Pioneer has a wide range of products for home theater and music fans. The company was first known to many people here in the US for its line of stereo equipment and speakers. Pioneer is also a big name in the home theater market with TVs and a line of receivers and speakers as well. Pioneer has added several new speakers to its home theater and music line.
The new speakers include the bookshelf SP-BS21-LR and SP-BS41-LR, floor standing SP-FS51-LR and center channel SP-C21 speakers as well as a subwoofer SW-8. The speakers are designed for music listening and can be used to create a 7.1 surround sound system for home theater.
The speakers are all entry-level units that are offered at low prices. The bookshelf SP-BS21-LR and SP-BS41-LR sell for $89.99 and $199.99 respectively. The floor standing SP-FS51-LR and center channel SP-C21 speakers are $199.99 and $79.99 respectively. The SW-8 subwoofer is $149.99 and has a 100W internal amp.
Pioneer is very big in the DJ gear market with all manner of stuff from hardware for actually making the music to headphones for listening to the tracks the DJ crafts in a noisy environment. Pioneer has unveiled the latest set of headphones for the DJ market that are aimed at the person just getting into the DJ scene called the HDJ-500.
The HDJ-500 headphones have a $125 MRSP and are designed for comfort and fidelity. The headphones will come in black, white, and red colors. The headphones have urethane pads for the ears that mold to the users head for comfort. The pads are wrapped in leather and the main structure of the headphones is magnesium for lightweight and durability.
Pioneer ships the headphones with two cords with one 1M long and a coiled 1.2M cord that extends to 3M. The black and red headphones will ship in November with the white version shipping in January. The headphones have a frequency range of 5Hz to 28,000Hz, impedance is 45 ohms, and the drivers are 40mm.
Pioneer has unveiled their latest iPod speaker dock, the KODO XW-NAW1, and it’s about as close to an wafer-thin after-dinner mint as you can hope from a way to play tracks on your Apple PMP. 83mm thick and designed to be wall-mounted (though it does get a bundled stand, too), the KODO XW-NAW1 has 30W stereo speakers and nifty touch-sensitive buttons.
Ports are minimal, though there’s a component video output for hooking up a TV and watching content stored on the iPod or iPhone. Pioneer also throw in a remote control, and as you’d expect it recharges your PMP while it’s docked.
Clever enough, but we can’t help but wish Pioneer had given it a bigger docking bay and allowed owners to put their iPad in there instead: the big-screen Apple slate would look pretty nifty up there on the wall, and you’d be able to see it better from across the room, too. The Pioneer KODO XW-NAW1 iPod speaker system will drop in September 2010, priced at £199 ($307).
Pioneer has outed its latest prosumer A/V equipment, and the company reckons the updated Elite G-Clef range is good enough to be classed with professional systems despite being sold at relatively down-to-earth prices. The four new models comprise two stereo amplifiers, the SX-A6MK2 and SX-A9MK2, and two CD/SACD players, the PD-D6MK2 and PD-D9MK2.
The SX-A6MK2 and SX-A9MK2 amps each split the left and right channel amplifiers and power supplies into entirely separate halves, with the former using Twin EL Transformers while the latter gets Twin Toroidal Transformers. The A6MK2 packs 60W and the A9MK2 70W, with the latter having a USB input among its other connections for playing media directly from an iPod or other PMP.
As for the PD-D6MK2 and PD-D9MK2, they get Burr-Brown and Twin Wolfson D/A converters respectively together with 16-bit to 24-bit upscaling on the D9MK2. All four Pioneer Elite G-Clef components will go on sale later this month; the SX-A6MK2 and SX-A9MK2 will be priced at $700 and $1,500 respectively, while the two CD players, the PD-D6MK2 and PD-D9MK2, will be priced at $700 and $1,500 respectively.
Press Release:
New Pioneer Elite G-Clef Components are Pure High Fidelity
High-Design CD Players and Amplifiers Provide Music Lovers with AIR Studios-Certified Experience
Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today announced new G-Clef components including luxury CD players and amplifiers that bring a professional-grade listening experience into the home or office. The high-style Elite G-Clef line includes two stereo amplifiers, SX-A6MK2 and SX-A9MK2, and two CD players, PD-D6MK2 and PD-D9MK2, all engineered with the purest approach to audio component design. All models are offered at affordable price points, for audio enthusiasts looking for high-end sound without the extravagant cost often found in prestigious audiophile gear.
