Pioneer Backs IMAX Enhanced

Pioneer has introduced new 9.2-Channel network AV receivers, the VSX-LX504 and VSX-LX304.

Offering 7.2.2 channel / 5.2.4 channel surround sound performance, the VSX-LX504 and VSX-LX304 are 9.2 channel receivers with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

The company has also confirmed that the VSX-LX504 and VSX-LX304 are also Pioneer’s first IMAX Enhanced AV receivers, featuring DTS:X immersive audio decoding that is optimised to reproduce the full dynamic range of IMAX theatrical sound mixes available with IMAX Enhanced. content

With adjustments modelled on the IMAX theatrical sound system, this proprietary IMAX audio mix is translated for home cinema environments and delivered using a special variant of the DTS:X codec to deliver the IMAX signature sound experience, as the filmmakers originally intended, but tailored for a home environment.

Both models offer plenty of power, 215W/ch in the case of the LX504 and 185W/ch for the LX304 (measured at 6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 1ch driven).

 This muscle can also be directed through new Powered Zone 2 and Zone 3 outputs, allowing owners to enjoy audio via speakers located in secondary rooms. Zone 2 Pre-amp outputs have also been added for consumers who wish to add a dedicated amplifier in Zone 2.

These Zone 2 Pre-amp outputs can also be re-configured as Zone B Line outputs, to extend the sound playing in Zone A (the Main Zone) to another location or to a set of wireless headphones (via a transmitter).

The LX504 and LX304 feature 7 HDMI Inputs / 2 Outputs and support Ultra HD pass-through with HDCP 2.2, 4K / 60 Hz, Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), WCG (Wide Color Gamut) and Ultra HD upscaling (1080p to 4K).

The company’s advanced Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System (MCACC) selects the right acoustic settings for rooms via the receiver’s custom-designed microphone, compensating for differences in speaker size, level and distance, and equalising its output to suit. MCACC delivers improved results by also measuring background noise, reducing standing waves, and by matching the phase of LFE (Low Frequency Effects) to other channels.

These new models also support Dialogue Enhancement, which makes it easy to adjust and better hear movie dialogue and music vocals. In addition, receivers also have a ‘Personal Preset’ facility which can save and recall three input selections, each accompanied by a user’s favorite volume and surround sound settings.