Κώστας Φ.
Truth hurts. Here's a teddy bear.
- Μηνύματα
- 8.978
- Reaction score
- 894
- Power Rating: 110-Watts x 7 into 8 ohms
- Processing Modes: Dolby True HD, DD, Dolby ProLogicIIx, DD-E, DDD Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS, DTS-ES, DTS-Neo:6, DTS 96/24, Neural-THX, Direct
- Auto Calibration and Room EQ: Proprietary MCACC
- Video Inputs: two HDMI 1.3, three component, four composite/S-Video
- Audio Inputs: three optical digital, two coaxial digital, one set of 7.1 multichannel analog, six analog stereo
- Video Outputs: one each HDMI 1.3 and component, three composite/S-Video
- Audio Outputs: one optical digital, two analog stereo, one subwoofer pre-out, one headphone
Price: $999
Pioneer's Elite models are to Pioneer as Lexus is to Toyota. According to Pioneer, the driving force behind Elite A/V receivers is uncompromising sound quality, impeccable design, and the most sophisticated digital processing.
The VSX-91TXH is not as well outfitted as the more extravagant models in the Elite series, yet it still offers an abundance of state-of-the art features and performance that belies its $999 price tag. The VSX-91TXH AVR offers every conceivable surround format, plenty of power for a full 7.1-channel home theater system, automatic set up and room EQ, HDMI switching, and a striking appearance anyone would be proud to display in his/her entertainment center.
Description
The Pioneer VSX-91TXH incorporates seven channels of amplification rated to deliver 110-watts per channel. If you are not using the back surrounds for a 7.1-channel system, you can use those terminals to either bi-amp the front left and right speakers or to power an extra pair of speakers for a second audio zone in another part of the house.
The inputs and outputs on the rear panel are probably more than enough for the average A/V system, although it only includes two HDMI version 1.3 inputs (along with a single HDMI output). There are also four component inputs. The Pioneer can convert all incoming analog video signals to HDMI or component, so you can easily switch all your video sources through a single connection to your TV.
The lack of video upconversion is a major omission in the VSX-91TXH and a big reason it is under $1k. Today's video display devices all have some form of video processing, so this isn't necessarily a major negative.
On the audio side, there are two coax and three optical digital audio inputs and a set of 7.1-channel analog inputs is also provided. Zone 2 audio is accessed via the Zone 2 L/R line level outputs and an external amplifier is required if all the internal channels are being utilized in the main system.
With the optional Pioneer IDK-90C iPod Control Dock ($199) you can navigate your iPod through the OSD. In addition to an AM/FM tuner, the VSX-91 supports digital radio by providing connections for external XM Radio and Sirius tuners.
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Conclusion
The Pioneer VSX-91TXH is a very musical AVR and I was impressed at how effortlessly it handled material with a wide dynamic range. Designed for this new generation of high-definition audio, it offers features and compatibility you might think more costly.
In fact, I think what makes this a lower cost product is just the feature set. It lacks the sheer number of inputs and outputs that more expensive models possess (though it sure has a lot) and doesn't have onboard video upconversion. But the beauty of the VSX-91TXH is that Pioneer didn't skimp on performance.
Saving money on features you don't need is wonderful but you don't want to get cheap about performance, as that will effect your overall enjoyment of any product. I always say, it's not much of a bargain if you never want to use it! Unless you anticipate needing more than two HDMI inputs and would prefer an AVR with some of the more sophisticated video processing capabilities that is found in higher end models, the VSX-91TXH is certainly a worthy choice for any small to moderate sized home theater.
Highlights
- Didn't sacrifice on performance to hit its price point
- HDMI switching with audio capabilities for Blu-ray and HD DVD
- Rich and substantial look of classic Pioneer Elite
Full Review: HomeTheaterMag.com
