Arcam Radia AVP45 16-Channel AV Processor

Most AV processors at this level make a version of the same trade-off: broad feature coverage, moderate audio performance, and a signal path that has been compromised somewhere to hit a price point or a shipping deadline. The AVP45 does not work that way. Engineered in Cambridge, it carries the same high-performance DAC architecture found in Arcam's flagship stereo hi-fi systems into a 16-channel home cinema processor — a design decision that reflects a genuine conviction about what home theatre audio should sound like.

16 Channels, Fully Configurable

The AVP45 processes up to 16 channels of immersive audio. All channels are reassignable, with subwoofers assignable to channels 4 and 11–16. Matrix Channel Assignment gives complete freedom to configure the system — whether for a conventional 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos layout, a wider Auro-3D configuration, or something more bespoke. This is not a fixed architecture with a few preset options; it is a genuinely flexible platform designed to be configured around the room and the listener's requirements rather than around a standard installation template.

Immersive Audio — Every Major Format

The AVP45 decodes Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualisation, and Dolby Surround. DTS support covers DTS:X, DTS HD Master, DTS Neural:X, and DTS Virtual:X. IMAX Enhanced, AURO-3D, and AURO-2D are all included. This is the full set of current immersive audio formats — there is nothing missing here that a contemporary source or streaming service is likely to send it.

Dirac Live Room Correction

Dirac Live is included as standard, with upgrade paths available to Dirac Live Bass Control and Dirac Live Active Room Treatment. Room acoustics are the single largest variable in any home cinema system, and Dirac Live is one of the most thorough and well-regarded correction systems available. Its inclusion here — fully licensed — is a meaningful part of what the AVP45 offers, not an afterthought.

HDMI and Video

Seven HDMI inputs and three outputs are provided — two Zone 1 outputs and one Zone 2 output. HDMI version 2.1a with HDCP 2.3 supports resolutions up to 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz. Supported dynamic range profiles cover HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, HDR10+ Gaming, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) are also supported — relevant for gaming applications where the AVP45 is part of a system used for more than cinema.

Balanced Outputs

Balanced audio outputs are provided for all 16 channels. This is not a feature that appears on most AV processors; it reflects the AVP45's intention to pair with external amplification at a level where signal integrity from processor to power amplifier matters. The balanced connection maintains that integrity over longer cable runs and in installations where noise from other equipment is a real concern.

Streaming and Connectivity

The AVP45 supports Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Qobuz Connect. The ARCAM Radia App handles setup, control, internet radio, podcasts, and UPnP playback from iOS, Android, and Windows devices. Bluetooth is included, with Snapdragon Sound and Auracast.

Display and Control

The front panel carries a 6.5-inch colour display, clearly legible at a normal viewing distance and showing status and metadata. A back-lit Bluetooth remote control is included, allowing out-of-sight operation. The ARCAM Radia App provides the same control functionality from iOS, Android, and Windows devices.

Technical Specifications

Who Is It For?

The AVP45 is for someone building a serious, permanent home cinema installation — one where the processor is expected to last, to be expandable, and to perform at a level that justifies the amplification and speakers around it. The balanced outputs and 16-channel architecture make it the right choice for larger room configurations, multi-zone installations, and systems built around external power amplification. If you are pairing it with Arcam's own amplification, the Arcam PA720 Seven-Channel Power Amplifier is a natural companion, and the Arcam AVR31 is worth considering if you prefer a single-chassis AV receiver rather than a separate processor and amplifier.

It is not the right choice for a smaller system where a receiver will do — in that context, the Arcam AV41 AV Processor offers the same Arcam engineering at a more proportionate scale.

Buying from Martins Hi-Fi

Martins Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968. Elizabeth Gould runs the business today, and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind.

The AVP45 is a product worth discussing properly before purchase — the installation options and amplification choices are significant, and getting them right matters. We are happy to talk through the whole system in detail before you commit to anything.

When you get in touch, you'll be speaking with Dave, Chris and Tim — experienced specialists who can advise on this product and your whole system.

Contact us at info@martinshifi.co.uk, call 01603 627010, or WhatsApp on 07554 687137. You can read more about how we work on our Why Martins Hi-Fi page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY.