Audio Video News

Pioneer VSX-832 AV Receiver: $479

Enthusiasts who are on a tight budget will be impressed by all the Pioneer VSX-832 has to offer for less than 500 bucks — way less when you factor in online discounts. You get five channels of solid power plus 4K/HDR passthrough, DTS Play-Fi for wireless multiroom audio, a nice selection of music streaming options, and a simplified 3.1.2 implementation of Dolby Atmos with phantom rear channels. Veteran audio reviewer Dan Kumin summed it up this way: “I applaud this receiver’s affordability, its wide and up-to-date video- and audio-mode compatibility, and very solid sonics.”

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Satisfying power for both two-channel and multi-channel modes
3.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X setup option with phantom surrounds
Surprisingly responsive home-network streaming
Basic auto-setup/EQ on board
Minus
Five-channel power requires choice between height or rear channels
No analog multiroom capability
No audio outputs other than HDMI

Full Review Here

 

Rotel RAP-1580 Surround Amplified Processor: $3,800

Forget that Rotel awkwardly calls its new flagship surround amplifier a “surround amplified processor” and focus on what matters: The RAP-1580 kicks ass in almost every way, starting with a brawny 7 x 150-watt Class A/B amp, support for 192/24 hi-res audio, and copious connections, including 8 HDMI inputs and a phono jack. “The RAP-1580 delivers sterling sound with especially satisfying dynamics and rich timbre,” wrote reviewer Mark Fleischmann. “Is it worth $3,800? On the basis of sound quality, unquestionably.” But there is a potential fly in the ointment in that Dolby Atmos and DTS:X speaker configurations are limited to 5.1.2 channels without external amplification.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Muscular Class A/B amp
PC-USB and phono inputs
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 7.1.4 decoding
Minus
No auto setup
Limited access to seven-channel amp for Atmos/DTS:X

Full Review Here

Periodic Audio Mg In-Ear Headphones: $99

Periodic Audio may be a new company but its founder Dan Wiggins’ brings an impressive history of designing microphones, headphones, and speakers to the table. And it shows. The least expensive of three Periodic Audio earbuds we tested, the Mg was the standout for headphone guru Steve Guttenberg, who noted the clear, efficient sound and solid bass you get for $99. Throw in the company’s remarkable 5-year warranty and you have a winner.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Clear sound, great bass
Five-year warranty
Now made in the U.S.
Minus
Tangle-prone cable No phone controls

Full Review Here