Description
Anthem MRX 1140 8K 15.2 AV Receiver
The Anthem MRX 1140 8K 15.2 AV Receiver is best described as a 15.2-channel pre-amplifier / processor with 11 built-in amplifier channels. That means it can power a full 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos system on its own, while also offering processing for larger systems when external amplification is added. Anthem positions it as a 15.2 pre-amplifier / 11 amplifier channel AV receiver with HDMI 2.1, 8K support, and ARC Genesis Room Correction.
The MRX 1140 8K also includes HDMI 2.1, 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, ARC Genesis, 32-bit / 768kHz DACs, streaming support, Anthem’s Web User Interface, and integration support for major control systems.
What We Like
At Rapallo, the Anthem MRX 1140 8K is the model we would look at when a customer wants a proper immersive cinema system from one high-performance AV receiver.
The key advantage is that it gives you 11 powered channels built in. This means you can run a full 7.1.4 speaker layout without immediately adding extra power amps. That is a big step up from the MRX 540 8K and MRX 740 8K, especially if you want four height speakers for Atmos or DTS:X.
The second major advantage is Anthem’s room correction. ARC Genesis is one of the strongest reasons to buy Anthem. Real rooms create bass problems, reflections, and tonal imbalance. ARC Genesis measures the room and speakers, then applies correction to improve system balance, clarity, bass integration, and overall control. Anthem also supports up to four speaker profiles, which is useful for different listening setups or seating layouts.
For NZ customers building a premium home theatre, the MRX 1140 8K is a strong centrepiece. Pair it with quality speakers, serious subwoofers, proper HDMI 2.1 cabling, and professional calibration, and it can anchor a very capable cinema room.
View Specifications >> View User Manual >> View Anthem Products >>
The Anthem MRX 1140 8K 15.2 AV Receiver Is Ideal For
- Premium home theatre rooms
- Full 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos systems
- Larger media rooms and lounges
- Customers wanting ARC Genesis room correction
- DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced systems
- 4K/120Hz gaming and 8K-ready video systems
- Customers wanting one AVR with 11 powered channels
- Systems that may expand with external amplification later
- Custom AV installations with control system integration
What the Experts Say
- Audioholics bench-tested the MRX 740 and MRX 1140 platform and gave the first impression summary “Gotta Have It!” The article focused on preamp performance, amplifier performance, bass management, and amplifier matrixing. It covered the earlier HDMI version, so HDMI comments in that review should not be applied to the current 8K HDMI 2.1 model.
- Bodiddely / L&B Tech Reviews described the MRX 1140 8K as a strong choice for a full Dolby Atmos home theatre with 11 or more main speakers, praising its sound quality, flexibility, room correction, and user interface. It also noted that built-in streaming services are limited compared with some mass-market receivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Anthem MRX 1140 8K?
The Anthem MRX 1140 8K is Anthem’s flagship MRX Series AV receiver. It offers 15.2-channel processing, 11 built-in amplifier channels, HDMI 2.1, ARC Genesis room correction, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, and streaming support. - Is the Anthem MRX 1140 8K a 15.2 receiver?
Yes, it has 15.2-channel processing and preamp outputs. It also has 11 built-in amplifier channels, so larger layouts may use external amplification for additional processed channels. - How many speakers can the MRX 1140 8K power by itself?
It can power 11 speakers directly. Anthem’s manual states that the MRX 1140 is configured by default for 7.1.4 main speaker amplification. - Can the MRX 1140 8K run Dolby Atmos?
Yes, it supports Dolby Atmos. It can run a full 7.1.4 Atmos layout using its built-in amplification. - Does the MRX 1140 8K support 8K video?
Yes, it supports HDMI 2.1 with 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, provided the source, cable, and display also support those formats. - Does the MRX 1140 8K support gaming features?
Yes, Anthem lists VRR and ALLM support on the MRX 8K HDMI platform. This makes it suitable for modern gaming consoles and gaming PCs. - What is ARC Genesis?
ARC Genesis is Anthem’s room correction system. It measures your speakers and room, then applies correction to improve frequency response, bass integration, and system balance. - Does the MRX 1140 8K include the ARC microphone?
Yes, Anthem states that the MRX platform includes ARC Genesis with a redesigned, more accurate calibration microphone. - Does the MRX 1140 8K have preamp outputs?
Yes, it includes 15.2-channel preamp outputs. This lets you add external power amplifiers for more channels or improved performance. - Does the MRX 1140 8K have built-in streaming?
Yes, it supports Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth streaming. - Does the MRX 1140 8K have a phono input?
