The Pioneer VSX-94TXH 7.1 A/V Receiver was a flagship product when it was released, and it aimed to deliver top-tier performance and features for home theater enthusiasts. As a successor in Pioneer’s Elite line, the VSX-94TXH had a lot to live up to, and it entered a competitive market segment. Let’s delve into a detailed review of this receiver, examining its specifications, features, performance, and overall value proposition.
Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH: Specifications Overview
Before diving into the performance and subjective aspects, it’s crucial to lay out the specifications of the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH. This provides a foundation for understanding its capabilities and limitations.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| HD Audio Support | Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, dts-HD Master Audio |
| DSP | 3rd Gen. Analog Devices SHARC + 48-Bit Freescale DSP |
| Power Ratings | 7 x 140 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, <.09%THD) |
| Audio DAC | 192 kHz/24bit DAC x 7 |
| HDMI | 1.3a with Deep Color, 24p, SACD/DVD-Audio support |
| Crossover Frequencies | 50, 80, 100, 150, 200Hz |
| Remote | Programmable/learning (glow keys, not backlit) |
| Video Inputs | 4 x HDMI 1.3, 3 x Component, 7 x Composite/S-Video |
| Video Outputs | 1 x Component, 3 x Composite/S-Video, Multi-Zone Composite |
| Audio Inputs | 7.1 Multi-channel, 6 x Digital (4 Optical, 2 Coaxial), 8 x Analog |
| Audio Outputs | 2 x Optical Digital, Multi-Zone Stereo Pre-out, 7.1 Pre-out |
| Other Connections | RS-232C, Remote I/O, 2 x 12V Triggers |
| Dimensions | 16 9/16″ x 7 3/8″ x 18 1/16″ |
| Weight | 41.1 lbs |
| THX Certification | Select2 |
| Video Processing | Faroudja DCDi |
| Room EQ | MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System) |
| Home Media Gallery | Internet Radio, Neural Music Direct |
This robust set of specifications indicates that the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH was designed to be a feature-rich and powerful centerpiece for a high-end home theater system.
Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH: Pros and Cons
Like any piece of technology, the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these helps to paint a balanced picture of the receiver’s overall value.
Pros:
- THX Select2 Certified: Guarantees a certain level of audio performance and fidelity.
- 4 HDMI 1.3a Inputs: Accommodates multiple high-definition sources with the latest HDMI standards at the time.
- Deep Color and xvYCC Support: Supports enhanced color spaces for compatible video content.
- RS-232C Control & Dual 12V Triggers: Facilitates integration with custom installation and home automation systems.
- Home Media Gallery System: Offers network streaming capabilities for internet radio and potentially other media.
- Solid Power Output: Rated at 140W per channel across seven channels.
- HD Audio Format Support: Decodes Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio for high-resolution audio playback.
- Faroudja DCDi Video Processing: Provides upscaling and deinterlacing of standard definition video.
Cons:
- No Zone 2/3 Remote: Lacks a dedicated remote for controlling additional audio zones.
- S/PDIF and HDMI Source Conflict: Requires front panel setting adjustments when using S/PDIF audio with HDMI video.
- Cluttered Remote Control (No Backlight): The remote design is criticized for being overly complex and lacking backlighting.
- Non-Removable Power Cord: A minor inconvenience for some users.
- Confusing Setup/Menu Interface: The on-screen menu system is described as convoluted and not user-friendly.
- Heatsink Design: The heatsinks were noted as appearing less robust than expected for a flagship product.
- Limited Zone 2 Flexibility: Zone 2 functionality is not as versatile as some competitors, lacking dedicated speaker outputs and experiencing source switching limitations.
First Impressions and Build Quality of the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH
The Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH makes a strong first impression with its piano gloss finish and clean front panel. Unlike some competitors that prominently display technology logos on the front, Pioneer opted to place these on the top edge, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and uncluttered appearance. The receiver features a solid input selection knob on the left and a weighty master volume control on the right, both with a quality feel. The front panel door conceals additional controls, inputs like Video/Game 2 and USB, and the MCACC microphone jack, maintaining the clean look when closed.
Front view of the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH receiver, highlighting its clean design and piano gloss finish.
Internally, the VSX-94TXH features a large EI core transformer and substantial 15,000 uF capacitors, indicating a robust power supply capable of meeting the amplifier section’s demands. However, the heatsinks were noted as being somewhat thin and less impressive visually compared to what might be expected in a flagship receiver, though functionally they seemed adequate.
