PioneerVSX-918V A/V Receiver
A large, bright-orange MCACC logo gaudily celebrates Pioneers auto-setup and room-EQ features. I rarely use auto setup. My SPL meter is virtually an extension of my hand, and I need to know how amps sound in their virgin state. But MCACC will get the surround newbie up and running with minimal fuss. If you prefer to tweak your receiver manually, Pioneer recommends that you run the auto setup, then copy the settings to the custom menu and take it from there. The VSX-918V is rated at 95 watts of continuous power times ve (not seven). The 120 watts that Pioneers Website lists uses a more lenient specication method. As always, our test report contains the most credible numbers. This receiver and its two lower-priced siblings include new Pioneer Hybrid Amplifier Technology (PHAT). The name conjures up a very relaxed late-night meeting between engineers and marketers: Duuuude, lets make up a name so that the acronym is PHAT. Awesoooome! According to Pioneer, PHAT includes hand-selected parts, automatic temperature compensation, and power modules that minimize internal and external electromagnetic interference. This receiver sounds noticeably cleaner than the last similarly priced Pioneer receiver I reviewed, so maybe theres something to it. The receiver supports AM, FM, Sirius, and XM Radio, but not
cheap seats at Carnegie Hall. They dont provide best-case performance, but if youre living on a tight budget, youre just happy to be there. A budget A/V receiver can also form the basis of a starter system for the hardheadedly practical person whos dubious about surround sound but doesnt want to be left behind. Pioneer has two receiver lines, the higher-end Elite and a valueoriented line without any special moniker. The Pioneer VSX-918V hails from the value line where it is second from the top. At $349, it wont strain anyones budget. Although it doesnt have onboard decoding for the latest lossless and
other surround codecs, it can accept a high-resolution PCM signal from a Blu-ray player that does its own decoding. As youll see later, that comes in handy. Im going to depart from the norm and tell you my conclusion up front. The VSX-918V outperformed my expectations. This is quite a fine-sounding budget receiver. So keep on reading. The VSX-918V is a black box with a volume knob on the right and a matching source-select knob on the left. The front panel, however, is not entirely flat. It also has an angled panel where the sourceselect buttons reside. With the remote, youve got three, count em, three ways to pick sources.
Electronically reprinted from Home Theater / August 2008

Cordero Studios

digital over-the-air HD Radio. The front-panel USB jack accepts an iPod via the Apple-supplied adapter cable. There is no need for a cumbersome extra-cost dock. You can use the receivers onscreen display and remote to operate the iPod. There were a few surprises on the back panel. The HDMI output did not pass the onscreen menus; I used the component video output instead. Five of the seven sets of speaker terminals were like the collared binding posts you see on most receivers. However, the B speaker terminals were wire clips, which emphasizes the fact that they share amps with other channels. The 5.1-channel analog inputs only serve the center, sub, and surround, while the DVD analog inputs serve the front left and right channels. There are no S-video jacks but plenty of composite video. Also, the front-panel mini-jack for the MCACC microphone doubles as an audio input. All of these issues demonstrate the point that, if you want a good receiver at a low price, you live with compromises. The remote is simple but decent for a budget receiver. The control for master volume is a single horizontal rocker that measures a generous 1.4 inches wide. This simple and thoughtful touch made the remote a pleasure to use. Pioneer also made a modest effort to distinguish the other controls by shape. I counted nine distinct button shapes. Although the menu graphics are gray monochrome, its forgivable in a budget receiver. I hooked up the VSX-918V to a quintet of Paradigm Reference Studio 20 v.4 speakers. I set up the speakers to run full range, which is now my standard procedure for receiver reviews. Signal sources included a Pioneer Elite BDP-HD1 Blu-ray player. The player doesnt output a bitstream for Dolby TrueHD and other new surround
codecs, and the receiver has no onboard decoding for them. Still, they got along just ne communicating via high-resolution PCM, a maneuver that allows TrueHD
to live up to its potential. For DVDs, SACDs, and CDs, I used an Integra DPS-10.5 universal disc player. Vinyl ran on a Rega Planar 25 turntable with a Shure V97xE
cartridge and a NAD PP-1 phono preamp. Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story is a broad musical satire that lampoons Walk the Line, the Johnny Cash biopic. The VSX-918V beneted hugely from the Blu-ray and Dolby TrueHD treatment. Sure, the live ambience of John C. Reillys musical interludes was faked, but it still had an enveloping feel. Thats one thing Ive noticed about Tr ueH Ds ef fec t on musicit creates a betterdened soundeld. I was pleased to discover that even a modestly priced receiver like this one benefited from the next-gen codec. Lossless surround is for everyone, not just the afuent. My other two movie auditions were in old-style DTS. The setup menu of The Golden Compass noted: Optimized for home theater. No re-equalization required. This is probably true of most releases nowadays, but it was nice to be told. Roaring bears and whizzing witches abound in this semianimated fantasy. However, the soundtracks dominant element is an orchestral score that unceasingly comments on every moment of the action. All movie scores do this, but this one is especially tenacious, and it enhances the already imaginative storytelling. The recording of the orchestra some of it at the legendary Abbey Road Studiosis noticeably diffuse. Theres no attempt to concentrate it in the front channels. A s a result, every time I leaned to one side of

