Pioneer has announced the launch of three AV receivers offering Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support.
The manufacturer’s newest additions – the VSX-LX302, VSX-932 and VSX-832 – all are Bluetooth and Wi-Fi-enabled (5 GHz/2.4GHz Dual-band).
The VSX-LX302 is a 7.2-channel AVR able to deliver 170W per channel (and capable of driving two subwoofers). It has built-in Chromecast functionality and support for multiple free and subscription music services (including TuneIn, Spotify, TIDAL and Deezer).
In addition to Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Playback (using a 5.2.2-channel layout), newly added ‘Reflex Optimiser’ feature designed to improve clarity in the mid and high frequency bands and eliminate phase-lag issues that Dolby Atmos elevation speakers can suffer from.
The VSX-LX302 supports 4K/60p/4:4:4/24-bit video signal transmission (with HDCP 2.2 technology) on six rear HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs. It additionally offers full 4K Ultra HD and HDR compatibility (HDR 10, Dolby Vision and the BT.2020 standard).
Support extend to hi-res audio formats including DSD 2.8MHz/5.6MHz and Dolby TrueHD content (up to 192 kHz/24-bit) via the USB input, with content decoded via a 384 kHz/32-bit DAC (AK4458) from AKM. A built-in phono stage is incorporated for vinyl, as well as AM/FM radio and an optional USB dongle for DAB radio reception will be launched in summer.
For simpler requirements, Pioneer’s 130w VSX-932 AVR features four HDMI inputs/one HDMI output (vs six in/two out), has a single subwoofer output (instead of two), omits Zone 2 outputs and uses an AK4438 AKM DAC.
The 5.1-channel VSX-832 also is 130w per channel and is the lowest price model in the series. Incorporating 3.1.2-ch Dolby Atmos Surround Enhancer technology (available via a future firmware update), the receiver provides the same features as the VSX-932, the VSX-832, without the phono input.
Both Pioneer’s VSX-932/832 models are available now, with VSX-LX302 expected to be released in May 2017.