Pioneer Elite SC-07, SC-05, VSX-03TXH, VSX01TXH

[NismoZ]

Pioneer's got new Elite 7.1 receivers, the high end SC-07 and SC-05, and the lesser VSX-03TXH and VSX-01TXH. The SC-07 has a Burr Brown Sampling Rate Converter (SRC) to upscale audio to 192 kHz 24-bit res, and dual HDMI outputs for multiroom output. The SC-07 and SC-05 also work with Pioneer's new Blu-ray player to activate the "Precision Quartz Locking System (PQLS) that synchronizes data between the Blu-ray Disc player and the receiver, providing listeners with the ultimate precision in CD playback." I kid you not, Pioneer is working on making CDs the yesterday technology of tomorrow! All four receivers do new lossless formats ("DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution, Dolby® TrueHD and Dolby® Digital Plus" ) and room tuning.

NEW PIONEER ELITE A/V RECEIVERS DELIVER UNPRECEDENTED SOUND EXPERIENCES TO THE HOME THEATER Designed Specifically to Complement 2008 KURO Displays and Blu-ray Disc Players, Pioneer Elite Receivers Boast Revolutionary Amplifier Technology
NEW YORK (May 7, 2008) - Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today introduces four new A/V receivers delivering high-definition (HD) audio and video experiences for emerging home theaters - the Elite® SC-07, SC-05, VSX-03TXH and VSX-01TXH. Acting as the HD control center, Pioneer®'s full line of A/V receivers work seamlessly with Pioneer's 2008 KURO displays and Blu-ray Disc® players to deliver the ultimate HD picture and sound performance for a truly emotional response in the living room.

Pioneer's flagship A/V receiver, code named "Susano," has set the industry standard for home theater performance and its 2008 top-of-the-line receivers, the SC-07 and SC-05, continue to incorporate the Direct Energy HD Amplifier with ICEpower™ analog class D amplification technology to produce a level of multi-channel power output, fidelity, and efficiency never before seen or heard in a home A/V receiver. Supported by the Company's legacy sound-tuning technology, the SC-07 and SC-05 were designed from the ground up to produce a 3-dimensional aural experience that will take listeners to the next level of high resolution multichannel surround sound in the entertainment room.

The Elite VSX-03TXH and VSX-01TXH join Pioneer's leading receiver from 2007 - the VSX-94TXH - to round out the entire 2008 offering. All three models flawlessly pass a 1080p picture with full reproduction capabilities of all new high resolution audio formats.

"Our flagship A/V receiver, the Susano, represents the pinnacle of high-end design and engineering in home theater equipment. We are now delivering that premium experience into our core line of Elite A/V receivers," said David Bales, audio marketing manager for the home entertainment division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "The new Direct Energy HD amplifier with ICEpower technology was integral for us to provide the full impact of new uncompressed audio soundtracks now available on Blu-ray Discs. Just as HDTV and Blu-ray have brought new levels of high definition video performance to consumers, the new high resolution surround sound formats coupled with our expertise in multi-channel amplifier design truly deliver a high-definition, multi-channel A/V experience far beyond anything we have produced before."

Built for High Definition Surround Sound
The SC-07 and SC-05 in Pioneer's line of Elite receivers deliver robust, realistic sound quality as a result of the exclusive Direct Energy HD Amplifier. Pioneer combines its industry-leading amplifier design and sound tuning technologies with the most advanced digital signal processing (DSP) to produce high resolution surround sound at unprecedented efficiency levels. Now the receiver can operate at extraordinary output levels with extremely low distortion and virtually no wasted energy; all in an effort to develop the most advanced home theater amplifier to date.

-more-
Pioneer Introduces Four New Elite A/V Receivers / pg. 2

Entertainment enthusiasts can take advantage of internal decoding of new advanced lossless surround sound formats - DTS-HD™ Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution, Dolby® TrueHD and Dolby® Digital Plus - to finally experience the full impact these high resolution audio codecs deliver to the viewing experience with ultra-rich surround sound that complements, and completes, on-screen imagery.

For accurate, natural surround sound reproduction of all connected HD and SD devices, Pioneer employs its exclusive room tuning feature in all four new Elite receivers. Advanced MCACC ensures studio quality surround sound regardless of the room configuration. This feature makes subtle adjustments to optimize the audio experience for even the most discerning ear. In addition, Pioneer's Elite SC-07, SC-05 and VSX-94TXH incorporate the exclusive Full Band Phase Control, which eliminates "phase lag" or group delay between all speakers in a home theater system. This innovative DSP maintains soundtrack synchronization, ensuring the most accurate multi-channel sound reproduction is achieved and heard. All models include new symmetric equalization (EQ) for the most precise speaker calibration.

