What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
13 SEP 2006
Arcam FMJ AV9
A very effective upgrade of an already capable design; team with Arcam’s matching P7 power amp for superb home cinema (and very decent stereo) sound
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In the ultra-competitive world of home cinema, it’s tough at the top. Budget kit sounds better than ever, coming piled with features, leaving some specialist high-end products looking comparatively miserly.
Arcam’s AV9 surround processor attempts a fight-back. Replacing the excellent (but elderly) Arcam AV8, it includes HDMI video switching for five sources, together with many features aimed at improving life for custom installers.
There’s no auto set-up, Arcam preferring instead manual installation: to that end, the machine's extensive steps for adjusting delay settings are very worthwhile. Subtle changes, maybe – indeed, AV8 owners can upgrade to AV9 spec for a fairly reasonable £700 – but collectively, they help keep the Arcam in competitive trim.
Transparent and articulate
Teamed with a Lexicon LX-7 power amp, it’s a terrifically transparent and articulate surround processor, with razor-sharp effects steering and remarkable detail. Sounds move around with weight and composure, while dialogue has a beautifully assured, natural feel. Add extensive connectivity and elegant styling, and the Arcam is still a capable product.
True, you won’t find the cutting-edge decoding features present in many cheaper components, but even so, living with this Arcam would never be hard work.
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