the sofa, I became aware of the string sound coming out of the surrounds. The receiver delivered dialogue beautifully and prevented the more aggressive effects from becoming strident. It was also revealing enough to let me split hairs about the orchestras deployment in the soundeld. If I hadnt already had these two rareed experiences, I might have attributed Aliens vs. Predator: Requiems more opaque sound to the receiver. Still, despite the aggressively roaring effects, I maintained the same volume setting throughout the movie, which indicates to me reasonably low distortion for a budget model. It was fun to discover in the end credits that the all-orchestral score had two titles, The Chopper and Grim Discovery.
Until this point, I knew that the VSX-918V wasnt bad. But was it actually good? A high-decibel session with Led Zeppelins debut LP provided the answeran emphatic yes. I played this title at moderate to loud volumes, and the receiver mustered the kind of buttery-smooth, well-focused sound that I associate with lowdistortion amps. Robert Plants vocal on Babe Im Gonna Leave You was imaged precisely between the left and right channels, even with the center shut down in stereo mode and my head weaving in and out of the sweet spot. With mounting satisfaction, I bumped the volume higher and higher with each track. Guitarist Jan Akkermans untitled albumhis fourth solo
recorddefines his distinctive fusion of rock, jazz, and classical elements with several longtime staples of his stage set. Akkerman recorded the album in 1977, with a string orchestra substituting for his guitar and keyboard synthesizers. The Pioneer brought out the oldfashioned monochromatic string recording, giving it a pleasing retro feel. With the speakers playing full range, the drum kit and congas sounded tight and had a fair amount of impact. This receiver is no substitute for a good outboard muscle amp, but it can still make drums sound like drums. The Garden of Cosmic Speculation is a riot of orchestral color, delivered via multichannel Telarc SACD. Its an exuberant antidote to the pofaced seriousness of much newly commissioned music. Composer Michael Gandol begins with allchannel birdsong and proceeds through a variety of styles, all of them accessible to non-academic listeners. He gleefully quotes music of every era from Gregorian chant to Bach to Stravinsky to Reich. The Pioneer kept pace with the works dynamics. I never needed to turn the volume down to avoid discomfort, or turn it up to catch low-level passages. I tried a few of Pioneers proprietary listening modes, most of which you can access via the remote or front-panel buttons. If youre using two speakers, Front Stage Surround Advance

provides a rich surround sound effect. The sound extends from a point between the front left and right speakers toward the center of the room. Two modes vary the faux-surround width. I tried both with Nick Drakes Five Leaves Left CD. The FSS Focus mode made it sound as though Drakes voice (beautifully recorded by John Wood) was in my head. The FSS Wide mode increased the effect. Overall, FSS produced a bigger sound but not a more focused one. A good recording can hold its own in plain stereo. Dialog Enhancement localizes dialog in the center channel, says the manual. I played the Drake CD in Dolby Pro Logic II Music mode, and this adjustment didnt affect the voice much. It did collapse the laterally wider guitar into the center channel, though. This might help if your center speaker is deficient and
you dont mind giving up some soundstage information. To enhance the ve amp channels, Virtual Surround Back simulates rear-surround speakers through your surrounds. I found it dispensable. Pioneer offers two enhancements for use with portable players. Sound Retriever attempts to compensate for artifacts of lossy audio compression. It seemed to increase the volume and thicken the lower midrange, but not in an unpleasant way. Automatic Level Control evens out the volume levels. It didnt do much for songs that were recorded at a steady level, but it did up the level for a quiet acoustic guitar track. I enjoyed using the Pioneer with the iPod USB connection. It sounded much better than when connected via analog mini-plug. If I owned this receiver, Id use this feature often.
The Pioneer VSX-918V is one very good-sounding budget receiver. No, it wont run power-pig speakers or decode Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. But it will provide pleasingly clean power to speakers of appropriately high sensitivity. And it accepts Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio from your Blu-ray players built-in decoder via high-resolution PCM. Has Pioneer omitted a few features and connectivity options to keep the price down? Sure. But none of the omissions is fatal. This is the rare budget receiver that can provide pleasure with any kind of music or movie. Pair it with a good sat/sub set or stand-mount speakers from our Top Picks list on page 92, and have yourself some budget home theater fun. * Audio editor Mark Fleischmann is also the author of the annually updated book Practical Home Theater (www.quietriverpress.com).
Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. (800) 421-1404 www.pioneerelectronics.com
Posted with permission from the August 2008 issue of Home Theater www.hometheatermag.com. Copyright 2008, Source Interlink Media, Inc. All rights reserved. For more information about reprints from Home Theater, contact Wrights Reprints at 877-652-5295.

5 SIRIUS Radio input See Connecting a SiriusConnect tuner on page 32. 6 Component video connectors (x3) Use the inputs to connect any video source that has component video output, such as a DVD player. See Connecting your DVD player with no HDMI output on page 25. Use the output to connect monitor or TV. See Connecting your TV with no HDMI input on page 26. 7 ZONE 2 and ZONE 3 (VSX-23TXH only) output(s) Use to connect a second or third (VSX-23TXH only) amplifier and monitors or TVs in a separate room. See MULTI-ZONE setup on page 33. 8 Composite and S-Video monitor outputs Use to connect monitors and TVs. See Connecting your TV with no HDMI input on page 26. 9 Audio/video source inputs/(outputs) (x5) Use for connection to audio/visual sources, such as DVD players/recorders, VCRs, etc. Each set of inputs has jacks for composite video, S-Video and stereo analog audio. See Connecting an HDD/DVD recorder, VCR and other video sources on page 28. 10 Stereo analog audio source inputs/(outputs) (x3) Use for connection to audio sources such as CD players, tape decks, turntables, etc. See Connecting other audio components on page 29.
Determining the speakers application
Surround sound with a strong sense of presence can be enjoyed by connecting 7 speakers and 1 subwoofer. It is also possible to achieve high sound quality using bi-amp connections and to enjoy music in other rooms using the MULTI-ZONE feature. High sound quality can be achieved with a minimum of two speakers. Be sure to connect speakers to the front left and right channels ( L and R ). The Surr Back System setting must be made if you use any of the connections shown below other than [1] (see Selecting the Surr Back system on page 22).
[3] 5.1ch surround & ZONE 2 connection (Multi Zone)
With these connections you can simultaneously enjoy 5.1-channel surround sound in the main zone with stereo playback on another component in ZONE 2. (The selection of input devices is limited.) Surr Back System setting: ZONE 2