Each of the models is fine-tuned and certified by internationally-respected AIR Studio’s sound engineers to ensure the most accurate recreation of the original recording possible. To earn that certification, Pioneer hand-selected state of the art internal components that accurately deliver signals to create a dynamic two-channel hi-fi experience. The new, more efficient power supply circuitry is highly responsive to demanding musical content and is designed for superior heat resistance to guarantee a warm, analog-like sound.
“The new G-Clef series is a perfect example of product developed with meticulous attention to detail at every step in the process,” said Tim Vine-Lott, technical director, AIR Studios. “Pioneer and AIR Studios have worked together for ten years developing products down to the screws. We’re proud to put our stamp on products that exceed our requirements.”
Elite G-Clef CD/SACD Players
For the purest digital to analog conversion expected by discerning audiophiles, the PD-D6MK2 (SRP: $700) and the PD-D9MK2 (SRP: $1,500) CD/SACD players feature Burr-Brown and Twin Wolfson D/A converters, respectively. The Pioneer exclusive technology, Legato Link Conversion PRO, utilizes complex algorithms to recreate the ultra-high harmonics lost in the digital conversion process resulting in smooth, natural sound. Additionally, Hi-Bit technology increases the sound data length from 16-bit to 24-bit to provide clear, rich audio, even from compressed MP3 files.
Both models are finished in glossy black with blue LCD displays. The PD-D9MK2 features a Honeycomb Chassis design, which contains hexagon shaped imprints in the metal plates that help to dissipate vibrations and alleviate jitter. Additional weight and stability features help to shield optical components from ambient interference that could cause imprecise sound. The PD-D6MK2 features an aluminum front panel, while the PD-D9MK2 touts a rigid under-base construction, TAOC Hi-Carbon composite metal feet and a full aluminum casing.
Elite G-Clef Integrated Stereo Amplifiers
The Elite G-Clef amplifiers feature a Twin Mono Symmetrical construction design to maintain electrical isolation between both channels from input to output. The left and right channel amplifiers and high efficiency power supplies are totally independent and exact mirror images of each other. This construction is also designed to minimize the signal path of each circuit block, providing minimal distortion of signal quality and clear, equal channel separation for superior sonic fidelity.
The SX-A6MK2 (SRP: $700) features Twin EL Transformers and the SX-A9MK2 (SRP: $1,500)employs Twin Toroidal Transformers, which are highly efficient with very low magnetic leakage. Both components increase available power, prevent signal interference and virtually eliminate noise even at extremely low frequencies. The SX-A9MK2 model is also equipped with a USB input, allowing high-quality transmissions of higher bit-rate music files such as an MPEG or FLAC from any enthusiast’s digital music library.
“The new components were born out of partnership between Pioneer and AIR Studios sound engineers working hand in hand to produce the highest quality sound possible,” said Dave Bales, marketing and product planning, home
electronics division at Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “G-Clef products are a culmination of all we’ve learned over a 70-year legacy in audio excellence.”
The Elite G-Clef CD/SACD players and amplifiers will be available in August, 2010.
Pioneer has a gob of equipment and gear for pro and amateur DJs that it offers. This includes gear like the DJM-2000 pro DJ mixer that launched back in March. Pioneer has offered up another new piece of DJ equipment called the CDJ-850 digital media player.
This device has the same club layout as the professional level media players like the CDJ-2000 and CDJ-900. The 850 has a 206mm jog dial with rotary selector and browse buttons. The device supports a range of media formats like MP3, AAC, WAV, and AIFF form CD-r/RW discs or USB drives.
The 850 ships with rekordbox software that can analyze data like Wave, Beat Grid, BPM, and ID3 tags. The user can create cues and loop settings as well as create and edit playlists. The CDJ-850 will ship in August for $999.
Pioneer have outed their latest high-end in-dash navigation system, and it has brought along mobile Pandora access too. The Pioneer AVIC-Z120BT has a 7-inch WVGA touchscreen, 3D graphics accelerator, onscreen iPod/iPhone control, integrated Bluetooth for hands-free calling and wireless music streaming (along with USB connectivity and an SD card slot) and is SIRIUS XM satellite and HD Radio ready. As for Pandora, that’s courtesy of Pioneer’s PandoraLink for iPhone app, which as the name suggests requires Apple’s smartphone in order to funnel streaming music through the head-unit.
When running on the iPhone, Pandora shows up as a separate source on both the new AVIC-Z120BT and Pioneer’s existing AVIC-X920BT in-dash unit. A free download, the app allows for track rating – using Pandora’s thumbs-up/thumbs-down system – from the head-unit’s touchscreen.
