Onkyo, Pioneer Elite, and Integra Deep Dive: A Fresh Look at the Brands’ Latest AV Receivers

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(March 3, 2021) The road to 2021 has been bumpy for Onkyo Corporation and its associated brands (Onkyo, Integra, Pioneer, and Pioneer Elite). Rewind two years, and the company was on the cusp of being acquired by Sound United, a deal that would have positioned all four brands alongside the likes of Marantz, Denon, and Classe'. And if 2020's international COVID crisis wasn't rough enough, Onkyo made the difficult decision to shutter its US distribution subsidiary, ultimately agreeing to sell its distribution assets to a new name in the game.

Now, following months of silence, rumors, and speculation, Onkyo and Pioneer have officially re-emerged behind the strength of its new US-based distributor, 11 Trading Company, and the solid foundation of a deeper business relationship. To help make sense of that relationship's structure, here's a quick breakdown of the companies involved and how they're related: 11 Trading Company is a subsidiary of Klipsch, and Klipsch is owned by Voxx. Onkyo and Voxx have a healthy history born from an arrangement that empowers Onkyo to distribute Klipsch products in Japan. Thus, both companies' natural move was to expand their alliance by reversing that arrangement in the North American market. That's how 11 Trading Company entered the picture; they were created to lead the charge.

I recently had an opportunity to chat with 11 Trading Company's Rolf Hawkins (Product Manager) and Mike Bohner (Digital Marketing Manager), and the conversation was teeming with positive energy and optimism. Hawkins, an industry veteran with a background that includes work on Pioneer's legendary Kuro plasma TVs, is tasked with guiding the development of next-gen Onkyo and Pioneer AV receivers. Both he and Bohner say all systems are primed and ready to launch Onkyo Corporation back into the conversation.

The best news born from the discussion is that Onkyo and Pioneer are alive and well. In fact, it's safe to say a forward-thinking team of designers has reinvigorated both brands. As Hawkins eluded, the end goal has been to craft a new line of receivers loaded with features to competitively satisfy customer and integrator demands (such as a web-based user interface) while making sure the latest and greatest in audio and video technologies are accommodated. This, of course, is extremely exciting, especially considering the pedigree each brand brings to the table.

Pioneer's rich past includes ushering Class D amplification into mainstream popularity. Nearly 14 years ago, it joined forces with THX to evaluate Class D designs, hoping to make chassis more compact, discover higher output capabilities, and improve fidelity. THX ultimately identified areas needing improvement, including frequency response, distortion, and noise, which led to a solution-seeking collaboration between Pioneer and ICEpower. The resulting 2008 class of Pioneer Elite receivers became the first THX Certified products to feature Class D technology.

On the other hand, Onkyo is a revered brand known for honest power specs and extremely competent performance. And, of course, it's a name that was closely tied to Audyssey's popular room correction solutions. That powerful – arguably crucial – Audyssey relationship came to an end in 2014 when Onkyo introduced its own proprietary solution called AccuEQ. In many ways, that move best captures how Onkyo (and Pioneer, with its MCACC room correction) began two lose luster in the eyes of hardcore home theater enthusiasts. Despite excellent technologies and amp performance, competing brands offered correction solutions that were viewed as better options.
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Fast forward to September 2020, and AV NIRVANA reported a newly formed relationship between Onkyo, Pioneer, and Dirac Research. Dirac, one of the heaviest hitters in the room correction biz, is fresh off releasing its latest software (Dirac Live 2.0) designed to be more user-friendly and capable of accepting add-on modules (like Bass Control) as they become available.

This isn't the first time Dirac has been linked to one or the other brand, which left some wondering if Onkyo's announcement was destined to crash. But, we're here to attest: it's real. As of now, we can only confirm the inclusion of Dirac Live on the majority of Onkyo, Elite, and Integra 2021 models; however, Dirac's Bass Control module might be part of the deal. That's a wait-and-see detail. More on that, soon.

