(April 28, 2023) Premium Audio Co., parent brand of Integra, Onkyo, and Pioneer, has released a new firmware update containing several key performance upgrades.
Headlining the update is a bundle of custom integration improvements, including browser-based IP address access to Web Setup and a firmware update command embedded in Web Setup. Integrators will also appreciate a new sink test that includes bandwidth to determine maximum resolution of a signal over cable runs, and an HDCP timing adjustment that increases compatibility across connected devices. Premium Audio Co. has also installed an "Input Skip" function to minimize user error, and the ability to toggle between Dirac curves for a quick and easy comparisons.
All of those integration-centric features are reserved for Integra's DRX 8.4, DRX-5.4, DRX-3.4, and DRX-2.4.
The bulk of receivers from all three brand badges (Onkyo: TX-RZ70, TX-RZ50, TX-NR7100, TX-NR6100, TX-NR5100, TX-NR6050, Integra: DRX 8.4, DRX-5.4, DRX-3.4, DRX-2.4, Pioneer Elite: VSX-LX805, VSX-LX505, VSX-LX305, VSX-LX105, VSX-LX935) are receiving a nice bump in on-screen and app-based display information to help confirm settings for gaming systems, including Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). Additionally, HDMI Source-Based Tone Mapping (SBTM) information has been added to the info (video) display, along with other minor improvements to enhance overall system stability.
Lastly, Onkyo (TX-RZ70, TX-RZ50, TX-NR7100, TX-NR6100, TX-NR5100 and TX-NR6050) and Integra (DRX-8.4, DRX-5.4, DRX-3.4, DRX-2.4) will now carry precise crossover values for Klipsch Custom, Design, Pro and THX architectural speakers, as well as the new Klipsch Reference Premiere subwoofers. This "Klipsch Optimized Mode" eliminates any guesswork or sometimes arbitrary settings assigned by many automatic room calibration solutions, making deployment of speaker and system set-up easier and more exacting.
In other Premium Audio Co. news, Pioneer Elite announced a strategic long-term partnership to provide Savant integration professionals with the audio and video solutions they need to satisfy the whole-home entertainment needs clients. Elite audio/video receivers (AVRs) are available to Savant customers immediately.
“Thanks to our hands-on profile development, I am particularly excited to see the Pioneer Elite receivers seamlessly integrate into the Savant system,” said Steve Silberman, Product Category Director for Savant. "Every Pioneer Elite receiver works flawlessly within a Savant system, allowing for an unparalleled audiovisual experience that perfectly complements a premium home automation system. With this exciting development, Pioneer and Savant set a new standard for seamless integration and user experience in the audiovisual space. Elite AVRs sold through Savant will carry an exclusive five-year warranty, an increase over the industry standard three-year warranty."
