Product Name: VSX-94TXH
Manufacturer: Pioneer
Performance Rating: (To be determined based on review content)
Value Rating: (To be determined based on review content)
Review Date: April 28, 2008
MSRP: $1800
Pioneer VSX-94TXH Specifications: A Detailed Overview
| 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 | 50, 80, 100, 150, 200Hz |
| Remote | Programmable/learning (glow keys, no backlight) |
| Video Inputs | 4 x HDMI (1.3); 3 x Component Video (100MHz); 7 x Composite & S-video |
| Video Outputs | 1 x Component (100MHz), 3 x Composite/S-video, Multi-Zone Composite |
| Audio Inputs | 7.1 multi-channel, 6 assignable digital (4 optical, 2 coaxial), 8 analog |
| Audio Outputs | 2 optical digital, multi-zone stereo pre-amp, 7.1 pre-amp |
| Additional Connections | RS-232C, remote I/O, 2 assignable +12V triggers |
| Dimensions | 16 9/16″ x 7 3/8″ x 18 1/16″ |
| Weight | 41.1 lbs |
Pioneer VSX-94TXH: The Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros:
- THX Select2 Certification for enhanced audio performance
- 4 HDMI 1.3a inputs offering ample connectivity for HD sources
- Deep Color and xvYCC support for vibrant video
- RS-232C control & dual 12V triggers for custom integration
- Home Media Gallery system for network media access
Cons:
- No dedicated Zone 2/3 remote for multi-room control
- S/PDIF source with HDMI video requires inconvenient front panel setting adjustment
- Remote control is cluttered and lacks backlight, hindering usability
- Non-removable power cord limits placement flexibility
- Setup and Menu interface is considered confusing and not user-friendly
Introduction to the Pioneer VSX-94TXH Elite Receiver
Back in 2005, reviewing Pioneer’s entry-level VSX-815 receiver provided a perspective on balancing features and power in AV receivers. Fast forward to the Pioneer VSX-94TXH, a flagship Elite AV receiver, and the experience is significantly amplified. As a top-tier model, the VSX-94TXH enters a competitive landscape, needing to establish a clear advantage to lead in the premium AV receiver category. This review delves into whether the Pioneer VSX-94TXH distinguishes itself enough to warrant consideration among the best in its class.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH: Navigating the High-End AV Receiver Market
In the realm of flagship AV receivers, maintaining a competitive edge is crucial. Pioneer, with the VSX-94TXH, steps into a market filled with strong contenders. Let’s examine how it stacks up against competitors in a similar price range, noting key features and specifications:
| Manufacturer | Pioneer | Marantz | Denon | Yamaha | Onkyo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | VSX-94TXH | SR8002 | AVR-4308CI | RX-V3800 | TX-NR905 |
| MSRP | $1800 | $1999 | $2499 | $1699 | $2099 |
| Power | 140Wx7 | 125Wx7 | 140Wx7 | 140Wx7 | 140Wx7 |
| HDMI In/Out | 4/1 | 4/1/1 | 4/2 | 4/1 | 4/2 |
| HDMI Version | 1.3a | 1.3a | 1.3a | 1.3a | 1.3a |
| Deep Color | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| xvYCC | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HDMI Upconvert | 1080p | 480p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p |
| THX Cert. | Select2 | Select2 | No | No | Ultra2 |
| Room EQ | MCACC | MultEQ | MultEQ XT | YPAO | MultEQ XT |
| Video Proc. | DCDi | SD-only | DCDi | ABT1010 | Reon-VX |
The comparison reveals the Pioneer VSX-94TXH as a competitive offering, equipped with essential features at a reasonable price point within its category. Key highlights of the Pioneer VSX-94TXH include:
- THX Select2 Certified: Ensures a high standard of audio fidelity and performance.
- Home Media Gallery: Provides access to internet radio and network audio streaming via Neural Music Direct.
- Extensive HD Audio Support: Compatible with Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and dts-HD Master Audio for high-resolution audio playback.
- Advanced HDMI Capabilities: Supports Deep Color, xvYCC, and SACD via HDMI for enhanced video and audio signal handling.
- 1080p Upconversion: Enhances standard definition video signals to near-HD quality via HDMI.
- XM HD Surround: Leverages Neural THX Technologies for immersive XM HD Surround sound.