After combing through specifications for Onkyo, Integra, and Pioneer Elite's latest, it appears that two of three Elite models, two of three Integra models, and two of four Onkyo models will support Dirac Live. Those models lacking support will feature MCACC or AccuEQ and some combination of subwoofer, phase control, and immersive sound EQ.

From a manufacturing perspective, the inclusion of licensed technology on mid- to higher-end models makes perfect sense. And, from an enthusiast's perspective, the ability to access Dirac capabilities at price points hovering around $1,000 is extremely attractive. This is a huge win for consumers because it opens the door to more options on the market, and the fact they're well-regarded brands is a major plus.

The other exciting inclusion is true HDMI 2.1 performance. 2.1 allows for 4K/120Hz and 8K video, an advanced gaming experience (think Variable Refresh Rate, Auto Low Latency Mode, and Quick Frame Transport), and support for features such as Enhanced Audio Return Channel. More importantly, Hawkins says the HDMI 2.1 chipset used in 2021 Onkyo, Integra, and Elite models will not suffer from the same bug weighing down brands that sourced Panasonic HDMI 2.1 chipsets for the 2020 model year. For a full breakdown of HDMI 2.1 input/output availability across all models, click here.

Physically speaking, 2021's crop of Pioneer Elite receivers looks nearly identical to its last model run of LX-xx4 gear. Each model has a gorgeous brushed aluminum front panel with robust volume and selector knobs, a bottom flip-down cover that conceals inputs and buttons, and Pioneer's classic orange display. Fans of the brand will be quick to note a refreshed remote control design, which is more simplified than past Elite remotes.

The VSX-LX505 (Projected-Minimum Advertised Price $1199) is Elite's flagship model, boasting 9.2-channel Class AB performance (120 watts per channel, 8 ohms, 2ch driven) with 11.2-channels of processing for 7.2.4 immersive sound when paired with an outboard amp. It's fully compatible with IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, legacy codecs, and associated upmixers. It also offers compatibility with a wide array of Hi-Res audio files. On the video front, the LX505 is HDR10+ and Dolby Vision-friendly, delivers HD upscaling (1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K), and houses seven HDMI inputs and two outputs. Interestingly, Elite now offers access to DTS Play-Fi and Chromecast built-in, along with Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and support of most mainstream music services (including Amazon HD, Spotify, TIDAL, and Sonos systems). And if voice control suits your fancy, it's compatible with both Alexa and Google voice control, too.

The only notable and confirmed omission from the LX-505 is support for Auro-3D (this holds true for other Elite models as well as Onkyo/Integra's new AVRs). You might also notice that mentions of MQA and Qobuz are absent. Here's where things stand on both of those fronts: MQA is currently supported on the Pioneer Elite SX-N30 (no longer available in the US), Onkyo's TX-8260 and TX-8270, and Integra's DTM-6 and DTM-7. While each of those legacy receivers is a 2-channel model, there remains a possibility that native MQA support will find its way to some 2021 multi-channel models. As for Qobuz, built-in support isn't offered, but owners can stream Qobuz to any 2021 Elite, Onkyo, or Integra receiver via DTS Play-Fi and its Hi-Res capable Critical Listening Mode. To simplify the experience, this mode can be accessed using the free Pioneer and Onkyo Music Control apps (Apple and Android).

The VSX-LX305 (P-MAP $999) is also a 9.2-channel receiver loaded with most of the same capabilities as the LX505, minus the additional 2-channels of processing and a 100 watts per channel amp section. And the VSX-LX105 slides in for $300 less (P-MAP $699), with 7.2-channels of performance and the promise of 100 watts per channel (8 ohms, 2ch driven). Unlike the LX505 and LX305, the LX105 doesn't offer Dirac Live, slotting MCACC with Phase Control and Subwoofer EQ in its place.

All three Elite models feature advanced custom integration tools, including remote access to system information, web UI set-up, and compatibility with a broad array of integration partners.

