In-Depth Arcam AVR31 Review: Features and Performance

This introduction sets what the review will cover for US home theater buyers: real-world usability, how the receiver handles movies and music, and which buyers should consider this flagship in 2026.

The unit prioritizes hi‑fi-grade sound and clean power delivery over sheer channel count. Expect seven built-in amplifiers and up to sixteen channels of processing for larger setups that use external amps.

Key differentiators include Class G amplification, bundled Dirac Live room correction, and full HDMI 2.1 support for gaming and video. The review will test connections, setup flow, streaming, and everyday control.

Readers should be ready to weigh flagship-level execution and sound against trade-offs like fewer powered channels than some competitors. This section prepares you to judge performance, features, and real-world value.

Arcam AVR31 Review: Quick Take for Home Theater Buyers

If you’re deciding quickly, this section points to the ideal buyer and the core trade-offs to weigh.

Who this receiver suits in 2026

Ideal buyer: someone building a premium, theater-first system who also values two-channel music fidelity and hi‑fi behavior from their AVR.

Note: this is for buyers who prioritize sound quality and power delivery over packing the most built-in channels into one box.

Key strengths and trade-offs at a glance

• Strengths: refined tonal balance, strong immersive steering, bundled Dirac Live room correction, and modern HDMI 2.1 video features for movies and gaming.
• Trade-offs: only seven powered channels on board, so larger Atmos layouts generally need external amplification to add more channels.
• Value is aimed at quality and power, not maximizing built-in amp count—so you spend money on sound, not channel quantity.

Seven channels vs up to 16 channels of processing

The receiver provides seven channels of internal amplification to drive seven speakers directly. Processing can decode up to 16 channels (up to 9.1.6) and sends extra channels via pre-outs to external amps.

This means a single onboard channel handles one speaker; add external amplifiers when you need more active channels for immersive layouts.

Feature	Onboard Amplification	Processing / Pre-outs
Maximum active powered channels	Seven channels	Up to 16 channels (requires external amps)
Best use	Core 7.1 or 5.1.2 / 7.1.2 setups with strong stereo performance	Large Atmos layouts (9.1.6), multi-amp systems
Room correction	Dirac Live included for onboard channels	Dirac can manage crossovers and levels across pre-outs
When to add amps	For more overhead or width speakers	When expanding to more than seven active speakers

Quick advice: pair this AVR with capable speakers in a treated or calibratable room so Dirac can maximize results. If your plan is a coherent, high‑end system that can scale later, this architecture makes strategic sense.

Price, Value, and Where the AVR31 Fits in Arcam’s Lineup

Street pricing for flagship receivers varies, and this model lands firmly in the premium tier. U.S. list prices cited range from about $5,250 to $6,900, with real-world discounts often bringing the street price near $5,865.

Why is it placed at the top? The maker markets it as the platform’s highest execution. That means Class G amplification, heavier parts, and extra care to lower noise and improve dynamics at real listening levels.

Shared platform and close cousins

It shares core DAC and feature sets with the AVR21 model, so you get similar digital circuitry and user features. That common DNA explains why saving on the smaller sibling can still deliver strong audio results.

SDR-35 relationship and buyer advice

The JBL Synthesis SDR-35 is often cited as a close cousin in internal design. If HDMI 2.1 is not essential, the SDR-35 becomes a valid cross-shop for buyers who prioritize pure sound.

Item	Typical U.S. Range	Buyer takeaway
List price seen	$5,250 – $6,900	Flagship pricing; expect promotions
Street price example	~$5,865	Authorized-dealer discounts matter
Main premium addition	Class G amps & overbuilt power delivery	Lower noise, stronger control at volume

Design, Build Quality, and Day-to-Day Usability

From the moment you touch the volume knob, the design intent is obvious. The dark gray, gunmetal chassis and silver controls feel sturdy and weighty. The front layout is clean and purposeful, with a tactile rotary control that is satisfying to use.

Front display and daily feedback

The large full-color display is genuinely readable from a listening position. It shows clear status, menu items, and album artwork when streaming content. This helps with quick checks without a TV.

Setup workflow and control tools

Expect no full-screen on-TV menu for deep setup. Basic wiring and network setup happen via the front-panel display. For faster, fuller configuration use the web GUI over Ethernet or Wi‑Fi.

• Connectivity: Ethernet, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth antennas and standard inputs cover modern hookups.
• Control: Backlit remote is handy; note an “Amp” button quirk that takes practice.
• Software: Firmware and Dirac run over the network and have grown more stable with time.

Area	What it delivers	Buyer takeaway
Build	Sturdy chassis, premium finish	Feels high quality in hand
Display	Full-color, artwork, status	Readable from seat; reduces TV reliance
Setup	Front-panel + web GUI	Great for enthusiasts; casual users may prefer guided on-screen menus
Control	Backlit remote, network updates	Powerful but with small usability quirks

Connections and Video Features for Modern Systems

Connectivity defines how a modern home theater ties sources and displays into a single, seamless system.

