Well, to clarify a couple of things: the most current version of ARC Genesis is also backward compatible with the previous generation MRX XX20. So, that won't make a difference. And regarding the mic, the UMIK is not compatible with Anthem, only the original is compatible (this has been confirmed to me by Anthem itself).
How much better? Well yes, it's hard to answer. But well, I thought there were measurements of the MRX 720 just like Gene measured the MRX 740. I can't find any reviews where they compare to the previous generation, nor where they say if the MRX 740 improves on its predecessor.
The question was, because as I was telling you, I read that with the 720 they had worsened over the 710. And I was wondering if Anthem had followed that line and also worsened with the 740 (from Ge Gene's review it appears that No). The logical thing is that the updates will improve, better DAC, better SINAD, better materials, new features.... The truth is that the aesthetic change has been very big, the current 740 looks much nicer to me.
And regarding the Arcam AVR21 (or AVR20), I had my doubts as to whether it was better than the Anthem MRX 740. I think so, that it is a better device in terms of performance (I don't know about sound), I think it has 4 independent SW outputs, better streaming (Tidal Direct for example), you can see the covers, they are potentially similar, it has the DLBC option that must be very good, and Dirac... There I have my fu doubts, if Dirac is much better than ARC, since ARC is very good.The issue is sound quality. I haven't heard Arcam, but Anthem has, and it sounds great. That fame in cinema is deserved. I don't know if the Arcam AVR20 will sound the same or better in cinema than the MRX 740. I doubt it.If anyone has had or has been able to hear both, I will be happy to hear your opinion Thank you!