Audio Video News

Pioneer has announced two 5.1-channel AV receivers, one of which will be the first to feature Dolby Atmos virtual surround processing.

In addition to being one of the first receivers to pass Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR) content, the VSX-832 ($480) is the first receiver to employ virtual surround processing technology developed by Dolby. The processing, which will be available via a firmware update this summer, is designed to achieve an Atmos experience with four (2.1.2) or five (3.1.2) speakers without having to install rear or overhead speakers; DTS:X is also supported in 2.1.2 or 3.1.2 configurations.

The VSX-832 features a full slate of wireless connectivity options, including Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast, and DTS Play-Fi (the latter two available via the firmware update), in addition to the streaming services Spotify, Pandora, Deezer, and Tidal, among others.

The entry-level VSX-532 ($380) is a basic receiver that skips the networking features while still offering Bluetooth connectivity.

Due out in April, both models are rated to deliver 5 x 80 watts (8 ohms at 0.08% THD) and support HDR10 passthrough in addition to 4K, BT.2020, and HDCP 2.2 on all HDMI inputs. Other common features include 4 HDMI inputs and Pioneer’s Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System (MCACC), which equalizes the sound while automatically compensating for differences in speaker size, level, and distance.

For more information, visit pioneerelectronics.com.