Impressive value already at entry level
In addition to digital TV and Blu-ray, one nowadays usually has other HD video sources – such as a game console, a streaming box or a streaming stick. It is reassuring to know that even the affordable VSX-531 has four HDMI ports that can even transmit UltraHD footage to the TV or projector. Of course, via HDMI the sound can also be in high resolution. The HD multichannel formats from Dolby and dts are also decoded by the VSX-531 and precisely adapted to your individual room acoustics, loudspeaker equipment and setup using Pioneer's proprietary MCACC automatic calibration.
If you prefer to enjoy music instead of a movie, you can also use your smart phone or tablet instead of the usual analogue or digital connectable players. Simply start your favourite music app and connect your device wirelessly to the integrated Bluetooth input of the VSX-531. A USB port on the front panel provides the mobile device with current as needed and you can also optionally play MP3, WMA and AAC music files directly from a memory stick. And do not be surprised when even older, heavily data-reduced files suddenly sound amazingly fresh and natural. Pioneer has gained decades of experience in the reconstruction of lost signal components, which has flowed into the “Advanced Sound Retriever” playback program.
Use the ECO Modes to save energy. ECO Mode 1 is suitable for playing CD’s, 2 channel audio files and internet radio. The more energy efficient ECO Mode 2 also works with movies, live concerts and other surround content.
The AV receiver has an easily accessible front USB terminal so you can quickly play your favourite music tracks. It supports all kinds of audio formats, such as MP3, WMA and AAC. It can also be used to charge connected devices.
The AV receiver supports the latest Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio surround soundtracks, so you can enjoy uncompressed, high-definition multichannel audio from Blu-ray discs, as well as from other media.
Often, speakers for surround sound can't be ideally positioned. MCACC analyses the existing sound field using a microphone (included), just like a sound professional. It then adjusts each speaker's virtual size, level, distance, and response to precision-tune the system to your room.
Experience digitally stored music as close to the original as never before. This device supports formats beyond the CD standard of a 44.1 kilohertz sampling rate and a depth of 16 bit. Experience WAV and FLAC files in real studio quality with resolutions of up to 192/24. This device also plays the direct stream digital (DSD) format used on super audio CDs, with a sampling rate of up to 2.8 megahertz.
Experience four times the HD resolution with 4K UltraHD. The built-in video optimisation scales even SD or normal HD content to 4K resolution at up to 60p and the high dynamic range produces an extremely high-contrast, sharp image.
Easily stream songs from compatible devices using the built-in Bluetooth wireless technology. This AV receiver features A2DP and Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP). Supported codecs include SBC, AAC, and aptX.