For vinyl playback, use a turntable with a built-in phono stage or add an external phono preamp. - How is the MRX 1140 8K different from the MRX 740 8K?
The MRX 1140 8K has 15.2 processing and 11 amplifier channels. The MRX 740 8K has 11.2 processing and 7 amplifier channels. The MRX 1140 8K is better suited to full 7.1.4 systems. - How is the MRX 1140 8K different from the AVM 70 8K?
The MRX 1140 8K is an AV receiver with built-in amplification. The AVM 70 8K is an AV processor only and requires separate power amplifiers. - Who is the Anthem MRX 1140 8K best suited to?
It is best for customers who want a premium immersive home theatre system with 11 powered channels, 15.2 processing, ARC Genesis room correction, HDMI 2.1 video support, and a clear upgrade path.
Explore The MRX Series
New features, capabilities and robust integration position Anthem MRX Series as the ultimate power center of premium home theater and audio.
- MRX 1140 8K – 15.2 Pre-Amplifier / 11 Amplifier Channel A/V receiver with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced. 140-watts per channel continuous power into 8 ohms. Includes ARC (Anthem Room Correction). HDMI 2.1, HDCP 2.3 supporting 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz
- MRX 740 8K – 11.2 Pre-Amplifier / 7 Amplifier Channel A/V receiver with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced. 140-watts per channel continuous power into 8 ohms. Includes ARC (Anthem Room Correction). HDMI 2.1, HDCP 2.3 supporting 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz
- MRX 540 8K – 7.2 Pre-Amplifier / 5 Amplifier Channel A/V receiver with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced. 100-watts per channel continuous power into 8 ohms. Includes ARC (Anthem Room Correction). HDMI 2.1, HDCP 2.3 supporting 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz
Key Features
15.2 Processing with 11 Built-In Amplifier Channels
The MRX 1140 8K includes 15.2 pre-amplifier channels and 11 amplifier channels. This gives it far more system flexibility than smaller receivers and makes it suitable for full 7.1.4 immersive audio layouts.
Full 7.1.4 Layout from One Receiver
The Anthem operating manual notes that the MRX 1140 is configured by default for amplification of 7.1.4 main speakers. That makes it ideal for customers who want a complete Dolby Atmos speaker layout without immediately needing external power amplification.
Strong Amplifier Platform
Anthem lists 11 power amplifiers. Channels 1 to 5 are rated at 140W into 8 ohms and 170W into 6 ohms, while the remaining channels are rated at 60W into 8 ohms and 75W into 6 ohms. These figures are measured from 20Hz to 20kHz, two channels driven, at 1% THD.
ARC Genesis Room Correction
ARC Genesis uses a precision microphone and advanced algorithms to correct room and speaker response. It helps optimise frequency balance and system integration, especially in rooms where bass and speaker placement are difficult.
Four Speaker Profiles
The MRX / AVM platform supports up to four speaker profiles. Each profile can store unique speaker selections, bass management, listening position, level calibration, and ARC equalisation values. This is useful for different seating positions, screen-up versus screen-down setups, or music versus movie listening.
HDMI 2.1 with 8K and 4K/120Hz
The MRX 1140 8K uses Anthem’s HDMI 2.1 platform. Anthem lists 7 dedicated 8K HDMI inputs and dedicated outputs with eARC support. It supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, which makes it suitable for modern consoles, gaming PCs, media players, projectors, and 8K-ready displays.
Gaming-Ready Video Features
The HDMI platform supports gaming features such as VRR and ALLM. This is useful for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, gaming PCs, and display systems that support high-frame-rate gaming.
Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced
The MRX 1140 8K supports object-based audio formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced. These formats allow sound to move around and above the listener when used with the right speaker layout.
32-Bit / 768kHz DACs
Anthem lists 32-bit / 768kHz DACs for the MRX 1140 8K. This supports precise digital-to-analogue conversion for movies, music, games, and streaming sources.
15.2 Pre-Outs for Expansion
The MRX 1140 8K includes 15.2-channel processing, so it can be used with external amplification for larger or more demanding systems. This also gives a clear upgrade path if you later want more power for the front stage or height channels.
Anthem Web User Interface
The Web User Interface allows control and setup from a phone, tablet, or laptop on the same network. You can adjust inputs, volume, listening modes, channel trims, and other settings without relying only on front-panel navigation.
Streaming Built In
The MRX 1140 supports Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth. That makes it useful for everyday music playback as well as movie and gaming systems.
Custom Install Friendly
The MRX Series 8K platform supports IP control and major third-party control platforms, including Savant, Control4, RTI, URC, Crestron, and ELAN. This makes the MRX 1140 8K suitable for custom cinema rooms and integrated smart-home projects.
