Arcam AVR21 AV Receiver
5 000,00 €
Arcam AVR21 is a seven-channel Class AB AV receiver for music and expandable home cinema systems. It processes up to 16 channels, although 7.1.4 and 9.1.6 configurations require external power amplifiers. Its HDMI 2.1 connections carry 8K/60 and 4K/120 video. The full version of Dirac Live adjusts the system’s sound using measurements taken in the room.
The Arcam AVR21 AV receiver is designed for music and multichannel home cinema systems. It processes up to 16 audio channels and includes seven internal Class AB power-amplifier channels. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro and Auro-3D are supported.
A seven-channel system can operate without an additional power amplifier. For a 7.1.4 or 9.1.6 system, some channels require external amplification. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Pro configurations can extend to 9.1.6, while Auro-3D supports up to 13.1.
Amplification and audio processing
The seven internal channels use Class AB amplification based on technology from Arcam stereo amplifiers. An oversized toroidal transformer is designed to provide substantial real-world power with low noise.
Two ESS 9026PRO converters handle digital-to-analogue conversion. They are paired with ESS reference-voltage regulators.
HDMI connections and video sources
Seven HDMI 2.1 inputs allow multiple video sources to be connected through one receiver. Every input supports 8K video at 60 frames per second and 4K video at 120 frames per second.
Three HDMI outputs accommodate a main display and additional video equipment. One output is assigned to Zone 2. eARC sends audio from a compatible television back to the receiver through the HDMI cable.
The video path supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG. HDCP 2.3 compatibility enables protected content from modern HDMI sources to pass through the receiver.
Networking, streaming and control
The AVR21 connects to a home network over Wi-Fi or wired Ethernet. A cable is worth choosing for a permanent installation, while Wi-Fi is convenient when network cabling does not reach the equipment location.
Streaming options include Apple AirPlay 2, built-in Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect. Bluetooth aptX HD, MQA and Roon Ready are also supported. UPnP files can be played through the MusicLife app for iOS and Android devices.
RS-232 and infrared control connections allow the receiver to become part of a wider home-control system. This is useful when the equipment is installed inside a cabinet or operated through centralised controls.
System calibration
The full version of Dirac Live room correction is integrated. Before taking measurements, assign the channel functions and place the speakers in their final positions. Correction can then be configured using measurements collected around the listening position.
The sixth and seventh internal channels can power surround-back or front-height speakers. They can alternatively be assigned to bi-amp the front speakers or supply Zone 2.
There are two physical subwoofer outputs, but they cannot be adjusted independently. The optional Dirac Live Bass Control feature is not included with the standard licence. It requires separate activation and optimises bass distribution using measurements of the speakers and each subwoofer.
Planning the installation
Allow enough space to connect cables for seven HDMI sources, the speakers and the network. A 7.1.4 or 9.1.6 system also needs space for external power amplifiers. Plan this expansion before installing the speaker cables.
Technical specifications
| Type | 7-channel Class AB AV receiver |
|---|---|
| Audio processing | Up to 16 channels |
| Surround formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro-3D |
| Maximum configurations | Up to 9.1.6 with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Pro; up to 13.1 with Auro-3D |
| Internal power channels | 7 Class AB channels |
| Assignable channels | Channels 6 and 7: surround back, front height, front-speaker bi-amplification or Zone 2 |
| Power supply | Oversized toroidal transformer |
| Digital-to-analogue converters | 2 × ESS 9026PRO with ESS reference-voltage regulators |
| HDMI inputs | 7 × HDMI 2.1 |
| HDMI outputs | 3, including a Zone 2 output |
| HDMI audio return | eARC |
| Content protection | HDCP 2.3 |
| Video signals | 8K/60 and 4K/120 through every HDMI input |
| HDR formats | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG |
| Subwoofer outputs | 2 linked outputs without independent adjustment |
| Room correction | Full version of Dirac Live |
| Optional correction | Dirac Live Bass Control, activated separately |
| Network connections | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Wireless audio | Bluetooth aptX HD, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast |
| Network services | Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, UPnP through MusicLife, Roon Ready |
| Audio-file technology | MQA |
| System control | RS-232 and infrared control |
FAQ
Are the internal amplifiers sufficient for a 7.1.4 system?
No. The receiver has seven power-amplifier channels, so an additional external power amplifier is required for the four height speakers.
How do I connect a television so that its audio plays through the system?
Use the eARC HDMI connections on the television and receiver. A compatible television can then return audio through the same HDMI cable.
Can two subwoofers be calibrated independently?
The two physical outputs operate as a linked pair, so the receiver does not adjust them independently. Keep this limitation in mind when planning their placement.
Is Dirac Live Bass Control included?
No. It is a separately purchased upgrade and is not included with the standard Dirac Live licence.
Where should I begin when configuring Dirac Live?
First choose the functions of the sixth and seventh channels. Then place all speakers in their final positions and take measurements across the intended listening area.
