gaming features in HDR formats
- Thirteen channels of processing and 13 channels built-in allow for a full 13.2 channel system without additional amplification
- Denon's setup wizard guides users through the setup process, making it relatively easy
- A provided microphone allows the user to EQ the entire system for the room, the bass, and tonal balance
- It is feature-packed, and reviewers find no better specified receiver on the market
Product Considerations
- It does not have a tuner, so technically it is an AV amplifier, not a receiver
- It is big and heavy
- It has only a single 8K input, which is also the only 4K/120 input
- It is approaching the end of its lifespan
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Arcam AVR 31: The AVC-X8500HA has more connectivity and analog/digital inputs, while the Arcam AVR 31 has a simpler back panel
Takeaway: The Denon AVC-X8500HA offers a complete, feature-rich home theater experience with its 13 channels and future-proofed HDMI 2.1, making it a great option for immersive sound. If the user wants a high-end receiver with pretty much every feature available, this is it.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Denon, which pioneered the AV Receiver over 110 years ago, continues to set industry standards with their HEOS Built-in technology for multi-room wireless audio. Their receivers deliver up to 13 channels of output and include 8K HDMI with eARC support, while their limited edition models like the PMA-A110 combine classic design with modern performance.
Visit our
AVR-X8500HA
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
AVR-X3800H
1699
/
Released
2022
Denon
Denon, which pioneered the AV Receiver over 110 years ago, continues to set industry standards with their HEOS Built-in technology for multi-room wireless audio. Their receivers deliver up to 13 channels of output and include 8K HDMI with eARC support, while their limited edition models like the PMA-A110 combine classic design with modern performance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Balanced and natural sound across the frequency spectrum, with detailed and crisp highs and warm midrange tones
- Supports the latest surround sound formats, like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D, and Sony's 360 Reality Audio, creating an immersive audio experience
- Offers Audyssey XT32 room correction—with Dirac Live as an extra-cost option—for improved bass tightness, definition, and midrange focus
- Features HEOS multi-room streaming ecosystem and voice assistant integration with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomePod
- Equipped with HDMI 2.1 on all inputs and outputs, supporting 8K video, 4K upscaling, and gaming-friendly features, like ALLM and VRR
Product Considerations
- The HEOS app is required for streaming music services
- The included remote is not backlit
- The user manual needs more explanations for the average homeowner on how to set up different items
- The unit warms up and produces a fair amount of heat overall, even in preamp mode
- The transformer makes a loud clicking noise when switching surround modes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Denon offers a better value advantage due to similar features at a lower price point, compared to Marantz Cinema 50
- The AVR-X3800H is an improved version of the AVR-X3700H
- The AVR-X3800H is slightly inferior to the more expensive AVR-X4800H model—and has less power (105W per channel vs 145W per channel)
Takeaway: The Denon AVR-X3800H is a competent and feature-rich AV receiver that brings high-quality sound and modern video capabilities to a home theater setup. With its support for various surround sound formats and user-friendly design, it is a great choice for immersive entertainment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Denon, which pioneered the AV Receiver over 110 years ago, continues to set industry standards with their HEOS Built-in technology for multi-room wireless audio. Their receivers deliver up to 13 channels of output and include 8K HDMI with eARC support, while their limited edition models like the PMA-A110 combine classic design with modern performance.