This receiver provides seven HDMI 2.1 inputs and three HDMI outputs, one of which supports eARC. That lets you keep multiple consoles, streamers, and a UHD Blu‑ray player connected without swapping cables.

Inputs, outputs, and gaming-friendly video

With 8K/60 and 4K/120 support the unit handles next‑gen consoles and high‑frame PC gaming. VRR (variable refresh rate) reduces stutter. ALLM (auto low latency mode) lets consoles switch to low-lag output automatically.

HDR and format compatibility

HDR formats supported include Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG. That wide coverage improves playback across streaming apps, UHD discs, and set-top devices.

Legacy I/O and practical control

Older gear stays useful. There are coax and optical digital inputs, multiple RCA analog inputs, USB, Ethernet, and a built‑in Google Chromecast for streaming. RS‑232, IR, and trigger outputs simplify integration with custom control systems and external amps.

Connection type	Count / Notes	Buyer benefit
HDMI 2.1 inputs	7 inputs	Many sources can stay connected long-term
HDMI outputs	3 outputs (1 with eARC)	Feed multiple displays; use eARC output for TV audio return
Video features	8K/60, 4K/120, VRR, ALLM	High-frame gaming and smooth motion with low latency
HDR formats	Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG	Broad compatibility with streams and discs
Legacy & control	Coax/optical, RCA, USB, Ethernet, FM/DAB, RS‑232, triggers	Supports older players and pro install workflows

Bottom line: video capability here is future-ready while supporting the legacy gear many owners keep. That combination makes it easy to build a modern system without losing older sources.

Audio Architecture, Channels, and Power Delivery

Understanding the channel count and power delivery clarifies system trade-offs. This section explains why the design favors seven onboard channels, how Class G works in practice, and when adding external amplification makes sense.

How Class G amplification helps real rooms

Class G uses rail switching to supply extra voltage only when the music needs it. That lowers heat and improves efficiency compared with classic A/B designs.

Practical result: cleaner power delivery and more stable dynamics without constant high operating temperatures.

Why seven internal channels is a quality choice

Limiting the unit to seven channels lets engineers avoid compromises that appear when packing many amps into one chassis. Fewer onboard amps often mean better consistency and lower noise for the channels that are driven.

Power specs and real-room expectations

Published figures of about 120W per channel (2ch driven) and ~100W per channel with all channels driven translate to reliable headroom for most speakers. For typical 88–90dB sensitivity speakers at normal listening distances, this power level delivers clean dynamics and decent SPL without distortion.

If you have low-sensitivity speakers, a large room, or sit far from the front row, external amplification will buy needed headroom.

Immersive decoding and expandability

The processor supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced and can scale up to 9.1.6 when additional outputs are amplified externally. Use the pre-outs to route surplus channels to outboard amps for larger layouts.

• When to add amps: expanding beyond 5.1.2 or 7.1, powering demanding front L/R speakers, or increasing headroom in big rooms.
• Paths to expand: PA410 for four extra surround/height channels; PA240 to boost two-channel front power; PA720 for driving a full bed layer.
• Hi‑fi credibility: dual ESS ES9026PRO DACs prioritize stereo refinement for music alongside immersive movie decoding.

Topic	Specification / Option	Buyer takeaway
Onboard amplification	Seven channels, Class G	Better per-channel performance and thermal control
Power (spec)	~120W/ch (2ch), ~100W/ch (all driven)	Suitable for most speakers; external amps for lower sensitivity or larger rooms
Immersive formats	Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D, IMAX Enhanced to 9.1.6	High flexibility when paired with external amps
External amp options	PA410 (4ch), PA240 (2ch), PA720 (7ch)	Clear upgrade paths for more speakers or more headroom
Digital conversion	Dual ESS ES9026PRO DACs	Refined stereo performance for music playback

For buyers weighing multi-channel flagships, consider system goals first. If you want more built-in outputs, compare options and read a side-by-side comparison for broader context: equipment comparison and integration tips.

Dirac Live Room Correction and Bass Integration

Dirac Live ships with a full license and a calibrated microphone, so room correction is ready at setup. That means correction is not an optional add-on; it’s part of the package.

What you get and how it differs from manual setup

The box includes the Dirac Live license and the calibrated microphone for measurements. Use Dirac to target impulse response and phase for tighter imaging.

Manual tuning still matters. You control distances, levels, crossover points, and slope selection (12/24/36/48 dB/oct). Those settings handle fundamentals the correction builds on.

Bass control and upgrade choices

Dirac Live Bass Control is an optional paid upgrade (single-sub pricing starts around $349). Choose it when you add multiple subwoofers or need advanced bass alignment.

For one well-placed sub, standard Dirac often gives very good bass integration. For multi-sub arrays, Bass Control optimizes phase and output across subs for smoother low end.

