Anthem MRX 1140 vs NAD C 388 Ultra Dual Amplifier
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Anthem MRX 1140 is a premier 11.2 channel A/V receiver engineered to deliver uncompromising audio and video performance for high-end home theaters. It combines advanced processing capabilities with robust amplification to drive complex speaker configurations with absolute precision and clarity. Featuring Anthem's renowned ARC Genesis room correction software, the MRX 1140 optimizes acoustic output to match any listening environment. With comprehensive support for modern immersive audio formats and video pass-through standards, it serves as the ultimate control center for sophisticated home entertainment systems.
The NAD C 388 Ultra Dual Amplifier delivers 150 W per channel in a compact, Class‑D design, offering audiophile‑grade performance for both stereo and home‑theater setups. It integrates NAD’s BluOS platform, providing seamless Wi‑Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth connectivity for multi‑room streaming and high‑resolution playback. Its versatile I/O includes HDMI, USB, optical, coaxial, and balanced XLR, allowing you to connect a wide range of sources and drive demanding speakers with precision and low distortion.
- Exceptional audio clarity and dynamic power delivery
- Advanced and highly effective ARC Genesis room correction
- Comprehensive support for modern immersive audio formats
- Robust integration capabilities with home automation systems
- Exceptional power output with low distortion
- Comprehensive network and streaming support
- Versatile connectivity including HDMI and balanced outputs
- Robust build quality and sleek design
- High price point compared to mainstream consumer receivers
- Heavy and bulky chassis requires ample installation space
- Complex configuration interface may overwhelm casual users
- Premium price point may deter casual users
- No built-in phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts
- Limited to 2 channels; not a full surround processor
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High-performance 11.2 channel AV receiver with Dolby Atmos and ARC Genesis.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataThe Anthem MRX 1140 is a premium 11.2‑channel AV receiver with advanced room correction, while the NAD C 388 is a high‑power two‑channel amp focused on stereo performance at half the price.
Key differences
- •Channel support: 11.2‑channel surround (A) vs 2‑channel stereo (B)
- •Room correction: ARC Genesis software (A) vs none (B)
- •Power per channel: 150 W low‑distortion (B) vs unspecified (A)
- •Price: $3,999 (A) vs $1,999 (B)
- •Connectivity: B adds USB and balanced XLR/headphone amp; A emphasizes HDMI 2.1 and Atmos
Performance
A handles full 11.2‑channel Dolby Atmos processing; B is limited to 2‑channel stereo.
Build quality
Both list robust construction; A is heavier (33 lb) but weight alone doesn’t indicate superior quality.
Connectivity
B includes USB, balanced XLR, and dedicated headphone amp; A lacks USB and balanced line‑level outputs.
Power & efficiency
B specifies 150 W per channel into 8 Ω with <0.02 % THD; A provides no explicit power rating.
Compatibility
A supports Dolby Atmos, ARC Genesis, and multiple HDMI 2.1 inputs; B lacks surround‑sound processing.
Pricing & value
B costs $1,999, half of A’s $3,999, offering lower entry cost for stereo use.
Warranty & support
A offers a 3‑year warranty; B provides 2 years.
Choose Anthem MRX 1140 if…
Buyers needing full‑home‑theater Dolby Atmos with advanced room correction and willing to invest.
Choose NAD C 388 Ultra Dual Amplifier if…
Buyers seeking high‑power stereo amplification, balanced outputs, and lower cost.
Common questions
Which product supports Dolby Atmos?
The Anthem MRX 1140 (A) supports 11.2‑channel Dolby Atmos; the NAD C 388 (B) does not.
What are the price differences?
A is priced at $3,999; B is priced at $1,999.
Do either of the units include a phono stage for vinyl?
Neither product lists a built‑in phono stage; B explicitly notes its absence.