The Pioneer VSX-1020-K emerged as a strong contender in the mid-range AV receiver market, building upon the success of its predecessor, the VSX-1019AH-K, which secured our Editors’ Choice award in 2009. This 2010 model aimed to maintain Pioneer’s reputation for excellent sound quality while enhancing connectivity options. The VSX-1020-K boasts a suite of features designed to cater to the needs of home theater enthusiasts, but how does it truly stack up in a competitive landscape? Let’s delve into a comprehensive review of its design, features, performance, and overall value.
Design and Aesthetics
Pioneer has maintained a consistent design language for its AV receivers, and the VSX-1020-K is no exception. It features a sleek, glossy black front panel that exudes a sense of understated sophistication. The symmetrical layout, with equally sized knobs flanking a central LCD display, contributes to a balanced and visually appealing aesthetic. For users who prefer a clean front panel, a removable cover on the lower right conceals additional connectivity options, including a convenient front-facing HDMI port and a USB port designed for seamless iPod and iPhone integration.
In terms of size, the VSX-1020-K is a full-size AV receiver, meaning it requires ample space within an AV cabinet. Its dimensions, measuring 16.55 inches wide, 6.23 inches high, and 14.93 inches deep, are comparable to other receivers in its class, such as the Sony STR-DN1010 and Yamaha RX-V667. While not as slim as the Marantz NR1601, its standard size ensures robust build quality and sufficient internal space for heat dissipation and component integration.
Remote Control and App Functionality
The included remote control for the VSX-1020-K follows the typical AV receiver remote design, which unfortunately translates to a cluttered layout with numerous small, similarly sized buttons. This design makes tactile navigation challenging, particularly in dimly lit home theater environments. The volume controls, while present, are positioned somewhat awkwardly towards the upper right, potentially requiring a slight hand adjustment for comfortable access. The remote’s attempt to control multiple devices adds another layer of complexity, as it defaults to controlling the selected input device, necessitating a separate “receiver” button press to regain control of the VSX-1020-K itself. Users seeking a more streamlined control experience might consider investing in a universal remote to simplify their home theater operation.
However, Pioneer offers a supplementary control option via its iControl app for iPhone users. When the VSX-1020-K is connected to a network via Ethernet, the iControl app enables basic control functions such as volume adjustment, input switching, and surround mode selection. While the app offers a slightly more user-friendly interface for input selection compared to the physical remote, its sound adjustment features, which rely on tilting the device, are less precise than traditional controls. Furthermore, advanced settings like input renaming and internet radio station configuration remain inaccessible through the app. While the iControl app represents a step towards modernizing AV receiver control, it functions more as a supplementary tool rather than a comprehensive replacement for a well-designed physical remote or a more feature-rich control interface.
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
The VSX-1020-K incorporates a graphical user interface (GUI) to simplify setup and navigation. While the GUI is functional, its aesthetic is utilitarian, lacking visual flair and employing standard definition graphics. Despite its basic appearance, the GUI provides a valuable on-screen display for tasks such as input assignment and manual speaker setup. However, certain functions, like inputting URLs for internet radio stations, remain cumbersome due to the absence of an on-screen keyboard. Although a PC-based station adding option exists, it might prove challenging for less tech-savvy users. Beyond setup, the GUI enhances iPod and Bluetooth device connectivity by displaying album art and track information, adding a visual dimension to the audio experience. Overall, the GUI prioritizes functionality over visual appeal, providing essential features without being particularly user-friendly or aesthetically pleasing.
Feature Set: Connectivity and Capabilities
The Pioneer VSX-1020-K is positioned as a feature-rich mid-range AV receiver, offering a comprehensive set of capabilities for home theater setups.
Key Features Summary:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Channels | 7.1 |
| Analog Video Upconversion | Yes |
| Graphical User Interface | Yes |
| Automatic Speaker Calibration | Yes |
| Warranty | 1-year |
While features like analog video upconversion and graphical user interfaces were once considered premium additions, they have become standard in this price range. The VSX-1020-K’s feature set aligns with its competitors, though its one-year warranty is less generous than the two-year or longer warranties offered by most other brands.
HDMI and Video Capabilities:
| HDMI Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| HDMI Version | 1.4a |
| 3D Pass-through | Yes |
| Audio Return Channel (ARC) | No |
| Standby Pass-through | No |
Equipped with HDMI 1.4a, the VSX-1020-K supports 3D pass-through, a relevant feature for users with 3D-capable displays. However, it lacks audio return channel (ARC) functionality and standby pass-through, features present in competing receivers. The absence of ARC means audio from a compatible TV’s built-in tuner or streaming apps cannot be sent back to the receiver via HDMI, potentially requiring a separate optical audio cable. Standby pass-through, which allows HDMI signals to pass through the receiver even when it’s in standby mode, is also missing, meaning connected devices cannot be used without fully powering on the receiver.
Audio Decoding and Processing:
| Audio Decoding | Support |
|---|---|
| Dolby TrueHD | Yes |
| DTS-HD Master Audio | Yes |
| Dolby ProLogic IIz | Yes |
| Neural-THX | Yes |
| Auto Level Control | Yes |
In terms of audio decoding, the VSX-1020-K supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, essential for high-resolution audio playback from Blu-ray discs. It also includes Dolby Pro Logic IIz, which adds front height channels for a more immersive vertical soundstage. Unlike some competitors that utilize Audyssey sound processing, Pioneer employs its proprietary technologies like Auto Level Control and MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration), which will be discussed further in the setup section.