Practical tips for better results

1. Measure from several listening positions if you want a sofa-wide sweet spot; up to three Dirac profiles can be stored and assigned to inputs.
2. Avoid holding the microphone near reflective surfaces and keep the room quiet during sweeps.
3. Adjust manual crossover slopes and points after a baseline Dirac run to fine-tune subwoofer blend with front speakers.

Item	Included	When to upgrade
Dirac Live license	Included	Never required to enable basic correction
Calibrated microphone	Included	Use for all measurement profiles
Bass Control	Optional (≈$349 for single sub)	Recommended for multi-sub or complex rooms

Expect tangible benefits: tighter bass, clearer dialogue, and a more coherent immersive soundstage. Use multiple profiles for music vs movie tuning and assign them to inputs for quick switching.

Performance Testing: Movies, Atmos, and Music Streaming

Testing for real-world movies, immersive mixes, and streaming music reveals strengths that specs alone cannot show.

Dolby Atmos object placement and movement

The processor places overhead objects with clear precision in demanding scenes. Effects move smoothly around and above the listener, creating a believable immersive bubble rather than a smeared wash.

Dynamics and action clarity

Class G power helps action peaks land with authority. Explosions and chase sequences hit hard while quieter passages retain micro-detail and layering.

Dialogue, imaging, and room correction impact

Dialogue stays intelligible even when the mix is busy. Voices remain anchored and easy to follow during complex scenes.

With room correction, imaging tightens and the soundstage coheres better once levels are matched. Pure Direct still appeals to stereo purists who want the most uncolored two-channel sound.

DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced behavior

DTS:X steering feels precise, with good low-end impact when the sub is properly integrated. IMAX Enhanced tracks retain weight and scale, giving strong bass and directional cues.

Music playback and streaming

As a music player the unit shows fast transients, balanced tonal character, and a stable stereo image at normal listening levels.

Streaming support is broad: Chromecast, AirPlay 2, aptX HD Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, and Tidal Connect make playback seamless across devices and services.

Area	What to expect	Real-world example	Buyer takeaway
Atmos placement	Precise object localization	Dune dust-storm overhead movement	Believable 3D envelope for movies
Action dynamics	Controlled, punchy peaks	No Time to Die Matera chase	Feels powerful without harshness
Dialogue & imaging	Clear, anchored voices	Tenet dense mixes	Crisp speech even in busy scenes
Music & streaming	Fast transients, clean stereo	Tidal/Roon tracks, hi‑res files	Works as a serious two-channel source

Alternatives, Comparisons, and Buying Advice

Your room, speakers, and upgrade path will tell you whether to spend more for refinement or for channel count.

AVR31 vs AVR21: who should save or upgrade

Save with the AVR21 if most listening is casual and you want core features and similar DACs while keeping more money for speakers.

Upgrade to the AVR31 when stereo quality matters most and Class G power delivers a noticeable tonal and dynamic improvement for music and demanding movie peaks.

SDR-35 cross-shop: sound trade-offs

The SDR-35 can sound a touch more dynamic and lively in some setups. That extra punch might appeal to action-focused listeners.

But missing modern HDMI features can be decisive for gamers. If console latency and HDMI 2.1 outputs matter, factor that into the decision.

Mainstream flagships with more powered channels

Receivers offering 11–13 powered channels gain convenience: fewer external amps and simpler wiring.

You may give up per-channel sonic refinement and the thermal headroom that a fewer‑channel, higher‑quality design provides.

System matching and channel planning

Layout	Typical need	When AVR31 forces external amps
5.1.2	Seven channels usually enough	Not required
7.1.4	More heights or surrounds	External amps for extra four channels
9.1.6	Large immersive systems	External amplification required

• Speakers: Sensitive speakers (88–92 dB) make the receiver feel effortless; low-sensitivity models or large rooms benefit from early amp upgrades.
• Power & outputs: Use pre-outs to add amps for demanding front channels or extra heights.
• Subwoofer strategy: Focus on placement and calibration. Proper crossover points and Dirac or manual tuning often matter more than sub brand when room modes dominate.

Buy advice: choose based on your room, speaker load, and upgrade plan—not just channel count. If you value long-term expandability and top-tier stereo, invest in refinement. If you want many powered channels in one box to save on wiring and immediate amps, consider mainstream flagships instead.

Conclusion

strong, The avr31 lands as a premium receiver that acts like a high-end stereo amp while still delivering modern immersive performance.

Its core strengths are clear: Class G amplification for cleaner dynamics, included Dirac Live room correction, and robust HDMI 2.1 video features that matter for current sources.

The main compromise is the seven built-in channels; many large Atmos layouts will need added amplification via pre-outs. That affects system planning and budget.

Final advice: prioritize this unit if sound quality and scalability matter. Plan your channel layout, confirm HDMI 2.1 needs, and budget for external amps if you aim for bigger Atmos configurations.

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