HiFi Audio Systems

Pioneer to launch High End Amplifier Review

By admin ⋅ October 1, 2007 ⋅  Send this to a friend.. ⋅  Print this article. ⋅ Post a comment ⋅ Add to Technorati Favorites

Pioneer’s VSX-AX5i-S broke new ground with i.Link connectivity and MCACC automated calibration setup. This year the ground is broken, so the VSX-AX5Ai-S represents more of a tweak than a transformation.
The VSX-AX5Ai-S retains the Dolby Digital EX, Pro-Logic IIx, DTS ES Matrix and Discrete 6.1, DTS Neo:6, DTS 96/24, THX Select modes and AIR Studios sound tuning of its predecessor.

Enhancements to the MCACC system do not constitute a significant improvement, but they do seem to make subwoofer installation more accurate, and the amp equalises the output to replicate the AIR Studios sound in your room. Pioneer was the first to release a corded microphone automated installation process and - with these mild upgrades in place - it remains the best.

The MCACC system had a profound change over the sound of the speakers we tested with the Pioneer. It enforces a distinct equalisation curve, attempting to bring the speakers into line with the AIR Studios sound.
Ultimately this all means that the VSX-AX5Ai-S provides an extremely cinematic sound, both enveloping and seemingly larger than the room itself.

It’s a measure of how good the original AX5i was that, with just mild tweaks, the VSX-AX5Ai-S can continue Pioneer’s good work and remain at the forefront of home cinema sound.

(No Ratings Yet)

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