- Custom Installation Features: Includes RS-232C control and dual 12VDC triggers for advanced home automation integration.
- Multi-Zone Audio/Video: Offers 2nd Zone Audio/Video output for multi-room entertainment setups.
- Faroudja DCDi Video Processing: Known for superior deinterlacing and video enhancement.
First Impressions and Build Quality of the Pioneer VSX-94TXH
The Pioneer VSX-94TXH, preceding the SC-09TX, makes a striking visual statement with its piano gloss finish. Pioneer distinguishes itself by placing technology logos on the top edge, maintaining a clean and aesthetically pleasing front panel—a notable design improvement over many competitors. The receiver features a solid input selection knob on the left and a smoothly operating, heavily-weighted master volume control on the right. Input selection detents feel robust, and the volume adjusts in 1dB increments, which is generally sufficient for precise audio level adjustments. With the front panel door concealed, only six buttons and the standby/on function are visible, contributing to its minimalist facade. Notably, a hard power-off switch is absent, requiring users to unplug the unit to fully power it down from standby.
Opening the front panel reveals access to additional inputs like Video/Game 2, menu controls, tuner functions, headphone jack, USB storage device connectivity, and the MCACC microphone port. Multi-Zone controls and input signal type adjustments are also accessible, enhancing usability.
Internally, the Pioneer VSX-94TXH impresses with a large EI Core transformer and dual 15,000 uF capacitors, indicating a robust power supply capable of supporting its amplifier section. However, the relatively thin aluminum heatsinks appear somewhat underwhelming for a flagship product. Compared to competitors, the heatsink design seems less substantial, potentially affecting thermal performance under heavy loads, although in testing it proved adequate for its cooling needs. This observation is more about aesthetic expectations for a flagship model rather than a functional deficiency.
Setting Up the Pioneer VSX-94TXH Receiver: A User Experience Perspective
Initial setup of the Pioneer VSX-94TXH was approached without consulting the manual to simulate a typical user experience. Navigating to the on-screen menu and selecting “Manual SP Setup” is a logical first step for speaker configuration and crossover settings. The system also offers Auto MCACC setup, which can be run before or after manual setup, allowing the receiver to automatically configure speaker settings. Input setup is straightforward, allowing users to route audio and video sources correctly. However, a minor initial hurdle was encountered with audio routing.
When connecting a CableTV box using a DVI-D to HDMI cable for video and coaxial digital for audio, audio output was initially absent. Despite correct input assignments in the setup menu, the receiver seemed to default to HDMI audio. The solution was found in the “Signal Sel” function, accessible via the remote and front panel. This function allows manual switching between HDMI, PCM, Auto, Analogue, and Digital audio inputs. Selecting “Digital” resolved the audio issue, and this setting is retained for the input, eliminating the need for repeated adjustments. This experience highlights that while the setup is generally intuitive, specific scenarios might require a deeper dive into the receiver’s settings beyond the on-screen display.
The rear panel layout of the VSX-94TXH is mostly organized, though some output placements appear somewhat scattered. While four HDMI inputs are generally sufficient, the inclusion of numerous S-video and composite inputs seems excessive in modern setups, suggesting a design aspect that could be streamlined. A second HDMI output would have significantly enhanced its appeal in this flagship category.
A notable limitation is the absence of dedicated Zone 2 speaker connections. Amplifier channels can be reassigned for Zone 2, B-speakers, or bi-amping, but not simultaneously. Switching between configurations, such as from Surround Back to Zone 2, requires physical cable reconfiguration. This contrasts with some competitors offering dedicated binding posts for enhanced multi-zone flexibility.
Audio connectivity is comprehensive, featuring ample digital and analog inputs, including HDMI 1.3a ports capable of handling uncompressed PCM and HD audio bitstreams. Support for both 7.1 preamp outputs and multi-channel inputs ensures future compatibility, accommodating system upgrades and evolving audio formats.
Multi-Room Audio Capabilities of the Pioneer VSX-94TXH
For multi-room audio, the Pioneer VSX-94TXH is best suited for setups that either utilize external amplifiers, the digital Zone 3 output, or primarily operate a 5.1 main theater system. The lack of dedicated Zone 2/3 speaker terminals means running a powered Zone 2 concurrently with a 7.1 system is not straightforward. Zone 2 functionality is available via assignable surround back channels, line-level outputs, and composite video output. However, a limitation is that changing the audio source in the main zone interrupts audio in Zone 2.
