CES 2019: Pioneer Reveals Its New 7.2-Channel VSX-934 AV Receiver and More
First and foremost, the VSX-934 carries a relatively healthy amp section, capable of delivering 165 watts per channel (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 1-ch driven) and compatibility with some 4 ohm speakers. Owners can use the amp’s native processing to run a traditional 7.2-channel speaker arrangement, a 5.2.2 immersive sound system, or a system with two powered zones. Audio support includes both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, in addition to popular legacy codecs and various immersive sound upmixing solutions. Those additional solutions include both Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual:X for systems that don’t employ traditional immersive sound-enabled speakers.
Apple AirPlay 2 is one of several onboard multi-room streaming solutions. Owners will also find access to Chromecast built-in, DTS Play-Fi, FlareConnect, and Works with Sonos. Additionally, audio streaming can be achieved using Bluetooth technology, or through built-in music services such as Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, TIDAL, and Deezer.
The VSX-934 doesn’t carry HDMI 2.1, however it’s fully compatible with all current 4K video standards, including 4K/60p, 4:4:4, 24-bit video pass-through, BT. 2020 wide color, and the HDCP 2.2 digital copy-protection standard. It can also pass-through various High Dynamic Range formats, including HDR, HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision.
Much like past models, audio performance is fine-tuned using Pioneer’s own MCACC with Phase Control Technology. This system compensates for differences in speaker size, level, and distance, and equalizes response. It also eliminates phase-lag caused by the low-pass filter between main channels and subwoofer, creating clearer mid- and high-range sound. Additionally, the included Reflex Optimizer helps to fine-tune systems that use Atmos enabled speakers.
The VSX-934 is due to ship next month with a price of $579.99 (US).
Pioneer has also announced two new slimline AV Receiver models: VSX-834 and VSX-534. Priced at $479 and $379, respectively, Pioneer says shipping will begin in February.
Both models feature a space-saving height of 5.8-inches, allowing for use in low-profile racks, cabinets, and stands. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback is also supported, with the VSX-834 featuring 5.2.2 processing and the VSX-534 offering 3.2.2 performance. Power-wise, the 834 delivers 165 watts per channel (6 ohms, 1kHz, THD 10%, 1-ch driven) while the 534 lands at 150 watts per channel. And much like the VSX-934, MCACC room correction with Phase Control Technology and Reflex Optimizer ships onboard.
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