The Pioneer VSX-1123-K emerges as a compelling option in the non-Elite receiver lineup for 2013, packing a suite of features aimed at both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. This receiver boasts an impressive array of functionalities, from wireless streaming via Airplay and HTC Connect to wired options like DLNA and MHL, along with popular internet radio services like Pandora. But the VSX-1123-K offers more than just connectivity; it’s equipped to handle a wide variety of audio codecs, including lossless formats, and can upscale video sources to HDMI and 4K resolutions. With HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) and 3D compatibility, it’s designed to be a central hub for a modern home entertainment system. Power output is rated at 90 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 165 watts into 6 ohms, figures that should be considered in real-world listening scenarios. The inclusion of Class A/B amplifiers hints at a focus on sound quality, promising a blend of efficiency and sonic performance.
Pioneer VSX-1123-K Receiver Front Panel
Unlocking Optimal Sound: The Power of Pioneer MCACC
A standout feature of the Pioneer VSX-1123-K is its integrated MCACC, or Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System. This sophisticated software is engineered to optimize audio output based on the unique acoustic properties of your listening environment. The process involves placing a microphone (included with the receiver) at ear level in your primary listening position. MCACC then analyzes the room’s acoustics and automatically adjusts speaker settings, distances, and levels to create the most immersive and balanced soundstage. For initial setup, running MCACC in Full Auto mode, with ALL CH ADJ and speaker settings configured for your setup (like Normal (SB/FH), Normal (SB/FW), or Speaker B), is recommended. It’s generally advised to avoid the THX speaker setting unless you are using certified THX speakers. A 5.1 system or greater is required to fully utilize these auto-calibration features. The reviewer in the original article opted for the Speaker B setting during MCACC setup. A practical tip shared is to copy the MCACC results to all memory slots after the initial run, creating backups that allow for easy restoration if you decide to experiment with manual tweaks. While adjustments were made to speaker distance and levels in only one memory slot in the original review, having backups ensures you can revert to the calibrated settings at any time. Notably, MCACC also provides a valuable diagnostic by detecting if any speaker phases are incorrectly wired, helping to prevent common setup errors.
Pioneer VSX-1123-K Receiver Rear Panel Connectivity
Design and Thermal Efficiency: Keeping Cool Under Pressure
The physical design of the VSX-1123-K emphasizes thermal management. The receiver is built with significant ventilation gaps in its chassis, facilitating efficient heat dissipation. This design choice is particularly relevant given its Class A/B amplifier, which can generate substantial heat. However, the review notes that the VSX-1123-K runs considerably cooler than previous units. This reduced heat output is a significant advantage, increasing the unit’s longevity and allowing for more flexible placement within entertainment centers. While the ample ventilation suggests it might be safe to place other devices on top, it’s generally recommended to maintain some clearance to ensure optimal airflow and prevent any potential overheating. Unlike some older, less efficient receivers, the VSX-1123-K is unlikely to become a significant heat source in your setup.
Understanding Crossover: Tailoring Bass for Your System
Crossover frequency, often abbreviated as X.Over, is a crucial setting for managing bass frequencies in a home theater system. It dictates the frequency point at which low-frequency effects (LFE) are redirected primarily to the subwoofer. Frequencies above the crossover point are typically filtered out from the subwoofer channel. It’s worth noting that during audio mixing for movies and music, studios often incorporate LFE into other channels to accommodate systems without subwoofers. When a subwoofer is set to “Plus” mode on the VSX-1123-K, the crossover setting is bypassed, and all bass frequencies are routed to the subwoofer. Conversely, if front speakers are designated as “Large” and a subwoofer is set to “Yes,” the full frequency range of the left and right front channels will be directed to these main speakers. For example, if your front speakers have a frequency response down to 37Hz and your subwoofer covers 37Hz to 200Hz, setting an 80Hz crossover with “Large” front speakers means those speakers will reproduce frequencies down to their limit (37Hz), while the subwoofer will handle the dedicated LFE channel content up to 80Hz and below. The common 80Hz crossover frequency is rooted in Dolby LFE standards, which primarily operate at 80Hz and below. While DTS may contain some LFE information up to 120Hz, human hearing perceives frequencies around 80Hz and lower as non-directional, making it ideal for subwoofer placement flexibility. For those seeking to capture the full LFE spectrum, experimenting with higher crossover frequencies like 120Hz or even 150Hz is possible. Alternatively, setting a crossover for “small” speakers directs frequencies above the crossover point to those speakers and lower frequencies to the subwoofer, effectively managing bass distribution based on speaker capabilities. For deeper insights into crossover settings and MCACC, the AVS Forum’s official MCACC thread, specifically pages 132-134, offers detailed discussions and expert opinions.
