The 16-channel Radia processor: Matrix Channel Assignment and next-generation control
Arcam AVP45 is a 9.1.6 Radia AV processor with no power amplification, 16 channels, Matrix Channel Assignment, RCA/XLR outputs, HDMI 2.1a 8K and Dirac Live.
AVP45 is the control centre of the new Radia AV family and, like AV41, requires external power amplifiers to drive the loudspeakers. The similarity largely ends there: the Radia platform adds Matrix Channel Assignment, a 6.5-inch colour display, a new control app, Bluetooth 5.4 with Snapdragon Sound and Auracast, and broader streaming functions.
Key features
- 9.1.6 AV processor with no power amplification.
- Sixteen-channel Hi-Res processing with Matrix Channel Assignment.
- Sixteen RCA pre-outs and sixteen balanced XLR outputs.
- Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced and Auro-3D.
- Dirac Live Room Correction, upgradeable with Bass Control and Active Room Treatment.
- Seven HDMI 2.1a inputs and three outputs with HDCP2.3 and Zone 2.
- Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect and Roon Ready.
- Bluetooth 5.4 with Snapdragon Sound, Auracast and audio transmission.
Radia processor with no internal power stages
AVP45 processes up to 16 channels but contains no power amplification. It is therefore designed to work with external amplifiers and allows the power-amplifier section to be built around the room, while decoding, video switching, streaming, control and room correction remain in the processor.
Matrix Channel Assignment
Matrix Channel Assignment allows all 16 channels to be reassigned and is one of the defining features of the new Radia platform. Subwoofers, height and surround channels can be distributed with greater freedom, adapting the system to the actual layout instead of following a fixed assignment scheme.
Balanced outputs and DAC architecture
Arcam specifies 16 RCA outputs and 16 balanced XLR outputs, although the distributor summary lists only RCA. The DAC architecture is derived from Arcam's flagship stereo systems, while balanced outputs support external power amplifiers with high signal integrity even when the equipment rack is separated from the cinema room.
Immersive cinema and HDMI 2.1a
Dolby Atmos, Dolby True HD, Atmos Height Virtualisation, DTS:X, DTS HD Master, DTS Virtual:X, IMAX Enhanced and Auro-3D operate with HDMI 2.1a and HDCP2.3. Seven inputs and three outputs support 8K/60 Hz, 4K/120 Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, VRR and ALLM, with a dedicated Zone 2 output.
Expandable Dirac Live
Dirac Live Room Correction is integrated and the platform can be upgraded with Dirac Live Bass Control and Dirac Live Active Room Treatment. AVP45 therefore offers a broader acoustic-management upgrade path than the HDA AV41 platform, which supports the Bass Control upgrade but not Active Room Treatment.
Radia streaming and interface
Arcam Radia AV Control handles setup, operation, Internet Radio, podcasts and UPnP. Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, AirPlay and Google Cast are joined by Bluetooth 5.4 with Snapdragon Sound and Auracast; a 6.5-inch colour display and back-lit Bluetooth remote complete the interface.
Dimensions and accessories
Arcam specifies 432 x 170 x 399 mm and a net weight of 9.4 kg, matching the distributor figures. The box includes mains lead, rear-panel cowl, remote with two AAA batteries, measurement microphone, 5 m USB cable, Quick Start Guide and safety instructions.
