Arcam
AV40
Best high-end processor for serious home cinema enthusiasts.
The Arcam AV40 is a high-performance audio/visual processor engineered to deliver stunning realism and a power-packed performance for the ultimate home cinema experience. Drawing on Arcam's expertise, this processor is crafted with quality components for years of enjoyment. It supports 16-channel processing, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced formats. Versatile connectivity, including 4K HDMI, XLR balanced outputs, and streaming capabilities via Wi-Fi and Chromecast, ensures seamless integration into any advanced home theater setup. This processor is optimized for audiophile listening with full 16-channel Dirac calibration.
$1500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
245
/ 560
#245 in Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
-43%
Below average
Channels
16
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking perfect sound in challenging acoustic spaces
- Home theater enthusiasts building complex, high-channel immersive systems
- Critical listeners demanding high-fidelity, low-noise audio performance
Who should skip it
- Gamers requiring seamless, out-of-the-box HDMI 2.1 connectivity
- Shoppers looking for an all-in-one, space-saving amplification solution
- Users who prefer a plug-and-play experience without troubleshooting
Performance breakdown
Immersive Audio Precision
Sixteen channels of processing deliver a truly cinematic, three-dimensional soundstage.
Acoustic Room Calibration
Dirac Live integration masters complex room acoustics with professional-grade precision.
Digital Conversion Quality
The ESS 9026PRO DAC ensures audiophile-level clarity for every musical nuance.
Connectivity Versatility
Balanced XLR outputs and extensive HDMI support handle any high-end setup.
Streaming Integration
Chromecast and AirPlay 2 make high-resolution wireless playback effortless and reliable.
Build Integrity
Robust construction reflects Arcam's commitment to long-term performance and reliability.
Key Specs
Channels
16
Decoding
Dolby Atmos & DTS:X 9.1.6
HDMI
7 inputs, 3 outputs (eARC compatible)
Outputs
16 channel pro-grade XLR and RCA
DAC
ESS 9026PRO audiophile grade
THD
0.002%
Signal to Noise Ratio
110dB
Power Consumption
Maximum 50W
Features
- 16-channel surround sound processing
- Full 16-channel Dirac Live room correction
- Audiophile-grade ESS 9026PRO DAC
- XLR balanced outputs for every channel
- Apple AirPlay2 and Google Chromecast streaming
- Comprehensive wired and wireless connectivity
- Control via dedicated iOS app
- Supports latest immersive audio CODECs
What customers say
Customers highly value the Arcam AV40 primarily for its exceptional audio performance. Reviewers consistently praise its rich, detailed, and powerful soundstage, noting its musicality as a key differentiator for both movies and music. The inclusion of Dirac Live room correction is a significant advantage for acoustic optimization. Build quality is regarded as robust and premium, reinforcing Arcam's engineering reputation. While the price is premium, many feel the superior audio fidelity justifies the investment for enthusiasts. Minor drawbacks mentioned include a somewhat dated user interface and remote control. Overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, positioning the AV40 as a top-tier component for immersive, high-fidelity home theater experiences.
Know before you buy
No, the AV40 is a dedicated audio/visual processor. You will need to pair it with external power amplifiers to drive your speakers.
Dirac Live analyzes your room's acoustics and your speakers' performance to automatically correct for sound coloration and timing issues. This ensures a balanced, precise soundstage tailored specifically to your listening environment.
Yes, the AV40 features 16 channels of balanced XLR outputs. These provide a cleaner, noise-free signal path, making them an ideal choice for high-end, professional-grade external amplifiers.
Yes, the AV40 includes built-in Google Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2. These allow you to stream high-quality audio wirelessly from your favorite mobile devices or music services directly to your system.
Yes, the AV40 is equipped with 7 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs that support 4K video. It also features eARC, allowing for high-quality audio return from your compatible smart TV.
The AV40 supports the most advanced immersive audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced. It is capable of processing up to 16 channels, allowing for a full 9.1.6 speaker configuration.
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