Mastering Sound Playback: Navigating Audio Modes
A common pitfall for new owners is not fully exploring the Pioneer VSX-1123-K’s extensive settings, especially regarding sound playback modes. Ignoring the manual and default settings can significantly hinder the audio experience. Key audio modes to understand are AUTO SURROUND, ALC, DIRECT, and PURE DIRECT. DIRECT mode aims to reproduce sound with minimal processing, second only to PURE DIRECT in terms of signal modification. In DIRECT mode, MCACC calibration and Phase Control effects are applied, optimizing the sound field while maintaining source fidelity. PURE DIRECT mode takes purity further, bypassing even EQ and Standing Wave adjustments, relying solely on channel level and distance settings from the MCACC calibration. ALC (Auto Level Control) is designed for consistent volume levels across channels, beneficial for late-night viewing where dynamic range compression is desired. AUTO SURROUND intelligently selects the most appropriate surround mode based on the input signal, providing an automated approach to surround processing. The reviewer’s preference for DIRECT mode for general listening highlights its balance of processing and source integrity, describing it as making movies sound “lively,” although this is noted as a subjective preference. Comparing the VSX-1123-K to a Harman Kardon AVR 2650, the review emphasizes the Pioneer’s superior sound balance, avoiding a “boomy” bass and achieving a more balanced frequency response across highs, mids, and lows. The MCACC calibration and subsequent fine-tuning are credited with creating a theater-like immersive sound experience that was lacking with the previous Harman Kardon receiver.
iControlAV2013 App and DLNA: Smart Connectivity at Your Fingertips
The iControlAV2013 app enhances the user experience, particularly for music streaming. Compatible with both Android and iOS, the app allows for convenient browsing of music libraries stored on DLNA servers or directly on mobile devices. The “Push Player” feature within the app emulates Apple’s Airplay for Android, providing a user-friendly interface for wireless audio streaming. Volume control via the phone’s physical buttons directly adjusts the receiver’s volume. When music is streamed via Push Player, a persistent icon in the phone’s status bar offers quick access to playback controls. The app’s ability to power on the receiver (via the Network Standby feature) remotely is a significant convenience, allowing users to initiate music playback from anywhere within network range. Beyond music, the iControlAV2013 app offers comprehensive control over the VSX-1123-K, including zone and source switching, volume adjustment, input selection, listening mode changes, balance, phase adjustments, and bass/treble emphasis. It serves as a visual remote control, replicating many physical remote functions within a graphical interface. DLNA server connectivity expands the receiver’s media playback capabilities. Seamless integration with DLNA servers, like Plex Media Server used by the reviewer, allows for effortless streaming of digital music libraries, including lossless audio formats, eliminating the need for format conversion. The review specifically cautions against relying on Windows built-in DLNA server functionalities, citing potential reliability and connectivity issues. Third-party DLNA server applications like Plex, TVersity, or Twonky are recommended for more robust and universal media streaming.
Pioneer VSX-1123-K Remote Control
Remote Control and On-Screen Display: Functionality Over Form
The included remote control for the VSX-1123-K is packed with buttons, offering extensive control options. This abundance of buttons is viewed positively in the original review, catering to users who prefer direct access to numerous functions. The remote also functions as a universal remote, capable of learning IR codes from other devices, potentially reducing remote clutter by consolidating control of devices like Blu-ray players and TVs. While described as feeling “light and flimsy,” the remote is noted for its responsive button presses. A particularly useful feature is the “receiver function” button, which locks remote operation to receiver functions, preventing accidental setting changes by children. The On-Screen Display (OSD) prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. While not visually elaborate, the OSD is designed to be functional and easy to navigate, aligning with the reviewer’s focus on performance and sound quality over purely cosmetic interface elements.