Visit
AVR-X3800H
Page
Product Page
Cinema 40
2499
/
Released
2022
Marantz
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Equipped with premium features, state-of-the-art surround format processing and the latest 8K video support
- Delivers a realistic, engaging surround sound experience
- High ultra textures tonality full of details, intelligibility and transparency
- Can be controlled with IR remote, free Marantz app, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomePod
- Excellent video connectivity is state of the art and provides backward compatibility with older video devices by the provision of the composite and component video inputs
Product Considerations
- HDMI-CEC is buggy, but the entire AV industry is full of HDMI-CEC issues, so it's not just Marantz
- Makes a loud clunking when powering the unit on and off—probably about the power supply
- Dynamic scenes like explosions or orchestra crescendo felt a bit constrained
- For those who still own legacy components, like a LaserDisc or a VHS player, the Cinema 40 is worth the added investment given that the Cinema 50 lacks any and all analog video inputs
- Does not support Qobuz natively
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Sony 7000ES, the Cinema 40 has been the first receiver that has had reviewers questioning the decision to make the Sony 7000ES their personal reference receiver
- Compared to the Cinema 50, these two receivers sound very similar, though the Cinema 40 offers up a little bit more power
- Compared to NAD's T778, the Cinema 40 has all the features beat, but the NAD's T778 is still a great receiver, though it has fewer channels and no 8K60 4K120 support, at least not yet
- Compared to the Yamaha A8A, the only reason to choose the Yamaha over the Marantz would be for its manual PEQ functionality
- As for the Anthem, it sounds fantastic, but when it comes to the user experience, it's outclassed
Takeaway: The Cinema 40 is a versatile receiver with a full set of features and great performance, making it a solid choice for creating an immersive home theater. The warm sound and multiple connectivity options make it a great centerpiece for a home entertainment system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Visit
Cinema 40
Page
Product Page
Cinema 50
2500
/
Released
2022
Marantz
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Nicer finish and a bit more musicality on music compared to the Denon AVR-X800.
- Features four independent subwoofer outs, which is a mind-blowing addition.
- Music playback is sublime.
- Excellent room-correction capabilities with an innovative multiple-subwoofer option.
- HDAM amplification circuitry gives a characteristically warm Marantz sound.
Product Considerations
- A bit light on power if coming from a higher-end unit like the Marantz 8015, may need a power amplifier.
- The on-screen interfaces are still a bit slow.
- Native streaming mostly requires the HEOS app.
- Lacks affirmation of surround mode (Atmos) when streaming from TV.
- No front-mounted HDMI input.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Denon AVR-X800: The Cinema 50 has a nicer finish and a bit more musicality on music.
- Vs Marantz 8015: By itself, the Cinema 50 is a bit light on power, but with a power amplifier, it beats the 8015 due to new functionality.
- Vs Marantz Cinema 40: The Cinema 40 is broadly comparable in specification, and mostly justifies its price hike with a higher claimed power output.
- Vs Marantz Cinema 60: The Cinema 60 is available in FM and FM/DAB versions, priced lower, with power rated at 100W/8ohm, via seven onboard channels.
Takeaway: The Marantz Cinema 50 is a refined AV receiver that brings both musicality and exciting sound performance, making it great for both movies and music. Its modern design and future-proofed connectivity make it a good choice for those wanting a high-end home theater experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Visit
Cinema 50
Page
Product Page
AVR-X4800H
2499
/
Released
2022
Denon
Denon, which pioneered the AV Receiver over 110 years ago, continues to set industry standards with their HEOS Built-in technology for multi-room wireless audio. Their receivers deliver up to 13 channels of output and include 8K HDMI with eARC support, while their limited edition models like the PMA-A110 combine classic design with modern performance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Combines features, performance, and affordability, consolidating Denon's position in the mid-range market
- Loaded with features, potentially the hub of one's home theater and music system for the foreseeable future
- Includes Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D, and even IMAX Enhanced, 360 Reality Audio, and MPEG-H
- Excellent sound quality—dynamic, exciting, and visceral—with clean and detailed soundstage
- Has seven HDMI 2.1 inputs and three HDMI outputs, all support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz passthrough
Product Considerations
- Classic AVR design is not fashion forward
- Lacks a front mounted HDMI input and front AV inputs
- Audyssey room correction, while effective, is beginning to feel a bit long in the tooth
- Dirac Live upgrade comes at an additional cost
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Denon AVR-X4800H has IMAX enhanced and Dirac Live, while Yamaha RX-A6A does not
- Denon AVR-X4800H has a third zone, extra triggers, and composite and component video inputs, as well as a monolithic amplifier layout with a rated increase in power of 20W per channel
- Denon AVR-X4800H was every bit as good when strictly used as a pre-amplifier, and possibly better, than the Marantz 7703
Takeaway: The Denon AVR-X4800H is a versatile and powerful home theater amplifier that offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. It is a great choice for anyone looking to create a truly immersive home cinema experience with plenty of options for future expansion.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Denon, which pioneered the AV Receiver over 110 years ago, continues to set industry standards with their HEOS Built-in technology for multi-room wireless audio. Their receivers deliver up to 13 channels of output and include 8K HDMI with eARC support, while their limited edition models like the PMA-A110 combine classic design with modern performance.