Setting Up the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH
Initial setup of the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH involves navigating the on-screen menu, starting with manual speaker configuration and crossover settings. The Auto MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System) can then be employed for automated speaker setup and room correction. Input setup is straightforward for the most part, but a specific issue was encountered when using a DVI-D to HDMI connection for video and digital coax for audio from a CableTV box. The receiver did not automatically recognize the coax audio input, requiring manual adjustment via the “Signal Sel” function on the front panel or remote to switch the audio input to digital.
The rear panel of the VSX-94TXH is reasonably organized, although the abundance of legacy S-video and composite video inputs seems excessive in a modern receiver. Four HDMI inputs should suffice for most users, but the absence of a second HDMI output is a notable omission. A key limitation is the lack of dedicated Zone 2 speaker terminals. While the surround back channels can be re-assigned for Zone 2 or bi-amping, this requires physical cable switching and limits simultaneous 7.1 channel and Zone 2 operation with powered speakers.
Rear panel connectivity of the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH receiver, showcasing HDMI, component, and audio input/output options.
Multi-Room and Zone Capabilities
The Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH offers multi-zone capabilities, but with some caveats. For Zone 2, users can utilize the assignable surround back amplifiers, line-level pre-outs, or a digital Zone 3 output. However, running a powered Zone 2 alongside a 7.1 channel setup is not practical due to the shared amplifier channels. Zone 2 audio source selection is also linked to the main zone, meaning changing the source in the main zone will interrupt audio in Zone 2 if they share the same source.
Zone 3 is implemented as a digital TOSLINK output, allowing digital audio to be sent to another receiver in a different zone. This works with Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo PCM sources. However, shared sources like the AM/FM tuner or XM radio are not independently selectable across zones. The assignable surround back amplifiers can be configured for various purposes including:
- Surround Back System (Default): Standard 7.1 surround sound.
- Speaker B: Second set of main speakers in another room.
- Front Bi-Amp: Bi-amplifying the front main speakers.
- Zone 2: Powered Zone 2 operation.
While flexible, the multi-zone implementation of the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH is not as seamless or feature-rich as some competitors, particularly concerning independent zone control and dedicated outputs.
Advanced Setup and Menu Navigation
The Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH’s on-screen display and menu system are criticized for being convoluted and disorganized. The menu structure does not follow an intuitive flow, making navigation challenging. The Auto MCACC setup is prominently featured, with manual settings buried deeper in the menu. Some menu item names are also considered obscure and confusing.
The MCACC system itself is comprehensive, offering accurate speaker level and distance calibration. It includes features like:
- Auto MCACC: Automated speaker setup and room correction.
- Manual MCACC: Fine-tuning of MCACC settings.
- Standing Wave Control: Parametric EQ for addressing bass modes in the room.
- EQ Adjust: Manual EQ adjustment.
- EQ Professional: Advanced EQ adjustment via RS-232C and PC software, providing a graphical interface for detailed room correction.
- Full Band Phase Control: A system to optimize phase alignment between speaker drivers.
Despite the powerful MCACC features, the overall menu usability is a significant drawback, requiring frequent consultation of the user manual.
Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH AXD7504 Remote Control
The AXD7504 remote control included with the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH is described as cluttered and poorly designed. It features a large number of small, tightly packed buttons with a confusing layout and no backlighting, making it difficult to use in a dimly lit home theater environment. Source selection is done via top row buttons, with secondary functions accessible via a ‘Shift’ key. Accessing the setup menu requires pressing a ‘Receiver’ button first.
Programming the remote to control third-party devices proved to be problematic. Pre-programmed codes were not effective for some devices, and even learning commands button-by-button was necessary in some cases. The remote is considered a significant weak point of the VSX-94TXH, with a recommendation for users to consider a universal remote control instead.
Home Media Gallery and Video Bench Testing
The Home Media Gallery feature, offering internet radio and network media streaming, is described as slow and clunky in its user interface. Navigation is sluggish, with noticeable delays between input and on-screen response. Setting up the network connection is relatively straightforward, particularly with DHCP, but the overall user experience is not polished.