Front left

Center

Front right

Subwoofer Surround left Surround right
[1] 7.1ch surround connection (Simple connection & Best surround)
*Default setting These connections prioritize surround sound with a speaker layout like that in a movie theater. Surr Back System setting: Normal (default) If you have six speakers, either only connect one surround back speaker (6.1 ch surround), or connect for the 7.1-channel setting as shown on the diagram below but without the center speaker.
[4] 5.1ch surround & Speaker B connection
With these connections you can simultaneously enjoy 5.1-channel surround sound in the main zone with stereo playback of the same sound on the B speakers. Surr Back System setting: Speaker B

Speaker B

Front left Subwoofer Surround left

Subwoofer

Surround left

(HDMI-1)

(HDMI-2)

(HDMI-3) (HDMI-4)

COAX-2

(front panel)

a. VSX-23TXH only b. VSX-21TXH only
Note 1 An HDMI connection can only be made with DVI-equipped components compatible with both DVI and High Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP). If you choose to connect to a DVI connector, you will need a separate adaptor (DVIHDMI) to do so. A DVI connection, however, does not support audio signals. Consult your local audio dealer for more information. If you connect a component that is not compatible with HDCP, an HDCP ERROR message is displayed on the front panel display. Some components that are compatible with HDCP still cause this message to be displayed, but so long as there is no problem with displaying video this is not a malfunction. Depending on the component you have connected, using a DVI connection may result in unreliable signal transfers. This receiver supports SACD, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. To take advantage of these formats, however, make sure that the component connected to this receiver also supports the corresponding format. 2 Signal transfer is only possible when connected to a compatible component.
Connecting an HDD/DVD recorder, VCR and other video sources
This receiver has two sets of audio/video inputs and outputs suitable for connecting analog or digital video devices, including HDD/DVD recorders and VCRs. When you set up the receiver youll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the recorder to (see also The Input Setup menu on page 43).
HDD/DVD recorder, VCR, etc.
VIDEO IN S-VIDEO VIDEO AUDIO IN
Connecting a satellite/cable receiver or other set-top box
Satellite and cable receivers, and terrestrial digital TV tuners are all examples of so-called set-top boxes. When you set up the receiver youll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the set-top box to (see The Input Setup menu on page 43).
Connecting the multichannel analog inputs
For DVD Audio and SACD playback, your DVD player may have 5.1 channel analog outputs. Make sure that the player is set to output multichannel analog audio.

BLE ASSIGNABLE

Connecting a SiriusConnect tuner
To receive SIRIUS Satellite Radio broadcasts, you will need to activate your SiriusConnect tuner.
SUBWOOFER SUBWOOFER SURROUND SURROUND BACK
CENTER SURROUND SURROUND BACK /
L CENTER R SURROUND L R SURROUND BACK /

Antenna

AC adapter

SATELLiTE RADiO

XM Mini-Tuner and Home Dock with antenna

SiriusConnect HOME tuner

For instructions on playing the XM Radio, see Listening to XM Radio on page 52.
You will also need to connect the antenna and AC adapter to the SiriusConnect tuner. For instructions on playing the SIRIUS Radio, see Listening to SIRIUS Radio on page 54.

MULTI-ZONE setup

This receiver can power up to two (VSX-21TXH)/three (VSX-23TXH) independent systems in separate rooms after you have made the proper MULTI-ZONE connections. An example MULTI-ZONE setup is shown below, but the number of MULTIZONE connections (and the way you choose to connect them) depends on how you want to set up your system.
Sub zone (ZONE 3) (VSX-23TXH only) Sub zone (ZONE 2) Main zone

AUDIO IN

CONTROL RS-232C
Different sources can be playing in two (VSX-21TXH)/three (VSX-23TXH) zones at the same time or, depending on your needs, the same source can also be used. The main and sub zone(s) have independent power (the main zone power can be off while one (or both) of the sub zone(s) is on) and the sub zone(s) can be controlled by the remote or front panel controls. However, you may need to specify the volume settings in ZONE Audio Setup on page 95.
Making MULTI-ZONE connections
It is possible to make these connections if you have a separate TV and speakers for your primary (ZONE 2) sub zone (and a separate amplifier1 (and speakers) for your secondary (ZONE 3) sub zone (VSX-23TXH only)). You will also need a separate amplifier if you are not using the MULTI-ZONE setup using speaker terminals (ZONE 2) on page 34 for your primary sub zone. There are two primary sub zone setups possible with this system. Choose whichever works best for you.
MULTI-ZONE listening options
The following table shows the signals that can be output to sub zone(s):
Sub zone ZONE 2 Input functions available Analog audio signals (AUDIO ZONE 2 OUT).a With video signals,b the composite video (VIDEO ZONE 2 OUT) signals can be output. Analog audio signals (AUDIO ZONE 3 OUT).a,c