Even if you haven’t got an iPhone, there’s plenty to like about the AVIC-Z120BT. Voice-controlled navigation, a customisable homescreen, choice of 30,000 different LED colors to match your car’s own scheme and an ECO Driving mode that plans navigation by fuel economy and CO2 emissions. The Pioneer AVIC-Z120BT will be available in June, priced at $1,599.
Press Release:
Pioneer’s Flagship Navigation System Also Entertains with Pandora
The AVIC-Z120BT Offers Quality Navigation and Endless Entertainment Capabilities
Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. continues to stay ahead of the curve in in-car entertainment and information technologies with the official launch of its top-of-the-line, AVIC-Z120BT in-dash navigation system. The highly sophisticated flagship unit introduced at the 2010 Pioneer Car Electronics Road Show for dealers, brings together the best route guidance features with more entertainment and convenience attributes that include PandoraLink for Pioneer App, MusicSphere™, Pioneer’s proprietary music analysis software, a revolutionary 3D user interface and ECO Graph for eco-friendly drivers.
“In 1994, Pioneer was the first company to bring in-car GPS to the U.S. market, and today we are continuing to advance the navigation category with the launch of our highly intuitive, flagship AVIC-Z120BT. Our team of designers and engineers devised this model to not only deliver reliable route guidance and high quality audio and video, but also to enable users to easily adapt their personal devices to their cars. And, now with its capability to deliver Pandora’s popular Internet music service, Pioneer again redefines the navigation category,” said Ted Cardenas, director of marketing for the car electronics department, sales and marketing division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.
Navigation and Entertainment from A to Z
The AVIC-Z120BT is the latest entry in Pioneer’s prestigious Z-series navigation systems, offering the best in in-dash navigation with compelling entertainment and sound quality features. It features an elegant, motorized high-resolution 7-inch WVGA touch screen display, 3D graphics accelerator, onscreen iPod/iPhone control, built-in Bluetooth1 for hands-free calling and wireless music streaming, USB connectivity2, SD card slot located behind the motorized front panel, high quality CD/DVD audio/video playback, back-up camera input and is SIRIUS XM3 satellite and HD Radio4 ready. The AVIC-Z120BT’s comprehensive map database from Tele Atlas® covers the entire United States, Canada, Alaska and Hawaii, enabling users to route to millions of destinations including more than 12 million points of interest (POIs). Additionally, the unit features enhanced voice recognition, including the capability to input destination addresses by voice.
Unique to the 2010 Pioneer navigation line, the AVIC-Z120BT features dual zone entertainment, which enables rear passengers to enjoy DVD video and audio on a separate rear display and headphones, while front passengers listen to AM/FM or XM or Sirius satellite radio sources. Additionally, the unit also features several sound quality components, including Supertuner™ IIID, Radio Data System (RDS), dual A/V inputs, 7-band graphic EQ and 4-Volts preamp outputs (X3).
PandoraLink – Pandora internet radio fans using the service on an iPhone now have the same control interface directly on the AVIC-Z120BT. When users launch the PandoraLink for Pioneer App, Pandora will be displayed as a dedicated source on the AVIC-Z120BT and provide similar functions on its onscreen display such as detailed track information and album art. In addition to the capability of rating a track with “thumbs up” or “thumbs down,” the dedicated user interface provides easy navigation on a large 7-inch touch screen display and allows users to bookmark a song or artist, skip the currently playing track, change stations and select Quickmix playback.
Advanced User Interface – 3D animation utilized in the navigation maps has also been applied to the audio interface providing a completely new in-car experience. The intuitive touch slide control capabilities of the AVIC-Z120BT feature dynamic shortcuts for source selection, expanded display of album art and improved display of audio track data. The receptive touch slide interface is also utilized for searching through music content with a new, improved dual-speed scroll for ABC and List Searches. The customizable home menu allows users to drag and drop up to 15 function icons into the home page display for easy one-touch access.
MusicSphere – Pioneer’s new proprietary MusicSphere5 technology enables iPod and iPhone users to enjoy their library of music in a new way by creating unique, mood-based playlists that can be accessed onscreen with a distinctive 3D animated sphere. MusicSphere analyzes the user’s entire music library and creates 40 specialized playlists based on various musical attributes of the songs, such as feeling (bright, energetic, gloomy, relaxing calm), rhythm pattern, Beats Per Minute (BPM) and year of the song and/or date added to the device. The specialized playlists can be accessed on the navigation display through an animated 3D sphere that can be rotated with a touch of the screen, providing a quick and highly visual method of selecting MusicSphere generated playlists. Additionally, the MusicSphere software allows users to create a “DJ Playlist” which will create a non-stop mix of the selected music types with the ability to blend between songs using transition effects.