Pioneer's new Elite receivers (SC-07, SC-05 and VSX-94TXH) include Neural-THX™ allowing for encoded content to be delivered in a two-channel stereo format and decoded for dispersion among up to 7.1 channel surround sound. In addition, the full line of Elite receivers includes dialogue enhancements, a wide range of listening modes, Mid-night Listening and Lip-Sync A/V synchronization. For the ultimate digital signal processing, all Elite receivers utilize anti-jitter technologies. The SC-07 is equipped with a professional level Burr Brown Sampling Rate Converter (SRC) to scale all digital audio signals up to 192 kHz 24-bit resolution.

HD Digital Connectivity
Pioneer brings HDMI 1.3a with full support of 12-Bit Deep Color to deliver a stellar picture from connected sources with a range of hues and shades not previously possible. In addition, for analog video sources, Pioneer's Elite receivers are engineered for 1080p video processing with a Pioneer digital video converter and Faroudja video scaler chip that ensures up to full 1080p resolutions to best match the incoming video signal to the native resolution of a connected display.

Pioneer Audio Synergy
Pioneer's engineers developed unique settings in its A/V receivers to harmonize audio performance like never before. Pioneer created jitter-free playback and dynamic sound quality for music CDs. When connected to a new Blu-ray Disc player via HDMI, Pioneer's SC-07 and SC-05 receivers utilize a proprietary Precision Quartz Locking System (PQLS) that synchronizes data between the Blu-ray Disc player and the receiver, providing listeners with the ultimate precision in CD playback.

Networking and Consumer Convenience Features
Home Media Gallery
The SC-07 and SC-05 enhance the home theater experience with the exclusive Home Media Gallery. Pioneer's home networking feature enables users to select and playback personal digital music and JPEG photo files direct from a PC hard drive or USB for playback in the living room through the main HD home theater system.
-more-

Pioneer Introduces Four New Elite A/V Receivers / pg. 3

Through the receiver, users can easily access and stream digital media files directly from a connected home PC or laptop computer with IP networking capability. Home Media Gallery is compliant with Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA), Windows Vista or Windows Media Connect as well as Microsoft playsforsure™ DRM technology.

Additional Connectivity Options
Pioneer continues to provide full-feature entertainment connectivity with Advanced Digital iPod® USB for pure digital audio fidelity. It allows users to navigate and select personalized music playlists from their iPods. Users can control these digital components player with the receiver's remote control and on-screen display.

The proliferation of portable music devices has resulted in reduced audio file sizes that have negatively affected the reproduction quality of audio entertainment. Recognizing this, Pioneer employs its proprietary Sound Retriever DSP technology, which works by "filling in" and compensating for the audio data removed from the compressed files (WMA, MP3, MPEG-4 AAC) for music playback that is near CD quality.

Full Custom-Installation Ready
Pioneer's full of Elite A/V Receivers are ready for custom installation with the following features:
Multi-zone, multi-source capabilities allow Pioneer's Elite receivers to serve as the entertainment centerpiece of up to 3 A/V zones in the home
The SC-07 has dual HDMI video output and second zone component video output for zone 2 HD video capabilities
RS232 Port for PC and 3rd party custom control and connectivity
Advanced Direct Construction ensures enhanced reliability and performance
New product cosmetics synchronizes with design of the KURO displays and Blu-ray Disc players

The VSX-01TXH and VSX-03TXH will be available in June for a suggested price of $750 and $1,000, respectively. The SC-05 and SC-07 will be available in August for a suggested price of $1,800 and $2,200, respectively. The VSX-94TXH is currently available for $1,600.

[mikelike2]

This was a surprise announcement. I didn't expect to hear about the new Elites until late summer. I can't wait to hear more about connectivity, etc. I'm a little surprised the basic 1018TXH did not hit the street before this announcement. Looks like I will wait on the 03 or 01.

[El Gabito]

Very interested in the specs on the 01 and how it compares to the 1018.

[baipai]

+1

[NismoZ]

Looks like a better remote? That was one of the only complaints about the Elite 94... I also hope they put in a GUI to the MCACC.

[Spartan94]

+ another 1

[bgarner]

Man, this is the best thing I have read all day. I really didn't want to spend $7K on the Flagship product as I already have an Amp, so it was overkill.

