Pioneer VSX-LX504 and VSX-LX304 IMAX Enhanced Receivers

The VSX-LX504 and VSX-LX304 are 9.2 channel receivers with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X offering 7.2.2 channel / 5.2.4 channel surround sound performance. Furthermore, they are also Pioneer's first IMAX Enhanced AV receivers.

With precise adjustments modelled on the IMAX theatrical sound system, this proprietary IMAX audio mix is translated for home cinema environments and exclusively delivered using a particular variant of the DTS:X codec.

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, enabling you to enjoy audio via speakers located in other secondary rooms.

The Zone 2 Pre-amp outputs have also been added for those wishing to add a dedicated amplifier in Zone 2. These Zone 2 Pre-amp outputs can also be re-configured as Zone B Line outputs, and so extending the sound playing in Zone A (the Main Zone) to another location or to a set of wireless headphones (via a transmitter).

You won't be lacking connectivity either with the LX504 and LX304 featuring 7 HDMI Inputs / 2 Outputs. Naturally, you get 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) support.

Also onboard is the company's advanced Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System (MCACC). The technology selects the ideal acoustic settings for rooms via the receiver's custom-designed microphone, automatically compensating for differences in speaker size, level and distance, and equalising its output to suit. Furthermore, 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.

Thanks to 'Works with the Google Assistant' you can control volume, skip tracks, or stop music playback on the receivers using an Assistant-enabled Smart Speaker or Smart Displays, such as Google Home.

While we're talking about smart tech, the receivers' wireless connectivity comprises Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, DTS Play-Fi, Wi-Fi. Of course, there is also FlareConnect, Pioneer's wireless protocol which mirrors any audio source connected to the receiver on compatible speakers in other rooms.

Additionally, you get access to an endless flow of free music, sports, talk, and news entertainment as well as subscription-based music from Amazon Music, Spotify, TIDAL, and Deezer.

Pioneer HTP-076

The HTP-076 is a 5.1 channel Home Theatre Package delivering amplification of 150W/ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 1ch driven).

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback are delivered via a 3.1.2 channel speaker layout. Object-based audio places sound where it would occur naturally in space, creating a more lifelike audio experience for movies and games. When using Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers, Pioneer's unique Reflex Optimizer technology optimises their performance for clear sound imaging at the viewing position.

The HTP-076 supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual:X. These breakthrough technologies simulate the output from 'virtual' height and surround speakers if they are not physically present in a room. The upshot is that you get much greater flexibility as it provides the benefits of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X via a conventional 5.1 channel system.

The HTP-076 features 4 HDMI In / 1 Out and supports 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).

As with Pioneer's other 2019 AV receivers, Bluetooth wireless technology is incorporated into the HTP-076. Pressing the 'BLUETOOTH' direct key on the front panel lets you initiate the function, even when the receiver is in standby mode. The HTP-076 also incorporates “Dialog Enhancement”, “Personal Preset” and “Zone B Output” facilities for maximum convenience.

Price and availability

All three are available in black or silver from May, except HTP-076 which only comes in black. Suggested retail prices are as follows:

• VSX-LX504 - £1199.99
• VSX-LX304 - £899.99
• HTP-076 - £499.99