Problems when using the Auto MCACC Setup
If the room environment is not optimal for the Auto MCACC Setup (too much background noise, echo off the walls, obstacles blocking the speakers from the microphone) the final settings may be incorrect. Check for household appliances (air conditioner, fridge, fan, etc.), that may be affecting the environment and switch them off if necessary. If there are any instructions showing in the front panel display, please follow them. Some older TVs may interfere with the operation of the microphone. If this seems to be happening, switch off the TV when doing the Auto MCACC Setup.
5 Select the input function that you want to set up. The default names correspond with the names next to the terminals on the rear panel (such as DVD or VIDEO) which, in turn, correspond with the names on the remote control. 6 Select the input(s) to which youve connected your component. For example, if your DVD player only has an optical output, you will need to change the DVD input functions Digital In setting from COAX-1 (default) to the optical input youve connected it to. The numbering (OPT-1 to 3) corresponds with the numbers beside the inputs on the back of the receiver. If your component is connected via a component video cable to an input terminal other than the default, you must tell the receiver which input terminal your component is connected to, or else you may see the S-Video or composite video signals instead of the component video signals.When youre finished, proceed to the settings for other inputs. There are three optional settings in addition to the assignment of the input jacks: Input Name You can choose to rename the input function for easier identification. Select Rename to do so, or Default to return to the system default. Input Skip When set to ON, that input is skipped when selecting the input using INPUT SELECT or the front panel INPUT SELECTOR dial. (DVD and other inputs can be still be selected directly with the input function buttons.) 12V Trigger1/2 After connecting a component to one of the 12 volt triggers (see Switching components on and off using the 12 volt trigger on page 36), select MAIN, ZONE 2, ZONE 3 (VSX-23TXH only) or OFF for the corresponding trigger setting to switch it on automatically along with the (main or sub) zone specified.

4b.Input Setup

A/V RECEIVER Input Input Name Input Skip Digital In HDMI Input Component In 12V Trigger1 12V Trigger2 : : : : : : : : DVD Rename OFF COAX-1 --Comp-1 OFF OFF

The Input Setup menu

You only need to make settings in the Input Setup menu if you didnt hook up your digital equipment according to the default settings (see Input function default and possible settings on page 44). In this case, you need to tell the receiver what equipment is hooked up to which terminal so the buttons on the remote control correspond to the components youve connected.

1 Switch on the receiver and your TV. Use RECEIVER to switch on. 2 Press RECEIVER on the remote control, then press HOME MENU. A Graphical User Interface (GUI) screen appears on your TV. Use /// and ENTER to navigate through the screens and select menu items. Press RETURN to confirm and exit the current menu. Select System Setup from the HOME MENU. Select Input Setup from the System Setup menu.
A/V RECEIVER a.Manual SP Setup b. Input Setup c. OSD Language d. Other Setup Input Input Name Input Skip Digital In HDMI Input Component In 12V Trigger1 12V Trigger2
A/V RECEIVER : : : : : : : : DVD Rename OFF COAX-1 --Comp-1 OFF OFF

Finish

8 When youre finished, press RETURN. You will return to the System Setup menu.
Note 1 For high-definition video (using component video connections), or when digital video conversion is switched off (in Setting the Video options on page 68), you must connect your TV to this receiver using the same type of video cable as you used to connect your video component.
Input function default and possible settings
The terminals on the receiver generally correspond to the name of one of the input functions. If you have connected components to this receiver differently from (or in addition to) the defaults below, see The Input Setup menu on page 43 to tell the receiver how youve connected up. The dots () indicate possible assignments.
Input function DVD BD TV/SAT DVR VIDEOc/VIDEO 1d VIDEO 2d HDMI 1 HDMI 2 HDMI 3 HDMI 4c OPT-1 OPT-2 OPT-3 Input Terminals Digital COAX-1 HDMI a Component IN 1 IN 2

(HDMI-3) (HDMI-4)b

iPod/USB XM CD CD-R/TAPE TUNER MULTI CH IN SIRIUS a COAX-2
a.With KURO LINK set to ON, assignments cannot be made (see KURO LINK on page 63). b.This assignment is fixed and cannot be changed. c. VSX-23TXH only d. VSX-21TXH only

Basic playback

Chapter 5:

Playing a source

Here are the basic instructions for playing a source (such as a DVD disc) with your home theater system.
AUTO/ALC/ MENU DIRECT STEREO STANDARD ADV SURR HDD DVD BD DVR HDMI THX DVD PHASE CTRL STATUS
When using a surround back speaker, 2D+PLIIx MOVIE is displayed when playing Dolby Digital 5.1channel signals, and DTS+Neo:6 is displayed when playing DTS 5.1-channel signals. When not using a surround back speaker, DOLBY DIGITAL is displayed when playing Dolby Digital 5.1channel signals. If the display does not correspond to the input signal and listening mode, check the connections and settings. 4 Use the volume control to adjust the volume level. Turn down the volume of your TV so that all sound is coming from the speakers connected to this receiver.