ECO Driving – The system also features the second generation ECO Driving function which provides driving status reports as well as the driver’s impact on the environment with visual graphics onscreen. Through Pioneer’s proprietary AVIC FEEDS®6 PC software7, the unit can estimate the fuel cost of trip as well as the vehicle’s CO2 emissions through detailed Drive Reports. Through a proprietary fuel consumption algorithm, AVIC FEEDS can also log and archive driving data and analyze driving habits to generate various reports with suggestions to improve fuel efficiency. The ECO Graph shown on the navigation unit visually represents the user’s environmental impact, illustrated in 2D, 3D and divided map views. Additionally, when a route is set the system will calculate a Drive Score based on driving efficiency which factors abrupt stops, accelerations and idle time.
The AVIC-Z120BT can be fully integrated into a large number of vehicles with a 2-DIN dash opening, and can match any vehicle’s dash lighting with its more than 30,000 customizable illumination colors.
The AVIC-Z120BT will be available in June for a suggested retail price of $1,599.
Pioneer’s Car Electronics Department is known for offering the kind of in-car products that make driving more enjoyable by offering high quality audio and video, seamless connectivity and ease-of-use. Its focus is on the development of new digital technologies including audio video, navigation and satellite radio, while maintaining its strong heritage in products for car audio enthusiasts and sound competitors.
NOTE: Do not use your Pioneer system if doing so will divert your attention in any way from the safe operation of your vehicle. Always observe safe driving rules. In some states certain operations of devices while driving may be illegal. Where such regulations apply, they must be obeyed.
1Bluetooth functionality requires a compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone. Certain Bluetooth features may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices or by certain wireless carriers. See more details about compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones at the following webpage: “http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/BluetoothCompatibility”.
2Not every USB device is compatible with a Pioneer head unit containing an USB port. See more details at the following webpage: “http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/USBCompatibility”. Pioneer head units containing a USB port are compatible with USB MSC (Mass Storage Class) devices only, and are not compatible with DRM (Digital Rights Management) contents and MTP (Media Transfer Protocol) connection devices. For size and other limitations, please see Owner’s Manual. Unauthorized copying of music or other files is strictly prohibited. Optional USB extension cable is available for use with front USB ports.
3SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio is a subscription service not affiliated with Pioneer Electronics – service is available everywhere within the continental U.S. More information is available at “http://www.siriusxm.com”. The “XM” and “SIRIUS” and related marks are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. Ability of the Pioneer system to access the SIRIUS and/or XM satellite radio service is subject to change without notice and could be affected by any of the following (but not limited to the following): changes to the SIRIUS XM Radio service; or, discontinuation of the SIRIUS XM radio service.
4HD Radio and the HD Radio logo are proprietary trademarks of iBiquity Digital Corp.
5PC systems requirements for MusicSphere software includes:
OS – Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows7
Windows Hardware
A PC with a 1GHz Intel or faster processor
512MB of RAM or greater
Screen resolution of 1024×768 or greater
Broadband Internet connection to use MusicSphere data download
Windows Software
Windows XP Service Pack 2 or later, 32-bit editions of Windows Vista, or 32-bit editions of Windows 7
64-bit editions of Windows Vista or Windows 7 doesn’t support
iTunes 9.0.3 or later
QuickTime 7.6.4 or later
Internet Explorer 7 or later
300MB of available disk space
6Functionality available via AVIC-Feeds varies by AVIC model.
7PC systems requirements for AVIC-FEEDS software includes:
OS – Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition / Professional (Service Pack 2 or later), Microsoft Windows Vista, Only supported by 32 bit version. (Not compatible with Mac OS)
CPU – Pentium III 500MHz or higher (Recommended: Pentium III 1.0GHz or higher)
Memory -256MB or more (Recommended: 512MB or more)
Hard Disk – 100MB or more of available hard disk space
Display – Display capability of 1024 x 768 resolution, 16-bit color (65536 colors) or higher
Other – Internet Explorer 6.0 or later preinstalled, USB/SD Card-accessible interface, Google Maps-capable internet environment
Press Release:
Pioneer Brings Pandora Into the Dash with New App
New In-dash Navigation Systems Provide Pandora Internet Radio and More
Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today announced the availability of the PandoraLink for Pioneer1 App on the App Store. Through an iPhone, the free PandoraLink for Pioneer App provides complete control of Pandora’s internet radio music service on Pioneer’s new AVIC-Z120BT and AVIC-X920BT in-dash navigation systems. The recently announced models integrate sophisticated navigation capabilities as well as new groundbreaking features, including a revolutionary 3D touch slide interface, Pioneer’s proprietary music analysis software, MusicSphere™ and ECO Graph for ecologically aware drivers.