Zone 3 is implemented via a digital TOSlink output, enabling digital audio transmission to another AV receiver in a separate zone. This Zone 3 output supports Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo PCM, expanding audio distribution capabilities. However, the single AM/FM tuner limits independent source selection across multiple zones. Changing the tuner source in the main zone affects Zone 2 if it’s set to the tuner source as well.
The Pioneer VSX-94TXH offers several configurable modes for the surround back amplifiers, which are defaulted for 7.1 surround sound:
- Surround Back System (Normal/Default): Standard 7.1 surround configuration.
- Surround Back System (Speaker B): Assigns surround back channels to a second set of main speakers, allowing for simultaneous headphone use and Speaker B output. Surround Back preamp outputs mirror the main speaker source in this mode.
- Surround Back System (Front Bi-Amp): Enables bi-amping of the front speakers, requiring speaker jumpers to be removed and offering auto-level matching post-configuration.
- Surround Back System (Zone 2): Utilizes surround back amplifiers for a powered Zone 2 setup, with discrete source selection and composite video output capabilities.
While the Pioneer VSX-94TXH provides multi-zone features, it falls short of offering the seamless flexibility found in competitors with dedicated Zone 2 speaker outputs. Implementing relays for dedicated Zone 2 outputs would significantly enhance its multi-room usability, a feature already present in several receivers within this price range.
Advanced Setup and Menu Navigation on the Pioneer VSX-94TXH
The MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System) on the Pioneer VSX-94TXH is a standout feature for automated audio setup. It accurately sets speaker levels and distances, with measurements closely aligning with manual measurements, typically within 3 inches, except for subwoofer distance which may be slightly overestimated. Channel level adjustments are precise to 0.5dB. The THX-recommended 80Hz crossover is a default setting, optimizing sound reproduction for THX certified systems.
However, the on-screen display is noted as cluttered and less intuitive, resembling older, monochromatic interfaces. The menu structure, while seemingly prioritizing the Auto MCACC system, lacks a clear logical flow. Initial menu items like “FULL BAND PHASE CTRL” and “Data Management” are not immediately intuitive, leading to a steeper learning curve.
Navigating the menu system often necessitates consulting the user manual, more so than with other AV receivers. The menu structure could benefit from a more logical and user-friendly organization.
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Auto MCACC: Initiates the automatic calibration process, muting audio to the main zone during setup. Users can configure surround back amplifier usage (Normal, Speaker B, Front Bi-Amp, or Zone 2) and choose between a full auto setup or customize specific tests. MCACC adjusts speaker size, crossover, channel levels, distances, EQ, standing wave correction, and Full Band Phase Control.
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Surr Back System: Duplicates settings from the Auto MCACC setup, allowing manual configuration of surround back amplifier modes.
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Manual MCACC: Provides granular control over MCACC settings. Submenus include:
- Fine Channel Level: Manual adjustment of speaker levels in 0.5dB increments using internal test tones.
- Fine SP Distance: Allows manual adjustment of speaker distances, less practical than using a tape measure or auto-calibration.
- Standing Wave: A three-band parametric EQ for managing room bass modes, adjustable for frequency, Q, and attenuation, applicable to main, center, or all speakers.
- EQ Adjust: Manual EQ adjustment via pink noise test tones.
- EQ Professional: Advanced EQ via RS-232C PC connection, offering graphical representation and detailed room acoustics adjustments using downloadable Pioneer software. This feature provides extensive room correction capabilities without additional hardware costs, rivaling systems like Audyssey Pro (which requires a separate accessory kit).
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FULL BAND PHASE CTRL: Independent of Auto MCACC, this function adjusts group delay between low and mid frequencies to align with tweeters. Typically not needed if Auto MCACC is used.
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Data Management: Functions as “Memory Settings,” allowing users to view, copy, and clear memory settings, and save settings to a PC via RS-232C.
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Manual SP Setup: Standard manual speaker setup, including size, level, distance, X-Curve, and THX audio settings for surround back speakers (ASA, Advanced Speaker Array) for THX DSP modes.