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Onkyo's four-model lineup starts with the 7.2 channel TX-NR5100 (P-MAP $499) and ends with the 9.2-channel TX-RZ50 (P-MAP $1099). The TX-RZ50, much like the 9.2-channel TX-NR7100 (P-MAP $899) and 7.2-channel TX-NR6100 (P-MAP $699), is THX Select Certified and loaded to the brim with onboard support for the same immersive sound and streaming capabilities found on Elite's gear (including DTS Play-Fi and Chromecast built-in). It boasts a beefy 120 watts per channel (8 ohms, 2ch driven) and a wide frequency response (5Hz to 100kHz), drawing power from Dynamic Audio Amplification (DAA) RZ Series technology.

If your goal is to deploy a 7.2.4 system, the TX-RZ50 can process up to 11.2 channels with multichannel pre-outs for 11.2 playback. It's also HDR 10+ and Dolby Vision compatible.

The NR6100 and NR7100 are similarly equipped but carry lesser amplifier capabilities (100 watts per channel, 8 ohms, 2ch driven) and lack additional channel processing and multichannel pre-outs. In comparison, the NR5100 uses discrete 2-stage power amplifier circuitry to deliver 80 watts per channel. The NR5100 and NR6100 are devoid of Dirac, favoring AccuEQ Room Acoustic Calibration with AccuReflex phase correction and subwoofer EQ instead.

Style-wise, all four Onkyo receivers drip with Onkyo's tell-tale physical features and – not surprisingly – utilize a remote control identical to that of Elite.

Lastly, the integrator-friendly Integra lineup is burdened with the largest projected price tags, with the 9.2-channel DRX-5.4 commanding $1,900 P-MAP. With physical features looking similar to past models, its three new models are similarly equipped to Onkyo's best offerings, with the addition of key custom integration features. Those features include set-up and IP control via a web browser, a dealer settings memory/recall function, and compatibility with Crestron, Control4, Savant, URC, ELAN, and RTI automation.

Pricing for the 9.2-channel DRX3.4 and 7.2-channel DRX-2.4 is $1200 P-MAP and $800 P-MAP, respectively.

That leaves us with Pioneer's non-Elite branded gear, which is notably missing from action. There's an outside shot we might have some model news to share later this year, but Pioneer is holding its cards close to its chest. As for Onkyo, Integra, and Elite, we'll likely see a three-tier rollout during 2021, with the third phase happening closer to the August/September timeframe. According to Hawkins, nothing is set in stone (yet), but 11 Trading Company is close to finalizing a launch schedule.

With pricing ranging from $899 to $1,199, all four of the Elite and Onkyo top-end models are positioned to be highly competitive. The additions of Dirac, Play-Fi, Chromecast built-in, IMAX Enhanced, and true HDMI 2.1 performance are just a few of this group's highlights. While I predict Onkyo's TX-NR7100 and TX-RZ50 receivers will prove to be the most popular of the bunch, there's plenty of positives when considering the entire line's budget-oriented options. Elite's VSX-LX105 (P-MAP $699) is also one to keep your eye on, particularly because of its healthy amp section.



Additional Photos

Elite VSX-505
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Elite VSX-305
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Elite VSX-105
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Onkyo TX-RZ50
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Onkyo TX-NR7100
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Onkyo TX-NR6100
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Onkyo TX-NR5100
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Integra DRX-5.4
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Integra DRX-3.4
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Integra DRX-2.4
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Last edited:

Sonnie

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Very good news for a lot of enthusiasts looking for the easy setup... that is for sure.

I have always admired the Integra line, although I have owned many more Onkyo models over the years. Still have my faithful Onkyo 805 that migrated to our cabin by the pond and works like it's new.

