Pioneer VSX-1021-K: In Depth
The Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver stands out with an impressive array of features, including integrated AirPlay, five HDMI inputs, and DLNA compatibility. Network connectivity is versatile, offering both an Ethernet port and optional Wi-Fi dongle support. Control is made easy with Pioneer’s iControlAV2 app for Apple iOS devices. The receiver’s graphical user interface, while not the most visually stunning, presents a step up from interfaces like Denon’s. Crucially, the audio performance of the VSX-1021-K is genuinely excellent, delivering high-quality sound for a rich home theater experience.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Pioneer’s warranty is limited to one year, which is less than the two-year coverage offered by many competitors in the AV receiver market. While five HDMI inputs are generally sufficient, some competing models offer a more convenient front-panel HDMI port for easy access. Furthermore, the VSX-1021-K provides limited built-in support for direct music streaming services, making it most suitable for users within the Apple ecosystem who utilize AirPlay. The Wi-Fi dongle option, while providing wireless capability, comes with a steep price tag of $150, which may deter some potential buyers.
In Conclusion: The Pioneer VSX-1021-K is a strong contender in the AV receiver category, boasting built-in AirPlay and exceptional sound reproduction. Yet, the Denon AVR-1912 presents a slightly more compelling overall package with a broader feature set and longer warranty, making it a marginally better choice for most users.
Pioneer has long been recognized as a leading innovator in the realm of mid-range AV receivers. They were among the first to introduce convenient features like direct iPod and iPhone USB connections, complete with included cables. Continuing this trend of user-centric innovation, Pioneer introduced the VSX-1021-K, emphasizing seamless wireless music streaming from iOS devices such as iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touches via Apple’s AirPlay technology. Beyond AirPlay, the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver is packed with a host of appealing functionalities, including five HDMI inputs, DLNA certification for network media streaming, and compatibility with Pioneer’s iControlAV2 iOS remote application. Importantly, the VSX-1021-K is not just feature-rich; it also delivers impressive sound quality, making it a capable centerpiece for any home theater system.
Despite its impressive feature set, the VSX-1021-K doesn’t quite reach the pinnacle of the 2011 mid-range receiver rankings. The Denon AVR-1912 slightly outperforms it, offering not only AirPlay but also an additional HDMI input, a more generous two-year warranty, broader built-in streaming media service compatibility, and marginally superior sound quality. Nevertheless, the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver secures its position as a top-tier receiver, ranking as our second-favorite of the year. For users who prioritize AirPlay integration and excellent sound and find the Denon’s on-screen interface less appealing, the VSX-1021-K could very well be the preferred choice.
Design Aesthetics
While a deep dive into the nuanced design elements of the VSX-1021-K could be undertaken, the fundamental truth is that it adheres to the established aesthetic norms of AV receivers: it’s essentially a large, black box. Its dimensions – 17.2 inches in width, 6.6 inches in height, and 14.3 inches in depth – demand a substantial amount of shelf space. Prospective buyers should ensure they have adequate room to accommodate this unit in their entertainment setup.
The front panel of the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver features a glossy finish. While personal preferences vary, we found the matte finish of competitors like the Denon AVR-1912 and Onkyo TX-NR609 to be slightly more appealing. In general, there’s room for innovation in AV receiver design, moving beyond the standard black box. Models like the Marantz NR1601 from the previous year hinted at a more forward-thinking design direction. However, for the most part, AV receivers in this category maintain a fairly uniform look.
Remote Control and App Functionality
AV receiver remotes are notorious for their complexity and user-unfriendliness, and the VSX-1021-K’s remote is no exception, even by those low standards. The buttons are remarkably small, including critical controls like the volume adjustment. Many buttons have secondary functions indicated by blue or white labels, requiring users to memorize obscure acronyms like “A.ATT,” “MPX,” and “PQLS” to understand their operation. The simpler remote included with the Onkyo TX-NR609 is significantly more user-friendly. For any owner of the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver (or similar models), investing in a quality universal remote is highly recommended to streamline control of a home theater system.
Navigating the Pioneer VSX-1021-K’s remote can be challenging, even for experienced home theater users.
For an alternative control method, the VSX-1021-K is compatible with Pioneer’s iControlAV2 iOS app. The app boasts an attractive interface, particularly on iPads, but many of its features lean towards being more gimmicky than practical. The “emphasize” and “balance” sections allow for sound processing adjustments by tilting the iOS device or drawing EQ curves with a finger, but precise control proves difficult.
While visually appealing on an iPad, the iControlAV2 app’s everyday utility is questionable.
The “control” section of the app offers the most practical functionality, enabling volume adjustments and input selection. However, even with the app, a universal remote remains the preferred method for managing a complete home theater setup. The app’s primary advantage might be for quick AirPlay activation, allowing users to power on the receiver directly from their iOS device, which is likely already in hand for music playback.
