For those looking to enhance their home audio experience without breaking the bank, the AV receiver market offers some incredible deals. Gone are the days when advanced multi-channel amplifiers cost a fortune. Today, you can find robust systems, perfect for upgrading your HDMI connectivity or embracing 3D compatibility, at surprisingly affordable prices. The Pioneer VSX-521 5.1-channel AV receiver is a prime example of this value proposition, typically available for around £280. It promises a compelling audio experience without the premium price tag. But does it deliver? Let’s dive into a detailed look at the features and performance of the Pioneer VSX-521.
Design and Connectivity: Looks Can Be Deceiving
At first glance, the Pioneer VSX-521 exudes a premium feel that belies its budget-friendly price. Mirroring the sleek, glossy black aesthetic of Pioneer’s higher-end models, this receiver boasts a build quality that’s immediately impressive. While the chassis exhibits a degree of flexibility, the overall finish is undeniably high-standard, giving it a sophisticated look that will complement any home entertainment setup.
Connectivity options on the VSX-521 are also surprisingly generous for its class. It features four HDMI 1.4a inputs, all of which are 3D-ready. This is a step up from even more economical models like the VSX-421, providing ample connections for modern devices. Beyond HDMI, you’ll find two component video inputs, four composite phono AV inputs, two analog stereo inputs, and three digital audio inputs (two optical).
For expanding your audio setup, the Pioneer VSX-521 includes a dedicated subwoofer output for impactful low-frequency effects. Furthermore, pre-outs are available for connecting to a secondary amplifier, enabling a 7.1-channel surround sound configuration by adding two more speakers. The receiver also supports Dolby Pro Logic IIz, which allows for simulated seven-channel sound from a five-channel system, adding vertical dimension to your audio.
However, cost-saving measures are evident in the speaker terminals. While the main stereo speaker channels are equipped with proper binding posts, the center and surround channels utilize less robust spring-clip terminals. This is a minor compromise but worth noting for users with high-gauge speaker wire.
Notably, the VSX-521 forgoes built-in media streaming capabilities and lacks a USB port for direct media playback. However, it does include a front-mounted 3.5mm mini-jack for portable music players and a rear Bluetooth port. Wireless streaming is possible with Pioneer’s optional AS-BT200 Bluetooth adapter (sold separately), allowing you to stream music from Bluetooth-enabled devices like mobile phones.
Features: Essential Extras Where It Counts
Despite its position as a budget-conscious option, the Pioneer VSX-521 is not devoid of useful features. One key inclusion is Pioneer’s MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration) system, albeit the entry-level version. This tool is designed to optimize the receiver’s audio output to match the specific acoustics of your listening environment. The process is user-friendly: simply plug in the supplied microphone and follow the on-screen prompts (displayed on the receiver’s front panel).
Another valuable, often overlooked feature is HDMI standby pass-through. This allows HDMI devices connected through the VSX-521 to function even when the receiver is in standby mode. This is particularly convenient for everyday use, such as watching TV through a cable box connected via HDMI, without needing to fully power on the receiver each time.
On the downside, the Pioneer VSX-521 does not offer video up-conversion. This means the quality of standard-definition video signals will depend on the upscaling capabilities of your source devices, such as your DVD or Blu-ray player. Additionally, the receiver lacks an on-screen display (OSD). All adjustments and settings are made using the receiver’s front panel display, which, while functional, can be less intuitive for making significant changes compared to a graphical OSD.
Performance: Sound Quality That Surprises
The Pioneer VSX-521 shares its fundamental design and power supply with the previous VSX-520 model. However, Pioneer’s engineers in Kawasaki have refined the audio tuning, resulting in a noticeable improvement in performance. The VSX-521 delivers a faster, more dynamic, and ultimately more engaging listening experience compared to its predecessor. It exhibits a remarkable ability to handle highly dynamic soundscapes with precision and impact.
By default, the receiver directs all low-frequency sounds below 100Hz to the subwoofer. However, this default setting can make the main speakers sound somewhat thin. Lowering this crossover frequency to 80Hz results in a much more balanced and full-bodied sound, with deep, controlled, and non-localized bass. While Pioneer’s claimed power output of 130W per channel might be slightly optimistic in real-world scenarios, the VSX-521 offers ample power for most home theater setups and maintains composure even at higher volumes.
For its price point, the overall audio performance of the VSX-521 is genuinely impressive. While it may not reach the sonic purity of high-end receivers, it provides a level of clarity and dynamism that exceeds expectations. Two-channel Super Audio CDs played over HDMI sound remarkably detailed and refined. The receiver handles complex classical music pieces, like Mozart’s Violin Concerto in D Major, with agility and nuance, yet is equally adept at delivering the bombastic soundtracks of action-packed multi-channel movies. Surround sound panning is swift and accurate, creating an immersive audio environment.
The VSX-521 supports all essential Blu-ray audio codecs, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Pro Logic IIz, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS 96/24, DTS-ES, and DTS Neo:6. It also features ten generic digital-signal processing modes for experimenting with different sound profiles. For purists, a ‘stream direct’ mode bypasses these processing modes for the most unadulterated audio reproduction.
Conclusion: The Pioneer VSX-521 – A Smart Choice for Budget-Conscious Audiophiles
Pioneer has made strategic compromises with the VSX-521 to achieve its affordable price point. The entry-level MCACC calibration is less sophisticated than their Advanced MCACC, and the absence of an on-screen display necessitates navigating settings via the front panel. The use of spring-clip terminals for the center channel is also a minor drawback.
However, despite these limitations, the Pioneer VSX-521 stands out as a surprisingly capable and entertaining AV receiver. The inclusion of pre-outs for 7.1 surround sound is a valuable feature often absent in this price range. If you are seeking a 5.1-channel AV receiver that prioritizes engaging sound quality and offers a distinctly musical character, the Pioneer VSX-521 is undoubtedly a strong contender and a smart investment for your home theater.
Edited by Charles Kloet