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Input Setup: Crucial for routing audio and video to correct inputs. Users can assign digital, HDMI, component, and S-video inputs to each source, rename inputs, and configure 12V triggers and Pioneer plasma TV integration (PDP In/SR+).
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Other Setup: Includes subwoofer gain control for multi-channel inputs, Zone Audio Setup for Zone 2 preamp outputs or record output monitoring, SR+ Setup for volume control on compatible Pioneer plasmas, and HDMI Control (Pioneer CEC) for HDMI device control. Note that SR+ and HDMI Control are mutually exclusive and non-Pioneer device compatibility with HDMI Control is not guaranteed.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH AXD7504 Remote Control: Functionality vs. Usability
The Pioneer VSX-94TXH comes with the AXD7504 learning remote control, which is described as cluttered and overly complex. The button-heavy design, lack of backlighting, and multi-layered controls hinder usability, especially in low-light conditions. While the keys glow in the dark, the multi-level button functions remain difficult to navigate without external light. The remote’s design is compared unfavorably to scientific calculator interfaces, emphasizing its non-intuitive layout.
Source switching is direct via top-row buttons, with secondary sources (Home Media Gallery, CD-R, DVR, XM, Sirius, Zone 2/3) accessible via a ‘Shift’ key. Accessing the Setup menu requires pressing the ‘Receiver’ button first. The tuner function is readily accessible with direct station tuning via the numeric keypad. However, automatic station search and storage are not supported, and direct frequency entry requires a specific format (e.g., 88.50 for 88.5 FM).
Remote programming includes both pre-programmed codes and a learning mode. Initial attempts to program TV control for a Scientific Atlanta Explorer 3250HD set-top box using pre-programmed codes were unsuccessful, necessitating the use of the learning mode, button by button. Programming a Denon DVD player using pre-programmed codes was partially successful, but with a power control issue defaulting to ‘Power On’ only.
Programming Tip: To control set-top boxes, TVs, or DVRs using the dedicated ‘TV CONTROL’ area, program devices or learn commands into the ‘TV CTRL’ button.
Overall, the Pioneer remote is considered a significant usability drawback, particularly in its cluttered layout and lack of backlighting. Users seeking ease of use in darkened home theater environments may find a universal remote a preferable alternative.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH Home Media Gallery and Network Features
The Home Media Gallery feature on the Pioneer VSX-94TXH, intended for network media access, is described as functionally similar to first-generation high-definition DVD player interfaces—slow and somewhat clunky. Navigation is sluggish, with noticeable delays between user input and on-screen response. The user manual for this feature is also provided separately as a short pamphlet, indicating it’s somewhat of an add-on rather than fully integrated feature.
However, setting up the Home Media Gallery for network access is straightforward. For networks using DHCP, network setup is nearly automatic, requiring about 20 seconds. The system uses WMDRM (Windows Media Digital Rights Management), necessitating device authorization within Windows Media Player settings. Network setup in the receiver’s menu involves selecting ‘Setup’ and then ‘Network Setup,’ with an ‘Automatic (DHCP)’ option for most common network configurations. Manual IP configuration is also available for static IP setups.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH Video Bench Testing: Audioholics/HQV Benchmarks
Perfect Score: 130
VSX-94TXH Benchmark Score: 76
| Test | Max Points | Component Results | Component 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 2:2 Video | 5 | 1 | Fail |
| Cadence 2:2:2:4 DV Cam | 5 | 0 | Fail |
| Cadence 2:3:3:2 DV Cam | 5 | 0 | Fail |
| Cadence 3:2:3:2:2 Vari-speed | 5 | 0 | Fail |
| Cadence 5:5 Animation | 5 | 0 | Fail |
| Cadence 6:4 Animation | 5 | 0 | Fail |
| Cadence 8:7 animation | 5 | 0 | Fail |
| Cadence 3:2 24fps film | 5 | 5 | Pass |
| Scrolling Horizontal | 10 | 10 | Pass |
| Scrolling Rolling | 10 | 10 | Pass |
| Total Points | 130 | 76 |
Testing was conducted with 480i component input from a Denon DVD-1930CI.