About connections with a product of a different brand that supports the KURO LINK function
The synchronized operations below can be used when the receivers KURO LINK function is connected to a TV of a brand other than Pioneer that supports the KURO LINK function. (Depending on the TV, however, some of the KURO LINK functions may not work.) You can set whether to output the sound over the speakers connected to the receiver or over the TVs speakers using the TVs menu screen. You can adjust the receivers volume or mute the sound using the TVs remote control. When the TVs power is set to standby, the receivers power is also set to standby. (Only when the input for a component connected to the receiver by HDMI connection is selected or when watching the TV.) The sound of TV programs or an external input connected to the TV can also be output from the speakers connected to the receiver. (This requires connection of an optical digital cable, etc., in addition to the HDMI cable.) The synchronized operations below can be used when the receivers KURO LINK function is connected to a player or recorder of a brand other than Pioneer that supports the KURO LINK function. When playback starts on the player or recorder, the receivers input switches to the HDMI input to which that component is connected. See the Pioneer website for the latest information on the models of non-Pioneer brands and products that support the KURO LINK function.

KURO LINK Setup

You must adjust the settings of this receiver as well as KURO LINK-compatible connected components in order to make use of the KURO LINK function. For more information see the operating instructions for each component.
LIST TOP MENU BAND PRESET
TOOLS AUDIO T.EDIT GUIDE INFO DISP TV CTRL RECEIVER

PRESET REMOTE SETUP

Press RECEIVER , then press Home Menu. Select System Setup, then press ENTER. Select Other Setup, then press ENTER.

4d.Other Setup

A/V RECEIVER 1. KURO LINK Setup 2. Multi Ch In Setup 3. ZONE Audio Setup 4. Power ON Level Setup 5. Volume Limit Setup 6. Remote Control Mode Setup 7. Flicker Reduction Setup

4d1.KURO LINK Setup

A/V RECEIVER KURO LINK : Display Power Off : ON YES
4 Select the KURO LINK setting you want. Choose whether to set this units KURO LINK function ON or OFF. You will need to set it to ON to use the KURO LINK function. When using a component that does not support the KURO LINK function, set this to OFF. ON Enables the KURO LINK function. When this units power is turned off and you have a supported source begin playback while using the KURO LINK function, the audio and video output from the HDMI connection are output from the flat panel TV. OFF The KURO LINK is disabled. Synchronized operations cannot be used. When this units power is turned off, audio and video of sources connected via HDMI are not output. 5 Select the Display Power Off setting you want. If the TVs power is turned off while using the KURO LINK function, the receivers power is also turned off (all power off function). This function can be disabled. YES The all power off function is enabled. The receivers power turns off together with the TVs power. This function only works when the input for a component connected to the receiver by HDMI connection is selected or when watching the TV. NO The all power off function is disabled. The receivers power is not affected when the TVs power is turned off. 6 When youre finished, press HOME MENU. You will finish to HOME MENU.

4 Press RETURN to go back to MCACC Data Check menu, repeating steps 2 and 3 to check other settings. 5 When youre finished, press RETURN. You will return to the HOME MENU.

Speaker Setting

Use this to display the speaker size and number of speakers. See Speaker Setting on page 91 for more on this. 1 Select Speaker Setting from the MCACC Data Check menu.

2a.Speaker Setting

A/V RECEIVER Front Center Surr SB SW : : : : : LARGE LARGE LARGE LARGE x 2 YES
2 When MCACC is highlighted, use / to select the MCACC preset you want to check. The distance from the various channels set at the selected MCACC preset is displayed. --- is displayed for channels that are not connected.
Use this to display the standing wave related adjustment values for the various MCACC memories. See Standing Wave on page 82 for more on this. 1 Select Standing Wave from the MCACC Data Check menu.

2d.Standing Wave

2 Select the channel you want to check. Use / to select the channel. The corresponding channel on the layout diagram is highlighted.

Filter Channel SW

500 1k Hz

Channel Level

Use this to display the level of the various channels. See Channel Level on page 92 for more on this. 1 Select Channel Level from the MCACC Data Check menu.

2b.Channel Level

A/V RECEIVER MCACC : M1.MEMORY 1 L C R SR SBR SBL SL SW Exit : : : : : : : : 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB Return Exit
2 When Filter Channel is highlighted, use / to select the channel for which you want to check standing wave control. The standing wave related calibration value for the selected channel stored at the selected MCACC preset and its graph are displayed. 3 Press to highlight MCACC, then use / to select the MCACC preset you want to check.

Acoustic Cal EQ

Use this to display the calibration values for the frequency response of the various channels set in the different MCACC presets. See Acoustic Calibration EQ Adjust on page 83 for more on this. 1 Select Acoustic Cal EQ from the MCACC Data Check menu.

2e.Acoustic Cal EQ

2 When MCACC is highlighted, use / to select the MCACC preset you want to check. The level of the various channels set at the selected MCACC preset is displayed. --- is displayed for channels that are not connected.

Surr Back System Specifies how you are using your surround back speakers (see below). Speaker Setting Specifies the size and number of speakers youve connected (see below). Channel Level Adjusts the overall balance of your speaker system (page 92). Speaker Distance Specifies the distance of your speakers from the listening position (page 93). X-Curve Adjusts the tonal balance of your speaker system for movie soundtracks (page 93). THX Audio Setting Specifies whether you are using a THX speaker setup (page 93). 3 Make the adjustments necessary for each setting, pressing RETURN to confirm after each screen.
3 When Setting Change? is displayed, select Yes. If No is selected, the setting is not changed. You will return to the Manual SP Setup menu.
Use this setting to specify your speaker configuration (size, number of speakers and crossover frequency)1. It is a good idea to make sure that the settings made in Automatically setting up for surround sound (Auto MCACC) on page 41 are correct. Note that this setting applies to all MCACC presets, and cannot be set independently. 1 Select Speaker Setting from the Manual SP Setup menu.