Now that they are releasing these products at the end of summer and it meets my criteria of Dual-HDMI outputs, Serial port control and hopefully Dual-Component out, I am one happy camper.

Definitely will add this to the "will purchase list"

SC-07, here I come!

[crOwcaine]

Pioneer is THE TRUTH.

[ss9001]

If one already has a hi-powered 7 ch amp, I would think using a SC-07 as a prepro would be killer .

I didn't read if Qdeo vid processing made it to these models; they may be saving that only for the susano.

I do have the susano on the way, so am only slightly biased

[T2k]

Originally Posted by crOwcaine

Pioneer is THE TRUTH.

Ummm really?

The SC-07 and SC-05 also work with Pioneer's new Blu-ray player to activate the "Precision Quartz Locking System (PQLS) that synchronizes data between the Blu-ray Disc player and the receiver, providing listeners with the ultimate precision in CD playback."

Rather sounds like their Kuro propaganda over the years - and we know how well that worked out...
Utter BS if you ask me.

[T2k]

Originally Posted by ss9001

If one already has a hi-powered 7 ch amp, I would think using a SC-07 as a prepro would be killer .

I didn't read if Qdeo vid processing made it to these models; they may be saving that only for the susano.

I do have the susano on the way, so am only slightly biased

Marvell's scaler is nothing extraordinary, it's in the LG BH200 BD/HD DVD comboi player - decent but still not like any HQV solution.
PS: Qdeo is still better than any Faroudja or Pio's own stuff I've seen so far, mind you.
PS2:

Pioneer's Elite receivers are engineered for 1080p video processing with a Pioneer digital video converter and Faroudja video scaler chip that ensures

Pio is still sticking with Faroudja, it seems...

[ylnad123]

Hmm...just bought a 94thx for a great price, but now am wondering if I should return it and get the sc-07 or sc-05. Can someone tell me what the difference is between the 94thx and the new models. I really don't care to much about the video aspects just the audio really.

[NismoZ]

We need a feature graph that compares models. Then we can all see what features there is going to be...

[T2k]

Originally Posted by ylnad123

Hmm...just bought a 94thx for a great price, but now am wondering if I should return it and get the sc-07 or sc-05. Can someone tell me what the difference is between the 94thx and the new models. I really don't care to much about the video aspects just the audio really.

They use the wording "Pioneer's new Elite receivers (SC-07, SC-05 and VSX-94TXH) include Neural-THX™ allowing for..." so I think VSX94 is still part of this generation, mainly due to its advanced features.

[donbro]

But does the 94txh offer PQLS? The newer Elites offer this and they are pushing this in their press release.

Don

[R Miyashiro]

Originally Posted by ylnad123

Hmm...just bought a 94thx for a great price, but now am wondering if I should return it and get the sc-07 or sc-05. Can someone tell me what the difference is between the 94thx and the new models. I really don't care to much about the video aspects just the audio really.

I'm in the same boat here having not upgraded since the Elite 53TXH I decided to go HDMI since only having one analog in got rather limiting for new audio. I'm also one who favors a separate video processor hence why I went with the Pioneer. The Fullband Phase is a nice feature but beside that and the HDMI 1.3/internal decoding I didn't really find that big of a difference in the receivers and am glad I waited for the 9X line.

So far it seems that the features pitched for these new receivers like the Neural THX, RS232, and Ipod connections seem to be the same as their current line and it seems that receivers improve in smaller increments than other A/V gear. I think I'll probably upgrade my Blu-ray player later this year and possibly display (2006 XBR 60" feels old already) next year but expect to keep my current Elite for at least 4-5 years unless these new receivers offer something interesting.

[T2k]

Originally Posted by donbro

But does the 94txh offer PQLS? The newer Elites offer this and they are pushing this in their press release.

Don

Ummm yeah because otherwise who would give a flying frog about them? Apparently there's very little else to say so they are pushing the BS what Gizmodo immediately spotted:

The SC-07 and SC-05 also work with Pioneer's new Blu-ray player to activate the "Precision Quartz Locking System (PQLS) that synchronizes data between the Blu-ray Disc player and the receiver, providing listeners with the ultimate precision in CD playback." I kid you not, Pioneer is working on making CDs the yesterday technology of tomorrow!

It pretty much sums it (PQLS) up, I think.