“Pioneer’s robust in-dash navigation systems will excite music enthusiasts who can now discover new bands and songs while driving with Pandora’s massive audio library and full onscreen control with the new PandoraLink for Pioneer App,” said Ted Cardenas, director of marketing for the car electronics department of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.
PandoraLink for Pioneer App
Pandora internet radio fans using the service through iPhone now have the same control capabilities directly on the new Pioneer AVIC-Z120BT and AVIC-X920BT navigation systems. The PandoraLink for Pioneer App is displayed as a dedicated source on the units and provides Pandora users with the familiar functions of the online service including onscreen display of track information such as title, artist and album art. In addition to the capability of rating a track with “thumbs up” or “thumbs down,” the dedicated user interface provides easy navigation on a large 7-inch or 6.1-inch touch screen display while driving, which allows users to easily bookmark a song or artist, skip the currently playing track, change stations and select Quickmix playback.
“Pioneer is one of the first manufacturers to transition our service from the home or office into the dash of a car with complete onscreen display and control. Our listeners will definitely enjoy the Pandora experience while in a car,” said Tim Westergren, chief strategy officer & founder of Pandora.
2010 Navigation Models
The recently announced AVIC-Z120BT carries the reputation of Pioneer’s Z-line of navigations systems, offering the best in navigation with compelling entertainment and sound quality features. The double-DIN unit features a large 7-inch WVGA touch screen display, a map database from Tele Atlas® with 12 million points of interest (POIs), DVD playback, 4GB of flash memory, rear seat entertainment, built-in Bluetooth2 for hands-free calling and music streaming, USB connectivity3, SD card slot, back-up camera input and is SIRIUS XM4 satellite and HD Radio ready. In addition to advanced navigation capabilities the AVIC-Z120BT also incorporates PandoraLink for Pioneer App, MusicSphere which creates mood-based playlists that can be accessed onscreen with a distinctive 3D animated sphere and Eco Driving reports for the connected and environmentally aware driver. The AVIC-Z120BT also features hi-volt pre-amp outputs, 7-band graphic EQ and custom designed power supply capacitors for improved sound quality.
The currently available AVIC-X920BT was named CNET’s Best of CES finalist for the Car Tech and GPS category at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show, and was noted for its comprehensive navigation capabilities in addition to its new music technologies incorporating PandoraLink for Pioneer App and MusicSphere in addition to Eco Driving, which helps drivers become more aware of their environmental impact. The double-DIN unit features a large 6.1-inch WVGA touch screen display, a map database from Tele Atlas® with 12 million POIs, DVD playback, 4GB of flash memory, built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music streaming, USB connectivity, micro SD card slot, back-up camera input and is SIRIUS XM satellite and HD Radio ready.
The Pioneer AVIC-X920BT is currently available for a suggested retail price of $1,099, and the AVIC-Z120BT will be available in June for a suggested retail price of $1,599.
The PandoraLink for Pioneer App is currently available for free from the App Store on iPhone at www.itunes.com/appstore/.
Pioneer’s Car Electronics Department is known for offering the kind of in-car products that make driving more enjoyable by offering high quality audio and video, advanced connectivity and ease-of-use. Its focus is on the development of new digital technologies including audio video, navigation and satellite radio, while maintaining its strong heritage in products for car audio enthusiasts and sound competitors.
NOTE: Do not use your Pioneer system if doing so will divert your attention in any way from the safe operation of your vehicle. Always observe safe driving rules. In some states certain operations of devices while driving may be illegal. Where such regulations apply, they must be obeyed.
1 Pandora App required in conjunction with PandoraLink for Pioneer App
2 Bluetooth functionality requires a compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone. Certain Bluetooth features may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices or by certain wireless carriers. See more details about compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones at the following webpage: “http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/BluetoothCompatibility”.
3 Not every USB device is compatible with a Pioneer head unit containing an USB port. See more details at the following webpage: “http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/USBCompatibility”. Pioneer head units containing a USB port are compatible with USB MSC (Mass Storage Class) devices only, and are not compatible with DRM (Digital Rights Management) contents and MTP (Media Transfer Protocol) connection devices. For size and other limitations, please see Owner’s Manual. Unauthorized copying of music or other files is strictly prohibited. Optional USB extension cable is available for use with front USB ports.
