Product review of Pioneer VSX 520-K VSX 820-K Home Audio Receiver- iPhone Compatible

1. Pioneer VSX 520-K & VSX-820K Home Audio Receiver- iPhone Compatible
�
David Novak (The GadgetGUY) is a syndicated columnist who reviews and features the latest in
consumer technology. For cutting-edge information on what’s hot and what’s new in gadgets and
gizmos , The GadgetGUY has his pulse on everything related to computers, camcorders, car tech,
cameras, gaming, GPS devices, networking, TVs, software, wireless devices, media players, hi-fi, wi-
fi, cell phones, home appliances, sports science, power tools and more.
Pioneer 5.1 Channel A/V Receivers Deliver Expanded iPhone Experience to the Home Theater. Two
New Models Feature Bluetooth®Audio Streaming and High Definition Connectivity with 3D Ready
Feature
Pioneer Electronics unveils a new line of 5.1 channel A/V receivers that deliver a dynamic music
experience to the living room. For the first time, the Pioneer VSX-520-K and VSX-820-K feature
wireless Bluetooth® transfer of audio content allowing users to enjoy their music directly from their
Bluetooth®-enabled device to their home theater system, and are 3D Ready with the latest HDMI,
version 1.4, providing more high definition connectivity options for the Blu-ray 3D specification. The
VSX-820-K also features “Works with iPhone” certification, providing a seamless user experience for
iPhone owners. Pre-orders of the VSX-520-K and the VSX-820-K are currently available at
Amazon.com.
“Pioneer continues to innovate the A/V receiver category with expanded compatibility for iPhone users.
The addition of Bluetooth audio streaming allows consumers to keep their phones close to them to

2. answer calls or select their next song without limitations of a wired connection to the receiver,” said
David Bales, marketing manager of audio products for the home entertainment division of Pioneer
Electronics (USA) Inc. “Additionally, by equipping all models with HDMI 1.4, consumers can be
assured that their Pioneer receiver is ready for future 3D home theater experiences.”
The new models feature expanded iPhone™ functions including an iPhone™ Control Button and
Bluetooth Audio Streaming for portable media devices.
• “Works with iPhone” Certification – Pioneer was the first in the industry to introduce
“Works with iPhone” certified A/V receivers which allow for playback of content on an
iPhone™, iPod® and iPod® Touch. The VSX-820-K features this certification and allows
users to listen to their music, 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.
• iPhone™ Control Button – Adding to the ease-of-use expected by Apple users, the VSX-
820-K additionally features a front panel iPhone Control button that transfers iPod®
navigation control and on-screen display from the A/V receiver’s remote control back to the
connected Apple device so users can easily and quickly navigate through their library of
media files directly on the device.
• Bluetooth Audio Streaming – Expanding on the iPhone™ user’s experience, both new
models feature wireless Bluetooth transfer of audio content from any Bluetooth-enabled
iPhone™, iPod® Touch, Android, Smart Phone 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.
Both new Pioneer A/V receivers are 3D Ready with the latest HDMI version 1.4 and feature the new
Dolby ProLogic IIz decoder for HD audio formats.
• HDMI 1.4 – 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.
• Dolby ProLogic IIz Decoding – All new Pioneer receivers are equipped to decode new HD
Audio formats including Dolby True HD® and DTS Master® now with the new Dolby
ProLogic IIz height channel. Dolby ProLogic IIz distinguishes background sounds and adds
them to additional front height speakers for an enhanced front surround sound experience.
Creating the depth and dimension of a lifelike soundstage, this speaker configuration is ideal
for gamers and may also complement a 3D video experience. The new technology provides
new speaker placement options for consumers as well as easier installation solutions.
Additionally, Pioneer’s proprietary Front Wide Mode adds versatility and dimension to a 7.1
speaker arrangement.
The new 5.1 channel A/V receivers feature Pioneer’s proprietary audio enhancement and room
calibration technologies that elevate the sound quality experience of compressed audio including:
• Advanced Sound Retriever – ASR enhances compressed audio files by restoring critical
data from iPhone, iPod and other portable media players as well as satellite radio devices,
delivering a robust music experience that is near CD quality.
• Auto Level Control – ALC technology ensures consistent listening from all entertainment by
equalizing fluctuating volume levels across digital audio tracks, television channels and
commercials that can cause unexpected disruptions to the entertainment experience.
• Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration – Featured in the VSX-820-K, MCACC analyzes the
room’s speaker configuration then optimizes each one to balance out any room-induced
acoustic inaccuracies to provide an optimal, customized audio experience in any home theater
room.

3. 5.1 Channel Receivers - At a Glance
�
VSX-520-K VSX-820-K
Price $229 $299
Power 110 watts x 5 110 watts x 5
iPhone™ Certified USB - Yes
On-Screen Display - Yes
HDMI 1.4/ 3D Ready 3 Inputs 4 Inputs
Bluetooth Ready Yes Yes
Dolby ProLogic IIz (Pre-out) Yes Yes
Auto MCACC - Yes
Sirius Satellite Radio Ready - Yes
Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR) Yes Yes
Auto Level Control (ALC) Yes Yes
Front Inputs Mini USB/ Composite A/V
All models are finished with premium glossy, black and will be available at national and regional
retailers in March 2010. (www.pioneerelectronics.com)
www.thegadgetguycolumn.com