Bench Testing Comments
The video processing performance of the Faroudja DCDi in the VSX-94TXH was evaluated for standard definition upconversion to HDMI. The Color Bar test showed slightly blurred results, particularly in the EOL vertical pattern, although detail loss was not apparent in the Detail test. The overall benchmark score indicates that the DCDi processing performs adequately, making the receiver suitable for upconverting standard definition video sources.
HD Audio Support Verification
Supporting HDMI 1.3a, the Pioneer VSX-94TXH is confirmed to correctly decode bitstream Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD Master Audio formats, delivering high-definition audio to connected speakers. Finding a Blu-ray player capable of native bitstream output is essential to fully leverage this capability. Alternatively, 7.1 channels of uncompressed PCM audio are equally well-supported. Importantly, all audio formats via HDMI are properly bass-managed by the receiver.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH Listening Tests: System and Methodology
Reference System 2, used for listening tests, includes an RBH Sound CinemaSITE 5.1 speaker system (Signature SI-760/R, 66-SE dipoles, SI-1010P subwoofers), a 92-inch Carada Masquerade projector screen, and an Epson Pro Cinema 1080UB LCD projector. The room is acoustically treated with RPG Diffusors materials. Power conditioning is provided by an APC S15 system. Sources include a Toshiba HD-XA2 HD DVD player and a Denon DVD-3930CI DVD player, with occasional use of an Xbox 360 for gaming audio.
Two-Channel Audio Performance Evaluation
Two-channel listening tests were conducted with MCACC EQ disabled to evaluate the receiver’s native audio performance. Focusing on two-channel performance is crucial as it allows the receiver to dedicate its power reserves to fewer channels, showcasing its power delivery capabilities. Reference CDs and newer titles were used to assess audio quality.
CD: Porcupine Tree – Deadwing: The Pioneer VSX-94TXH handled the complex dynamics and heavy instrumentation of tracks like “Deadwing” and “Shallow” effectively. It demonstrated articulate midrange even in dense mixes and maintained dynamics at high volumes (over 100dB peaks). The receiver exhibited good resolution with cymbal detail and synth textures. “Arriving Somewhere But Not Here” showcased impressive imaging, creating a sense of depth and instrument placement beyond the physical speakers.
CD: Damien Rice – O: Tracks like “Delicate,” “Volcano,” and “Amie” highlighted the receiver’s ability to reproduce nuanced vocal textures, raw violin tones, and dynamic shifts. The VSX-94TXH accurately rendered finger noises on guitars and handled complex bass lines and cymbal work without faltering. The reverb and spaciousness in tracks like “Amie” were well-preserved, emphasizing the receiver’s clean audio reproduction.
Multi-Channel Audio Performance Assessment
Multi-channel listening tests focused on music, particularly DVD-Audio and dts CDs, to evaluate surround sound capabilities. AIX Records discs, known for high-quality 5.1 mixes, were used to assess immersive audio performance.
dts CD: Eagles – Hell Freezes Over: Tracks like “Tequila Sunrise,” “Hotel California,” and “New York Minute” demonstrated the Pioneer VSX-94TXH’s ability to create an immersive and detailed soundstage. The receiver effectively conveyed the clarity of acoustic guitars, percussion, and crowd ambience in surround channels. Don Henley’s vocals were reproduced with a pure, natural quality. The extended reverb in “New York Minute” was rendered smoothly, indicating excellent detail retrieval and presentation.
DVD-Audio: Laurence Juber – Guitar Noir: Using the Stage Mix version, tracks like “Guitar Noir” and “Mosaic” showcased the receiver’s balanced channel output, treating surround channels with equal detail to the front channels. The reproduction of upright bass, subtle percussion, and Juber’s dynamic guitar playing was authentic and engaging. Tracks like “Rules of the Road” and “Stolen Glances” highlighted the receiver’s ability to handle quick dynamics and crisp transients without blurring.
DVD-Audio: The Carl Verheyen Band – Rumor Mill: Tracks like “Holly House” and “Passing Through” tested the receiver’s handling of electric guitars, drums, and dynamic rock music. The VSX-94TXH maintained cymbal decay detail and handled dynamic peaks without audible compression, even at high volumes (over 103dB peaks). The receiver demonstrated robust dynamic capability without distortion, even in complex, high-energy tracks.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH Measurements and Analysis Report
Frequency Response Analysis
Pioneer VSX-94TXH Frequency Response
The frequency response of the Pioneer VSX-94TXH shows a -3dB point around 80kHz, indicating ample bandwidth for high-resolution audio formats.