Video processing performance was evaluated using the Audioholics/HQV Benchmark DVD. The Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH achieved a benchmark score of 76 out of a perfect 130.
| Test | Max Points | VSX-94TXH Results | Pass/Fail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color Bar | 10 | 5 | Pass |
| Jaggies #1 | 5 | 5 | Pass |
| Jaggies #2 | 5 | 5 | Pass |
| Flag | 10 | 10 | Pass |
| Detail | 10 | 10 | Pass |
| Noise | 10 | 5 | Pass |
| Motion Adaptive Noise Reduction | 10 | 0 | Fail |
| Film Detail | 10 | 10 | Pass |
| Cadence Tests (Various) | 45 | 1 | Fail |
| Cadence 3:2 24fps film | 5 | 5 | Pass |
| Scrolling Horizontal | 10 | 10 | Pass |
| Scrolling Rolling | 10 | 10 | Pass |
| Total Points | 130 | 76 |
The Faroudja DCDi video processing showed decent performance in upconverting standard definition video, although the Color Bar test revealed some slight blurring. Overall, the video processing is considered adequate for standard definition sources. The Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH supports HD audio bitstreaming via HDMI 1.3a, ensuring proper decoding of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio formats.
Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH Listening Tests
Listening tests were conducted in a dedicated home theater room using a high-quality RBH Sound CinemaSITE 5.1 speaker system and reference-grade source components. Two-channel and multi-channel audio performance were evaluated using a variety of music sources.
Two-Channel Audio Performance:
CDs from Porcupine Tree and Damien Rice were used to assess two-channel audio quality. The Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH demonstrated excellent dynamics, resolution, and headroom. It was able to deliver clean and powerful audio even at high listening levels. Midrange articulation, imaging, and bass response were all praised.
Multi-Channel Audio Performance:
DTS CDs from The Eagles and DVD-Audio discs from Laurence Juber and The Carl Verheyen Band were used to evaluate multi-channel performance. The receiver excelled at creating an immersive and detailed surround sound field. It handled complex musical passages with finesse and maintained clarity across all channels. Dynamics, reverb reproduction, and the ability to convey the nuances of high-resolution audio formats were highlighted as strengths.
Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH Measurements and Analysis
Audioholics performed detailed bench measurements on the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH using an Audio Precision analyzer.
Key Measurement Results:
- Frequency Response: Flat to 20kHz, -3dB point at 80kHz, indicating excellent bandwidth for high-resolution audio.
- Power Output ( <0.1% THD+N):
- 1 channel, 8 ohms: 165W
- 2 channels, 8 ohms: 155W per channel
- 1 channel, 4 ohms: 270W
- 2 channels, 4 ohms: 225W per channel
- These measurements exceed the receiver’s 140W per channel rating, especially into 4 ohms.
- FFT Distortion Analysis: Distortion at near full rated power was measured at 0.013% THD+N, considered average for its class.
- SNR @ 1 watt: Signal-to-noise ratio was measured at 75dB (unweighted), a good result.
- Output Impedance: Output impedance was around 150 mohms across the audible frequency range, higher than some competitors, potentially leading to subtle sonic differences with various speaker loads.
- Damping Factor: Damping factor was commensurate with the output impedance, maintaining a minimum of 50 into 8 ohms.
Frequency Response measurement of the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH, showing its wide bandwidth.
FFT Distortion Analysis of the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH at full rated power, illustrating its distortion characteristics.
The measurements confirmed that the Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH is a powerful receiver with ample power reserves, particularly into lower impedance loads. Distortion and noise performance were good, although output impedance was slightly higher than some competitors.
Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH: Conclusion and Overall Value
The Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH is a well-built and powerful 7.1 channel AV receiver that delivers excellent audio and video performance. Its strengths lie in its robust power output, support for HD audio formats, effective video processing, and advanced MCACC room correction system. The Home Media Gallery adds network streaming functionality, albeit with a less-than-ideal user interface.
However, the VSX-94TXH also has notable drawbacks, including a confusing menu system, a cluttered and poorly designed remote control, limited Zone 2 flexibility, and some minor ergonomic quirks. While it offers a compelling package, the competitive landscape at its price point suggests that potential buyers should explore all available options before making a decision. For users prioritizing power and Pioneer’s signature sound, the Elite VSX-94TXH remains a strong contender.
Audioholics Rating:
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response Linearity | Excellent |
| SNR | Very Good |
| Output Impedance | Good |
| Measured Power (8-ohms) | Excellent |
| Measured Power (4-ohms) | Excellent |
| Multi-channel Audio Performance | Excellent |
| Two-channel Audio Performance | Excellent |
| Network Features | Good |
| Video Processing | Very Good |
| Bass Management | Excellent |
| Build Quality | Very Good |
| Fit and Finish | Excellent |
| Ergonomics & Usability | Fair |
| Ease of Setup | Good |
| Features | Very Good |
| Remote Control | Fair |
| Performance | Very Good |
| Value | Good |
The Pioneer Elite VSX-94TXH is a capable and feature-rich receiver, but its usability issues and strong competition in the market mean it’s worth careful consideration alongside other options in its class.