User Interface Experience
Pioneer markets the VSX-1021-K as having a “full-color” graphical user interface. However, this is somewhat overstated. The majority of the menus are rendered in basic black-and-white text at a relatively low resolution. Blue accents are occasionally present in setup menus, but overall, the interface feels dated compared to the vibrant, high-definition interfaces found on devices like Blu-ray players or Apple TVs. Despite this, the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver‘s interface is notably better than the user interface found on Denon receivers of the same era.
The home menu of the VSX-1021-K is basic in appearance, but it’s not something users will interact with frequently.
When utilizing AirPlay, the VSX-1021-K can display album art and artist details on the connected display.
The color capabilities of the interface become more apparent when using AirPlay, where album art and song information are displayed. While not flawless – album art aspect ratios can be inconsistent, and it only functions with locally stored music, not streaming services like Pandora or Rhapsody – it’s still a welcome visual enhancement. However, a key benefit of AirPlay is the ability to stream music without needing to turn on the TV, potentially diminishing the practical use of this visual feature.
AirPlay Integration
The integrated AirPlay functionality of the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver lives up to the hype. Once connected to a home network (via Ethernet or the optional Wi-Fi adapter), streaming music from an iOS device is remarkably simple. Users just play a song, tap the AirPlay icon, and select the VSX-1021-K. Music streamed through the iPod app displays full album art and artist information on the TV, and volume can be controlled directly from the iOS device. This creates a seamless and enjoyable user experience, allowing for effortless music streaming and receiver control from the comfort of a couch.
AirPlay setup and streaming on the VSX-1021-K is as straightforward as selecting the receiver from the iOS device’s AirPlay menu.
AirPlay extends beyond Apple’s ecosystem, working with numerous third-party apps. Streaming music from services like Pandora and Rhapsody through AirPlay is seamless. Furthermore, AirPlay isn’t limited to iOS devices. Using Apple’s Remote app, users can stream music from an iTunes library on a networked computer, using either an iOS device or the computer itself as the remote.
Users can also leverage a computer running iTunes as an AirPlay source and remote for the VSX-1021-K, providing flexibility beyond iOS devices.
While the VSX-1021-K’s AirPlay capabilities are impressive, they don’t fully replicate the experience of an Apple TV, as video streaming is not supported. This limitation raises a valid question: is it more practical to opt for a less expensive AV receiver and a dedicated Apple TV box? This is a worthwhile consideration, especially given the ease of upgrading an Apple TV to newer models with enhanced features as they become available.
For a more comprehensive exploration of AirPlay functionality and the VSX-1021-K, refer to dedicated in-depth resources.
Feature Breakdown
| Key AV receiver features |
|---|
| Channels |
| Graphical user interface |
| Warranty |
The Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver matches its competitors in essential AV receiver features, with the notable exception of the warranty, which is limited to one year, shorter than the common two-year standard. While AV receiver failures are not frequent, the higher cost of these devices warrants a longer warranty period for greater peace of mind.
| iPod/iPhone features chart |
|---|
| AirPlay |
| iOS remote app |
| Other: AirJam |
The VSX-1021-K boasts a comprehensive suite of iPod and iPhone features, exceeding competitors by even including an iPod USB cable – a valuable inclusion considering Apple’s separate cost for these accessories. Pioneer’s AirJam feature, which allows multiple iOS devices to collaboratively create a group playlist, is also included. However, its appeal is limited by the requirement of an optional Bluetooth adapter.
| HDMI features |
|---|
| HDMI version |
| Audio return channel |
The VSX-1021-K, in line with other mid-range receivers of its generation, supports key HDMI 1.4a features, including 3D pass-through and audio return channel. Standby pass-through, which allows audio and video signals to pass to the TV even when the receiver is off, is also supported. HDMI Ethernet channel, a feature not yet common in mid-range receivers at the time, is not included.
| Video connectivity |
|---|
| HDMI inputs |
| Composite video inputs |
| Other: None |
For the majority of home theater setups, the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver provides ample connectivity with its five HDMI inputs. However, compared to competitors like the Denon AVR-1912, Onkyo TX-NR609, and Yamaha RX-V671, which offer six HDMI inputs, users with extensive device collections might find the VSX-1021-K slightly limiting. The absence of a front-panel HDMI input, a convenient feature found on the Onkyo TX-NR609 and Yamaha RX-V671 for temporary connections, is also worth noting.
| Audio connectivity |
|---|
| Optical inputs |
| Stereo analog audio inputs |
| Other: None |
While the VSX-1021-K offers a total of four digital audio inputs, surpassing the two found on the Denon AVR-1912, the practical benefit of this increased number is debatable for most users. Audiophiles should note that, in common with other 2011 mid-range receivers, the VSX-1021-K lacks multichannel analog inputs and a phono input. Users requiring these features would need to consider higher-end receiver models.
| Network features |
|---|
| Ethernet |
| Wi-Fi dongle |
| DLNA-compatible |
| Internet radio |
| Other: None |
The limited built-in streaming service support of the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver is mitigated by its AirPlay capability. Users primarily within the Apple ecosystem can readily stream services through their iOS devices. For those outside the Apple ecosystem, streaming services can still be accessed via external devices like Blu-ray players or Apple TVs, potentially representing a more versatile approach overall.
