Audio Video News

Pioneer has expanded its 2018 Elite receiver lineup with a 7.2-channel base model that lists for $499.

The new VSX-LX103 supports 5.2.2-channel surround sound via Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing and delivers 7 x 80 watts of FTC-rated power, which can be routed via powered Zone 2 outputs to speakers in a remote room; there’s also a Zone 2 pre/line out for using an outboard amplifier.

The receiver boasts a generous six HDMI inputs and supports 4K/Ultra HD upscaling and passthrough with HDCP 2.2, 4K/60 Hz, wide color gamut, and three high dynamic range (HDR) formats: Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). On the audio side, the LX103 supports hi-res audio up to 24 bits/192 kHz in FLAC, WAV, AIFF and ALAC file formats in addition to DSD (2.8/5.6MHz) and Dolby TrueHD files.

Setup and sound is simplified via Pioneer’s Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System (MCACC), which uses a microphone to analyze the sound, apply equalization, and automatically compensate for differences in speaker size, level, and distance. Pioneer’s Phase Control also compensates for phase lags between the subwoofer and the main channel speakers to clarify sound in the middle and high frequency bands.

Additional features include:

• A Reflex Optimizer that enhances object-based surround-sound reproduction from up-firing Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers
• Compatibility with Google Assistant devices for using voice commands to start/stop music, turn up the volume, and skip tracks
• Wireless connectivity that supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth streaming, Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay, DTS Play-Fi, and Pioneer’s FlareConnect protocol that mirrors any audio source connected to the receiver on compatible speakers in other rooms
• Access to Internet radio and a variety of music streaming services, including Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, Tidal, and Deezer
• Custom integration features, including, IR in, 12-volt trigger out, and RS-232c
• A three-year warranty

For more information, visit pioneerelectronics.com.