4 SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio is a subscription service not affiliated with Pioneer Electronics – service is available everywhere within the continental U.S. More information is available at “http://www.siriusxm.com”. The “XM” and “SIRIUS” and related marks are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. Ability of the Pioneer system to access the SIRIUS and/or XM satellite radio service is subject to change without notice and could be affected by any of the following (but not limited to the following): changes to the SIRIUS XM Radio service; or, discontinuation of the SIRIUS XM radio service.
Wikitude Drive’s augmented reality directions too complicated for you? If you prefer a more straightforward guide to unfamiliar highways then Pioneer and iXs Research’s NaviRobo might fit the bill. A crab-shaped robot, he squats on your dashboard and points to the direction you should take next, using illuminated eyes to indicate how close the turn is.
Video demo after the cut
The hard work is all done by a regular in-dash Pioneer PND unit, with the NaviRobo crab just being assigned the basic pointing duties. Hopefully Pioneer will be doing some work to streamline their route-programming interface before the system’s launch, since having a friendly ‘bot to guide you is useless if you can’t figure out how to tell him where you actually want to go.
The two companies reckon NaviRobo will be of particular interest to those with hearing impediments and the elderly, who might have trouble following audio navigation prompts or complex on-screen displays. It’s expected to go on sale within the next 2-3 years, priced at around 10,000 yen ($110).
Pioneer certainly seem to love iPod touch/iPhone integration; their latest batch of A/V receivers are the third generation of models to include support for the touchscreen devices. The Pioneer VSX-920-K, VSX-1020-K and VSX-1120-K each offer 7.1-channels of surround sound and can – via a USB hook-up – play back content from an attached Apple PMP; new to these models, however, is compatibility with the Pioneer’s iControlAV App, that turns an iPhone or iPod touch into a touchscreen remote. They also boast support for Bluetooth A2DP stereo audio streaming, to funnel music from any A2DP-compliant device.
All three models are 3D-ready, and have HDMI 1.4 ports (four on the 920-K, six on the 1020-K and 1120-K) and Dolby ProLogic IIz support. An ethernet port not only grants remote iPod touch/iPhone control but internet radio support (though not on the 920-K). As for power, the 920-K and 1020-K each have seven channels of 110W, while the 1120-K boosts that to seven channels of 120W.
The new Pioneer VSX-920-K and VSX-1020-K receivers will go on sale in May 2010, priced at $399 and $549 respectively; the flagship Pioneer VSX-1120-K will follow in in June 2010, priced at $749. If you want Bluetooth A2DP support, meanwhile, you’ll have to find an extra $99 for the Pioneer AS-BT100 dongle.
Press Release:
Pioneer Brings Unprecedented iPhone and iPod touch Control to New 7.1 Channel A/V Receiver Line
iControlAV App Available from the App Store, 3D Ready Feature for Next Generation Home Theater Experience
LONG BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Consumers looking for the ultimate A/V control center with seamless iPhone and iPod touch integration will find it in Pioneer’s new line of A/V receivers. The three new 7.1 channel, “Works with iPhone” certified receivers, the VSX-920-K, VSX-1020-K and the Pioneer-branded flagship receiver the VSX-1120-K, offer enhanced iPhone and iPod touch control and functionality, are 3D capable with the advanced version of HDMI and feature wireless Bluetooth audio streaming for Bluetooth-enabled devices1. Additionally, Pioneer today announced availability of its iControlAV App, which turns compatible iPhone and iPod touch into a fully functioning remote control for the Pioneer receiver, on the App Store.
“This year, with the addition of our new app and Bluetooth audio streaming, we expect to hold the leadership position in this category for the second consecutive year by continuing to provide iPhone and iPod touch users with seamless integration to their home A/V experience.”
“Last year, the Pioneer line of A/V receivers set record growth in the under $500 price point. We know that the dramatic growth was a direct result of our enhancements to convenience and connectivity options expected from Apple users,” said David Bales, marketing manager of audio products for the home entertainment division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “This year, with the addition of our new app and Bluetooth audio streaming, we expect to hold the leadership position in this category for the second consecutive year by continuing to provide iPhone and iPod touch users with seamless integration to their home A/V experience.”
iControl AVR App & Expanded iPhone Functionality
The 7.1 channel models deliver expanded iPhone functionality with the top two models featuring the Company’s first app for their home entertainment products and Bluetooth Audio Streaming for wireless devices.