The VSX-1021-K’s DLNA compliance enables streaming of music from DLNA-compatible devices on a home network. Android users can utilize DLNA apps like Skifta to achieve AirPlay-like functionality, allowing for music streaming to the receiver.
| Audio decoding features |
|---|
| Dolby TrueHD |
| Dolby Pro Logic IIz |
| Other: None |
As expected for a receiver in its class, the VSX-1021-K supports all standard HD audio codecs, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. While it doesn’t incorporate Audyssey audio processing features, Pioneer offers its proprietary sound modes that provide similar functionalities.
| Additional features |
|---|
| THX-certified |
| USB port |
| Other: IR input/outputs |
While satellite radio support is becoming less common, the Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver retains a port for connecting an external satellite radio tuner. A Bluetooth dongle is available from Pioneer, albeit at a relatively high cost. Features commonly sought by home theater enthusiasts but absent in 2011 mid-range receivers like the VSX-1021-K include pre-outs, HD Radio, and RS-232 ports, typically found in higher-priced models.
| Multiroom features |
|---|
| Line-level 2nd zone outputs |
The VSX-1021-K supports second-zone audio via both powered and line-level outputs, eliminating the need for a separate amplifier in the second zone. However, limitations exist regarding source selection for multiroom playback. HDMI and digital audio inputs cannot be output to the second zone, restricting second-zone audio primarily to sources like internet radio.
Audio Calibration and Setup
Pioneer’s MCACC (Multi Channel Acoustic Calibration) automatic speaker calibration system simplifies setup by determining speaker sizes and distances, setting speaker levels and subwoofer volume, and calculating crossover points. The VSX-1021-K’s “Full Auto MCACC” enhances this with nine-band equalization for each speaker and room-tuning adjustments. Unlike Audyssey systems that require multiple measurement positions, MCACC achieves comparable accuracy with a single microphone position, completing the autosetup process in under 7 minutes.
Pioneer recommends using a tripod to position the included calibration microphone at the listening position for optimal MCACC results.
Post-calibration, verification confirmed that MCACC accurately identified speaker sizes and distances for our Aperion Intimus 4T Hybrid SD reference speaker system. The subwoofer distance measurement was slightly off, but still within a reasonable margin of error compared to other autosetup systems.
Performance Evaluation
The soundtrack of “Black Swan,” Darren Aronofsky’s acclaimed film, served as a detailed test for audio fidelity. The Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver reproduced subtle nuances like Natalie Portman’s character’s breathing, costume rustles, and foot movements with exceptional clarity. The studio musicians’ piano and violin recordings filled the listening space with remarkable realism, creating a sense of presence within the scene. Off-screen audio cues, like a piano positioned to the right, were accurately projected, extending beyond the physical speaker placement.
Comparing the same scenes with a Denon AVR-1912 revealed a slightly warmer sonic character in the Denon. The VSX-1021-K tended to emphasize the midrange and treble frequencies more, resulting in a more immediate and present soundstage compared to the AVR-1912. While neither receiver was definitively “better,” they offered distinct sonic profiles. In orchestral passages later in the film, the VSX-1021-K rendered string tones with excellent detail and clarity. In darkened listening conditions, the soundstage created by the Aperion speakers and the VSX-1021-K was immersive and expansive, effectively disappearing the speakers from the perceived sound field.
To assess the VSX-1021-K’s power handling, Led Zeppelin’s high-resolution “How the West Was Won” DVD-Audio disc was employed. At high volumes, tracks like “Whole Lotta Love” and “Dazed And Confused” were engaging, but the Denon AVR-1912 maintained composure at louder levels, whereas the VSX-1021-K exhibited signs of strain when pushed to its limits. With acoustic Zeppelin tracks like “Going to California,” the performance difference between the two receivers narrowed. The VSX-1021-K demonstrated excellent bass definition, likely attributable to Pioneer’s MCACC and sound processing.
At more moderate but still loud listening levels, the VSX-1021-K handled action-heavy scenes from the “I, Robot” Blu-ray with ease. Gunfire and high-speed car chases were reproduced with impact and dynamism, showcasing the receiver’s ability to deliver powerful and engaging home theater audio.
Playback of Bon Iver’s “Flume” in Apple Lossless format from an iPod Classic through the VSX-1021-K was comparable in quality to CD playback on an Oppo BDP-93 Blu-ray player. Acoustic guitar and layered vocals were rendered with clarity and detail.
Final Verdict
The Pioneer VSX-1021 AV receiver remains a compelling option, offering built-in AirPlay and impressive sound quality. However, the Denon AVR-1912 offers a slightly more comprehensive package and edges it out as a marginally better overall choice in the mid-range AV receiver category.