Glad to see Dirac Live, as MCACC and the Onkyo branded versions never were good in the bass region, which is really the most important issue to deal with in most rooms. It's unfortunate they can't get all models with Dirac Live, but I understand they have to consider the cost barrier for those needing something inexpensive and likely won't ever use the DSP for much more that getting the speakers leveled and timed.
 

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Wanted to note an edit and an addition to the article. I had stated that Qobuz was absent. While it's technically not "built-in," Hi-Res streaming from Qobuz via Play-Fi is available. Also, I addressed MQA a support. See below:

"The only notable and confirmed omission from the LX-505 is support for Auro-3D (this holds true for other Elite models as well as Onkyo/Integra's new AVRs). You might also notice that mentions of MQA and Qobuz are absent. Here's where things stand on both of those fronts: MQA is currently supported on the Pioneer Elite SX-N30 (no longer available in the US), Onkyo's TX-8260 and TX-8270, and Integra's DTM-6 and DTM-7. While each of those legacy receivers is a 2-channel model, there remains a possibility that native MQA support will find its way to some 2021 multi-channel models. As for Qobuz, built-in support isn't offered, but owners can stream Qobuz to any 2021 Elite, Onkyo, or Integra receiver via DTS Play-Fi and its Hi-Res capable Critical Listening Mode. To simplify the experience, this mode can be accessed using the free Pioneer and Onkyo Music Control apps (Apple and Android)."
 

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mk1981

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The VSX-LX505 (Projected-Minimum Advertised Price $1199) is Elite's flagship model, boasting 9.2-channel Class AB performance (120 watts per channel, 8 ohms, 2ch driven)

Say, what? That sounds wrong, are you sure it's class AB, not class D?
 

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Yep. 100%. It's not Dᶾ.

Pioneer labels all of their high-current amp designs as Direct Energy, regardless of topology. In this case, it's confirmed: Class AB.
 

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Will all the HDMI inputs be 2.1?
 

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Thanks and I'm enjoying this site.
 

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Glad you're here!

Good news for you: Rolf Hawkins at 11 Trading Company already responded and it looks like I'll have an HDMI input/output list to share (soon, hopefully). Hang tight...
 

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I
Glad you're here!

Good news for you: Rolf Hawkins at 11 Trading Company already responded and it looks like I'll have an HDMI input/output list to share (soon, hopefully). Hang tight...

Can you ask if Pioneer will offer SC-LX models later with class D amps thanks.
 

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Okay... here's the info on 2.1 input/output availability, and it's going to look GREAT to your eyes. This isn't a case of claiming 2.1 and then offering one input... as you'll see, there is broad 2.1 support. Really awesome on a ton of levels!

You'll notice that some of the 2.1's are @40Gbps and some are at @24Gbps... this is a result of how the cards are manufactured (some of 3 inputs, others 4) and satisfying the bottom line bill of materials for a given model.

Onkyo
TX-NR5100

Ins 1-4 HDMI 2.1 @ 24Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 @ 24Gbps
Sub Out HDMI 2.1 @ 24Gbps

TX-NR6100
Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 @ 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.0b @ 18Gbps
Main Out HDMI @ 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps

TX-NR7100
Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.1 24Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps
Front HDMI 2.0b 9Gbps

TX-RZ50
Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.1 24Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps
Front HDMI 2.0b 9Gbps

Pioneer Elite
VSX-LX105

Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.1 18Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps

VSX-LX305
Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.1 24Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps
Front HDMI 2.0b 9Gbps

VSX-LX505
Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.1 24Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps
Front HDMI 2.0b 9Gbps

Integra
DRX-2.4

Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.0b 18Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps

DRX-3.4
Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.1 24Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps
Front HDMI 2.0b 9Gbps

DRX-5.4
Ins 1-3 HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Ins 4-6 HDMI 2.1 24Gbps
Main Out HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
Sub Out 40Gbps
Z2 Out HDMI 2.1 18Gbps
Front HDMI 2.0b 9Gbps
 

