By CE Critic - Buy Better Tech

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Features and Specifications
  • Surround Sound Processing
  • HDMI Connectivity and Gaming
  • Wireless and Wired Connectivity
  • Audio Enhancements
  • Room Calibration
• Pioneer VSX-535: In-depth Look
• Pioneer VSX-835: In-depth Look
• Conclusion

Introduction

Pioneer Electronics has long been a respected name in home audio. With the announcement of the VSX-535 and VSX-835 AV receivers, they aim to bring high-performance, feature-packed audio experiences to a budget-conscious audience. These receivers offer immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos, extensive connectivity options, and advanced room calibration, making them compelling choices for home theater enthusiasts.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's explore the primary features shared by both the VSX-535 and VSX-835:

Surround Sound Processing

• Dolby Atmos: The gold standard for object-based surround sound, delivering pin-point audio placement for a truly immersive experience.
• Dolby Atmos Music: Provides an enhanced surround mix for music specially mastered in Dolby Atmos.
• Dolby Surround: Up-mixes traditional soundtracks to simulate a more immersive surround experience.
• Dolby Height Virtualizer: Creates a sense of overhead sound without dedicated height speakers.

HDMI Connectivity and Gaming

• 4x HDMI 2.1a Ports: Supports the latest standards for high-bandwidth content like 8K video at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz.
• HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG: Ensures compatibility with the most popular high dynamic range video formats.
• ARC/eARC: Simplifies connectivity and provides higher bandwidth audio passthrough from compatible TVs.
• VRR, QFT, ALLM, SBTM: Features designed to optimize gaming experiences, reducing lag and image tearing.

Wireless and Wired Connectivity

• Bluetooth: Enables wireless connections with compatible smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
• 3x Analog Stereo Inputs: For connecting traditional components like CD players and record players.
• 2x Digital Audio Inputs (Optical & Coaxial): Connects digital components such as game consoles or disc players.
• Dual Subwoofer Outputs: For powerful bass and improved low-frequency coverage.
• Second Zone Analog Stereo Output: Drives speakers in an additional room or area.

Audio Enhancements

• MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration): Pioneer's proprietary system that analyzes room acoustics and adjusts the receiver's output for optimal sound.
• Class A/B Amplification: Provides robust and clean power delivery.
• Advanced Sound Retriever: Designed to improve the quality of compressed audio files.

Room Calibration

The included MCACC with its supplied microphone helps tailor the sound from these receivers to match your specific room acoustics, making a significant difference in final sound quality.

Pioneer VSX-535: In-depth Look ($399)

The Pioneer VSX-535 is a 5.2-channel AV receiver. This means:

• 5.2 Speaker Setup: Supports front left/right, center, surround left/right and up to two subwoofers.
• 3.2.2 Setup: Supports a more traditional 5.1 speaker layout with Dolby Height Virtualizer for simulated overhead effects.
• 80 Watts per Channel: Delivers sufficient power for small to medium-sized home theater rooms.

Pioneer VSX-835 - In-Depth Look ($499)

The Pioneer VSX-835 steps up the game, providing the following:

• 7.2 or 5.2.2 Speaker Configurations: Provides more flexibility for larger setups and those wanting dedicated height channels for Atmos.
• Second Zone Functionality: Can send audio output to a different room using the two extra channels.
• IMAX Enhanced: Offers a special mode calibrated to meet the performance standards of IMAX Enhanced content.
• DTS:X: An alternative immersive audio format.
• DTS Virtual:X and Neural:X: Surround sound upmixing for non-immersive sources.
• 80 Watts per Channel: Similar power rating to the VSX-535.

Conclusion

Pioneer's VSX-535 and VSX-835 offer a remarkable set of features at their respective price points. They provide an excellent starting point for immersive home theater setups while catering to gamers and music fans alike. Whether you're looking for a solid foundation or a powerhouse with more flexibility, Pioneer has you covered.