Struggling with choosing the right AV receiver for your home entertainment?

In this blog, we review the Pioneer VSX-1131, a 7.2-channel AV receiver known for its quality and affordability. We discuss its features, like built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, performance in delivering powerful sound, and build quality. Ideal for those seeking a balance of cost and performance in their home theater setup, this review provides a thorough insight into what the Pioneer VSX-1131 has to offer.

Pioneer VSX-834 7.2-Channel AV Receiver of 2024

It Sounds Good

Max: Fury Road features the VSX-1131 in its two-hour running time. In the desert wasteland, he rumbles and charges a muffled receiver.

Watch the gears grind against one another as the engines roar along in this chase scene.

With an emphasis on low-frequency wallops, it delivers a powerful performance. There is a little bit more precision and a little bit more depth to the Pioneer drive. Although there are times when the bass becomes overly rich, it is never plodding or flabby.

Richness is not necessarily undesirable but may lose some subtlety and overall sharpness. Despite the punchy kicks, the notes stop and start are unpredictably timed.

  • We can improve the sound quality and organization by turning on Pure Direct.
  • In an astonishing way, sound is all around us. The amp delivers incredible height even without Atmos channels connected. This allows for plenty of room for the high-end without being too bright or aggressive.
  • Soundfields such as these convey the sense of openness in The Book Thief. Clarity and refinement, however, would have been helpful.
  • In scenes with plenty of dialogue, voices can be swallowed up during action sequences, and characters might be able to more clearly portray their emotions with more nuance.

A more detailed Pioneer sound will result in a seamless surround effect across all speakers.

Introducing the new Pioneer AVR-X2300W. A $500 sound system that delivers immersive sound.

Our expectations were a little high because we thought that Pioneer’s high-performance receivers (such as the SC-LX59) would have better-handled power and output with a softer, more agile audio approach.

Despite its shortcomings, Stop Making Sense by The Talking Heads is entertaining on its own, and we enjoy watching it. In spite of its smaller size and power, the new Denon sound system is more engaging and musical.

When music is streamed over Bluetooth and Spotify Connect, the subtleties and clarity of songs are lost, but they still maintain a certain undercurrent. You might also want to experiment with stereo and surround modes.

It makes everything sound like it’s bigger and grander in stereo than in surround.

Build

The Pioneer receiver looks largely the same from the outside.

We’ve come to expect Pioneer’s high standards of build quality, including a sturdy rectangular chassis (available in silver or black finishes), an easily readable display, and large control dials.

  • Pioneer has, however, made some tweaks to the formula. The remote control and the interface have been redesigned to enhance the user experience.
  • Various superfluous buttons (including the number keys) have been removed from the new remote to simplify the program and make it easier to use. The volume and navigation are controlled using large, distinctive buttons that are easily identifiable within seconds; we have no problem finding them in the dark.
  • iControlAV5 from Pioneer is a great control app if you like vibrant, interactive apps. Besides the intuitive interface, Sound Explorer’s slick design (we love the bubbles, which make it even more fun to use) also makes it very enjoyable.
  • If you need the remote for any basic functions, you should download this free app
    Tuning the receiver’s audio settings.
  • With a large home screen and improved graphics, you’ll notice the difference as soon as you turn your receiver on. It’s a nice way of working.

The Pioneer MCACC auto-calibration system recently underwent a major overhaul, including a shortened implementation of the interface. Shorter by a considerable margin. Pioneer’s precise calibration setup means that you can finish eating and drinking (and even getting a cup of tea) during the process. You might remember the joke that we would tell about it taking nearly 10 minutes.

MCACC is performing a new calibration before your tea has steamed. The harsh, monotonous test tones almost escape us when we are engrossed in a 10-step process. Calibration is almost the same (almost).

The PMC Twenty23 7.1 speaker package can be perfectly matched if we lower the subwoofer volume a few dB.

Characteristics

With so many advanced features, the Pioneer AVR-530 is also very affordable at $550.

As well as supporting Dolby Atmos and Google Cast, VSX-1131 lets you stream music in high definition.

  • This receiver provides 7 channels of audio, each rated at 160 watts (6 ohms). Additionally, Dolby Atmos and height speaker terminals can be used.
  • In terms of Atmos configurations, the maximum is 7.2.2 (with seven speakers, two subwoofers, and two Atmos channels), so you should be good to go if you’re planning on building an Atmos-enabled home theater.
  • DTS:X surround sound will also be available following a firmware update later this year.

Interconnections

  • All four HDMI inputs are supported, and the first three HDMI inputs are HDCP2.2 certified, meaning that they can play newly released 4K Blu-ray discs.
  • In addition, the Panasonic DMP-UB900 player supports the HDR (high dynamic range) and BT.2020 color gamut standards, which are required by 4K HDR sources and discs.
  • Denon’s model does not include coaxial inputs (something that Pioneer does), and the Pioneer AVR-X2300W has seven HDMI inputs (one of which is on the front).

In addition to two HDMI outputs, legacy analog connections, a 6.3mm headphone jack, a 3.5mm jack, and a USB port for charging smartphones, the list of connections is quite comprehensive.