Todd Anderson

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Preamp, Processor or Receiver
StormAudio ISP.24 MK2
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Emotiva XPA-5
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Emotiva XPA Gen3 2.8 multichannel amp
Other Amp
Denon X8500H
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AudioEngine A2+
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THX ONYX
Universal / Blu-ray / CD Player
Kaleidescape TERRA, OPPO UDP-203, Panasonic UB9000
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GoldenEar Technology Triton One.R
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GoldenEar Technology SuperCenter Reference
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SVS Ultra Surround
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SVS Ultra Bookshelf
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SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Middle, Top Rear)
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dual SVS SB16s + dual PSA XS30s
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Behringer 1124p; Aura Bass Shaker Pros; SuperSub X
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Seymour Screen Excellence, Enlightor NEO AT Screen
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iFi Audio Zen Blue
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LG Electronics 65-inch B6 OLED, Sony 65-inch X900F, ZeroSurge 8R15W x 2, ZeroSurge 2R15W x 2

jsil36

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DENON x4300h
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Panasonic DP-UB820
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KEF Q900
Center Channel Speaker
KEF Q600
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KEF Q100
Front Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Rear Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Subwoofers
2 HSU vft15h MK 1
Video Display Device
JVS X590r
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Silver Ticket
Thanks so much for your help. I posted your link on AVSFORUM if that's okay with you thanks.
 

jsil36

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Panasonic DP-UB820
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KEF Q900
Center Channel Speaker
KEF Q600
Surround Speakers
KEF Q100
Front Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Rear Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Subwoofers
2 HSU vft15h MK 1
Video Display Device
JVS X590r
Screen
Silver Ticket
Why 40Gbps and not 48Gbps?
 

Todd Anderson

Editor / Senior Admin
Staff member
Thread Starter
Joined
Jan 20, 2017
Messages
9,138
Location
Balt/Wash Metro
More  
Preamp, Processor or Receiver
StormAudio ISP.24 MK2
Main Amp
Emotiva XPA-5
Additional Amp
Emotiva XPA Gen3 2.8 multichannel amp
Other Amp
Denon X8500H
Computer Audio
AudioEngine A2+
DAC
THX ONYX
Universal / Blu-ray / CD Player
Kaleidescape TERRA, OPPO UDP-203, Panasonic UB9000
Front Speakers
GoldenEar Technology Triton One.R
Center Channel Speaker
GoldenEar Technology SuperCenter Reference
Surround Speakers
SVS Ultra Surround
Surround Back Speakers
SVS Ultra Bookshelf
Front Height Speakers
SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Front, Top Mid-Front)
Rear Height Speakers
SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Middle, Top Rear)
Subwoofers
dual SVS SB16s + dual PSA XS30s
Other Speakers or Equipment
Behringer 1124p; Aura Bass Shaker Pros; SuperSub X
Video Display Device
JVC NX7
Screen
Seymour Screen Excellence, Enlightor NEO AT Screen
Streaming Equipment
iFi Audio Zen Blue
Streaming Subscriptions
Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify, ROON
Other Equipment
LG Electronics 65-inch B6 OLED, Sony 65-inch X900F, ZeroSurge 8R15W x 2, ZeroSurge 2R15W x 2
Thanks so much for your help. I posted your link on AVSFORUM if that's okay with you thanks.

more than welcome to link over here... hope you stick around!
 

jsil36

New Member
Joined
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Messages
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More  
Preamp, Processor or Receiver
DENON x4300h
Universal / Blu-ray / CD Player
Panasonic DP-UB820
Front Speakers
KEF Q900
Center Channel Speaker
KEF Q600
Surround Speakers
KEF Q100
Front Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Rear Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Subwoofers
2 HSU vft15h MK 1
Video Display Device
JVS X590r
Screen
Silver Ticket
I'm going to for sure. Because I'm looking to upgrade from my 2 HSU vft-15h to maybe 2 PSA TV1812 or 2 Rythimk FV18.
 