4a2.Speaker Setting

A/V RECEIVER Front Center Surr SB SW : : : : : LARGE LARGE LARGE LARGE x 2 YES 80Hz
Surround back speaker setting
Default setting: Normal There are several ways you can use the surround back speaker channels with this system. In addition to a normal home theater setup where they are used for the surround back speakers, they can be used for bi-amping the front speakers or as an independent speaker system in another room. 1 Select Surr Back System from the Manual SP Setup menu. See Making receiver settings from the System Setup menu on page 90 if youre not already at this screen.
A/V RECEIVER 1. Surr Back System 2. Speaker Setting 3. Channel Level 4. Speaker Distance 5. X-Curve 6. THX Audio Setting Normal Front Center Surr SB : : : : Normal Normal Normal Normal OK
1. Surr Back System 2. Speaker Setting 3. Channel Level 4. Speaker Distance 5. X-Curve 6. THX Audio Setting

No picture.

No sound, or sound suddenly ceases.
Symptom Noisy or distorted picture.
HDCP ERROR shows in the display.
Amp-linked operation not possible using KURO LINK function.
Remedy Sometimes a video deck may output a noisy video signal (during scanning, for example), or the video quality may just be poor (with some video game units, for example). The picture quality may also depend on the settings, etc. of your display device. Switch off the video converter and reconnect the source and display device using the same type of connection (component, S-Video or composite), then start playback again. If the problem still persists when connecting your HDMI component directly to your monitor, please consult the component or monitor manual or contact the manufacturer for support. Check whether or not the connected component is compatible with HDCP. If it is not compatible with HDCP, reconnect the source device using a different type of connection (component, S-Video or composite). Some components that are compatible with HDCP still cause this message to be displayed, but so long as there is no problem with displaying video, this is not a malfunction. Check the HDMI connections. The cable may be damaged. Select ON for the KURO LINK setting (see KURO LINK Setup on page 64). Turn the TVs power on before turning on this receivers power. Set the TV side KURO LINK setting to ON. VSX-23TXH only: Connect the TV to the HDMI OUT 1 terminal and set the HDMI output to HDMI OUT 1. Then turn on first the TVs power, then this receivers power.
Important information regarding the HDMI connection
There are cases where you may not be able to route HDMI signals through this receiver (this depends on the HDMIequipped component you are connectingcheck with the manufacturer for HDMI compatibility information). If you arent receiving HDMI signals properly through this receiver (from your component), please try one of the following configurations when connecting up.

Configuration A

Use component video cables to connect the video output of your HDMI-equipped component to the receivers component video input. The receiver can then convert the analog component video signal to a digital HDMI signal for transmission to the display. For this configuration, use the most convenient connection (digital is recommended) for sending audio to the receiver. See the operating instructions for more on audio connections. Note The picture quality will change slightly during conversion.

CH Unavailable

The selected channel is not available. The channel may have been reassigned to a different channel number. This message may occur initially with a new radio or a radio that has not received XMs signal for an extended period. No artist name or song title is available for this selection. The connected XM CNP-1000 is incompatible. This receiver features advanced technology that is designed for use with the XM Mini-Tuner.

Upgrade XM Tuner

XM Power Error
A short-circuit occurring in the antenna or surrounding antenna cable.

SIRIUS radio messages

Message Antenna Error Check Sirius Tuner Acquiring Signal Cause The SIRIUS antenna is not properly connected. The SiriusConnect tuner is not properly connected. Action Check that the antenna cable is attached securely. Check that the 8 pin mini DIN cable and AC Adapter are attached securely.
The SIRIUS signal is too weak at the current location. Check for antenna obstructions and reposition the SIRIUS antenna to get better signal reception. Use the Antenna Aiming option to optimize the antenna position. Wait until the encryption code has been updated. Wait until the encryption code has been updated. Select another channel. Wait for updating to finish. Unit is updating channels. Selected channel is not available/does not exist. The SiriusConnect tuners firmware is being updated.
Subscription Updating Unit is updating subscription. Updating Channels Invalid Channel Firmware Updating
If the problem is not solved after the troubleshooting above, if the screen freezes unexpectedly or if the buttons on the remote control or front panel stop working completely, do the following: Press STANDBY/ON on the front panel to turn off the power, then turn the power back on. If the power cannot be turned off, press and hold STANDBY/ON on the front panel for over 10 seconds. The power will turn off. (In this case, the various settings made on the receiver may be cleared.)

Surround sound formats

Below is a brief description of the main surround sound formats youll find on DVDs, satellite, cable and terrestrial broadcasts, and video cassettes.
Dolby Surround is an encoding system which embeds surround sound information within a stereo soundtrack, which a Dolby Pro Logic decoder can then use for enhanced surround listening with greater sound detail.