Power vs Distortion Measurements
Continuous power vs distortion was measured using regulated sweeps, ensuring consistent line voltage.
Power output: <0.1% THD + N for Pioneer VSX-94TXH
- 165wpc x 1; 8 ohms
- 155wpc x 2 ; 8 ohms
- 270wpc x 1 ; 4 ohms
- 225wpc x 2 ; 4 ohms
Power output: <0.1% THD + N for the Marantz SR7002 (Comparison)
- 144wpc x 1; 8 ohms
- 128wpc x 2 ; 8 ohms
- 180wpc x 1 ; 4 ohms
- 170wpc x 2 ; 4 ohms
The power measurements indicate that the Pioneer VSX-94TXH delivers more power than the Marantz SR7002, especially into 4 ohm loads, and exceeds its 140wpc rating for 1 or 2 channels driven.
FFT Distortion Analysis
Pioneer VSX-94TXH FFT Distortion Analysis at Full Rated Power
At near full rated power (116wpc, 8 ohms), the VSX-94TXH exhibited THD + N of 0.013%, which is considered average for its class and slightly higher than some competitors like Yamaha and Denon.
SNR @ 1 watt Measurement
The Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) measured at 1 watt output into 8 ohms was approximately 75dB (unweighted), which is good and slightly better than the Marantz SR7002, but not as high as some Denon and Yamaha models.
Output Impedance vs Frequency
Pioneer VSX-94TXH Output Impedance vs Frequency
The output impedance of the VSX-94TXH remained around 150mohms across the audible frequency range (20Hz to 20kHz) when driving 8 ohm loads. This is higher than the Marantz SR7002 and Yamaha RX-V2700, suggesting it might sound slightly different with varying speaker impedances compared to these models.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH Damping Factor vs Frequency
The damping factor is commensurate with the output impedance, maintaining a rating above 50 when driving 8 ohm loads, which is considered good.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH: Conclusions and Overall Assessment
The Pioneer VSX-94TXH is a robust and well-engineered 7-channel AV receiver. Its shortcomings are primarily in peripheral areas, such as remote control usability and menu interface intuitiveness, rather than core audio or video performance. In a competitive market segment, Pioneer faces strong competition and has room for improvement to become a clear leader.
However, for enthusiasts loyal to the Pioneer brand, the VSX-94TXH delivers on its promise of ample power and support for the latest high-definition audio formats. Its video processing is commendable, and the Home Media Gallery adds network media functionality, albeit with some usability limitations. Its aesthetic design is also a strong point.
For potential buyers, exploring all available options in this price range before deciding is advisable. For those prioritizing power output, the Pioneer VSX-94TXH is a compelling option, excelling in power delivery.
Pioneer VSX-94TXH MSRP $1800
Pioneer Electronics 1925 E. Dominguez St. Long Beach, CA 90810 Call (800) 421-1404 www.pioneerelectronics.com
About Pioneer Electronics: Pioneer Electronics develops high-definition home theater equipment, including flat panel televisions, Blu-ray Disc players, A/V receivers, and speakers under the Pioneer and Elite brands. Products from authorized retailers come with a limited warranty of one year for Pioneer products and two years for Pioneer Elite products. More information is available at www.pioneerelectronics.com.
The Score Card: Pioneer VSX-94TXH Rating
The scoring is based on performance relative to the product’s intended function and is weighted by its price, reflecting a performance-to-value ratio.
Audioholics Rating Scale:
- — Excellent
- — Very Good
- — Good
- — Fair
- — Poor
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response Linearity | |
| SNR | |
| Output Impedance | |
| Measured Power (8-ohms) | |
| Measured Power (4-ohms) | |
| Multi-channel Audio Performance | |
| Two-channel Audio Performance | |
| Network Features | |
| Video Processing | |
| Bass Management | |
| Build Quality | |
| Fit and Finish | |
| Ergonomics & Usability | |
| Ease of Setup | |
| Features | |
| Remote Control | |
| Performance | |
| Value |
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About the author:
Clint Deboer was terminated from Audioholics for misconduct on April 4th, 2014. He no longer represents Audioholics in any fashion.