[T2k]

Originally Posted by R Miyashiro

So far it seems that the features pitched for these new receivers like the Neural THX, RS232, and Ipod connections seem to be the same as their current line and it seems that receivers improve in smaller increments than other A/V gear. I think I'll probably upgrade my Blu-ray player later this year and possibly display (2006 XBR 60" feels old already) next year but expect to keep my current Elite for at least 4-5 years unless these new receivers offer something interesting.

QFT

[M@verick]

Originally Posted by El Gabito

Very interested in the specs on the 01 and how it compares to the 1018.

Me too! I was close to pulling the trigger on a 92TXH and moving it up to my dedicated theater room once the 1018 came out. Now I'm glad I didn't!

I'm curious to see if we see 3-4 HDMI inputs in the 01 and 03. 2 Inputs just doesn't cut it.

[M@verick]

btw, OP, the title is a little misleading...might want to take the 03 and 01 out of parentheses to show that there are actually 4 different receivers being released.

[dan711]

Originally Posted by T2k

Ummm really?



Rather sounds like their Kuro propaganda over the years - and we know how well that worked out...
Utter BS if you ask me.

Seems like someone is a little anti-Pioneer. Oh well we all have our likes and dislikes.

[NismoZ]

maybe I am confused? 1,3,5,7 are being released? Which ones are Elites and what are the major differences between SC and VSX?

[ss9001]

Originally Posted by dan711

Seems like someone is a little anti-Pioneer. Oh well we all have our likes and dislikes.

Kinda what I was thinking
Like u said, everyone has op-in-ions...

[T2k]

Originally Posted by dan711

Seems like someone is a little anti-Pioneer. Oh well we all have our likes and dislikes.

Ahh you somehow (conveniently, khm) forgot to address what I actually said - it's easier to attack the messenger, huh?
Facts proved me right (and Pioneer wrong) on the long run - I always said you can only charge so many people for premium price in return for pure marketing BS (i.e. 'Kuro technology'). Look what happened - fooling sessions have ended, panel business have been lost, period. Very bitter pill to swallow but nevertheless true.
Now with this incoming & unexplained 'synching-CD-with-amp'-sounding "new technology" I once again smell heavy BS...

Well, time will tell. (But so far my track record is better than Pioneer's. )

PS: don't get me wrong, I put their audio stuff far ahead of their TVs, no question about it - it's top-notch, usually and lot less overpriced than their plasmas or BD players.

[T2k]

Originally Posted by M@verick

Me too! I was close to pulling the trigger on a 92TXH and moving it up to my dedicated theater room once the 1018 came out. Now I'm glad I didn't!

I'm curious to see if we see 3-4 HDMI inputs in the 01 and 03. 2 Inputs just doesn't cut it.

I agree, it'd be nice to see more inputs and would worth some extra over the upcoming 1018.
What's the shipping date?

[rmb1035]

Originally Posted by M@verick

btw, OP, the title is a little misleading...might want to take the 03 and 01 out of parentheses to show that there are actually 4 different receivers being released.

NismoZ,

I also think that it would be a good idea for you to rename this thread as M@verick suggests. Also, please note that Pioneer Elite's Flagship Receiver is the SC-09TX. None of the models that are being discussed in this thread should be considered as "flagships".

[ss9001]

Originally Posted by T2k

...I always said you can only charge so many people for premium price in return for pure marketing BS (i.e. 'Kuro technology'). Look what happened - fooling sessions have ended, panel business have been lost, period. Very bitter pill to swallow but nevertheless true...

I don't want to derail this thread, but I'm confused why u think Kuro is BS. Literally every review I've seen anywhere measures Kuro black levels as less than any other flat panel display they've tested. Agreed Pioneer may be having a hard time justifying their premium prices compared to competition, but I didn't think that detracted from their end results.

Why are u dissing kuro? Please be specific, I'd like to know the other side of the story.

[NismoZ]

Originally Posted by rmb1035

NismoZ,

I also think that it would be a good idea for you to rename this thread as M@verick suggests. Also, please note that Pioneer Elite's Flagship Receiver is the SC-09TX. None of the models that are being discussed in this thread should be considered as "flagships".

How do you edit a title, can't seem to do it when I click edit...

[squigglyline]

Can't wait to see all of the specs on the SC07 Versus the 94TXH...

[NismoZ]

How long do you think it'll take the SC-07 to drop to street prices? ~$1600 or so? The 94 dropped to $1100, but I don't know how long after it's release...

Has anyone heard any AVrs with ICE power amps? How is sound effected and is it Man, I'm wondering if the 07 will be $1000 better then the 94.