“Works with iPhone” Certification – The new line of 7.1 receivers are iPhone certified and allow for playback of content on an iPhone and iPod touch including, on-screen display of track data, album art, photos and video on a connected TV. With an included USB/ video cable, users can listen to their music, view photos and watch downloaded as well as stream audio and video such as YouTube and Rhapsody music services all while charging their Apple devices when connected to the receiver.
iControlAV App – Pioneer’s first app compatible with their home entertainment products, iControlAV, provides iPhone and iPod touch users convenient integration of their devices with their home theater system. The free iControlAV App turns iPhone and iPod touch into a fully functioning remote control for the VSX-1020-K and VSX-1120-K Pioneer receivers. When the receivers are connected via Ethernet to an existing wireless router, the app allows users to wirelessly control their home theater receiver and includes graphical representations of these four controllable elements:
Control – Adjusts the main volume, mute, select and switch inputs including multi-zones as well as display audio/video status information with a slight touch of the screen.
Precision – Allows users to turn on/off two of Pioneer’s proprietary sound enhancements, PQLS which achieves jitter-free signal transmission via HDMI and Phase Control which permits precise phase control of multi-channel speakers. Video tutorials on each technology are also included.
Balance – With a roll and hold motion users can adjust the output balance of their speakers for 360 degree sound leveling to match their present listening position.
Emphasis – With a tilt and hold motion users can adjust dialogue and bass levels of the center speaker and subwoofer for optimum clarity of soundtracks with dynamic vocals or video games with extra bass. The display additionally shows a graphic of the status of each speaker.
Bluetooth Audio Streaming – The full line of new models feature wireless Bluetooth audio streaming from any Bluetooth-enabled iPhone, iPod touch, Android™ platform, other smart phones or personal computer with an optional Bluetooth adaptor. The Pioneer branded AS-BT100 ($99), Bluetooth Adaptor, allows consumers to keep the phone close to them while they enjoy music through their home theater system.
iPhone Control Button – The VSX-920-K and VSX-1020-K feature a front panel button that transfers iPod navigation control and on-screen display from the A/V receiver’s remote control back to the connected iPhone or iPod touch so users can easily and quickly navigate through their library of media files directly on the device.
3D Ready Features
As 3D technology is introduced to the mass marketplace, Pioneer has incorporated features into its line of A/V receivers that allow seamless integration into a 3D home theater system.
HDMI 1.4 – The latest HDMI version 1.4, provides more high definition connectivity options for consumers seeking compatibility with the latest audio and video formats. HDMI 1.4 allows for passage of the high data transfer rate required by the Blu-ray 3D specification as well as a new 3D specific command protocol. Additionally, the flagship VSX-1120-K features an Audio Return Channel, which allows a receiver to reproduce audio from a compatible TV’s built-in tuner.
Dolby ProLogic IIz® Decoding – Audio performance is paramount in an A/V receiver, and all the new Pioneer receivers are equipped to decode new HD audio formats including Dolby True HD® and DTS Master® with the new Dolby ProLogic IIz height channel. For the ultimate home theater experience, Dolby ProLogic IIz identifies non directional audio cues that occur naturally in a surround sound mix. The appropriate elements of the signal are directed to front height speakers for an enhanced surround sound experience. Creating the depth and dimension of a lifelike soundstage, this speaker configuration is compatible with all 5.1 and stereo entertainment content, is ideal for gamers and may also complement a 3D video experience. The new technology provides new 7.1 speaker placement options for consumers as well as easier installation solutions. Additionally, the top two models feature Pioneer’s proprietary Front Wide Mode which adds versatility and dimension to a 7.1 speaker arrangement.
Multi-Media Connectivity and Pioneer’s Proprietary A/V Technology
Pioneer incorporated its proprietary audio enhancement technology that restores Bluetooth transmissions as well as advanced room calibration technologies into its 7.1 channel line.
Sound Retriever AIR – The VSX-1120-K and VSX-1020-K feature the new Pioneer-developed Sound Retriever AIR. Similar to Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), Sound Retriever AIR restores critical audio data that is often removed from compressed audio files during the encoding process and for the first time, restores data from Bluetooth transmissions.
Internet Radio – When connected to a home network, users can enjoy thousands of Internet radio stations worldwide, ranging from music and news to sports and talk on the flagship VSX-1120-K and VSX-1020-K. Both models come with 24 preloaded preset stations, easy URL entry of personal favorites and optional keyboard entry through the front USB input.