Visit
AVR-X4800H
Page
Product Page
DRX 3.4
1500
/
Released
2023
Integra
Just right for your living room, media room, or bespoke home theater, the DRX-3.4 has the power to drive Dolby Atmos® and DTS: X® through 9 channels of onboard amplification. 8K HDR video passthrough provides the bandwidth needed for cutting-edge visuals and gaming. DIRAC Live room correction ensures your immersive surround experience is delivered with the highest fidelity. 9.2 channel pre-outs make the DRX-3.4 perfect for updating an existing separates system to HDMI 2.1, DIRAC Live, and Object-Based Surround.
Integra is a hifi brand that designs AV receivers with custom installation in mind, featuring a bright white back panel for easier connections, built-in HDMI diagnostics, and compatibility with remote monitoring systems. Their receivers include specialized features like Klipsch Optimized Mode for automatic speaker optimization and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer for creating virtual surround effects without extra speakers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Support for Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, as well as IMAX enhanced content
- Supports the latest video formats, which include 8K60 and 4K120
- Dirac Live is among the best room correction solutions on the market right now, and its implementation here is flawless
- Integra's sound is basically neutral or true to the source
- Full preamp outputs for all channels are included, allowing addition of a third party amplifier for more power or for a second zone
Product Considerations
- The DRX design is a little dated
- Dirac Live bass management is not available, unlike some competitors
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Sound wise, the reviewer prefers the Integra to that of the Yamaha, and Dirac is better than Y-POW
- Integra provides more by way of features and connectivity for less money, while giving up little to nothing in the sound department
Takeaway: The Integra DRX 3.4 is a solid receiver with great sound, a neutral profile, and support for modern formats like 8K and Dolby Atmos. The inclusion of Dirac Live makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to get great sound in a home theater.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Integra is a hifi brand that designs AV receivers with custom installation in mind, featuring a bright white back panel for easier connections, built-in HDMI diagnostics, and compatibility with remote monitoring systems. Their receivers include specialized features like Klipsch Optimized Mode for automatic speaker optimization and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer for creating virtual surround effects without extra speakers.
Visit
DRX 3.4
Page
Product Page
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Agile and rhythmic sonic performance is delivered with a full and clear delivery
- Transparent sound brings subtle sonic touches to life, rare for a home cinema amp
- The DAC is the same as the higher end models, so there's no compromise for its performance
- Built to last with new core features introduced through firmware or modular cabinet designs
- It can power seven channels, which means that a 5.1.2 can be directly connected to this amplifier as of now, and can be upgraded later on
Product Considerations
- Lacks inbuilt calibration, Dirac Live Room Correction software is upgradeable access at an additional cost
- HDMI ports only support HDMI 2.0, with eARC being the only nod toward next-gen HDMI features
- The AVR5 has 11.1 channel processing for Dolby Atmos, DTS X and Auro 3D audio formats, but it can power only seven channels
- Lacks some of the functionality and usability of the competition
- The AVR5 doesn't output its full menu system to the TV or projector to which it's connected
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Denon AVC-X6700H: The Denon has more robust low end delivery, but the Arcam sounds more fleet-footed
- Compared to regular AV receivers, Arcam has a higher signal to noise ratio for stereo and multichannel mode, making it deliver more dynamic sound
Takeaway: The AVR5 is an engaging home cinema amplifier that prioritizes sound quality with sparkling clarity and agility. It is a good option for those who value sonic performance and don't necessarily need all the latest features.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
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