Todd Anderson

Editor / Senior Admin
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Thread Starter
Joined
Jan 20, 2017
Messages
9,138
Location
Balt/Wash Metro
More  
Preamp, Processor or Receiver
StormAudio ISP.24 MK2
Main Amp
Emotiva XPA-5
Additional Amp
Emotiva XPA Gen3 2.8 multichannel amp
Other Amp
Denon X8500H
Computer Audio
AudioEngine A2+
DAC
THX ONYX
Universal / Blu-ray / CD Player
Kaleidescape TERRA, OPPO UDP-203, Panasonic UB9000
Front Speakers
GoldenEar Technology Triton One.R
Center Channel Speaker
GoldenEar Technology SuperCenter Reference
Surround Speakers
SVS Ultra Surround
Surround Back Speakers
SVS Ultra Bookshelf
Front Height Speakers
SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Front, Top Mid-Front)
Rear Height Speakers
SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Middle, Top Rear)
Subwoofers
dual SVS SB16s + dual PSA XS30s
Other Speakers or Equipment
Behringer 1124p; Aura Bass Shaker Pros; SuperSub X
Video Display Device
JVC NX7
Screen
Seymour Screen Excellence, Enlightor NEO AT Screen
Streaming Equipment
iFi Audio Zen Blue
Streaming Subscriptions
Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify, ROON
Other Equipment
LG Electronics 65-inch B6 OLED, Sony 65-inch X900F, ZeroSurge 8R15W x 2, ZeroSurge 2R15W x 2
Why 40Gbps and not 48Gbps?

48G is the spec, and cable manufacturers are being required to hit that spec for certification from the consortium. But chip manufacturers, at this time are only hitting 40G. Sounds like it will be that way for the foreseeable future.
 

Todd Anderson

Editor / Senior Admin
Staff member
Thread Starter
Joined
Jan 20, 2017
Messages
9,138
Location
Balt/Wash Metro
More  
Preamp, Processor or Receiver
StormAudio ISP.24 MK2
Main Amp
Emotiva XPA-5
Additional Amp
Emotiva XPA Gen3 2.8 multichannel amp
Other Amp
Denon X8500H
Computer Audio
AudioEngine A2+
DAC
THX ONYX
Universal / Blu-ray / CD Player
Kaleidescape TERRA, OPPO UDP-203, Panasonic UB9000
Front Speakers
GoldenEar Technology Triton One.R
Center Channel Speaker
GoldenEar Technology SuperCenter Reference
Surround Speakers
SVS Ultra Surround
Surround Back Speakers
SVS Ultra Bookshelf
Front Height Speakers
SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Front, Top Mid-Front)
Rear Height Speakers
SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Middle, Top Rear)
Subwoofers
dual SVS SB16s + dual PSA XS30s
Other Speakers or Equipment
Behringer 1124p; Aura Bass Shaker Pros; SuperSub X
Video Display Device
JVC NX7
Screen
Seymour Screen Excellence, Enlightor NEO AT Screen
Streaming Equipment
iFi Audio Zen Blue
Streaming Subscriptions
Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify, ROON
Other Equipment
LG Electronics 65-inch B6 OLED, Sony 65-inch X900F, ZeroSurge 8R15W x 2, ZeroSurge 2R15W x 2
I'm going to for sure. Because I'm looking to upgrade from my 2 HSU vft-15h to maybe 2 PSA TV1812 or 2 Rythimk FV18.

awesome! PSA is phenomenal gear. I bought two dual 15” driver sealed subs from them when they were first getting started. Love’m. They can hammer deep and hard!
Look forward to reading about your progress... maybe start a thread and let everyone follow along ;-)

best, Todd
 

jsil36

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Messages
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More  
Preamp, Processor or Receiver
DENON x4300h
Universal / Blu-ray / CD Player
Panasonic DP-UB820
Front Speakers
KEF Q900
Center Channel Speaker
KEF Q600
Surround Speakers
KEF Q100
Front Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Rear Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Subwoofers
2 HSU vft15h MK 1
Video Display Device
JVS X590r
Screen
Silver Ticket
Got to sell my HSU first then start shopping lol.
 