Connectivity Options:
| Video Connectivity | Inputs |
|---|---|
| HDMI Inputs | 6 |
| Component Video Inputs | 2 |
| Composite Video Inputs | 4 |
| Max Connected HD Devices | 8 |
The VSX-1020-K excels in video connectivity, offering a generous six HDMI inputs, including one conveniently located on the front panel. This abundance of HDMI inputs surpasses many competitors in its class, providing ample connectivity for multiple high-definition sources.
| Audio Connectivity | Inputs |
|---|---|
| Optical Inputs | 2 |
| Coaxial Inputs | 2 |
| Stereo Analog Audio Inputs | 6 |
| Multichannel Analog Inputs | No |
| Minijack Input | No |
| Phono Input | No |
Audio connectivity is well-rounded, though it reflects the industry trend of reduced analog audio inputs in favor of digital connections. The VSX-1020-K offers a standard set of digital audio inputs, but omits multichannel analog inputs and a phono input, features that are becoming less common in modern AV receivers. The absence of a minijack input is a notable omission, as it limits direct connectivity for portable audio players without adapters.
Additional Features:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| iPod Connectivity | USB (cable included) |
| Satellite Radio | Sirius |
| USB Port | 1 |
| IR Input/Output | Yes |
| Ethernet | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Optional (with $100 AS-BT100 adapter) |
Further enhancing its feature set, the VSX-1020-K offers direct iPod and iPhone connectivity via USB with an included cable. It also supports Sirius satellite radio and includes an Ethernet port for internet radio streaming, although its functionality is somewhat limited. Bluetooth audio streaming is possible via an optional, separately purchased adapter.
Multi-room Capabilities:
| Multi-room Feature | Support |
|---|---|
| Line Level 2nd Zone Outputs | Yes |
| Powered 2nd Zone Outputs | Yes |
For multi-room audio setups, the VSX-1020-K provides both line-level and powered second-zone outputs, offering flexibility in distributing audio to another room.
Audio Setup with MCACC
Pioneer’s MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration) system simplifies speaker setup and room optimization. The basic MCACC automatically determines speaker sizes, distances, levels, and subwoofer crossover. The “Full Auto MCACC” on the VSX-1020-K expands upon this with speaker equalization and room tuning. Unlike Audyssey systems that require multiple microphone positions, MCACC uses a single microphone position for its measurements, streamlining the calibration process.
For optimal results, Pioneer recommends using a tripod for the included calibration microphone. The MCACC process involves the receiver emitting a series of test tones and sounds through each speaker and the subwoofer, analyzing the room acoustics and speaker response. The entire process typically takes around five minutes.
In testing, MCACC accurately identified speaker sizes and distances and effectively optimized the audio output. The equalization and room tuning adjustments were found to enhance the sound quality, with manual adjustments proving less effective than the automated MCACC settings.
Audio Performance: Sound Quality and Listening Experience
The Pioneer VSX-1020-K delivers impressive audio performance, particularly for a mid-range receiver. In listening tests with high-resolution audio sources like the Grateful Dead’s “American Beauty” DualDisc, the receiver reproduced instruments and vocals with remarkable naturalness and clarity. The bass response was deep and well-defined, effectively leveraging the connected speaker system’s capabilities.
Comparisons with the Sony STR-DN1010 revealed distinct sonic characteristics. While the Sony exhibited a warmer tonal balance, the Pioneer VSX-1020-K presented a leaner but subjectively more accurate sound profile. The Pioneer also demonstrated superior bass control and definition compared to the Sony, along with more precise imaging in surround sound scenarios.
During demanding movie scenes, such as the plane crash sequence in “Flight of the Phoenix,” the VSX-1020-K showcased its power reserves and surround sound capabilities. Low-frequency effects were effectively reproduced, creating a room-filling and immersive experience, even with smaller surround speakers. The receiver’s bass management system seamlessly integrated the subwoofer, creating the illusion of bass emanating from all around the listener. While higher-end receivers and separates may offer even greater visceral impact, the VSX-1020-K performed admirably in reproducing dynamic and demanding movie soundtracks.
The VSX-1020-K’s Midnight mode effectively reduced volume fluctuations in movies, making late-night viewing sessions more comfortable without significantly compromising sound quality. Stereo CD playback was also excellent, with a spacious and detailed presentation, highlighting the receiver’s musicality.
Conclusion: A Strong Mid-Range Contender
The Pioneer VSX-1020-K stands out as a compelling mid-range AV receiver, offering a strong combination of features, performance, and value. Its excellent sound quality, particularly for music and movies, is a key strength, complemented by ample HDMI connectivity and user-friendly features like iPod/iPhone integration and a functional GUI. While it lacks some of the latest HDMI features like ARC and standby pass-through, and its remote control could be more user-friendly, these are minor drawbacks in the context of its overall capabilities. The VSX-1020-K represents a solid choice for home theater enthusiasts seeking a high-performing and feature-rich AV receiver in the mid-price range. Although the Denon AVR-1911 was noted as a slightly better performer overall, the Pioneer VSX-1020-K remains a highly competitive option worthy of consideration.