Dolby Digital Plus

Dolby Digital Plus is the next-generation audio technology for all high-definition programming and media. It combines the efficiency to meet future broadcast demands with the power and flexibility to realize the full audio potential expected in the upcoming high-definition era. Built on Dolby Digital, the multichannel audio standard for DVD and HD broadcasts worldwide, Dolby Digital Plus was designed for the nextgeneration A/V receivers but remains fully compatible with all current A/V receivers. Dolby Digital Plus delivers multi-channel audio programs of up to 7.1 channels (*) and supports multiple programs in a single encoded bitstream with the maximum bit rate potential of up to 6 Mbps and the maximum bit rate performance of up to 3 Mbps on HD DVD and 1.7 Mbps on Blu-ray Disc, and it outputs Dolby Digital bitstreams for playback on existing Dolby Digital systems. Dolby Digital Plus can accurately reproduce the sound originally intended by directors and producers. It also features multi-channel sound with discrete channel output, interactive mixing and streaming capability in advanced systems. Supported by HighDefinition Media Interface (HDMI), a single-cable digital connection is possible for high-definition audio and video.

The Dolby technologies are explained below. See www.dolby.com for more detailed information.

Dolby Digital

Dolby Digital is a multichannel digital audio coding system widely used in cinemas, and in the home for DVD and digital broadcast soundtracks. It can deliver up to six discrete audio channels, comprising five full range channels and a special LFE (low frequency effects) channel used mainly for deep, rumbling sound effects; hence the term 5.1-channel Dolby Digital. In addition to the format features above, Dolby Digital decoders offer downmixing for compatibility with mono, stereo and Dolby Pro Logic audio from a number of bit rates and channels. Another feature, called Dialog Normalization, attenuates programs based on the average level of dialog in a program relative to its peak level (also known as Dialnorm) in order to achieve uniform playback level.

Dolby TrueHD

Dolby TrueHD is the next-generation lossless encoding technology developed for high-definition optical discs in the upcoming era. Dolby TrueHD delivers tantalizing sound that is bit-for-bit identical to the studio master, unlocking the true high-definition entertainment experience on high-definition optical discs in the next generation. When coupled with high-definition video, Dolby TrueHD offers an unprecedented home theater experience with stunning sound and high-definition picture. It supports bit rates of up to 18 Mbps and records up to 8 full-range channels (*) individually with 24-bit/96 kHz audio. It also features extensive metadata including dialogue normalization and dynamic range control. Supported by High-Definition Media Interface (HDMI), a single-cable digital connection is possible for highdefinition audio and video. HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc standards currently limit their maximum number of audio channels to eight, whereas Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD support more than eight audio channels. Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby, Pro Logic, Surround EX and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
Dolby Digital Surround EX
Dolby Digital Surround EX (the EX stands for EXtended) is an extension of Dolby Digital encoding whereby a surround back channel is matrixed into the surround left/ right channels for 6.1 channel playback. This allows for compatibility with Dolby Digital 5.1 channel decoding, as well as for decoding using Dolby Digital EX.
Dolby Pro Logic IIx and Dolby Surround
Dolby Pro Logic IIx is an improved version of the Dolby Pro Logic II (and Dolby Pro Logic) decoding system. Using the innovative steering logic circuit, this system extracts surround sound from sources as follows: Dolby Pro Logic 4.1 channel sound (mono surround) from any stereo source Dolby Pro Logic II 5.1 channel sound (stereo surround) from any stereo source Dolby Pro Logic IIx 6.1 or 7.1 channel sound (stereo surround and surround back) from two channel or 5.1 (and 6.1) channel sources With two channel sources, the.1 subwoofer channel is generated by bass management in the receiver.