Adaptability

  • Wirelessly stream FLAC, AIFF, and WAV files in 24-bit/192kHz resolution over your home network using a dual network (5 GHz and 2.4 GHz), replacing Bluetooth and AirPlay, both of which are no longer supported by USB.
  • DSD files can be played wirelessly as well as by plugging them into a USB port. The wi-fi connection worked without interruption, but an Ethernet connection will provide a more reliable connection.
  • The Pioneer amplifiers now feature Google Cast, so compatible apps (including BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and YouTube) will be cast to your screen directly from the amplifier via this function.

Following software updates later this year, Tidal and Deezer subscribers will also be able to experience Spotify Connect on their new headsets.

Comparison Pioneer VSX-834 Onkyo TX-SR494 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 VSX-LX105 Elite 7.2
Color Black Black
Connectivity Technology Bluetooth Bluetooth, USB USB, MCACC, Mini Stereo Jack, Phones, and HDMI
Item Dimensions 17.1 x 12.6 x 6.8 inches 17.13 x 15.94 x 6.3 inches 14.59 x 17.13 x 6.81 inches 17.13 x 14.59 x 6.81 inches
Item Weight 20.85 lbs 21.27 lbs 27.69 lbs
Output Wattage 80.0 watts 160.0 watts 980 watts 100.0 watts

More Interesting Read: best 4k upscaling receiver

FAQs on Pioneer VSX Channel AV Receiver

How many watts is the Pioneer VSX 834?

The Pioneer VSX-834 has a power output of 80 watts per channel at 8 ohms. This means that it can deliver 560 watts of power to a 7.1-channel speaker system. However, the actual amount of power that the receiver will deliver to your speakers will depend on the impedance of the speakers and the volume level.

The VSX-834 also has a dynamic power mode that can temporarily boost the power output to 165 watts per channel. This mode is useful for playing loud passages of music or movies.

Overall, the Pioneer VSX-834 has a good amount of power for most home theater setups. It should be able to drive most speakers to their full potential.

Are Pioneer receivers any good?

Yes, Pioneer is a well-established brand in the audio industry and is known for producing high-quality audio equipment, including AV receivers. Many users appreciate Pioneer receivers for their build quality, sound clarity, and advanced features. However, like any brand, the specific model and its features should be considered in relation to individual needs.

Does the Pioneer VSX 823 have Bluetooth?

The Pioneer VSX-823 does not have built-in Bluetooth. However, it can be equipped with an optional Bluetooth adapter, the AS-BT200. The AS-BT200 plugs into the receiver’s USB port and allows you to stream audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

The Pioneer VSX-823 is a 5.1-channel AV receiver that was released in 2013. It has a number of features, including:

  • 140 watts RMS per channel
  • 5 HDMI inputs
  • 1 HDMI output
  • 1 USB port
  • AM/FM tuner
  • AirPlay support
  • HTC Connect support
  • MCACC room calibration

The AS-BT200 Bluetooth adapter is available for purchase from Pioneer and other retailers. It costs around $100.

If you are looking for a Pioneer AV receiver with built-in Bluetooth, you can consider the following models:

  • Pioneer VSX-933
  • Pioneer VSX-1133
  • Pioneer VSX-1533
These receivers all have built-in Bluetooth and other features that make them a good choice for home theater enthusiasts.

What is the most powerful Pioneer receiver?

The most powerful Pioneer receiver is the Pioneer SX-1980. It is rated at 270 watts RMS per channel into 8 ohms, with a measured 2.3 dB dynamic headroom. This makes it one of the most powerful receivers ever manufactured in the world, to date.

It was released in 1978 and was designed to be paired with the HPM series of speakers. It has a number of features that make it a powerful and versatile receiver, including:

  • 5-band graphic equalizer
  • 3-position loudness control
  • 2 tape decks with dubbing
  • 2 phono inputs
  • 6 auxiliary inputs
  • AM/FM tuner with 30 presets

The Pioneer SX-1980 is a highly sought-after receiver among audiophiles and is considered a classic piece of audio equipment. It is still in demand today and can sell for several thousand dollars in good condition.

Here are some other powerful Pioneer receivers:

  • Pioneer SX-1250: 185 watts RMS per channel into 8 ohms
  • Pioneer SX-1080: 150 watts RMS per channel into 8 ohms
  • Pioneer SX-980: 130 watts RMS per channel into 8 ohms

These receivers are all from the 1970s and 1980s, and they are no longer in production. However, they can still be found on the used market. If you are looking for a powerful and vintage Pioneer receiver, these are some of the best options available.

Conclusion

Pioneer has not always enjoyed the same level of popularity with its VSX products as it has with its higher-end SC-LX products. Sony and Denon have been battling for a couple of years now for this highly competitive $500 price point. Although the VSX-930 received a 5-star rating for its exceptional performance last year, the VSX-1131 isn’t quite as balanced in its power and subtleties as Pioneer’s SC-LX receivers.

VSX-1131 should not be ignored. With so many features crammed into the VSX-1131, Pioneer is sure to be a big seller at this price. When building a home cinema system, one with that much power, openness, and scale would appeal to many people, and it is one to consider.