Arcam AVR21 HDMI 2.1 High Power Class AB AV Receiver

Arcam AVR21 Receiver 7-channel Class AB home Cinema Hub

Meet the Arcam AVR21 Receiver - a 7-channel Class AB home cinema hub that marries audiophile finesse with blockbuster dynamics. With native 16-channel decoding for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, dual ESS 9026PRO DACs, and HDMI 2.1 on every input (supporting 8K/60 and 4K/120), it’s built for today’s best movies and next-gen consoles. Dirac Live Full Bandwidth room correction is included for precise imaging and tight, powerful bass; add Dirac Live Bass Control for multi-sub systems. Streaming is seamless with AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth aptX HD, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, UPnP, and Roon Ready support. Thoughtful touches - eARC, three HDMI outputs (incl. Zone 2), and installer-friendly control - make the AVR21 the sweet spot in Arcam’s lineup.

Arcam AVR21 Q&A:

Does the AVR21 support 8K and 4K/120 for gaming?

Yes. All HDMI inputs are HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3, supporting 8K/60 and 4K/120 with eARC.

How many channels can I power and decode?

The AVR21 powers 7 channels onboard and decodes up to 16 channels; add external amps for layouts like 7.1.4 or 9.1.6.

What room correction is included?

Dirac Live Full Bandwidth is included; Dirac Live Bass Control is an optional paid add-on.

Which HDR formats are supported?

Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG pass through.

What streaming options are built in?

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

What are the rated power specs?

2 ch driven (20Hz–20kHz, <0.02% THD): 110W/175W (8Ω/4Ω); 7 ch driven (1kHz, 0.2% THD): 90W/110W (8Ω/4Ω).

What’s in the box?

Remote (2 × AAA), mains lead, DAB/FM aerial, 3 Wi-Fi/Bluetooth antennas, calibration mic, USB cable, Quick Start Guide.

Any tips for stable HDMI/ARC?

Keep firmware current, use certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables, set a fixed output resolution, and disable CEC per source if needed.

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 7.2.4?

Use the AVR21’s RCA pre-outs to send sound to surround backs and height channels with external amps.

How does the Arcam AVR21 compare to other Arcam AVR Receivers?

Find our Arcam AVR Receiver Comparison Table here.

Arcam AVR21 Full Specifications:

• Amplification: 7 channels of Class AB power
• Surround decoding: Native 16-channel decoding for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D
• DACs: Dual ESS 9026PRO with reference regulators
• Room correction: Dirac Live Full Bandwidth included; Dirac Live Bass Control optional (license)
• HDMI: 7 inputs / 3 outputs (including Zone 2), eARC, HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3
• Video formats: 8K@60, 4K@120; Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG passthrough
• Streaming & control: Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth aptX HD, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, UPnP (MusicLife), Roon Ready; Wi-Fi/Ethernet; RS232; IR
• MQA: Supported
• Power output (8Ω/4Ω): 2ch 20Hz–20kHz <0.02% THD: 110W/175W; 2ch 1kHz 0.2% THD: 125W/190W; 7ch 1kHz 0.2% THD: 90W/110W; residual noise & hum (A-wtd): <0.15mV
• Stereo line inputs: Max 4.5V rms; sensitivity 1V/2V/4V; 47kΩ; S/N (A-wtd, ref 100W) 100dB (normal) / 110dB (stereo direct); 20Hz–20kHz ±0.2dB
• Preamplifier outputs: 1V RMS nominal (max 5V RMS); 560Ω; THD+N (20Hz–20kHz): −100dB
• Headphone output: Max 5V rms into 32Ω; output impedance <100Ω
• Power & dimensions: 110–120V or 220–240V, 50–60Hz; max 1.5kW (≈5200 BTU/h); idle 100W (≈350 BTU/h); standby <0.5W; 433 × 425 × 171 mm (W×D×H)
• Weight: 16.6 kg (net); 19.9 kg (packed)
• Included accessories: Mains lead; remote (2 × AAA); Quick Start Guide; DAB/FM aerial; 3 × Wi-Fi/Bluetooth antennas; calibration microphone; USB cable
• EAN (GTIN-13): 6925281994487