Paxonic 10060 PCE 10156, 10060 Penney 10000, 10250, 10047, 10156, 10051, 10060, 10178, 10037 Petters 11523 Philco 10054, 10463, 10145, 10171, 11271, 11394 Philips 11454, 10054, 10171, 10037, 10556, 10605, 10690, 11254, 11506, 11744 Pilot 10051, 10060, 10178 Polaroid 11523, 10765, 10865, 11276, 11314, 11498, 11687, 11766 Portland 10451, 10092 Precision 10236, 10180 Prism 10250, 10051 Proscan 11447, 10047 Protec 10037 Proton 10178 Proview 11498, 11687 ProVision 10037, 10556 Pulsar 10017, 10092 Pulser 10178, 10092 Quartz 10150, 10178 Quasar 10250, 10051, 10650 R-Line 10037 Rabbit 10047 RadioShack 10047, 10154, 10180, 10150, 10178 RCA 10000, 11547, 11447, 10047, 10054, 10051, 10093, 10178, 10090, 10679, 11047, 11147, 11247, 11781, 12187 Realistic 10047, 10154, 10180, 10150, 10178 Revox 10037 Runco 10017, 10060, 11398 Sampo 11755, 10047, 11756 Samsung 10812, 10047, 10054, 10017, 10154, 10060, 10702, 10178, 12051, 11619, 11235, 11060, 10814, 10766, 10650, 10587, 10037 Sanky 10060 Sansui 10463, 10060, 10171 Sanyo 10000, 11755, 10047, 10054, 10154, 10463, 10171, 10037, 11142 Saville 10060 Sceptre 11217, 11360 Scotch 10178 Scott 10236, 10180, 10178 Sears 10000, 10047, 10054, 10017, 10154, 10156, 10051, 10093, 10060, 10053, 10178, 10171, 10166, 10037 Seleco 11351 Sharp 10818, 10054, 10093, 10180, 11393 Sheng Chia 10093 Shivaki 10178, 10037, 10556 Siemens 10145 Signature 10047, 10093 Simpson 10178 Singer 10060, 10092 Sky-North 10037 Solar Drape 10000 Sony 10810, 10000, 10017, 10154, 10150, 10053, 11651, 11685 Soundesign 10180, 10178 Spectravision 10156, 10178 Spectroniq 11498, 11687 Squareview 10171 SR2000 10154, 10171 SSS 10180
Starlite 10236, 10180 Superscan 10093, 10864 Supreme 10000 SVSVA 10587, 10865 Sylvania 10000, 11864, 10047, 10054, 10154, 10051, 10178, 10171, 10092, 10037, 11271, 11314, 11394 Symphonic 10000, 10180, 10178, 10171 Syntax 11610, 11144, 11240, 11331 Tandy 10093 Tatung 10000, 10051, 10037, 11101, 11756 Teac 10154, 10037 Technics 10250, 10054, 10051, 10226 Techwood 10250, 10051, 10060 Teknika 10054, 10463, 10180, 10150, 10060, 10178, 10092 Telecolor 10017 Telefunken 10702, 10625 Tevion 10037, 10556 Thomas 10047, 10178 Thomson 11447, 10047, 10625 TMK 10236, 10180, 10178 TNCi 10017 Tocom 10156 Toshiba 11524, 10154, 10156, 11256, 10150, 11265, 10060, 11145, 10145, 10166, 10650, 10845, 11156, 11656, 11704 Totevision 10051 Toyomenka 10178 Truetone 10250, 10051 TVS 10463 Ultra 10092 Universal 10047 Universum 10037 V 11755, 10864, 10885, 11756 Victor 10053, 10160 Vidikron 10054, 11398, 11633 Vidtech 10178 Viewsonic 11755, 10857, 10864, 10885 Viking 10060 Viore 10054 Vizio 11758, 11755, 10864, 10885, 11756 Wards 10000, 10047, 10054, 10017, 10154, 10051, 10093, 10236, 10178, 10166, 10037, 11156 Waycon 10156 Welton 10178 Westinghouse 10000, 11712, 10451, 10885, 10889, 10890, 11282, 11577 White Westinghouse 10451, 10236, 10463, 10623, 10889 World 10451, 10236, 10463, 10180 Wyse 11365 XR-1000 10154, 10180, 10171 Yamaha 10650 Zenith 10000, 10812, 11423, 10047, 10017, 10093, 10463, 11265, 10178, 11145, 10145, 10171, 10092, 10037, 10160

Miscellaneous

Specifications

Amplifier section

Continuous average power output of 110 watts* per channel, min., at 8 ohms, from 20 Hz to Hz with no more than 0.09 %** total harmonic distortion.
Front (stereo). 110 W + 110 W Power output (1 kHz, 6 , 0.05 %, 1 ch driven). 150 W per channel Guaranteed speaker impedance. 16 to 8 , less than 8 to 6 (setting required)
* Measured pursuant to the Federal Trade Commissions Trade Regulation rule on Power Output Claims for Amplifiers ** Measured by Audio Spectrum Analyzer
Power requirements.AC 120 V, 60 Hz Power consumption.400 W In standby. 0.45 W (KURO LINK OFF) 0.65 W (KURO LINK ON) Dimensions. 420 mm (W) x 173 mm (H) x 433 mm (D) (16 9/16 in. (W) x 16 13/16 in. (H) x 17 1/16 in. (D)) Weight (without package). VSX-23TXH: 13.5 kg (29.8 lb) VSX-21TXH: 13.3 kg (29.3 lb)

Furnished Parts Number

MCACC Setup microphone (APM7009). 1 Remote control unit (AXD7545). 1 AA/IEC R6 dry cell batteries. 2 iPod cable (ADE7129). 1 AM loop antenna. 1 FM wire antenna. 1 Power cord (ADG7111). 1 Warranty card. 1 These operating instructions

Audio section

Input (Sensitivity/Impedance) LINE.300 mV/47 k Output (Level/Impedance) REC. 300 mV/2.2 k Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF, short circuited, A network) LINE.103 dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio [EIA, at 1 W (1 kHz)] LINE.83 dB
Note Specifications and the design are subject to possible modifications without notice, due to improvements.

Tuner Section

Frequency Range (FM). 87.5 MHz to 108 MHz Antenna Input (FM). 75 unbalanced Frequency Range (AM). 530 kHz to 1700 kHz Antenna (AM). Loop antenna (balanced)

Cleaning the unit

Use a polishing cloth or dry cloth to wipe off dust and dirt. When the surface is dirty, wipe with a soft cloth dipped in some neutral cleanser diluted five or six times with water, and wrung out well, and then wipe again with a dry cloth. Do not use furniture wax or cleansers. Never use thinners, benzine, insecticide sprays or other chemicals on or near this unit, since these will corrode the surface.

Video Section

Signal level Composite/S-Video. 1 Vp-p (75 ) Component Video. Y: 1.0 Vp-p (75 ), PB, PR: 0.7 Vp-p (75 ) Corresponding maximum resolution Component Video.1080p (1125p) (Video convert off)

Digital In/Out Section

HDMI terminal. 19-pin (Not DVI) HDMI output type. 5 V, 100 mA USB terminal. USB2.0 Full Speed (Type A) iPod terminal. USB, and Video (Composite)

Our philosophy

Pioneer is dedicated to making your home theater listening experience as close as possible to the vision of the moviemakers and mastering engineer when they created the original soundtrack. We do this by focusing on three important steps: 1 Designing with carefully selected components so as to transmit the original soundtrack accurately 2 Allowing for customized acoustic calibration according to any listening area 3 Tuning that transmits soul