Video Processing – Pioneer A/V receivers have a strong heritage as the ultimate in video processing, and this year is no exception. All receivers feature high performance video conversion to HDMI and 1080p video scaling to ensure the highest quality video reproduction from analog digital and lower resolution video sources. The VSX-1120-K also features a Pioneer-tuned Marvell® Qdeo™ video processor providing the highest quality video switching for superb clarity and accuracy that was only previously found in flagship Elite models.
Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration – The VSX-1120-K is THX™ Select2 Plus certified to create the power and performance of the cinema in your home theater and utilizes high power discrete transistors for accurate, multi-channel amplification. Additionally, Pioneer’s proprietary room calibration and sound tuning technology, MCACC, is utilized to analyze the room’s speakers and optimize each one to balance out any room-induced acoustic inaccuracies. MCACC provides an optimal, customized audio experience in any room configuration. The VSX-1020-K and VSX-1120-K feature Advanced MCACC which adds a wider variety of room calibration enchantments including an adjustable 9-band EQ and on-screen graphic user interface.
Precision Quartz Locking System – The two top models feature the proprietary Pioneer Precision Quartz Locking System (PQLS) which utilizes the digital clock in the A/V receiver to exactly synchronize the signal passage from a compatible Pioneer Blu-ray player. This creates absolute synchronized and jitter-free playback of all advanced audio formats. The VSX-1020-K features two-channel PQLS for jitter-less CD playback while the VSX-1120-K additionally offers multi-channel PQLS for enhanced DVD and Blu-ray Disc playback.
All models are finished with a premium glossy, black. The VSX-920-K, VSX-1020-K will be available in May 2010 and the flagship VSX-1120-K will be available in June 2010.
Pioneer’s iControlAV App is currently available for free from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/.
It all began with a passion for music that Pioneer founder Nozomu Matsumoto hoped to share with the world. He started Pioneer in 1938 as a specialty speaker company, building products out of his garage. Today, Pioneer’s Home Entertainment and Business Solutions Group continues Matsumoto’s enthusiasm, developing award-winning audio and video home theater products including A/V receivers, Blu-ray Disc® and DVD players, and speakers. Long-standing partnerships and collaborations with the creative community have provided Pioneer unique insight in its quest to capture the purity of a movie or musical artist’s original vision into its broad range of home entertainment products. The company’s brands include Pioneer® and Elite®. More details can be found at www.pioneerelectronics.com.
1 Bluetooth audio streaming requires iPod touch (2nd generation or later), iPhone 3G or iPhone 3GS with iPhone OS 3.0 or later.
Pioneer has all sorts of electronic items from TVs to home theater gear. The company also makes a full range of gear for professional and amateur DJs. Pioneer’s latest offerings for the DJ crowd include the CDJ-350 digital media player and the DJM-350 2-channel mixer.
The CDJ-350 lets the DJ create music with different format music files including MP3, AAC, WAV, and AIFF files. The files can be accessed from USB drives or CD discs that are burned. Pioneer rekordbox software is used with the device to categorize tracks by genre and beat position. An auto beat loop function is integrated including beat loop, loop divide, and hot loop.
The Pioneer DJM-350 mixer has four different kinds of effects and an isolated 3-band EQ. A front USB port lets users record mixes onto flash drives to make a tape or listen on different devices. The four effects include filter to change the tone of tracks, crush for accenting sounds, jet applies the sound of a jet taking off, and gate alters track rhythms. The device converts analog signals to digital and has a number of other features. The CDj-350 will sell for $850 and the DJM-350 will sell for $750 with both shipping in June.
I once won some tickets to an event from a radio station and when I went to to pick them up the number of knobs and buttons in the studio was impressive. I could never be a DJ, I have a tendency to push buttons to figure out what they do rather than read instructions. Pioneer has a new pro DJ controller it is unveiling today for those that know what all the buttons and knobs are for called the DJM-2000.
The device has the industry’s first 5.8-inch multitouch screen effects, Evolved Beat Effects, Pro DJ Link, and MIDI controls. The color LCD also lets the DJ set up seven different dynamic audio effects with touches and movements on the screen.
Other features include Pro DJ Link to link the Pioneer CDJ-2000 or CDJ-900 turntables to the mixer and a Live Sampler for taking sounds from as mic or master output to use in the mix. A 3-band EQ is built-in and the Cross fader function can be assigned and adjusted. The DJM-2000 will ship in June for $2,999.
