Arcam AVR11 - 7-Channel HDMI 2.1 AV Receiver with Dirac Live

Arcam AVR11 High-Performance 7-Channel Class-AB AV receiver

Bring cinematic power home with Arcam’s AVR11: a 7-channel Class-AB receiver that decodes Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D (native 12-ch processing for 7.1.4 with external amps). HDMI 2.1 on all inputs means true 8K/60 and 4K/120 switching, eARC on HDMI out 1, and passthrough for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG. Dirac Live room correction is included; add Dirac Live Bass Control when you’re ready to optimize multiple subs. Streaming is built-in with Chromecast, AirPlay 2, aptX HD Bluetooth, Spotify/Tidal Connect, Roon Ready, and MQA

If you want an AVR that prioritizes sound quality and modern connectivity, the AVR11 hits the sweet spot. Its seven Class-AB power amps deliver the warmth and punch Arcam is known for, while dual ESS 9026PRO DACs provide low-noise conversion for both movies and music. With HDMI 2.1 across all inputs (8K/60 & 4K/120) and eARC, it’s a seamless hub for next-gen consoles and premium displays. Dirac Live room optimization is included to tighten bass, clarify dialogue, and sharpen imaging; add Dirac Live Bass Control later for multi-sub mastery. The AVR11 decodes up to 12 channels, so expanding to 7.1.4 is as simple as adding external amplification via the full set of pre-outs.

ListenUp Arcam AVR11 Key Takeaways:

We recommend the Arcam AVR11 for:

• For discerning listeners who want Class-AB musicality with modern HDMI 2.1 and Dirac Live included.
• For 5.1.2 to 7.1.4 growth: decodes 12 channels; add amps via pre-outs to reach 7.1.4.
• Not for very large rooms demanding >100W/ch all-channels-driven (consider stepping up to the Arcam AVR31 or adding external amps).

Why Buy the AVR11 from ListenUp?

• It’s voiced for music and movies: Class-AB amplification and ESS DACs deliver nuance and dynamics that flatter stereo and cinema alike.
• HDMI 2.1 on every input: 8K/60 and 4K/120 switching with eARC and premium HDR formats - great for next-gen consoles and projectors.
• Room-ready tuning: Dirac Live is included; ListenUp's team can help you get the most from it - and Bass Control is available when you’re ready to optimize multiple subs.
• Expandable to 7.1.4: use the AVR11’s pre-outs to add channels as your system grows.

Arcam AVR11 Full Specifications:

• Amplification
  • Topology: 7 channels of Class AB power amplification
  • Continuous power output per channel (8Ω/4Ω):
    • 2 ch driven, 20Hz–20kHz, <0.02% THD: 80W / 100W
    • 2 ch driven, 1kHz, 0.2% THD: 85W / 120W
    • 7 ch driven, 1kHz, 0.2% THD: 60W / 85W
  • Residual noise & hum (A-wtd): <0.15mV
• Surround decoding & processing
  • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X & Auro-3D 7.1.4 decoding (requires external amplification for 11/12-channel systems)
  • Native 12-channel decoding / processing
  • IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS Virtual:X (per platform logos)
• Digital-to-Analog Conversion
  • Dual ESS 9026PRO audiophile DACs with ESS reference voltage regulators
• Room correction
  • Dirac Live included
  • Dirac Live Bass Control (optional paid license)
• HDMI video
  • HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3
  • Inputs: 7 × HDMI (all support 8K@60 and 4K@120)
  • Outputs: 2 × HDMI (Output 1 with eARC)
  • HDR support: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG
• Networking & streaming
  • Wi-Fi & Ethernet
  • Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay 2
  • Bluetooth aptX HD
  • Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, UPnP (MusicLife app)
  • MQA support; Roon Ready
• Audio I/O (selected)
  • Stereo line inputs: Max input 4.5V rms; Nominal sensitivity user-adjustable 1V / 2V / 4V; Input impedance 47kΩ
  • S/N ratio (A-wtd, ref 100W) normal / Stereo Direct: 98dB / 110dB (typical, per model table)
  • Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz ±0.2dB
  • Preamplifier outputs: Nominal output level 0.8V RMS; Output impedance 560Ω; THD+N (20Hz–20kHz): −100dB
  • Headphone output: Max level into 32Ω 5V rms; Output impedance <100Ω
  • Digital inputs/outputs (rear): 4 × coaxial in, 2 × optical in, 1 × optical out (per connection list)
  • Analogue inputs/outs (rear): 6 × RCA stereo in; Line out (stereo); Zone 2 stereo out; 11.2-ch RCA pre-outs incl. Height channels (for external amps)
• Control & integration
  • RS232 and IR control
  • 12V triggers ×2; IR inputs ×2; LAN (RJ-45); USB (5V/0.5A)
• General
  • Mains voltage: 110–120V or 220–240V, 50–60Hz (switchable)
  • Power consumption (max): 1.5kW (approx. 5200 BTU/h)
  • Power consumption (idle, typical): 90W (approx. 340 BTU/h)
  • Power consumption (standby): <0.5W
  • Dimensions (W × D incl. terminals × H incl. feet): 433 × 425 × 171 mm
  • Weight (net / packed): 16.5 kg / 19.8 kg
  • EAN: 6925281994456
  • Supplied accessories: Mains lead; Remote control (2 × AAA); Quick Start Guide (full manual online); DAB/FM aerial; 3 × Wi-Fi/Bluetooth antennas; Calibration microphone; USB cable

Arcam AVR11 Q&A:

Does the AVR11 support HDMI 2.1 and 8K on all inputs?

Yes. All HDMI inputs support 8K@60 and 4K@120, and HDMI Out 1 offers eARC for TV audio return.

Can it power a full 7.1.4 Atmos setup by itself?

It decodes 7.1.4 but has 7 internal amps; use the 11.2 pre-outs and external amps for additional channels.

Is Dirac Live included? What about Dirac Live Bass Control?

Dirac Live is included. Dirac Live Bass Control is an optional, paid add-on from Dirac.

Which HDR formats are supported?

Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG are supported through HDMI.

What streaming and multiroom options does it have?

Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth aptX HD, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, UPnP (MusicLife), plus MQA and Roon Ready.

What DACs are inside?

Dual ESS 9026PRO DACs with reference regulators for low-noise conversion.

How much power does it output?

80W/8Ω (2ch, 20Hz–20kHz, <0.02% THD); 100W/4Ω (2ch); 60W/8Ω and 85W/4Ω with 7 channels driven (1kHz, 0.2% THD).

What are the size and weight?

433 × 425 × 171 mm (W×D×H, incl. terminals/feet); 16.5 kg (net).

Why do some owners mention warmth or HDMI/CEC quirks?

Class-AB designs run warm - ensure proper ventilation. For CEC/eARC, follow a known power-up order and use certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables.

How do I expand to 7.1.4?

Use the AVR11’s 11.2 RCA pre-outs to power surround backs and height channels with external amps.

How does the Arcam AVR11 compare to other Arcam AVR Receivers?

Find our Arcam AVR Receiver Comparison Table here.