Wired Connectivity and Wireless Options: Adapting to Network Needs
The Pioneer VSX-1123-K prioritizes wired network connectivity, which is favored by the reviewer who utilizes a wired home network infrastructure. While Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are supported, they require optional adapters purchased separately. The reviewer expresses a general preference for wired connections for network devices, citing Wi-Fi’s potential instability and Bluetooth’s inherent audio quality limitations, particularly for audiophiles. Bluetooth audio streaming is described as “lossy” and susceptible to interference. While Pioneer claims to incorporate technology to improve Bluetooth audio quality, the reviewer remains skeptical, suggesting that only a buffering and full file transfer approach could truly maintain original audio fidelity via Bluetooth. Pioneer’s strong compatibility with Apple devices is highlighted, including native AirPlay support.
HDMI and Zone 2 Capabilities: Expanding Entertainment Horizons
With seven HDMI inputs and comprehensive HDMI video processing, including analog-to-HDMI conversion and 4K upscaling, the VSX-1123-K is well-equipped for modern video sources. The inclusion of a second HDMI Zone output allows for distributing different video sources to two separate displays simultaneously. Combined with Zone 2 audio capabilities, this enables independent audio and video in a second room. HDMI pass-through functionality is supported even when the receiver is off, passing through the last selected HDMI source, simplifying operation for basic TV viewing without needing to fully power on the receiver.
RTFM – Read The F*** Manual for Zone 2 Setup
Zone 2 setup, initially perceived as complex by the reviewer, is clarified through manual consultation (“RTFM” – Read The F*** Manual). Zone 2 audio output requires specific settings adjustments within the receiver’s menu. These settings are found under “4.System Setup – 4a.Manual SP Setup – 4a1.Speaker System,” where “ZONE 2” needs to be selected. Additionally, in “4f.Other Setup – 4f7.Play ZONE Setup,” “Play ZONE” must be set to “ZONE 2.” For utilizing the secondary HDMI zone, adjustments to HDZONE settings are also necessary.
Video and ARC Functionality: Fine-Tuning Visuals and Audio Return
The VSX-1123-K provides a range of video adjustment options, allowing users to fine-tune picture settings such as contrast, hue, and saturation. Similar to the extensive audio settings, these video controls offer customization to match display characteristics and viewing preferences. Audio Return Channel (ARC) functionality is natively supported, simplifying audio connection from ARC-compatible TVs back to the receiver via a single HDMI cable. Setup for ARC is straightforward, requiring enabling “Control On” and “ARC On” within the receiver’s HDMI settings menu. TV settings may also need adjustment, often involving enabling CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) under different brand-specific names like Samsung’s AnyNet+ or LG’s SIMPLINK. The reviewer confirmed successful ARC operation with Netflix, achieving Dolby Digital 5.1 audio playback. ARC functionality requires HDMI 1.4 or later specification cables to support the audio return channel, as detailed in the provided HDMI version table. A cautionary note from online sources suggests that ARC might place strain on the receiver’s HDMI board, with some recommending optical audio connections as an alternative. However, the validity of this concern is not definitively confirmed. Notably, the reviewer no longer experiences HDMI audio/video flicker issues encountered with a previous Harman Kardon receiver, suggesting that those issues were indeed attributable to the older receiver’s HDMI implementation.
Optimizing Your Home Theater: Beyond Plug and Play
The review emphasizes that achieving optimal audio performance from the Pioneer VSX-1123-K requires more than just plug-and-play setup. While the Advanced MCACC auto-calibration provides a strong foundation, manually exploring and adjusting sound settings is encouraged to maximize the home theater experience. Starting with basic adjustments like speaker levels and balance, and progressively experimenting with EQ settings, allows users to tailor the sound to their specific room acoustics and personal listening preferences. The core philosophy is that investing time in understanding and customizing the receiver’s functions is essential to unlocking its full potential and achieving the best possible sound quality. Acknowledgement is given to the AVS Forum MCACC thread community for their invaluable assistance and expertise in navigating the receiver’s features and optimizing its performance. The reviewer concludes with a rating of 8 out of 10 for the Pioneer VSX-1123-K. Points are deducted for potentially unclear instructions and confusing crossover settings for beginners. However, the receiver’s exceptional sound quality and comprehensive connectivity options are highlighted as its strongest attributes, making it a highly recommendable component for a feature-rich home theater setup.