Perfect System Match
A strong match would be the Anthem MRX 1140 8K, a full 7.1.4 speaker system, and one or two high-quality subwoofers. Add ARC Genesis calibration and the system becomes much better matched to the room.
For a premium Rapallo home theatre system, pair it with Paradigm speakers and SVS subwoofers. Anthem and Paradigm are a natural pairing because both brands focus on accuracy, dynamics, and proper room integration.
For a more demanding cinema room, use the MRX 1140 8K as the processor and amplifier hub, then add a separate power amplifier for the front left, centre, and right speakers. This keeps the front soundstage strong while the MRX handles the rest of the immersive layout.
Product Comparison Snapshot
| Model | Best For | Key Difference |
| Anthem MRX SLM 4K | Slimline compact AV systems | Smaller slimline receiver with lower system scale |
| Anthem MRX 540 8K | Premium 5.1 / 5.2 systems | 7.2 processing, 5 powered channels, ARC Genesis, HDMI 2.1 |
| Anthem MRX 740 8K | Larger 7-channel amplified systems | 11.2 processing and 7 amplifier channels |
| Anthem MRX 1140 8K | Full immersive cinema rooms | 15.2 processing and 11 amplifier channels |
| Anthem AVM 70 8K | Separate processor systems | AV processor only, requires external power amplifiers |
Specifications
Brand: Anthem
Model: MRX 1140 8K
Product Type: 8K AV Receiver / Home Theatre Receiver
Amplifier Channels
11 powered amplifier channels
Pre-Amplifier Channels
15.2 channels
Default Amplified Layout
7.1.4 main speaker amplification, according to Anthem manual
Maximum Continuous Output, Channels 1 to 5, 8 Ohms
140W per channel
20Hz to 20kHz
2 channels driven
1% THD
Maximum Continuous Output, Channels 1 to 5, 6 Ohms
170W per channel
20Hz to 20kHz
2 channels driven
1% THD
Maximum Continuous Output, Remaining Channels, 8 Ohms
60W per channel
20Hz to 20kHz
2 channels driven
1% THD
Maximum Continuous Output, Remaining Channels, 6 Ohms
75W per channel
20Hz to 20kHz
2 channels driven
1% THD
Speaker Impedance
Greater than 4 ohms
Room Correction
ARC Genesis Room Correction
Calibration microphone included
Speaker Profiles
Up to 4 storable speaker profiles
Audio Formats
Dolby Atmos
DTS:X
IMAX Enhanced
Dolby Surround
DTS Neural:X
DTS Virtual:X, source and layout dependent
DAC
32-bit / 768kHz DAC platform
HDMI Platform
HDMI 2.1
HDCP 2.3
HDMI Inputs
7 x dedicated 8K HDMI inputs
HDMI Outputs
Dedicated HDMI outputs
eARC supported
Video Support
8K/60Hz pass-through
4K/120Hz pass-through
VRR
ALLM
HDR10+
HDR
Dolby Vision
HLG
BT.2020 support, source and display dependent
Streaming
Apple AirPlay
Google Cast
Spotify Connect
Bluetooth
Network / Control
Ethernet / LAN
Wi-Fi control
Anthem Web User Interface
Anthem Remote App
IP control
Serial control
Custom Integration
Savant
Control4
RTI
URC
Crestron
ELAN
Digital Audio Inputs
Optical digital inputs
Coaxial digital inputs
Analogue Audio Inputs
Stereo RCA analogue inputs
Preamp Outputs
15.2-channel RCA preamp outputs
Speaker Outputs
11 speaker channels
Assignable amplifier channels
Headphone Output
Front-panel headphone jack
Other Connections
RS-232
IR input
Trigger outputs
USB service port
Chassis ground screw
Dimensions
431.8mm (W) x 152.4mm (H, without feet) x 364mm (D), third-party listing
Rack Height
4U with rack mount, third-party listing
Weight
Approx. 12.8kg, third-party listing
Finish
Black
Rapallo Product Data
MPN: MRX 1140 8K
SKU: ANTHEM-MRX1140-8K
EAN / UPC / GTIN: 0809918003352
Why Buy From Rapallo
✔ Expert home theatre system design advice
✔ Help matching speakers, subwoofers, amplifiers, and room size
✔ ARC Genesis setup and calibration guidance
✔ NZ support and after-sales service
✔ Trusted hi-fi and home entertainment specialists
✔ Practical advice for HDMI, gaming, eARC, speaker placement, acoustic treatment, and upgrade paths




