jsil36

New Member
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Messages
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DENON x4300h
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Panasonic DP-UB820
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KEF Q900
Center Channel Speaker
KEF Q600
Surround Speakers
KEF Q100
Front Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Rear Height Speakers
KEF Ci160CR
Subwoofers
2 HSU vft15h MK 1
Video Display Device
JVS X590r
Screen
Silver Ticket
If you ever talk to Rolf Hawkins at 11 Trading Company again please tell him we would like the option to get Dirac's Bass Control module thanks. Also, someone asks if they will have Height Virtualization.
 
Last edited:

feadin

New Member
Joined
Mar 7, 2021
Messages
5
New member here. Thanks for being the first to post some very exciting news about these new receivers! Can't wait to know when they will go on sale. On paper, I'm really interested on the VSX-LX505. Hope I'll be able to get one in Canada once they are released.
 

Todd Anderson

Editor / Senior Admin
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Joined
Jan 20, 2017
Messages
9,138
Location
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More  
Preamp, Processor or Receiver
StormAudio ISP.24 MK2
Main Amp
Emotiva XPA-5
Additional Amp
Emotiva XPA Gen3 2.8 multichannel amp
Other Amp
Denon X8500H
Computer Audio
AudioEngine A2+
DAC
THX ONYX
Universal / Blu-ray / CD Player
Kaleidescape TERRA, OPPO UDP-203, Panasonic UB9000
Front Speakers
GoldenEar Technology Triton One.R
Center Channel Speaker
GoldenEar Technology SuperCenter Reference
Surround Speakers
SVS Ultra Surround
Surround Back Speakers
SVS Ultra Bookshelf
Front Height Speakers
SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Front, Top Mid-Front)
Rear Height Speakers
SVS Prime Elevation x4 (Top Middle, Top Rear)
Subwoofers
dual SVS SB16s + dual PSA XS30s
Other Speakers or Equipment
Behringer 1124p; Aura Bass Shaker Pros; SuperSub X
Video Display Device
JVC NX7
Screen
Seymour Screen Excellence, Enlightor NEO AT Screen
Streaming Equipment
iFi Audio Zen Blue
Streaming Subscriptions
Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify, ROON
Other Equipment
LG Electronics 65-inch B6 OLED, Sony 65-inch X900F, ZeroSurge 8R15W x 2, ZeroSurge 2R15W x 2
First off, @feadin, welcome to AV NIRVANA. Glad you’re here!

I share your excitement. This was a fun story to pursue for a lot of reasons. It’s a relief to have these brands jettison back into the conversation, and I can assure you that the US-based team involved with getting them market is highly motivated to forge high-performance products.

The LX505 is going to make a lot of folks happy. It looks like a monster! Just curious, when you look at it versus the Onkyo equivalent, what grabs you about the Pioneer? No right answer, of course :-). Just wondering what sticks out:T
 

feadin

New Member
Joined
Mar 7, 2021
Messages
5
The LX505 is going to make a lot of folks happy. It looks like a monster! Just curious, when you look at it versus the Onkyo equivalent, what grabs you about the Pioneer? No right answer, of course :-). Just wondering what sticks out:T

Probably brand loyalty. :)
I always liked the Pioneer products that I've owned.

I currently run an older system that I still very much like. A 1080p Panasonic plasma with a Pioneer VSX-1121-K, both still really working well after 10 years.

But later in the year, I'll probably upgrade to a 4K OLED (probably an LG tv) and would like to have a 7.1.4 option, so the LX-505 seems to fit the bill. But I'll probably look at the TX-RZ50 as well, just don't have any experience with Onkyo products (although they probably have similar, if not same interior components, no?).
 
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